Europe Archives » Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide https://localadventurer.com/category/europe/ Moving to a New City Every Year to Explore like a Local Tue, 18 Feb 2025 00:31:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in London Itinerary https://localadventurer.com/weekend-in-london-itinerary/ https://localadventurer.com/weekend-in-london-itinerary/#respond Sat, 03 Jun 2023 01:14:32 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=89129 Visiting London for the first time? Here’s the perfect 2-3 day weekend in London itinerary. London has been calling us (from their red phone booths) for some time now. So, we packed our bags to check out one UK’s oldest cities for a long weekend. From Big Ben to Westminster Abbey, London’s historical attractions are […]

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Visiting London for the first time? Here’s the perfect 2-3 day weekend in London itinerary.

London has been calling us (from their red phone booths) for some time now. So, we packed our bags to check out one UK’s oldest cities for a long weekend. From Big Ben to Westminster Abbey, London’s historical attractions are endless, and there is always something to see, do, and eat.

the perfect weekend in london itinerary

A big thank you to Go City London for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 25, 2025

11 Best Things to Do in London for Your First Visit

With the Go City London Pass, we had the opportunity to check out a few popular attractions, as well as some other points of interest that were recommended to us by the Go City team.

We organized our days based on area. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss when visiting London.

london for the weekend

Weekend in London itinerary Day 1

For our 3 day weekend in London, we picked what to do each day based on what was nearby in each area.

1. Take a Picture with Big Ben

London SW1A 0AA, UK, map

Speaking of icons, everyone knows what Big Ben is, even if you’ve never been to London. Even though it’s currently closed for renovations and restorations, you can still stop by and snap a quick photo with Big Ben. The Houses of Parliament, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is attached to the clock tower. It is currently still open for tours.

It’s a 10-minute walk from Westminster Abbey if you want to knock out a couple of places simultaneously.

Local Tip: Best photo spot is under Westminster Bridge, which leads right up to Big Ben. Arrive before sunrise to avoid the crowds.

2. Westminster Abbey →

Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PA, UK, map

Westminster Abbey was our favorite attraction, hands down. It is steeped in centuries of history and has significantly shaped the British monarchy, religion, and culture. It has been the site of numerous royal weddings, coronations, and burials, including that of British monarchs and other notable figures throughout history.

We enjoyed the self-guided audio tour, which provides visitors with detailed information about the site’s history, architecture, and notable features. Check out key areas, such as the Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair, and the Royal Tombs.

Local Tip: Entry is free if you’re attending Sunday service, but they do not provide tours during this time.

3. Buckingham Palace →

London SW1A 1AA, UK, map

It’s a longer stroll to Buckingham Palace from Westminster Abbey, but you can walk through Hyde Park on the way. Buckingham Palace attracts millions of visitors annually and holds endless cultural and symbolic importance. It’s a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world. Check out the Changing of the Guard ceremony and admire the architectural splendor.

To get the best picture of Buckingham Palace, you can head to the Victoria Memorial, located in front of the palace. It offers a great vantage point for capturing the grandeur of the palace’s façade.

Local Tip: The Changing of the Guard ceremony typically occurs daily during the summer months (April to July) and on alternate days for the rest of the year. Be sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule. The ceremony usually starts at around 11:00 AM and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot!

4. Kensington Palace

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK, map

Glimmering golden gates, opulent State Rooms, and stories of Queen Victoria’s birthplace are just a few things you can’t miss at Kensington Palace. Don’t miss your chance to visit the historic King’s State Apartments and the Queen’s State Apartments.

They’ve been meticulously restored to their former glory, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of past monarchs. The historic Sunken Garden, where Diana, the Princess of Wales Memorial Statue stands, also can’t be missed.

Pro Tip: Get there early to avoid huge crowds, especially on weekend days. We made reservations to tour the palace when it opened.

visit kensington palace

Weekend in London itinerary Day 2

We started day 2 of our long weekend in London at Tower Bridge. After the bridge, we checked out the Tower of London at one end of the bridge and Borough Market at the other end. Finally, we ended the day with a Thames River Cruise.

5. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK,map

We relished the hike up the 206 steps and the magnificent views of the River Thames. Tower Bridge is such an iconic symbol of London. Once you reach the top, walk across the glass floor walkways where you can capture great photos of London’s skyline and learn about the engineers who designed the historic structure.

Naturally, we wanted to get some shots with the bridge. Here are a couple of our favorite photo spots:

  • The Queens Walk is the most popular place to take photos with the Tower Bridge as your backdrop.
  • More London Riverside –  this metropolitan area gets crowded, so go early morning if you don’t want anyone else in your photos.

Local Tip: Plan to visit the Tower of London since it’s nearby.

6. Tower of London →

London EC3N 4AB, UK,map

See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, a 900-year-old castle and fortress. It was pretty neat to see the crowns, scepters, orbs, and other regalia used in royal ceremonies by the monarchs.

Pro Tip: Consider joining one of the Yeoman Warder guided tours, which your admission includes. Their knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the Tower’s history.

7. Borough Market

London SE1 9AL, UK, map

Where all of your gastronomic dreams become a reality, from farm-fresh produce to yummy street food, your taste buds will rejoice after eating through one of London’s oldest markets. We loved the freshly shucked oysters at Richard Haward Oysters and the piping hot paella from Bomba. I wanted to carry an entire cheese wheel from Kappacasein.

Local Tip: Most food stalls are outdoors, so dress accordingly.

See More: 25 Best Markets in the World to Put On Your Bucket List

food at borough market

8. Thames River Cruise →

Westminster Pier, London SW1A 2JH, United Kingdom, map

Embark on a Thames River Cruise with City Cruises of London and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the city from a unique perspective. We loved the panoramic views of London’s renowned landmarks, such as Tower Bridge and the iconic Big Ben. Throughout the cruise, knowledgeable guides provide fun facts and stories about the landmarks you pass along the way.

City Cruises offers a variety of cruise options to suit your preferences. If you have more time, consider partaking in an afternoon tea or romantic dinner cruise.

Pro Tip: Try to secure a seat on the open-air deck for the best photo opps and unobstructed views.

See More: What You Need To Know Before Your First Douro River Cruise

city cruises london

Weekend in London itinerary Day 3

Because it is a trek to get out to Watford, you want to plan for a pickup and transportation. You will spend half the day here. We returned to London, did some shopping, and ended the long day with delicious food and desserts in London’s Chinatown.

9. Warner Brothers Studio Tour →

Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR, United Kingdom, map

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers an enchanting and immersive experience for fans of the Wizarding World. Step onto actual film sets and see behind-the-scenes secrets on how they created the iconic film series. The detailed costumes, original film sets, and interactive exhibits utterly blew us away.

Their food court serves up film favorites (think Butter Beer, Hogwarts-themed burgers, and chocolate frogs) and afternoon tea. Check out the very extensive shop where you can purchase a customized wand on your way out. You’ll easily spend half a day here!

Pro Tip: Be sure to book early in advance since they only sell a limited number of tickets daily. Don’t forget to schedule ample time for travel as it’s not in Central London.

10. Check Out Iconic Shopping

87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL, UK, map

London is renowned for its quintessential shopping streets that offer a wide range of fashion, luxury brands, department stores, and unique boutiques. Here are some of the most famous shopping streets in London:

  • Oxford Street: Located in the heart of London, Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping streets in the world. It stretches over a mile and is home to numerous flagship stores.
  • Regent Street: Just a short walk from Oxford Street, Regent Street is known for its historic architecture and a mix of upscale boutiques and department stores.
  • Bond Street: Bond Street is synonymous with luxury shopping in London. This exclusive street is home to high-end fashion boutiques, prestigious jewelry stores, and renowned art galleries.
  • Harrods on Brompton Road: Slow clap A London shopping icon. Even if you’re just window shopping at this historic department store, we recommend buying a delicious pastry from one of their many cafes.

Local Tip: Take advantage of the famous Christmas light displays that decorate these streets during the holidays.

best shopping areas in london

11. Eat Around Chinatown

Gerrard Pl, London W1D 5QJ, UK, map

I would move to London’s Chinatown for the food! Luckily (or not), our hotel was just a couple of metro stops away from Chinatown, and we ate there every day of our trip.

Be sure to get authentic soup dumplings from Dumplings’ Legend, fresh pineapple buns from The Eight, and Peking duck from The Duck and Rice. Wash everything down with a cold bubble tea at my all-time boba shop, Happy Lemon.

Local Tip: Venture beyond the main streets and explore the side alleys, shops, and hidden gems. These lesser-known restaurants provide a unique dining experience away from the crowds and serve authentic Chinese food.

chinatown gate london

Map of the Best Things to Do in London

More Things to Do in London

If we planned for more time, I wish we got to visit neighborhoods like Notting Hill and Cambridge as well as these things to do in London.

Best Places to Eat in London

Here are a few places we tried and loved:

  • Dishoom (Various Locations) $$ – At dinner, a limited number of reservations are available for parties of six or more guests. You’ll most likely be waiting in a long line, so prepare in advance. If you’re lucky, they’ll serve you some of their famous chai while you wait.
    Haidilao Hot Pot $$ – Josh isn’t the biggest fan of hot pot, but he claims Haidilao is the best he’s ever had. We don’t have a location at home, so this place was beyond our expectations. They also provide snacks and drinks in the waiting area. Come hungry.
  • Cafe TPT $$ – Known for authentic Hong Kong street food such as beef ho fun and minced pork hot pot. If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend the lemongrass soft-shell crab.  
  • Evelyn’s Table $$ – A Michelin-star restaurant led by Head Chef James Goodyear. Think intimate tasting menu with 18th-century pub vibes.  

Best Places to Stay in London

Essential Tips

  • Book what you want to do in advance. Because London is such a popular destination for so many, we missed out on some things, like Afternoon Tea, because they were already fully booked.
  • You don’t have to tip here, like most countries outside the US, but if you feel inclined, you can round up to the nearest Pound or tip 10-12% of your bill total.
  • Purchase the London Pass for the metro system, bus, and more. You can also use your tap to pay international credit card and pay as you go, but it will cap off at around £8 per day. See more details here
  • Always wear layers, pack an umbrella or raincoat, and wear comfy shoes. You’ll be walking plenty. London is known for its rainy and cloudy weather.
  • The UK uses a type G plug for most appliances, so bring a universal adapter for your electronics.
  • Be mindful of the traffic flow as drivers in the UK drive on the left side. Exercise caution and pay attention to the signs at crosswalks and bus stops.
  • Pickpockets are common in London, especially in crowded areas, tourist spots, and on public transportation. Check your surroundings and avoid distractions like using your phone excessively or wearing headphones that might limit your awareness.
  • Get a Go City London Pass to check out multiple attractions. The pass gives you access to over 90 popular attractions, including several on our list, at a fraction of the cost.

Planning Checklist

Which of these things to do in London are on your travel bucket list? Anything else you would add to a weekend in London itinerary?

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about-josh-macy

Josh + Macy

Josh and Macy are creative southern kids who love exploring local and international cultures. They’ve long believed that traveling is about getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. They are currently based out of Atlanta.

Follow along on Instagram (J + M), YouTube, and Pinterest.

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11 Best Places to Visit in Paris France https://localadventurer.com/places-to-visit-in-paris-france/ https://localadventurer.com/places-to-visit-in-paris-france/#respond Thu, 13 Jan 2022 04:04:55 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=77632 Looking for the best places to visit in Paris France on your first trip? Paris has been on both of our bucket lists for a while now, so I’m glad we could experience it together. We explored the city during its off-season because I wanted to see it during Christmas. This post may contain affiliate links, where […]

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Looking for the best places to visit in Paris France on your first trip?

Paris has been on both of our bucket lists for a while now, so I’m glad we could experience it together. We explored the city during its off-season because I wanted to see it during Christmas.

best places to visit in paris

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 10, 2024

11 Best Places to Visit in Paris France

With the Go City Pass, we had the opportunity to check out famous museums and attractions, as well as several other points of interest that weren’t originally on our list.

If you’re planning a trip, we’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do in Paris France.

1. The Eiffel Tower

Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France, map

It sounds cliche, but the Eiffel Tower is a must-see. It’s like a north star, and we were able to get an idea of where we were around town in relation to it. From dusk until 1 AM, the tower sparkles for 5 minutes at the top of each hour in the evening.

Naturally, we wanted to get some shots with the Eiffel. Here are a couple of our favorite photo spots:

  • Steps of the Trocadéro – Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris, France
  • Av. de Camoens

With the Go City Pass, you can take a guided climb up the Eiffel Tower as you learn about its history and engineering. You also get a spectacular birds-eye view of the city.

Pro Tip: Check out the Eiffel Tower during sunrise for fewer crowds.

the eiffel tower pictures

2. Louvre Museum

Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France, map

Even if you decide not to enter the museum, it’s a photo-worthy location. You can’t miss the iconic glass pyramid designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei. If you do plan to go inside, find your way to the Mona Lisa first and then explore the rest of the museum.

Pro Tip: Carrousel du Louvre is an underground shopping mall connected to the Louvre. You can also see the famous skylight, La Pyramide Inversée (Louvre Inverted Pyramid). If you’re a Da Vinci Code fan, you’ll want to see it.

louvre mona lisa room

3. Musée D’orsay

1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France, map

Hands down, this was by far our favorite museum. Musée d’Orsay was a former railway station and contains the most extensive collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces in the world (think Van Gogh, Cezanne, Monet, Renoir, and many more).

Take in the view of the Musée d’Orsay Clock in the Main Hall.

Local Tip: Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.

4. Seine River Cruise with Bateaux Parisiens

Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France, map

Sightsee and learn about the architecture and history of Paris. We enjoyed the picturesque views as we drifted down the River Seine for an hour. We did a night cruise, which was a little cold, but the views were worth it.

Pro Tip: Bring layers! The best seats are on the deck of the boat, where it can be a bit windy, no matter what season.

the seine river cruise

5. Arc de Triomphe

Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, map

“Are we there yet?” I asked Josh as we hiked up the endless spiral stairs of Arc de Triomphe.

Easily one of the most famous monuments in France, Arc de Triomphe is also an attraction you can’t miss. Before you get your shopping on at Champs-Élysées, check out the monument and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI at the base of Arc de Triomphe.

Pro Tip: You will be climbing several spiral stairs (330 of them, to be exact), so wear comfortable shoes.

6. Palace of Versailles

Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France, map

Shiny golden gates, grand hallways lined with chandeliers, and beautiful rooms with enormous fireplaces are just a few things you’ll get to gawk over. Of course, you can’t miss the famous manicured gardens. Versailles is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pro Tip: Get there early to avoid huge crowds. We made reservations to tour the palace at open. Be sure to schedule ample time for travel.

palace of versailles

7. Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis

1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis, France, map

Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is the final resting place for most French royals. It boasts vast stained-glass windows and beautiful stonework throughout. We dropped in for a self-guided tour and explored the crypts below the cathedral. 

saint denis church + best places to see in paris france
basilica of st denis

8. Place Vendôme

48.8674727,2.3274426, map

Where all of your shopping dreams come true!

In this square and its surrounding streets, you will find all the luxury shops from Hermès to Chanel. Place Vendôme is also home to the famous Vendôme Column, with a statue of Napoleon resting at the top. We loved seeing all of the Christmas decorations in this area.

vendome place paris

9. Tuileries Garden

Pl. de la Concorde, 75001 Paris, France, map

Where all of your shopping dreams come true!

There is a Christmas market with fun rides and delicious food during the holidays. The Ferris wheel overlooks the garden – we didn’t get a chance to ride, but locals say it offers a fantastic view of the city. 

It’s also a popular photo spot, so be sure to plan accordingly and get there early if you want to get some good shots in.

Local Tip: It’s a short 10-minute walk from the Louvre if you want to knock out a couple of places at once.

garden of tuileries + best places to visit in paris france
the tuileries garden

10. Ave De Champs-Élysées

48.8729637,2.2956639, map

While visiting the Arc De Triomphe, take some time to walk down Champs-Élysées Avenue and enjoy the tree-lined sidewalks, surrounding cafes, and shops.

Pro Tip: There are several metro stops to get to the avenue. The closest metro stop is Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau. If you’d like to take the train directly to the avenue, this is where to get off.

avenue des champs elysees

11. Galeries Lafayette

40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, Francemap

We wanted to visit Galeries Lafayette, especially during Christmas. Every holiday season, they deck out the window displays and set up an incredible Christmas tree from the top of the glass dome, overlooking the entire mall.

Pro Tip: Go up to the rooftop terrace for a unique view of the city.

galeries lafayette rooftop view

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Paris France

More Places to Visit in Paris France

We were in Paris for a week. A week was enough for most of the city, but we could have used 1 or 2 extra days for other museums and smaller attractions. Here are some other spots we would consider for our next visit:

  • Rodin Museum
  • Disneyland Paris
  • French Wine Tasting Experience – Les Caves du Louvre
  • Paris Catacombs Tour
  • The Pantheon
paris places to visit

Places to Eat in Paris France

Here are a few places we tried and loved:

  • Le Camélia (💰, Brasserie) – The tuna steak was cooked to perfection and paired perfectly with the sweet potato puree.
  • Seulement Sea (💰💰, Seafood) – The muscles were *chef’s kiss*.
  • Yuzu (💰💰💰, Japanese) is a small, homey restaurant serving sushi and authentic Japanese dishes.
  • Juveniles (💰💰, Wine Bars) – French bistro/bar with an extensive wine selection.
  • Café de la Régence (💰💰, Cafe) – French cafe serving all the classics. We recommend the duck confit. Sidebar – check out the impressive Lego displays inside the restaurant.

For more food recommendations, check out Lafourchette or theFork (a Tripadvisor company), which some people call the European equivalent of Yelp. Americans have written some reviews on Yelp, but it’s not as extensive.

See More: Bon Appetit French Subscription Box for Food Lovers

Essential Tips for Visiting Paris for the First Time

  • Best Time of Year to Visit – We liked Christmas best because of all the decorations and festivities, but springtime to see the city in full bloom would be our next choice.
  • Tipping – Like most countries outside the US, tips aren’t expected, but if you feel so inclined, you can round up to the nearest Euro or tip 5-10% of your bill total.
  • Getting Around – Purchase the Viste Paris Travel Pass for the metro system. They have a 1,2,3, or 5-day pass. We got the 5-day, which allows you to travel between Zones 1-5.
  • Learn basic French – Although most locals understand English, it goes a long way to learn some basic French phrases. When in doubt, always start with “bonjour.”
  • Paris is a city best explored on foot. Ladies, we all want to look cute, but pack sneakers for the old cobblestones and steep steps. Your feet will thank you later.
  • Be aware of your belongings. Pickpockets are slick, and although it didn’t happen to us, we have friends who’ve had their belongings stolen.
  • Travel Deals – If you want to check out multiple attractions, be sure to get a Go City Pass. The pass gives you access to over 75 attractions, including everything on our list, at a fraction of the cost.
  • Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
  • Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.
best way to get around paris

Our Paris Itinerary

Day 1:
Visit a Pharmacy to receive our Health Pass
Go to BigBus Tours office to get our Museum Pass
Eiffel Tower Walk-up Tour

Day 2:
Morning photos outside the L’ouvre
Galeries Lafayette
Notre Dame
Village Bercy
Paris Boat Ride

Day 3:
Palace of Versailles
Visit the Louvre Museum (saw Mona Lisa!)
Climb the Arc de Triomphe
Champs-Élysées

Day 4:
Musee D’orsay
Basilica St-Denis
Christmas Market at Tuileries Garden
Night photos outside of The Louvre

Day 5:
Morning shots of Eiffel Tower from The Trocadero and Ave de Camoens
Get our rapid test for return flight to the US
Explored the Jardin du Palais-Royal area

Day 6:
Shopping day at Champs-Élysées and Place Vendome
Explored the Place Vendome area to view Christmas lights

Best Places to Stay in Paris

We enjoyed our stay at Hotel Eiffel Segur. It’s close to 2 convenient metro stations and within walking distance to the Eiffel Tower.

We also liked getting our daily croissant and coffee from a local bakery (Maison Landemaine Cambronne), steps away from our hotel. It’s also within walking distance to great restaurants, including Le Camélia.

Keep in mind that most hotel rooms in Paris will be small. However, Hotel Eiffel Segur had everything we needed. The location is in the 15th arrondissement, a safe neighborhood. For a 3-star hotel, the prices are very fair.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS THE PRETTIEST PLACE IN PARIS?

There are tons of beautiful spots in Paris, but if it’s your first time visiting, head to Trocadéro to see the sunrise of the Eiffel Tower.

WHAT IS THE NUMBER 1 TOURIST ATTRACTION IN PARIS?

The Eiffel Tower is the number one attraction in Paris and one of the top attractions in the world.

WHAT IS THE MOST FAMOUS STREET IN PARIS?

Avenue des Champs-Élysées is the most famous street in Paris and one of the world’s most famous streets.

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN PARIS? HOW MANY DAYS IN PARIS IS IDEAL?

You can easily spend a week in Paris with all there is to do. At the minimum, you should plan for at least three days.

WHAT CAN YOU DO IN PARIS IN 3 DAYS?

You can see all the major attractions in Paris within three days. It just depends on how much you want to pack into your schedule. We prefer to stay longer and take a more leisurely pace.

IS PARIS EXPENSIVE?

Compared to much of Europe, Paris is expensive. But there are plenty of ways travel on a budget.

DO I NEED TO SPEAK FRENCH IN PARIS?

Paris is used to having tourists, but they don’t love catering to Americans. It always helps to know some basic French phrases. Plus, it should be common courtesy. Here is a phrasebook and dictionary to help.

HOW MUCH MONEY WILL I NEED FOR 3 DAYS IN PARIS?

It highly depends on your accommodation of choice. Hotels range from $68 – 422 a night. On average, a three-day trip will cost $980 per person.

IS EIFFEL TOWER INCLUDED IN PARIS PASS?

The Paris Pass includes a guided climb on the Eiffel Tower.

WHAT IS THE CHEAPEST WAY TO GET AROUND PARIS?

The Métro is the cheapest and easiest way to get around Paris. There are 16 lines with roughly 300 stations.

IS PUBLIC TRANSPORT FREE IN PARIS?

Tickets are required to ride the Metro. A single ticket costs €1.90.

WHAT FOOD IS PARIS FAMOUS FOR?

Some famous foods in Paris include croissants, escargot, macarons, Jambon-beurre, and cheese. Can you think of any others?

WHAT SHOULD I BUY IN PARIS?

Some great gifts and souvenirs from Paris are a french designer handbag, a custom fragrance, or local snacks and foods (our fave).

WHAT IS PARIS NATIONAL DISH?

Pot-au-Feu is the national dish of France, which is a classic comfort food prepped using stewed meats and veggies.

WHAT’S CONSIDERED RUDE IN FRANCE?

Here are a few examples of what’s considered rude in France:

  • Visiting unannounced or uninvited
  • Calling after 10 pm
  • Spitting in the street
  • Belching in public
  • Yawning without covering your mouth

WHAT DO FRENCH EAT FOR BREAKFAST?

A stereotypical French breakfast includes coffee or tea and a baguette with butter or jam.

WHAT DO FRENCH PEOPLE WEAR?

Most French adults dress equivalent to what Americans call ‘ business casual’ on a day-to-day basis.

DO THE FRENCH DRINK COFFEE OR TEA?

French like their coffee hot and strong. There are also plenty of herbal tea options, and they usually don’t drink it with milk or sugar.

HOW DO I PLAN A TRIP TO PARIS?

Everyone plans differently, but we typically start off deciding when we want to visit and researching any closures. We then list what we want to do and find accommodations as central as possible.

WHAT MONTH IS THE CHEAPEST TO FLY TO PARIS?

The high season in Paris is June and July. The cheapest month to fly is January.

CAN AMERICANS ENTER FRANCE?

At this time, fully vaccinated travelers can enter France with proof of vaccination and negative test.

HOW SAFE IS PARIS?

Paris is rated moderate for crime. You should always be aware of your surroundings in any big city, especially in touristy areas where pickpockets are common.

Planning Checklist

What other things to do in Paris would you recommend?

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about-josh-macy

Josh + Macy

Josh and Macy are creative southern kids who love exploring local and international cultures. They’ve long believed that traveling is about getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. They are currently based out of Atlanta.

Follow along on Instagram (J + M), YouTube, and Pinterest.

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15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-porto-portugal/ https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-porto-portugal/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2020 01:00:00 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=54816 Porto or Oporto is famous for the Douro River, port wine, and those gorgeous blue and white tiles I’m sure you’ve seen. We’ve been on a handful of trips to Europe, and our recent visit to Porto has been one of our favorites. A big thank you to Scenic USA for hosting our trip. All […]

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Porto or Oporto is famous for the Douro River, port wine, and those gorgeous blue and white tiles I’m sure you’ve seen.

We’ve been on a handful of trips to Europe, and our recent visit to Porto has been one of our favorites.

15+ Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal + Essential Tips for Your Visit

A big thank you to Scenic USA for hosting our trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 27, 2020

15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal

Why we love Porto Portugal and why you should visit:

  • Beautiful river views – rivers make any city 100x more picturesque.
  • It’s a great launching point for other destinations in Portugal. 
  • UNESCO Site – The historic center of Porto is a world heritage site.
  • It’s walkable – The city center is walkable and if you need to get around a bit further, there’s public transportation.
  • Portuguese Egg Tarts. They aren’t originally from this region, but the ones we ate here were still delicious.

R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161, map

There was one place I was not going to leave Porto without seeing, and that was the Libraria Lello. It’s regarded to be one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world and is also tied to JK Rowling, where she was allegedly inspired to create Flourish and Blotts Bookstore. Can you see the resemblance?

Plenty of people warned us that the bookstore is small, there is always a line to get in, and gets extremely crowded in that small space.

We got really lucky with a bad weather forecast, and during our visit, we made it in right away. You have to buy tickets just to visit (which can go towards a purchase). Although, it wasn’t considered a busy day, it still felt crowded. I can’t imagine the days where they’re getting 5000 visitors a day.

To skip the lines, you can purchase a ticket online that includes a book and priority entrance.

Photo Tip: You’re going to want your widest lens. I made the mistake of bringing a 24-70, but really you’re going to want this lens or even maybe a fisheye.

2. Dom Luís I Bridge

Pte. Luiz I, map

We wanted to see the Dom Luís I Bridge but didn’t originally set out to walk across it. Since we were exploring the city on foot, it just so happened to be the quickest way to get from point A to point B. We were extremely lucky, because I would have been so bummed to miss the stunning views of Porto from the bridge. While walking across, we stopped every few feet to take in the views.

The bridge is a double-deck metal arch bridge with the lower level being used for cars, and the upper level for pedestrians and public transportation. When it was initially built in 1886, it was the longest bridge of its type. 

Dom Luis I Bridge in Porto

3. Cais da Ribeira

Cais da Ribeira, map

The walk along the riverfront promenade feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. It’s named one of the most beautiful streets in the world. The street is lined with colorful houses, boats chugging along the river, and buskers. You’ll also find plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.

Photo Tip: For the best photos, head across the water on the bridge mentioned above to capture the beautiful waterfront.

Cais da Ribeira Porto

With the famous river, an obvious popular activity is taking a river cruise to take in the sights. You can do a day trip or a multi-day trip. We did an 8-day cruise up the Douro River with Scenic River Cruises, and our favorite part was getting to explore the smaller villages and tasting almonds from an almond farm. Check out more photos here.

What You Need to Know Before Your First Portugal River Cruise

5. Igreja do Carmo / Church of Our Lady of Carmo

R. do Carmo, 4050-164, map

I immediately noticed this tile facade while we were walking to Livraria Lello. Igreja do Carmo is a beautiful late Baroque style church. Igreja dos Carmelitas is right next door with a 1-meter wide house sitting right in between them so the churches wouldn’t have to share a common wall.

Pro Tip: Take a tile painting workshop to appreciate them even more. Scenic Cruises brought a local tile painting artist from Porto on board to do a workshop, but if I were just exploring Porto separately, I would definitely take a class.

Igreja Do Carmo + 15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto
Igreja do Carmo Porto

6. Igreja de Sao Francisco / Church of Saint Francis

Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 4050-297, map

Don’t judge a book by its cover. From the looks of the outside, you wouldn’t expect the inside to be decked out in gold. As we walked into the Gothic building towering over us, everyone immediately awed at the intricate golden designs of the Baroque interior. Can you believe you’re looking at over 300 kg (over 660 lbs) of gold?

Note: You’re not allowed to take photos in the church, but we were able to since Scenic Cruises booked the space for a few hours to enjoy a private concert.

Igreja de São Francisco or Church of St Francis

7. Porto Cathedral / Se do Porto

Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573, map

The Porto Cathedral is a National Monument and a massive Roman Cathedral church that is hard to miss. We were walking around looking for our next stop and as we turned the corner, the cathedral towered over us. While you’re there, check out the square with a column in the middle – that is where the criminals of Porto were hanged.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the cloister and Casa do Cabildo, where they keep the Cathedral’s most precious possessions, too.

Se do Porto Cathedral

photo: Shevdinov1 / Shutterstock

R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546, map

The Clérigos Tower (part of the Clerigos Church) can be seen from many points in the city. It’s definitely one of the most recognizable landmarks. You can also check out the museum and climb the tower for views of the city.

Clerigos Tower + 15 Best Things to Do in Porto Portugal

9. Sao Bento Railway Station / Estacao de Sao Bento

Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069, map

We had to stop by the Sao Bento Station to check out the 20,000 historic ceramic tiles that cover the inside. The tiles were installed over 11 years by Jorge Colaço and tell the story of Portugal’s past.

Local Tip: It’s a great spot to people watch since it is the transportation hub in the heart of the city.

São Bento Railway Station

10. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal / Crystal Palace Gardens

R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346, map

The garden sits atop a bluff, making it the perfect escape in the city with a stunning view.

The name comes from the palace that used to be here. It was torn down in 1956. You can visit the pavilion that is on the property too, but most people just spend time at the gardens.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal or Crystal Palace Gardens

11. Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis / National Museum soares dos Rei

R. de Dom Manuel II 44, 4050-342, map

This is the oldest museum in Portugal housed in the country’s oldest palace, Carrancas Palace. The collection includes prints, antiques, ceramics, paintings, sculptures, and more. It is named after its prized collection from António Soares dos Reis, a Portuguese sculptor. Be sure to check out his famous marble sculpture, O Desterrado (The Exiled).

R. de Serralves 97, 4150-708, map

If you love Art Deco architecture, you need to stop by the Serralves Villa. Since it wasn’t close to the city center, we didn’t have time to stop here. Next time, we can’t wait to see it.

Museu Serralves Foundation

photo: TasfotoNL / Shutterstock

R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253, map

Touring the Palacio da Bolsa or Stock Exchange Palace is one of the most popular things to do in Porto. We had a chance to tour the interior with but we decided to run around the city looking for other photo spots instead. We’ll just save it for next time.

The Stock Exchange Palace was built in 1850 with the interior finished in 1910, the octagonal dome with glass panels is the centerpiece but the entire building is beautiful. Be sure to check out the Arab room.

Av. da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071, map

This is a great place to watch a concert. In 2001, Porto was designated the European Capital of Culture, and Casa da Música was designed to celebrate that designation. It’s the first building in the city that was built to be exclusively dedicated to music.

Casa da Musica Porto Portugal

photo: leszczem / Shutterstock

15. Avenida dos Aliados

Av. dos Aliados, Porto, Portugal, map

This was another great spot for people watching. Avenida dos Aliados is the main avenue in the city center most recognized by City Hall that stands at the end. Along either side, ornate buildings line the street with a large walkway in the middle. Even the McDonald’s blends in.

Avenida dos Aliados + 15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal

More Things to Do Porto

  • Bolhao Market (Mercado do Bolhao)
  • Cable Car Ride.
  • Cafe Santiago – eat their famous Francesinha.
  • Capela das Almas – more pretty blue tiles
  • Church of Santa Clara (Igreja de Santa Clara)
  • Dragao Stadium – see a game.
  • Foz do Douro and Lighthouse
  • Morro Garden (Jardim do Morro), Gaia.
  • Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, Gaia – hill above Douro River
  • Porto City Park (Parque da Cidade)
  • Passeio das Virtudes – grab a beer and watch the sunset
  • Plano B for nightlife.
  • Port Wine Tasting.
  • Porto Bridge Climb on Ponte da Arrabida
  • Sandeman Cellars, Gaia
  • São João National Theater (Teatro Nacional São João) – see a show or concert.
  • Tram Ride
  • Virtudes Garden – great views of the city

Essential Tips for Visiting Porto

  • When to Visit: In general, northern Portugal is more grey and cold than the rest of the country. The best time to visit is between May and October (except for July and August). We enjoyed visiting at the end of October.
  • Bring your walking shoes. It’s a great way to explore but be prepared to walk some steep hills and stairs, especially if you’re headed to and from the water. We love our Vessis since they are so comfortable and are waterproof in case it rains.
  • How to Get Around: The Metro is easy to get around on as well. You just need to pick up a reusable Andante card. Plus, there’s Uber.
  • Get a Map (or Google maps). There are a lot of narrow and winding roads that make navigating a bit confusing. We had service so we didn’t have any issues with Google maps, but if you’re worried, be sure to download the area on Google Maps. If you want to go old school, you can also pick up a map (I love these maps because it can take a beating).
  • Always Pack: We always pack raincoats with us in case it rains, which it totally did during our trip. Don’t forget to bring a travel adapter to keep everything charged.
  • Cash: Most places will take credit cards although you do need cash for street vendors.
  • Souvenirs: The city is known for its world-famous Port wine so be sure to try some and bring some back for friends and family. Other great souvenirs include handmade tile jewelry, cork products, canned sardines

What's Nearby

  • Guimaraes (55.4 km northeast, map)
  • Aveiro (73.4 km south, map)
  • Pinhão (125 km east, map)
  • Lamego (128 km east, map)
  • Regua (160 km east, map)

Are there any other must do things to do in Porto we’re missing?

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20 Best Things to Do in Porto Portugal and Essential Tips for Your Visit
15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal
What to Do in Porto + Tips for Each Spot
15 Remarkable Places to Visit in Porto You Won't Want to Miss
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15+ Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal + Essential Tips for Your Visit
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Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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What You Need To Know Before Your First Douro River Cruise https://localadventurer.com/douro-river-cruise/ https://localadventurer.com/douro-river-cruise/#respond Mon, 02 Dec 2019 13:00:00 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=53535 We went on our very first river cruise with Scenic last month. Besides knowing our start and end, we had no idea what to expect from a river cruise, much less a Douro River cruise. I was excited to think for the first time in a while, we didn’t have to plan out our entire […]

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We went on our very first river cruise with Scenic last month. Besides knowing our start and end, we had no idea what to expect from a river cruise, much less a Douro River cruise. I was excited to think for the first time in a while, we didn’t have to plan out our entire itinerary in my typical OCD fashion.

Your Essential Guide for Your First Douro Cruise in Portugal

A big thank you to Scenic River Cruises for hosting our trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: December 2, 2019

River Cruises vs Ocean Cruises

We’ve been on a few ocean cruises before but river cruises have a completely different feel, and I can see why people fall in love with it.  Here are a few key differences:

  • River cruises are much more intimate and smaller.
  • They focus on Port excursions and culture over flashy on board entertainment.
  • Distances between ports are shorter, and you’re exploring a new city or village every day vs having days at sea.
  • Shore excursions and extra items are included in the fares for river cruises. Scenic was truly all inclusive, which meant you didn’t have to think about money at all once you were on the ship.
  • You don’t get sales pitches for duty-free items, photography, art, jewelry, etc.
  • Wifi is included and actually works (except when passing the locks).

In case you’ve never been on one, we’re sharing what to expect to help you plan for your future trips.

Overview of Douro River Cruises

Douro River cruises take you from Porto, Portugal to Vega de Terron, Spain. Although these cruises have a few different itineraries, most of them start and end in Porto.

Cruise packages range from 6 to 15 days, and most longer itineraries also include land travel to cities like Lisbon or Madrid. Our cruise was 8 days, which felt like the perfect amount of time on the river.

Unlike most other river cruises, the ships can only travel during the day due to the difficulty of navigating the Douro river at night and the locks you have to pass through.

The five locks dictate your ship’s schedule and the captain has to coordinate times each day. This also makes it very important to pay attention to each day’s schedule as it can change.

The cruise director makes announcements as you approach each lock, and it’s worth paying attention to at least once if you’ve never been through a lock before. They have very little margin of error.

You spend most of the cruise exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Douro River Valley in Portugal, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. You also typically get one day trip to Salamanca, Spain.

Compared to other popular river cruises in Europe, the Douro River is still relatively unknown. Not too long ago, there were only 5 ships that cruised the river, but as its popularity has grown, there are 25-30 ships now. 

Some of our favorite moments on the cruise were spent being the only foreigners exploring small towns and villages.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for luxury, Scenic is the only 5-star ship that cruises the Douro River.

What You Need to Know Before Your First Portugal River Cruise

About the Douro River Valley

The Douro Valley is a beautiful wine region known for its Port wines and a wide variety of table wines. I don’t think I’ve had so much wine on one trip before as they never stopped stealthily filling our glasses.

The microclimate is also great for olives, almonds, and more recently a wide variety of other fruits, which I was happy to see appear in our daily menus.

Beautiful terraced vineyards and quaint villages on rolling hills filled the landscape. It’s no surprise that I came home with thousands upon thousands of photos.

Within Portugal, only a few major Portuguese towns are along the river, it’s mostly made up of countryside estates and small villages. UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site because of its significant architecture and history.

As you explore, it really feels like you’ve stepped back in time. They’ve preserved much of their culture although you can tell it’s slowly fading away like everywhere else.

The Douro River is the third-longest river in the Iberian Peninsula flowing from Spain to Portugal. It runs 557 miles but the majority of the Spanish side is considered unnavigable, which is why cruises stop shortly after the border.

Along the river, fifteen dams help regulate the water flow. Five are in Spain, five are along the border, and the last five are in Portugal. 

The Portuguese dams, which have locks built in, allow boats up to 272 feet long and 37 feet wide to pass through. The Carrapatelo Dam is the highest lock with a maximum lift of 115 feet.

Douro Valley Wine Tour on Douro River Cruise
Douro Valley Portugal

Prominent Cities and Stops

Although each cruise has their own itineraries, these are some prominent cities visited by most Douro River cruises.

Porto, Portugal
Porto was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It is Portugal’s second-largest city and has a wide variety of architecture, ranging from medieval to modern. Most cruises show you the highlights of Porto.

Régua, Portugal
Régua is at the western edge of the port-wine region. It’s the area’s largest riverside town and home to the Douro Museum, which is a great intro to the region and its Port wine.

Pinhão, Portugal
Pinhão is full of wineries and located at a beautiful bend of the Douro River roughly 15 miles up the river. The town itself doesn’t have much to explore but is a great launching point to explore places like Lamego, known for its beautiful church at the top of over 600 steps and Mateus Palace. We walked the stairs from top to bottom enjoying the views from every landing. 

Pochinho, Portugal
You dock here to explore the Côa Valley, a prehistoric rock-art site. Visiting the small village of Freixo de Numao to learn how they roast almonds with different flavors and taste them was the highlight of our trip. They were the best we’ve tasted, and needless to say, we had to make room in our luggage to bring a few bags home.

Barca d’Alva, Portugal
A small village with the ruins of a castle atop a hill. You can see Spain on one side and Portugal on the other.

Vega de Terrón, Spain
This is the furthest inland your cruise goes. From here, you take a day trip to Salamanca, Spain.

Douro Valley Porto Portugal
Porto to Douro Valley Portugal
Douro Valley Wineries

Arrivals and Departures

Cais de Miragaia, 4050-430 Porto, map

Since most Douro River cruises start and end in Porto, it makes it logistically easy. Multiple transportation companies can get to and from the airport, and we saw signs that Uber is now accessible here.

Most ships are located at the Douro River Cruise Terminal, located in Vila Nova da Gaia just across the river. The exception is Scenic with its own port on the Porto side, which makes exploring the city very accessible.

Any Scenic booking includes transportation to and from the airport. After we got through customs, it was easy to spot the Scenic sign, and we waited for a few others that arrived around the same time before heading the van.

From there, they drove us through town telling us about the city and pulled up right next to the river where the Scenic Azure waited for us.

Before our final night, they gave us a pick-up time (ours was a painful 3:30 am since we had a 6 am flight). Just like our arrival, they shuttled us to the airport so we didn’t have to worry about anything.

Pro Tip: If we were to do this trip again, we would add at least an extra day before or after to explore Porto. We loved how photogenic the city was and that much of city is walkable.

What to Expect on Douro River Cruises

The Scenic Azure

The Ship

Scenic refers to their ships as spaceships. When I first read that, I thought were referring to having a clean design, but it turns out they were talking about how spacious it. is. We heard from other guests that have been on a number of river cruises that it really lives up to its name.

The Scenic Azure holds 96 guests in 48 cabins, and they are the only 5-star ship on the Douro river among the 25-30 ships that currently cruise the river. In addition to that, there are 40 staff ready to make your experience amazing.

Besides your room, the lounge is the center stage of the ship. All the briefings happen there and there’s also a full open bar where people can hang out. The top deck has a pool and lounge seating, which we didn’t get to take full advantage of due to the rainy weather.

The main dining room is under the lounge, where you have all your meals.

Douro River Cruise

The Food + Wine

Breakfast and lunch were buffet style, while each dinner was a multi-course meal where you can pick from a few options.

We did a big breakfast the first morning, but since we’re not big on breakfast and love our sleep, all the days after, we opted to sleep in and have room service. Each morning, we ordered a simple breakfast consisting of croissants and Nutella right before our first morning excursion.

Lunch always had a few featured dishes as part of the buffet and a couple of specialty dishes you could order straight from the kitchen. We had to try a little bit of everything.

If you wanted a lighter lunch, you could get smaller bites at the cafe and try a different freshly baked cake each day. On nice days, the top deck hosts BBQ and other special meals.

Each evening, the head chef introduced the meal and its highlights as well as the wines featured that evening. We recommend going with the chef’s favorites as he seemed to put a little more TLC into those dishes.

In addition to the main dinner, there are two other dinner options that required reservations. Portobellos is a special Portuguese themed dinner and Table D’Or is a fine dining experience. We recommend you check out both.

If you’re hungry outside of those times, you can order room service at any time.

Pro Tip: Remember, everything is included so if you just can’t decide between the options, try them all.

Scenic Cruises Food + What to Expect on Your First Douro River Cruise
Scenic River Cruises Food

The Rooms on the Scenic Azure

We were in a Balcony Suite during our cruise, but all rooms were spacious and comfortable and had river views. We spent a lot of time relaxing in our room and watching the scenery from our balcony. 

They put so much attention to detail. It was amazing. The bed adjusted on each side, and there was storage for everything, including a place for your empty suitcase.

The balcony was the obvious highlight of the room. It converted the indoor space into an outdoor one by opening the top panel of the glass. It was the perfect way to enjoy fresh air from your very own space.

Every guest on the ship was assigned a butler too. They helped you with anything that you needed. Alex was our butler, and we loved her! She always stocked our fridge with our favorite beverages and snacks and helped us with any issues we had. We were surprised that she even went out of her way to do some research for us on photo spots in Porto.

Scenic Azure Balcony Suite + What to Expect on Your First Douro River Cruise
Scenic Azure Bathrooms + What to Expect on Your First Douro River Cruise

On Board Activities

On sailing days, they had all-inclusive programs to learn more about local artistry. They brought in a tile painting artist to teach us how to make the famous Portuguese blue tiles. There was also a cork workshop, and we even learned how to make the Portuguese Egg Tarts (my favorite).

If you’ve never done them before, we highly recommend doing them all. They have limited space, so be sure to sign up when they announce them.

If you prefer to have more time relaxing in your room instead, we recommend the tile painting the most followed by the egg tarts. You don’t have to know how to make them to eat them. 

In the evenings, they also had other events like trivia, and we loved ending the evenings in the lounge listening to Arsenia (aka Portuguese Richard Gere) play and sing effortlessly.

Portuguese Tiles Painting Class + What to Expect on Your First Portugal River Cruise
Portuguese Blue Tiles + What to Expect on Douro Cruises
Portuguese Egg Tart Class + Your Essential Travel Guide to Douro Valley from Porto

Map of Douro River Cruise Stops

Essential Tips for Visiting the Douro Valley

  • Currency: Portugal uses Euros. Touristy spots have the option for credit cards, but many smaller shops only take cash. It’s always good to have euros handy.
  • Language: Portuguese is the main language, although they understand Spanish and English in the larger cities.
  • Safety: While in the larger cities, and especially in the crowded areas, keep your belongings secure and be aware of any pickpockets. We saw a lot of pickpocket signage, but we figure it’s probably like most big cities.
  • When to Visit: Peak season is summer. If you visit during the tail end of the season (October) like we did, pack a rain jacket. It rained nearly every day.
  • Demographic: The general demographic for river cruises is retired, older folks. We were clearly the youngest on the cruise, but we really enjoyed getting to meet everyone and hopefully made some cruising friends for life.
  • Excursions: The excursions were slower paced than we would have liked, but we understand it fit the demo better. You can always split off to explore on your own, so make sure you talk to your cruise director to let them know.
  • Pick your seats wisely. Since river cruises are more intimate, you end up socializing more. There aren’t many two seaters, and if you pick the wrong seats, you may end up in some awkward or unpleasant conversations.
  • You won’t get seasick on river cruises since there aren’t waves like ocean cruises. I still didn’t want to chance it, so I ended up taking dramamine every night.
  • Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
  • Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Have you been on a Douro River cruise or any of the other Scenic river cruises?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

Douro River Cruises in Portugal
Douro Valley from Porto
Scenic River Cruises
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Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Local Adventurer on Pinterest Local Adventurer on Youtube

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9 Beautiful Day Trips from Prague You Shouldn’t Miss https://localadventurer.com/day-trips-from-prague/ https://localadventurer.com/day-trips-from-prague/#respond Fri, 27 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=51776 Don’t miss these awesome day trips from Prague! When people travel to the Czech Republic, they usually stay within Prague. We get it! It’s easy to stick to the big cities of each country. Josh and I enjoyed our time in city, but we both agreed that the day trips from Prague to smaller, rural […]

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Don’t miss these awesome day trips from Prague!

When people travel to the Czech Republic, they usually stay within Prague. We get it! It’s easy to stick to the big cities of each country. Josh and I enjoyed our time in city, but we both agreed that the day trips from Prague to smaller, rural towns were much more memorable. We also got a chance to explore some amazing film locations and the world famous Karlovy Vary Film Festival.

9 Best Day Trips from Prague

A big thank you to Czech Tourism and the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Los Angeles for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 17, 2025

TLDR

📍 Location – Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is located in Central Europe along the Vltava River. Its central location makes it a great base for day trips to charming towns like Plzen, where Pilsner beer originated, and Český Krumlov, a fairy-tale medieval town. Plus, it’s well-connected by train and bus to nearby countries like Germany, Austria, and Poland, making cross-border adventures easy.

🚗 Day Trips – Plzen and Budejovice, Tisa, Hrensko, Český Krumlov, Tabor

The Best Day Trips from Prague

If you know me, you know that I enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside more than the loud, bustling city. So, I was really looking forward to our day trips. We also didn’t want to miss out on the beautiful landscapes and charming villages in the Czech Republic. A lot of these towns were featured in some of our favorite movies. We explored some of these places and compiled a list of our favorite day trips from Prague.

1. Plzen and Budejovice

Distance: 57 miles / 1 hr

Welcome to beer heaven! Plzeň (Pilsen) is where Pilsner beer originated and we quickly noticed that it’s available at every restaurant, bar, and cafe around town.

Even if you’re not a beer drinker, the non-alcoholic beer options were tasty and ideal for a hot summer day. We didn’t get a chance to stop by, but the Pilsner Urquell brewery is also a must-see for any beer lover.

If you don’t drink, there are still plenty to see and do in the historic town square. On our way from Tábor to Český Krumlov, we had a chance to make a quick stop at Budějovice.

It is well known for its beer brewed there since the 13th century and it was known as the imperial brewery for the Holy Roman Emperor. We had a delicious traditional Czech lunch at Masné krámy which was originally a meat market as far back as the 1300s.

See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Prague

2. Tisa

Distance: 65 miles / 1 hr 5 mins

Growing up in Atlanta, we didn’t have unique mountains like the ones in the Czech Republic. Tisá is home to a well-known group of rock formations in the Bohemian mountains. Even though they are one of the major tourist attractions in western Bohemia, they aren’t littered with tourists.

The hike up is easy, the air is fresh, and the views are outstanding. You may recognize these sandstone pillars from Chronicles of Narnia but without the snow. Entry fee is cash only (30 CZK).

Tisa + 9 Things to Do in the Czech Republic

3. Hrensko

Distance: 79 miles / 1 hr 30 mins

Another Chronicles of Narnia filming location is Hřensko, home to the Pravčická brána. This sandstone archway is the largest natural sandstone archway in Europe. The hike is a lot longer than Tisá Rocks and is a bit more strenuous, but the unique views are totally worth it.

Bring your comfy hiking shoes and dress accordingly! We thought it was going to be a walk in the park and weren’t prepared. Needless to say, we were working up a sweat in our jeans.

Also, be sure to grab a local Czech beer at the Falcon’s Nest, a restaurant and bar at the top of the hill. They also offer the Czech version of Coca-Cola, called Kofola. I wasn’t a huge fan, but Josh loved it.

Hrensko Czechy + 9 Amazing Day Trips from Prague

4. Tabor

Distance: 79 miles / 1 hr 30 mins

I’ve always wanted to climb atop a bell tower and feel like Quasimodo! We had the chance to go up Tabor’s historic church tower in the town square and saw the entire town down below.

After a creaky climb back down, we grabbed the ever so popular Viennese coffee and some traditional chlebíček sandwiches at MoccaCafe. We then walked down and enjoyed the view of Jordan Lake.

Several scenes from one of my favorite movies, The Illusionist, were filmed here as well. We were surprised when we recognized some of the old pastel-colored buildings.

Tabor CZ + Best Places to Visit in Czech Republic

5. Karlovy Vary

Distance: 79 miles / 1 hr 45 mins

Our last stop was Karlovy Vary, a spa town situated in western Bohemia. Boasting over 300 hot springs, Karlovy Vary is the most visited spa town in the country. From Casanova to Mozart, several notable people throughout history have stayed here to enjoy the healing waters.

There are also fountains around town where you can try thermal mineral water, which is known to boost blood circulation, reduce stress, and promote sleep, among many other things. It wasn’t exactly palatable to our taste buds, but still a fun experience. We were surprised at how locals would bring their own jugs to fill.

There were also some perfect picture spots, like The Mill Colonnade that also served as the Montenegrin train station in Casino Royale.

Each July, the town hosts the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the world. International directors, producers, writers, and actors (this year Julianne Moore and Patricia Clarkson were special guests, among many others) come to screen their films in vintage cinemas.

When we got to Karlovy Vary, the town was bustling with filmmakers and film lovers, and we had a chance to experience the fanfare! We watched a few international films (and met some of the filmmakers!), went on a location exploration tour, and even dressed up in our formal wear to attend the closing ceremony and after-party at Hotel Thermal and the famous GrandHotel Pupp Hotel (which was featured in Casino Royale and Last Holiday).

Karlovy Vary, being a spa town with a rich history, provided the perfect low key atmosphere for the film festival.

6. Hluboka Nad Vltavou

Distance: 93 miles / 1 hr 48 mins

The Czech Republic is home to hundreds of gorgeous castles and Hluboká Castle is one straight out of a fairytale. This one reminded me of the typical castles you see in children’s books.

It’s also a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic. There are several events on the castle grounds throughout the day and it’s and a great place to learn about Gothic and Tudor style architecture.

Looks familiar? You might have seen this castle in Shanghai Knights and Underworld: Blood Wars.

7. Holasovice

Distance: 94 miles / 1 hr 57 mins

As we walked into town, we couldn’t help but be in awe at this quaint little village. The village in Holašovice is a perfect example of a traditional central European village.

Particularly well preserved and built in the Folk Baroque style, these buildings are still in use today. Roughly 140 people still live here. Today, it serves as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

8. Loket

Distance: 94 miles / 1 hr 57 mins

We both love James Bond films and quickly recognized the small town of Loket from Casino Royale. The town hosts an annual opera festival with the Loket castle as a backdrop. It’s also the location for the Czech motocross Grand Prix.

What makes the Loket Castle unique from the other ones we’ve visited is the torture chamber. Visitors can tour the dungeon and see visual examples of how the chamber was used. Although we enjoyed it, it’s definitely not kid-friendly.

Loket Czech Republic

9. Cesky Krumlov

Distance: 110 miles / 2 hr 13 mins

We wished we had more time in Český Krumlov. The castle here is a UNESCO and national heritage site. It’s also my personal favorite that we visited in Czech Republic.

There is plenty to see and do. Go river tubing, attend an outdoor orchestra concert, and explore the castle grounds. The viewpoints from the castle were breathtaking. We can see why this town has been in countless movies (The IllusionistHostel, just to name a couple).

If you’re driving there, you’ve been warned! The streets are super narrow and hard to navigate. Needless to say, I was sweating from nervousness when we had to pass through to get to our hotel.

Cesky Krumlov Castle

Map of Prague Day Trips

More Day Trips from Prague

  • Velká Amerika (31 km / 19 mi SW, 50 min drive, map)
  • Karlštejn (33 km / 20 mi SW, 45 min drive, map)
  • Koněprusy Caves (40 km / 25 mi SW, 40 min drive, map)
  • Český ráj (91 km / 57 mi NE, 1 hr 5 min drive, map)
  • Krivoklat Castle (58 km / 36 mi W, 58 min drive, map)
  • Terezín (63 km / 39 mi NW, 45 min drive, map)
  • Kutná Hora (79 km / 49 mi E, 1 hr drive, map)
  • Monínec (87 km / 54 mi S, 1 hr 15 min drive, map)
  • České Středohoří / Bohemian Uplands (81 km / 50 mi N, 1 hr 5 min drive, map)
  • Liberec (110 km / 68 mi NE,  1 hr 15 min drive, map)
  • Pardubice (119 km / 74 mi E, 1 hr 25 min drive, map)
  • Bohemian Switzerland (127 km / 79 mi N, 1 hr 37 min drive, map)
  • Vysočina (130 km / 81 mi SE, 1 hr 35 min drive, map)
  • Nové Město nad Metují (146 km / 91 mi E, 1 hr 50 min drive, map)
  • Dresden, Germany (147 km / 91 mi NW, 1 hr 40 min drive, map)
  • České Budějovice (147 km / 91 mi S, 1 hr 40 min drive, map)
  • Nachod (148 km / 92 mi E, 1 hr 55 min drive, map)
  • Telč (158 km / 98 mi SE, 2 hr drive, map)
  • Görlitz, Germany (168 km / 104 mi N, 2 hr 10 min drive, map)
  • Mariánské Lázně (168 km / 104 mi W, 2 hr 10 min drive, map)
  • Brno (205 km / 127 mi SE, 2 hr 25 min drive, map)

Essential Tips for Visiting the Czech Republic

  • Bring layers! It was scorching hot while we were in Prague, but we found the countryside towns to be much cooler, especially at night.
  • If you drive, be sure to bring cash for parking. It’s almost guaranteed that parking isn’t free.
  • Many, if not all, convenient stores are cash only.
  • There are tons of buses that offer daily trips, so be sure to check online for their schedules. Here’s a good place to start.
  • Wear sunscreen. You’d be surprised at how easy it is to get sunburned, even in the shade or during the winter.
  • Czech Republic uses 230V AC electricity. Power outlets are two-prong round sockets. We recommend picking up a universal travel adaptor before you leave.
  • If you’re planning on visiting some national parks, bring comfortable hiking shoes that are suitable for all terrains.
  • The best time to visit is March, April, October, and November. The smaller towns aren’t crowded with tourists and the weather is generally cool.
  • Springtime (Mar.-May) brings pretty blossoms. If you choose to visit Czech Republic during the low seasons (Jan -Feb), keep in mind that many attractions will be closed due to snow.

Best Places to Stay Near prague

In case you want to stay a night outside of Prague, here are some suggestions.

  • Vltavska Pohadka Hotel – This is where we stayed in Český Krumlov. Right by the river, this quaint B&B style hotel is perfectly located near the castle and within walking distance to restaurants, bars, and shops. The bedrooms and bathrooms were spacious and clean and we had a great view of the river.
  • Hotel Ostrov – Located in the Tisá/Ostrov area, this 4-star hotel is the perfect getaway from the busy city. We didn’t stay here, but had a delicious lunch after our hike and interacted with the wonderful staff. They have a wellness center with an indoor pool, a Finnish sauna, and hot tubs.
  • Grand Hotel Ambassador – This Old World hotel was above my expectations. The rooms were very spacious and clean and ours even had two separate bathrooms! They also offer an indoor pool, a wellness center, saunas, and more. It is centrally located to several bars, restaurants, and local hot springs.

Planning Checklist

How many of these day trips from Prague have you done? Have you visited the Czech Republic? 

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

about-josh-macy

Josh + Macy

Josh and Macy are creative southern kids who love exploring local and international cultures. They’ve long believed that traveling is about getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. They are currently based out of Atlanta.

Follow along on Instagram (J + M), YouTube, and Pinterest.

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15 Best Things to Do in Prague https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-prague/ https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-prague/#comments Tue, 20 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=51760 Visiting Prague? Check out these amazing things to do. “Click, clack, click, clack,” were the sounds our feet as we walked across the Charles Bridge. We were only in Prague for about three days, but loved every minute of it! Josh will tell you that I’m not the most romantic sap, but Prague made it […]

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Visiting Prague? Check out these amazing things to do.

“Click, clack, click, clack,” were the sounds our feet as we walked across the Charles Bridge. We were only in Prague for about three days, but loved every minute of it! Josh will tell you that I’m not the most romantic sap, but Prague made it easy to fall back in love with love.

What to Do in Prague

A big thank you to Czech Tourism and the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Los Angeles for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 28, 2023

15 Best Things to Do in Prague Czech Republic

We recently watched Spider-Man: Far From Home and were super excited to see some of Prague’s landmarks in the film. Before our visit, we didn’t know much about the Czech film industry and how it plays a major role in movies worldwide. Some of the biggest movies were filmed right here in Prague and after our trip, we now know why! We love Casino Royale, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, and The Illusionist, all of which were shot in Czech Republic. It’s been a popular destination for film and TV production for years. The country offers incentives, cost-effective infrastructure and captivating locations. If you want to learn more about current productions, be sure to check out Czech Film Commission.

This city felt like a town from a fairytale. From the historic streets to the intricate architecture, we loved exploring every nook and cranny. Here is a list of our favorite things to do in Prague.

1. Explore Old Town Square

Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Josefov, map

The historic square features gothic buildings that date back to the 10th century. Almost all of the square in its entirety was unharmed during World War II. Because it’s so well preserved, Old Town Square has been featured in several films such as Les Miserables, Mission: Impossible, Casino Royale, and more. Walk along the cobblestone streets, sit by a nearby cafe, and enjoy people watching and the architectural views.

Local Tip: Thousands of visitors walk through Old Town Square a day. The best time to get Instagram-worthy photos is early morning around 5am.

See More: 9 Beautiful Day Trips from Prague You Shouldn’t Miss

Old Town Square Prague Things to Do

2. See the World’s Third-Oldest Astronomical Clock

Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, map

I love old, elaborate clocks and Prague Orloj did not disappoint! It is one of the most fascinating landmarks in Czech Republic. Dating back to the 15th century, the clock displays relative positions of the sun, moon, and zodiacal constellations. At the top of each hour, the windows of the clock opens up to show 12 apostles moving across. Simultaneously, the sculptures beneath are also set in motion. Visitors can also climb up the clock tower to witness panoramic views of the Old Town.

Local Tip: The clock rings at the top of the hour from 9.00am to 11.00pm. Crowds start lining up about 20 minutes prior and the “show” lasts for about 45 seconds. Blink and you’ll miss it!

See More: 15 Remarkable Things to Do in Porto Portugal

Prague Clock + First Timer's Guide to Prague Czech Republic

3. Take a Stroll on Charles Bridge

Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, map

The Charles Bridge is a must-see in Prague. Construction began in 1357 and although it has suffered many disasters and witnessed numerous historic events, it still stands strong.

We could feel the history beneath our feet as we walked across the bridge. Be sure to take in the amazing view of the Prague Castle at sunrise. It was my favorite view of the city! You might recognize the bridge in the Spider-man: Far From Home.

Local Tip: This is a very popular spot for engagement photos. We got to the bridge around 5:30am and there were several couples taking photos, so the earlier you go, the less people you will get in your shots.

Charles Bridge Statues + 15 Wonderful Things to Do in Prague Czech Republic

4. Visit Prague Castle

Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, map

Neither of us have seen a castle in real life and this one did not disappoint! Prague Castle is the world’s largest castle complex and the most popular attraction in the city. You can easily spend an entire day here. Wander the impressive gardens and check out the Old Royal Palace. The castle grounds are free to visit, but some attractions will cost you an entry fee. More info here.

Local Tip: Prague Castle is on a hill. Start your visit from the top and work your way down so that you’re not constantly walking uphill.

Prague Castle Tour

5. Tour Prague’s “Hollywood Studio”

Kříženeckého nám. 322/5, 152 00 Praha 5-Hlubočepy, map

Josh, being a film lover and actor, was really excited to see Barrandov Studio. It is a renowned set of film studios in Prague. Several well known international movies were shot here. Casino RoyaleMission ImpossibleThe Bourne Identity, and Anthropoid were all filmed here at Barrandov. It is also the largest film studio in the country and one of the largest in Europe.

Note: Only the museum of the studios is open to the general public, but if you’re lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of a movie set.

6. Find David Cerny’s Art Around the City

Charvátova, 110 00 Nové Město, map

Famously known as Czech’s rebel artist, David Cerny has quite a reputation in Czech Republic. Most of his controversial pieces are scattered around the city and not easy to miss. We wandered around town trying to find them and loved learning about the ideas behind each piece. A few of our favorites include PissBabies, and Head of Franz Kafka.

Local Tip: You can tell the Piss sculptures to write messages into the water via SMS. – Adina, a local art student

See More: Recap of Our Endless Caravan

Kafka Head Prague Things to See

7. Catch a Film at Lucerna Palace

Štěpánská 61, 116 02 Nové Město, map

This art-nouveau building was designed as the first multipurpose building in the country. It boasts a magnificent theatre, a music call, local shops, and restaurants. Kino Lucerna offers an old-fashioned cinema atmosphere. Soak in the beautiful velvet curtains and intricate architecture all along the theatre. On your way in, be sure to take a look at David Cerny’s sculpture Kun. Many locals believe that it’s referencing a time when the country was an “upside-down” under the ruling of Václav Klaus.

Local Tip: We had a chance to check out the Lucerna rooftop. It serves as a community space established by Czech urban activist, Ondřej Kobza. He explained to us how he revives forgotten spaces and then converts them into beautiful usable areas. The rooftop is opened Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays from 3pm-dusk. It’s definitely worth the visit.

8. Tour the Estates Theatre

Železná, 110 00 Staré Město, map

Growing up as “orch-dorks,” the Estates Theatre was by far, our favorite stop in Prague. The interior architecture of this historic theatre took our breath away. Its claim to glory is from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart who premiered his opera Don Giovanni in 1787. You may also recognize the spellbinding venue in the film, Amadeus. Currently, the Estates Theatre features three artistic ensembles- opera, ballet, and drama. Neither of us have seen an opera, but we definitely plan on coming back to the Estates Theatre to experience one.

Local Tip:  If you’ve never been to an opera, I recommend trying it for the first time here. This is one of my favorite theatres in the city. – Michaela, Director of Czech Tourism.

Estates Theatre Prague Things to See

9. Marvel the Views From Dancing House

Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, map

At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the exterior architecture of the building. It didn’t fit in with the rest of the Renaissance buildings in the neighborhood. But, as I walked towards it, I fell in love with its modern uniqueness. The Dancing House was designed by Frank Genhry, a famous American architect. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, as the building resembles a pair of dancers. Go to the rooftop balcony to enjoy Josh’s favorite view of Prague.

Local Tip: To go onto the balcony, you have to buy a drink. Prices are reasonable and you can just grab a coffee or soda.

10. Make Peace at the John Lennon Wall

Velkopřevorské náměstí, 100 00 Praha 1, map

Located at the end of Charles Bridge, the Lennon Wall is about 60 feet of graffitied lyrics, images, and peace signs. John Lennon was an inspiration and a hero to the pacifist youth of Central and Eastern Europe. The wall is dedicated to his ideals and is consistently updated with new graffiti. It wasn’t our favorite stop, but makes for a cute photo opp.

Local Tip: It gets really crowded, so you’ll have to be patient for a good photo.

11. Bust Out Bond Moves at Strahov Library

Strahovské nádvoří 132/1, 118 00 Praha 1-Hradčany, map

Check out hundreds of relics, manuscripts, and beautiful grounds at the Strahov Monastery and Library. You might recognize the library from Casino Royale. Unfortunately, it’s limited access and you can’t enter the actual room where they filmed. You can only marvel it from the doorway. It’s still very impressive and if you’re a James Bond buff, it’s worth a visit.

Note: You’ll have to pay an extra 50 CZK if you want to take photos of the library.

Strahov Library + 15 Wonderful Things to Do in Prague

12. Remember WWII at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church and Crypt

Resslova 9a, 120 00 Nové Město, map

Being WWII history aficionados, we were anxious to visit this church and crypt. In 1942, several Czech and Slovak paratroopers on a mission from England assassinated the German SS official Reinhard Heydrich, the main architect of the Holocaust. This plot was known as Operation Anthropoid. The patriots hid in the crypt beneath the church and were killed by Nazis or died by suicide after a long standoff.

There is a museum in the crypt that is dedicated to these national heroes. You can learn the personal story of each soldier, see photos, etc. Some of them are pretty graphic, so keep that in mind if you’re visiting with children. The museum and crypt are free to visit. Donations are appreciated.

Pro Tip: We recommend watching Anthropoid, a war film based on Operation Anthropoid, before visiting.

St Cyril and Methodius Church + What to See in Prague

13. Try Traditional Czech Cuisine

There are so many delicious Czech specialities. We would’ve tried them all if we had multiple stomachs! Some of the most popular dishes are pork knuckles, roasted duck, goulash, and palacinky (crepe-like pancakes). Of course, you have to wash it all down with some cold Czech beer.

Did you know that the Pilsner beer is from Prague’s neighboring city, Pilsen? Unfortunately, Josh doesn’t drink, but I was able to enjoy some of the local beers with our meals. Most beers were cheaper than water!

Local Tip: The food and drink culture in Czech Republic is growing! Check out Manifesto Market, our favorite experience in Prague. It’s a village for art, education, food, and entertainment. The coolest part? It’s entirely made from shipping containers.

14. Walk the Winding Streets of Mala Strana

Malá Strana, Prague 1, map

Sitting beneath the Prague Castle is Mala Strana (Lesser Town). The orange rooftops, Renaissance architecture, and old cobblestone streets can be seen from miles away. We enjoyed checking out the quaint bars, churches, and local shops.

Local Tip: Climb up the bell tower at the Church of St. Nicolas to get the best view of Mala Strana. – Eva, Local Tour Guide

Mala Strana Prague

15. Learn About Czech History at the National Museum

Václavské nám. 68, 110 00 Nové Město, map

Established in 1818, the National Museum is the largest museum in the Czech Republic. There are some cool exhibits but the building itself is worth checking out. The main stairway atrium served as the hotel lobby in Casino Royale.

Note: The Museum has recently completed extensive renovations. We didn’t have time to check them out, but be sure to do so while you’re there!

Narodni Museum Prague

Map of Prague

Essential Tips

  • Be sure you bring comfy walking shoes, especially for those cobblestone streets. The best way to explore Prague is on foot.
  • Carry water with you at all times. During our visit, Europe was under a heatwave and we were constantly dehydrated.
  • Buy a transportation ticket. A single-day ticket is relatively cheap and you can switch between tram, metro, and bus an unlimited number of times. Most of them run 24/7.
  • Bring cash. Most places accept credit cards, however, some shops only accept cash (particularly the small convenience stores) so it’s good to have a little bit of cash on hand. Restaurants also appreciate cash tips even when you pay via credit card. Make sure you exchange money at official bank exchanges. Other places might trick you and charge a fee.
  • Tipping is not required but recommended in the Czech Republic. The servers are usually underpaid; so it is recommended to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill.
  • There is a very low crime rate in the Czech Republic, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded and busier parts of town.
  • Best time to visit in regards to weather would be the spring season; however, the Czech Republic is beautiful year-round. Winter tends to be colder, but there are several Christmas markets and holiday festivals that visitors miss out during the warmer months.
  • Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
  • Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

Best Places to Stay

  • Hotel Casa Marcello – We loved staying here during our time in Prague. It’s tucked away, yet in a central location. It’s about a 5-7 minute walk to Old Town Square, bars, and restaurants. The rooms are clean, large, and the staff was very friendly. We also loved the breakfast bar, which was included with our stay. Most of the rooms do not have A/C and there isn’t an elevator, which could be a mobility issue for some guests.
  • Four Seasons Prague
  • Mosaic House

Planning Checklist

How many of these day trips from Prague have you done? Have you visited the Czech Republic? 

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

SEE More International City Guides

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

about-josh-macy

Josh + Macy

Josh and Macy are creative southern kids who love exploring local and international cultures. They’ve long believed that traveling is about getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. They are currently based out of Atlanta.

Follow along on Instagram (J + M), YouTube, and Pinterest.

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5 Epic Day Trips from Reykjavik Iceland You Can’t Miss https://localadventurer.com/best-day-trips-from-reykjavik-iceland/ https://localadventurer.com/best-day-trips-from-reykjavik-iceland/#comments Mon, 21 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=39436 Day trips are a great way to explore Iceland – these are the ones you need to check out! Iceland is full of beautiful landscapes and is a landscape photographer’s playground. With its popularity continuing to grow and airlines making it easy for a quick stopover, we’ve decided to share some of the best day […]

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Day trips are a great way to explore Iceland – these are the ones you need to check out!

Iceland is full of beautiful landscapes and is a landscape photographer’s playground. With its popularity continuing to grow and airlines making it easy for a quick stopover, we’ve decided to share some of the best day trips from Reykjavik and our favorite stops. Reykjavik is a great place to base yourself since there are more food and hotel options.

5 Epic Day Trips from Reykjavik Iceland You Can’t Miss | Best Places to Drive to in Iceland - Are you traveling to Iceland? Click the article to see the beautiful destinations that are only a day trip away from Reykjavik. Why you should visit them, Iceland road trip travel tips, and what to do in Reykjavik // Local Adventurer #reykjavik #roadtrip #iceland

Special thanks to Lotus Car Rental for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 15, 2025

TLDR

📍 Location – Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, located on the country’s southwestern coast. It’s an excellent base for day trips because it’s close to some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, all within a few hours’ drive. Since Iceland is relatively small, you can see a lot in just one day and still return to Reykjavík for the night.

🚗 Road TripsSnaefellsnes Peninsula, Barnafoss & Hraunfossar, The Golden Circle, Vik, Jokulsarlon (Glacier Lagoon)

5 Epic Day Trips from Reykjavik Iceland You Can’t Miss

1. Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Distance: 110 miles / 2 hrs 2 mins

One of our all-time favorite photography spots is only 2 hours away from the city. Grundarfjörður is where Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss is.

Other Places to Check Out:

  • Bjarnarhofn Shark Museum – try fermented shark
  • Snaefellsjokull Glacier
  • Gerduberg Basalt Columns
  • Budir Church – beautiful historic wooden little church
  • Londrangar – amazing lava formations off the coast

See More: 11 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Iceland

Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellfoss, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland - Are you traveling to Iceland? Check out these 5 amazing Reykjavik day trips to add to your Iceland bucket list // Local Adventurer #reykjavik #iceland #roadtrip

2. Barnafoss & Hraunfossar

Distance: 74 miles / 1 hr 30 mins

This day trip gets you to two waterfalls in one spot. Hraunfossar is one of the more unique falls in the country. It’s a series of smaller falls that emerge from the ground and flow down to the river below. Barnafoss or Bjarnafoss is a more traditional fall rushing down a narrow gorge.

If you are visiting during the summer with longer days, you can stop here before heading to Snaefellsnes Peninsula. During the winter, this spot was one of the least crowded places we went to.

See More: 10 Things No One Tells You About Visiting Iceland

Bjarnafoss or Barnafoss Waterfall, Western Iceland - Iceland Road Trip Travel Tips - Planning a trip to Iceland? Take a look at this article to find out which 5 day trips from Reykjavik Iceland you can’t miss. There are so many beautiful places that you need to experience // Local Adventurer #iceland #roadtrip #europe

3. The Golden Circle

Distance: 147 miles / 3 hrs 20 mins

This is the most popular day trip from Reykjavik. There will be tons of tours that offer guided tours, but we recommend doing it on your own so you can go at your own pace.

The three main attractions are Thingvellier National Park, Gullfoss, and Geysir. Thingvellir National Park is the first national park in Iceland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the museum and see different sites on a self-guided walking tour.

Afterward, you can stop at Geysir, which as you can guess, is a geothermal area with geysers and mud pots. It’s also home to the original “Geysir,” which is where we got the English word geyser from. Lastly, you can stop at Gullfoss to see one of the most spectacular waterfalls. It’s absolutely massive!

Because this is such an easy and classic trip, expect it to be crowded.

Other Places to Check Out:

See More: Silfra Snorkeling Experience in Iceland – What You Need to Know Before You Go

4. The South Coast Part 1: Vik

Distance: 112 miles / 2 hrs 20 mins

The second most visited day trip area is the South Coast. It has some of the most iconic waterfalls and landscapes. It takes roughly 2.5 hours to drive to Vik, but with so many stops along the way, it will keep you busy all day.

Places to Check Out:

  • Seljalandsfoss – a waterfall you can walk behind
  • Skogafoss – probably one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland.
  • Solheimassandur Plane Wreck
  • Dyrholaey – sea arch and dramatic cliffs
  • Reynisdranger Black Sand Beach – with Basalt Columns

See More: What to Pack for Iceland in the Winter – 10 Days in a Carry-On

5. The South Coast Part II: Jokulsarlon (Glacier Lagoon)

Distance: 232 miles / 4 hrs 35 mins

We broke up the South Coast into two parts since there are so many stops and the second portion is farther. Between Vik and Jokulsarlon, there is plenty more to see that’s worth another day trip out. The main stop will be Jokulsarlon or Glacier Lagoon!

Other Places to Check Out:

  • Svinafellsjokull Glacier – our favorite stop was this beautiful blue glacier
  • Svartifoss – waterfall amongst basalt columns
  • Fjadrarglijufur
  • Jokulsarlon Ice Beach (Diamond Beach)
  • Crystal Cave – click to see our full post on these ice caves (only during winter)

See More: Crystal Cave – Iceland’s Largest Ice Cave in Vatnajökull

More Places to Visit and Things to See in Iceland

1. Icelandic Horses

This doesn’t require a special trip unless you really love horses, but keep your eye out for the Icelandic Horses on your drive. We made stops while on the South Coast and on our way to Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

We pulled over to the side of the road and ran into one of the farmers and politely asked if we could take some photos. He was more than happy to let us do so.

10 Things No One Tells You About Visiting Iceland // localadventurer.com

2. Northern Lights →

If you’re in Iceland during the winter, a car is really helpful if you’re trying to catch the Northern Lights. Although there are tours that take you from the city, they usually only go out for a certain limited amount of time before heading back. If you have your own car, you can stay out as long as needed or move spots when you want.

See More: How to Catch the Northern Lights

3. Blue Lagoon →

Distance: 30 miles / 45 minutes

If you’re looking for relaxing day, then drive out to the Blue Lagoon. It’s only 45 minutes from the city and is a large complex with everything you need for a relaxing day. Be sure to book your time there early as it fills up.

If you’re looking for something less commercialized and off the beaten path, check out Secret Lagoon in Fludir or Fontana Geothermal Baths.

The Blue Lagoon Spa - Heading to Iceland? Check out our full article with 5 best day trips from Reykjavik Iceland + Tips for your visit // Local Adventurer #reykjavik #iceland

4. Reykjavik →

Often times people overlook Reykjavik in excitement to see the rest of the country, but the city is also worth exploring too.

Places to Check Out:

  • Hallgrimskirkja Church
  • Sun Voyager Statue
  • The Pearl

See More: 11 Interesting Things to Do in Reykjavik

Renting a Car

As you can tell, having your own car is one of the best ways to explore Iceland, whether you want to do it via day trips from Reykjavik or drive around the whole island.

To book your car, visit Lotus Car Rental. They have a ton of options (including a couple of camper models) and make everything really easy. Plus, their office is just a 5-minute walk from the airport.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Planning Checklist

Have you been to iceland? What spot do you want to visit the most?

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Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

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15 Incredible Things to Do in Manchester England That You Shouldn’t Miss https://localadventurer.com/best-things-to-do-in-manchester-england/ https://localadventurer.com/best-things-to-do-in-manchester-england/#comments Mon, 14 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=39174 Visiting Manchester? Don’t miss these incredible spots. We only spent 48 hours in Manchester but fell in love with the city. We started our UK trip in London, but after a short 2-hour train ride, we were in the heart of Manchester. Thank you Visit Manchester for hosting our #workerbeeweekender trip. All opinions are always […]

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Visiting Manchester? Don’t miss these incredible spots.

We only spent 48 hours in Manchester but fell in love with the city. We started our UK trip in London, but after a short 2-hour train ride, we were in the heart of Manchester.

things to do in manchester

Thank you Visit Manchester for hosting our #workerbeeweekender trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 8, 2024

15 Incredible Things to Do in Manchester England

Manchester is the country’s second-largest city and has a different vibe from London. There is something magical about how the city mixes the old with the new. You can be standing next to a building that is centuries old, with a brand new high-rise behind it. We loved seeing beautiful historic buildings turned into modern use spaces without losing their feel.

1. John Rylands Library

150 Deansgate, map

Whether you’re a bookworm or not, you must visit John Rylands Library. Manchester is home to the most beautiful libraries in the world, and this one was jaw-dropping and looked straight out of Harry Potter.

Other Libraries to Check Out:

  • Chetham’s Library, the oldest surviving public library in the English-speaking world: Long Millgate, map
  • Portico Library built in the Greek Revival style: 57 Mosley Street, map
  • Manchester Central Public Library right in the center of town: St Peter’s Square, map
john ryland library manchester

2. Castlefield Urban Heritage Park

Duke St & Beaufort St, map

Stroll through the Castlefield area to see the site and recreated gate of an ancient Roman fort. Walk along the canals, look for beautiful bridges, and admire the restored Victorian homes.

3. Black Cab Tours

One of the best ways to see the city is via a local! We packed in so much in a short time thanks to John from Manchester Taxi Tours. He was one of the highlights of our trip. He whisked us around town while telling us more about the area’s history. We could hop in and out as needed, and he customizes each tour to your interests.

black cab manchester taxi tours

4. Salford Lads Club

Saint Ignatius Walk, map

During our tour with John, he asked us if we were a fan of The Smiths. Esther nodded without hesitation, so he took us to Salford Lads Club where they took one of their most iconic photos. We even got a chance to go inside to see the Smiths Room! Any Smiths fan should stop by to snap a photo in front of the green door.

5. See a Show in the UK’s Music Capital

Albert’s Schloss: 27 Peter St, map

Besides the Smiths, Manchester is home to a long list of bands, singers, musicians, and producers. As a result, their live music scene is amazing as well!

Some venues to check out:

If you’re looking for a free show, head to Albert’s Schloss, a local beer garden that hosts different shows and cabarets throughout the week.

albert schloss manchester cabaret

6. Shop for Vinyl

Picadilly Records: 53 Oldham St, map

To continue with the music theme, visit one of the long-standing record stores in town. We stopped by Picadilly Records, which originally opened in ’78 and has been supplying locals with vinyl since. It’s a popular spot for DJs, and the friendly staff can recommend albums if you don’t know where to start.

Other Record Shops to Check Out:

  • Vinyl Exchange: 18 Oldham St, map
  • Vinyl Revival: 5 Hilton St, map
  • Eastern Bloc Records: 5a Stevenson Square, map

7. Museum of Science and Industry

Museum of Science and Industry Liverpool Road, map

Located on the world’s oldest railroad station site, the Museum of Science and Industry has 12 galleries covering everything from textiles to cars. It’s a beautiful space, and there are a lot of rotating exhibits. During our visit, we had the chance to check out robots, old and new. On top of that, entry to the museum is free, but certain activities and special exhibits have a fee.

mosi manchester
The baby robot looks so real! Museum of Science and Industry + 15 Fun Things to Do in Manchester United Kingdom // Local Adventurer #manchester #uk #england

8. Manchester Town Hall

Albert Square, map

As we walked into town, we couldn’t help but stop in awe at the Manchester Town Hall. This neo-Gothic building is best viewed from Albert Square or our hotel (see below). You can get different views from the backside as well. In the past, you could also explore inside, but they will be closed indefinitely for refurbishment.

manchester town hall england

9. Imperial War Museum North

The Quays Trafford Wharf Road, map

The UK has a series of Imperial Museums throughout the country that cover different conflicts from 1914 to the present day. WWI buffs can stop by to see the gun that shot the first British shell. There are also 1,400 historic documents and objects. Don’t forget to take in the museum’s beautiful architecture!

10. Northern Quarter Street Art Tour →

Manchester’s Northern Quarter is home to some amazing street art. During Cities of Hope, they bring in artists from all over the world to bring light to work done by non-profits. The work is constantly changing so keep your eye out if you visit multiple times.

manchester northern quarter street art

11. Greater Manchester Police Museum

57A Newton St, map

While walking around, we stumbled across the Greater Manchester Police Museum. Unfortunately, it’s only open on Tuesdays from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM, but admission is free, and people seem to love the experience. There’s a replica court where you can attend a mock trial, many artifacts to check out, and stories from volunteer guides about previous crimes.

12. Manchester United vs Manchester City

Old Trafford: Sir Matt Busby Way, map || Etihad Stadium: Ashton New Rd, map

Is Man City or Man United better? Ask any local and you’ll get very different answers. Regardless of which team you support, Manchester is home to both of these top football teams. Visit their stadiums, catch a game, or stop by the National Football Museum to see memorabilia related to the sport.

You can also tour the stadiums: Old Trafford Stadium Tour + Etihad Stadium Tour.

13. Chinatown

Arch of Chinatown: 46 Faulkner St, map

We had no idea Manchester is home to the second-largest Chinatown in the UK and third largest in Europe. We only had a chance to stop by the main gate the last morning we were there, but the smell of restaurants preparing to feed their customers that day had us wishing we had more time to explore the area.

manchester chinatown arch

14. Heaton Park

Middleton Rd, map

With a footprint of roughly 600 acres, Heaton Park is the largest park in the Manchester area. See Heaton Hall, which was built in 1772, enjoy the views from the vistas, or take advantage of the 18-hole golf course onsite. There is also a botanical garden, boating lake, animal farm, observatory, playground, and more.

Bonus: Factory International

Aviva Studios, Water St, Manchester M3 4JQ, United Kingdom, map

If you’re all about music, dance, spellbinding performances, mind-expanding exhibitions, or thrilling gaming sessions, you should check out Factory International! In the vibrant heart of Manchester, they bring together a wild blend of artists and art forms.

15. Food in Beautiful Spaces

The Refuge By Volta: Oxford St, map   |   Evelyn’s Cafe Bar: G18 Tib St, map   |   Mackie Mayor: 1 Eagle St, map

Manchester is full of great food spots! On top of that, they are located in some beautiful spaces as well. We started our trip off at The Refuge, which was a massive space. Our favorites included sake-cured salmon, spiced lamb flatbread, and duck breast. We also visited Evelyn’s Cafe Bar and Mackie Mayor. From what we could tell, all three are popular for the gram.

Map of Things to Do in Manchester

Essential Tips

  • It’s only a 2-hour train ride from London so you can either take a day trip to the city or spend a few days there. We took the Virgin Trains – find tickets here.
  • Need to store luggage? Search Luggage Hero for a secure and convenient spot.
  • You can explore the city via foot, trolley, and cab. You don’t need to bother renting a car.
  • Cabs are hit or miss for credit cards, so have cash ready. Taxis cost up to 16 GBP within the city. Uber also works.
  • You can buy an unlimited daily ticket on the bus for 5.60 GBP.
  • People are friendly! Feel free to ask locals for directions or suggestions.
  • Bring a packable raincoat so you’re always ready for the rain. Many hotels will provide umbrellas for you to use during your stay.
  • Carry on essentials for every flight.
  • Most comfortable airport outfits.

Best Places to Stay in Manchester

The King Street Townhouse was our home during our time in Manchester. It was comfortable and close to the center of town. We even made time to have afternoon tea there and enjoy their award-winning rooftop pool! The pool alone is worth booking a stay here. Don’t you think?

king street townhouse pool

Recap of the Best Things to Do in Manchester England

  1. John Rylands Library
  2. Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
  3. Black Cab Tour
  4. Salford Lads Club
  5. See a Show in the UK’s Music Capital
  6. Shop for Vinyl
  7. Museum of Science and Industry
  8. Manchester Town Hall
  9. Imperial War Museum North
  10. Northern Quarter Street Art Tour
  11. Greater Manchester Police Museum
  12. Manchester United vs Manchester City
  13. Chinatown
  14. Heaton Park
  15. Food in Beautiful Spaces

What’s Nearby

  • Liverpool (34.6 / 50 min drive or 40 min train, map)
  • Yorkshire (57.9 mi / 1 h 15 min drive, map)
  • Llandudno, Wales (84 mi / 1 h 43 min drive, map)
  • Birmingham (86.6 mi / 1 h 26 by train, map)
  • Ullswater, Lake District (107 mi / 2 h 1 min drive, map)
  • London (216.6 mi / 2 h by train, map)

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Manchester? What else should go on the list?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later.

SEE More International City Guides

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

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The Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Giveaway https://localadventurer.com/vision-global-wifi/ https://localadventurer.com/vision-global-wifi/#comments Tue, 12 Dec 2017 13:00:18 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=36707 This post is brought to you in partnership with Vision Global WiFi. All opinions are always our own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible. We were halfway through our drive from Atlanta to NYC when I decided it was time to shut off the road trip playlist and get some […]

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This post is brought to you in partnership with Vision Global WiFi. All opinions are always our own.
Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

We were halfway through our drive from Atlanta to NYC when I decided it was time to shut off the road trip playlist and get some work done. I actually love that the drive never feels like a waste of time when I can always stay connected using our wifi device. We use it all the time when traveling, but it was even so helpful at our new apartment in NYC since took a few days for the provider to hook up our internet. Gotta do what you gotta do.

NOTE: We are currently doing a giveaway! Scroll to the bottom to enter.

The Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Global Vision Wifi Review // Local Adventurer

THE BEST WAY TO STAY CONNECTED WITH VISION GLOBAL WIFI

WHY YOUR OWN WIFI

When traveling within the states, most cheaper and mid-level hotels will have free wifi. If you’re staying at a higher end hotel, they usually have an additional charge. From our experience, it’s a mixed bag overseas. Even places that claim to have wifi, don’t necessarily have working wifi. Having your own device will help you guarantee you can stay connected, whether it’s for work, personal, or just keeping up-to-date on Instagram.

In addition to that, having your own wifi will help you stay secure. Did you know that anytime you’re using a public wifi, you are prone to cyber hacking? We’ve been a lot more paranoid about that recently after it happened to one of our friends.

WHY VISION GLOBAL WIFI?

With so much information available online, one of the easiest ways to travel is having access to the internet. Whether you’re trying to stay connected for work, checking out information on blogs, using Google Maps to navigate, or just trying to update your Instagram stories with all your adventures, a wifi device is one of the best solutions!

More and more companies are popping up offering wifi devices, so why Vision Global WiFi? From our recent experience with them, they offer some unique services that help them stand out from their competitors.

First off, most only allow up to 5 devices to be connected, whereas Vision Global WiFi can be shared with up to 10 devices. Just between Esther and I, we usually try to connect 4 devices when we’re on the road – one phone and laptop each. If we’re traveling with friends or family, this gives us the flexibility to keep them connected as well. We’ll get into some of the other differences below.

EASY DELIVERY OR PICKUP

After ordering your device, you will receive them in the mail along with a stamped return envelope. That way, once you are done, it’s as easy as dropping it off anywhere that USPS picks up. Keep in mind that you should place your order by noon, 4 days before you leave to give them time to get you the device.

For those of you flying through LAX or Major Airports from Japan, you can also pick up or drop off at the airport!

The Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Global Vision Wifi Review // Local AdventurerThe Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Global Vision Wifi Review // Local Adventurer

THE RIGHT DEVICE FOR THE RIGHT COUNTRY

We’ve tried a couple other wifi services now, and a unique aspect of what they offer is making sure you get the best service possible. Right now, Vision Global WiFi has different devices depending on where you are traveling to. In the future, that may change as the devices get better, but you know that they are always looking out for you.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

My favorite part of the ordering process is how many options you have when it comes to ordering the service. Other wifi devices have a flat rate per day with a data cap. With Vision Global WiFi, you can select from different plans based on what you need.

If you know that you only need to check your email, you can get a more limited data plan, and if you don’t want to worry about speeds slowing down, you can get the unlimited data plans (only available in certain countries).

To ensure they can offer the best price, prices vary based on the country. For long-term travelers (over 30 days), you get a discounted daily rate. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, it’s no problem as well. Just select all the countries during your reservation and discounted rates will show up.

Check out their easy-to-use slider to see all the options here.

WHAT COUNTRIES DO THEY SERVE?

They currently serve over 120 countries:

Africa: Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Western Sahara, Zambia

Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, China, Christmas Island, Cambodia, Cyrus, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Kuwait, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Yemen

Europe: Austria, Azores, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Principality of Andorra, Romania, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Vatican

North America: Alaska, Aruba, Canada, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Hawaii, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, The Bahamas, USA

South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela

Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Guam, New Zealand, Saipan, Tahiti

The Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Global Vision Wifi Review // Local Adventurer

ADDITIONAL DEVICES

For those of you guys who don’t want to connect multiple devices, you can also get buy SIM cards from them.

They also rent Portable External Batteries, International Adapters, and if you’ve ever been interested in checking out 360˚ cameras, you can rent the Richo Theta S.

Pro Tip: If you have a ton of devices to keep charged, get yourself one of these. You can plug in multiple devices so you never have to worry about not having enough outlets, and it’s and adapter and converter.

BOOK YOUR DEVICE NOW

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“Meet

ESTHER + JACOB

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 50 travel blogs in the world. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They move to a new city every year and currently live in Portland, Oregon.

Local Adventurer on Pinterest Local Adventurer on Youtube

Read Next // localadventurer.com

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Oregon vs Iceland – Why You Should Visit Oregon Instead This Year https://localadventurer.com/oregon-iceland-of-america/ https://localadventurer.com/oregon-iceland-of-america/#comments Mon, 28 Aug 2017 12:00:00 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=35294 Oregon vs Iceland. You tell us which is better. Iceland has blown up over the past 5 years, partly due to social media and partly due to the amazing deals on flights. Who has done a stopover on the way to Europe? Seems like everyone and their mom has either been to Iceland or it’s […]

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Oregon vs Iceland. You tell us which is better.

Iceland has blown up over the past 5 years, partly due to social media and partly due to the amazing deals on flights. Who has done a stopover on the way to Europe? Seems like everyone and their mom has either been to Iceland or it’s at the top of their travel wish list.

We lived in Oregon back in 2017, and when we think back to all the adventures we’ve had in the state, we can’t even count the number of times we said to ourselves “this looks just like Iceland!” If Montana is the Switzerland of America, then surely Oregon is the Iceland of America.

After talking with some of our friends at Travel Oregon, we decided we wanted to share all the reasons why you should be visiting Oregon instead this year.

9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com

Last Updated: August 27, 2020. First Published in August 2017

Oregon vs Iceland – 9 Reasons Why You Should Visit Oregon Instead This Year

1. The Land of Waterfalls

Iceland has been called the land of waterfalls. Some sources say they have over 200, while others say over 1000. Did you know that Oregon has over 250 waterfalls to explore? It has over 1000 if you also count the unnamed ones. These waterfalls come in all shapes and sizes, are just as majestic, and generally much less crowded (minus Multnomah and Oneonta, which are extremely crowded). Even the tallest waterfalls are comparable. Glymur is Iceland’s tallest waterfall at 650 ft and Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall at 635 ft.

Read More: Ultimate List of Oregon’s Waterfalls

Seljalandsfoss, Waterfalls in Iceland + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
North Falls, Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com

2. Basalt Columns

We saw basalt columns for the first time in Iceland, and we were completely fascinated by the geometric shapes. When we moved to Oregon, we realized they are all over the state as well. Latourell Falls and Toketee Falls are popular spots where you can see basalt columns, but you can also find them many places along the Cascade Range and the Oregon Coast.

Basalt Columns in Iceland vs Basalt Columns in Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
Basalt Columns in Oregon at Latourell Falls + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.comBasalt Columns in Oregon at Latourell Falls + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com

3. Puffins

People who love wildlife visit Iceland to see the Atlantic Puffins, but did you know you could see puffins in Oregon too? Tufted puffins breed on Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock and can appear anytime between April and August.

Tufted Puffins, Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, Oregon (photo: Diana Robinson) // localadventurer.com
photo: Diana Robinson

4. Beaches

Dramatic coastlines and beautiful beaches appear in both Iceland and Oregon. When we drove the entire 363 miles of the Oregon coast, we saw similar rock structures. We haven’t confirmed this yet, but apparently, you can also find black sand beaches at Humbug Mountain State Park in Port Orford. This is the Amardrangur Rock at Dyrholaey on the left and Face Rock State Park on the right.

Arnardrangur at Dyrholaey Beach in Iceland + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com

5. Canyons

Canyons are another common feature found in Iceland. You can also find beautiful and dramatic canyons in Oregon! This is Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon to the left and Succor Creek Canyon to the right.

Fjadrargljufur Iceland vs Succor Creek State Park in Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
Fjadrargljufur Iceland vs Succor Creek State Park in Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
photo (top): Steve Boland

6. Airplane Wrecks and Shipwrecks

Iceland has this epic plane wreck and a few shipwrecks to find, but Oregon isn’t leaving you empty handed. There are some plane wrecks in Oregon that require a 4 wheel drive to get to. If you’re looking for shipwrecks, though, Peter Iredale is easy to access in Fort Stevens State Park.

DC3 Plane Crash Iceland // localadventurer.com

7. Volcanoes and Mountains

Iceland owes its existence to volcanoes and still has 37 on the island and 6 are restless. Oregon is home to 19 dormant or extinct volcanoes.

How are these so alike? Bùlandstindur Mountain is on the left and Sheep Rock is on the right.

Bùlandstindur Mountain, East Iceland (photo: floheinstein) // localadventurer.comSheep Rock, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon // localadventurer.com
photo (left): floheinstein

The Painted Hills aren’t exactly mountains, but they do remind us of the Landmannalauger.

Landmannalauger Mountains Iceland + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America (photo: Brandon Daniel) // localadventurer.comPainted Hills, Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
photo (top): Brandon Daniel

Munra Point looks similar to Blatindur Mountain and Hornbjarg Cliffs and Eastern Oregon often made us think of Kirkjufells.

8. Glaciers and Ice Caves

After visiting the glacier caves in Iceland, we learned that Mt Hood has the largest system of ice caves in the lower 48. One of the more popular technical hikes is to Sandy Glacier Caves, which we haven’t explored yet because we have very little mountaineering experience.

Note: If you don’t have much experience mountaineering, ice climbing, and caving, do not attempt to visit these caves.

Glacier Caves + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
Sandy Glacier Caves Oregon (photo: Steve Rollins) + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
photo (right): Steve Rollins

9. Hot Springs and Geysers

Iceland wins out when it comes to the sheer number of hot springs and geysers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your fix in Oregon. There are plenty of hot springs to go for a soak in Oregon. If you want to see a geyser erupt, you can visit Oregon’s only geyser, the Old Perpetual Geyser to see 60-foot plumes every 90 seconds.

Strokkur Geyser - The Best Golden Circle Tour with Mountaineers of Iceland // localadventurer.com
Old Perpetual Geyser in Oregon + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
photo (bottom): Lyza

THERE’S MORE

Oregon is 246% bigger than Iceland which means there’s room for various other landscapes and miles and miles of trails. On top of that, the food is waaaaaaaay better and cheaper!

Oregon vs Iceland + 9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com
source: comparea

What do you think about Oregon vs Iceland? Where would you rather go? Do you think Oregon is the Iceland of America? Can you think of any other places in the US that remind you of other countries?

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9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.comDC3 Plane Wreck Iceland // localadventurer.com

9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com9 Reasons Why Oregon is the Iceland of America // localadventurer.com

“Meet

ESTHER + JACOB

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 50 travel blogs in the world. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They move to a new city every year and currently live in Portland, Oregon.

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