What words can we use to describe the importance of Athens? It is the bedrock of Western civilization; a cultural city around 3000 years old, the birthplace of art, philosophy and democracy in Europe; the starting point for myths, legends and stories that continue to provoke debate in classrooms all over the world, even today.

And yet, for all the words spent on Athens over the years, it continues to defy description.

Anyone who’s even glanced at a history book will be familiar with some of Athens’ archaeological treasures but, beyond these, modern-day Athens is a buzzing city with many fascinating neighborhoods to discover.

It could potentially feel a little bit overwhelming knowing how to plan your trip, so here is our comprehensive guide for those spending 3 days in Athens.

We’ll be discussing everything from how to travel there, where to stay, to all the best things to see as you walk those sun-drenched, ancient streets. So, let’s get started with your 3-day Athens itinerary!

Booking Cheap Flights To Athens

Here are 5 tips to help you book cheap flights for your trip to Athens:

Use Google Flights

I used to be a massive Skyscanner advocate. It was my go-to for looking for cheap flight deals.

But these days I’ve honestly had more success just using Google Flights. Recently, every time I’ve compared prices on Google Flights to Skyscanner, Google Flights has worked out cheaper.

Just like Skyscanner, Google Flights gives you multiple airlines to choose from, which is definitely a plus.

Be Flexible

If you have the luxury of traveling any day of the week, make the most of it! I usually find traveling on a Monday or Tuesday is quite inexpensive.

When searching for flights on Google Flights it’ll easily let you see the cost of flying on other days. Try checking out days around your optimal arrive/departure dates and see what savings you could make!

Book Early Or Last Minute

People usually suggest booking early (up to 90 days in advance) in order to get cheaper tickets, and I’d heartily agree with that.

But you can also book last minute too and see what flights to Athens are underbooked and leaving soon.

This option is only for the daring and adventurous who don’t mind forming travel plans quickly. The problem with this approach, however, is that you’ll still have to get accommodation sorted out quickly, and that may be harder to do so on a budget with such little time.

Fly To A Popular City First

Try booking plane tickets to popular cities such as London, Rome, Berlin, Paris, etc. first, and then booking tickets to Athens from these popular cities. Often smaller European airlines operate in these popular cities and will offer super cheap tickets to Athens.

Fly To An Airport Near Athens

Although it’s more convenient, you don’t need to fly directly to Athens. Popular alternative airports include the airport at Thessaloniki,  which is about a 6 hours drive north of Athens. This is a good option if you’re planning to see more of Greece than just Athens.

Be slightly wary of flying into airports located within random places in Greece though. There are many Greek Islands, and it’d be a nuisance (and expensive!) to have to catch a ferry after your flight in order just to finally reach Athens.

So do your research on where the airport is in Greece first before you book!

Traveling To And From Athens Airport

Athens airport is not far from the city center, as you can see from the map below showing alternative car journeys from Athens airport to the city center.

Taking A Taxi

To get to the city center, we definitely recommend taking a taxi since it’s quickest. It should take around 35 minutes depending on the time of day and traffic.

The taxi will cost 38€ during the day and 54€ from midnight to 05:00.

You could go with the regular yellow taxis, but we’d recommend going with Welcome Pickups (this is not an affiliate link!)

They cost the same (38€ at writing) and are more reliable, professional and comfortable. The drivers all speak English too.

Leave Exit 3 at the Arrivals Level at the airport and you’ll spot the yellow taxis. But better to book beforehand on Welcome Pickups where you will have someone waiting for you holding a card with your name on it in the arrival lounge of the airport.

Cost: 38€ (day-time), 54€ (from midnight to 05:00)
Duration: around 35 minutes (but will depend on traffic)

Taking The Metro

Taking the metro, at this time of writing, will cost 10€ one way and 18€ for a round-trip (children under 6 travel free), and will take you around 45 minutes to be dropped off at the center of Athens in Syntagma Square.

Take Metro Line 3, the line departs every 30 minutes from 06:30­ – 23:35, every day of the week.

The metro is clean and nice to use but, despite being also the cheapest way to get into Athen’s city center, I have to say it’s not the most convenient since its a 15-minute walk to the metro station from the airport. Luckily, there is signage pointing the way to the metro station from the airport.

Cost: 10€ (one way), 18€ (round-trip)
Duration: 45 minutes

Taking The Athens Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

Also leaving the same metro station is an electric train, the Athens Suburban Railway (also known as the Proastiakos Athens).

Departing about every 20 minutes you can travel on it to Plakentias station, where you can get off and take the Metro Line 3 to Egaleo, which will take you to the city center. You won’t need to buy two tickets since you can use the same ticket you bought at the airport’s metro station.

Cost: 10€
Duration: 45 minutes

Taking The Bus

Buses run from the airport 7-days-a-week, 24 hours per day. The station is found between Exit 4 and Exit 5 at the arrivals level.

There are 4 different buses you can take:

• X95 — which will take you to the city center at Syntagma Square (60 minutes)
• X96 — which will take you to Piraeus so you can catch a ferry to a Greek Island (90 minutes)
• X93 — which will take you to Athen’s bus station (65 minutes)
• X97 — which will take you to Elliniko metro station (50 minutes)

Cost: 6€
Duration: Depends on the bus

Taking The Shuttle Bus

You could also book to take the shuttle bus. This will cost you around 20€ per person and will mean you don’t have to wait at a bus stop. Instead, you will meet in the arrival lounge of the airport and be taken directly to Athens City Centre Hotels.

The service can also be booked for the reverse journey to be picked up from Athens City Centre Hotels and taken to the airport.

Cost: 20€ per person
Duration: 40 to 55 minutes

The Athens Combined Ticket

There are so many archeological sites to see in Athens that it might be a good idea to consider purchasing tickets that allow entry to multiple sites.

The Athens combined ticket costs 30€ and is valid for 5 days after purchase. It will provide you access to the following 7 sites:

• The Acropolis (just the Erechtheion and Parthenon…the museum is NOT included)
• Kerameikos (museum included)
• The Ancient Agora of Athens (museum included)
• The Roman Agora of Athens (Tower of the Winds included)
• Hadrian’s Library
• Aristotle’s Lyceum
• The Temple of Olympian Zeus

We recommend purchasing the Athens combined ticket if you are planning to visit three or more sites, and especially if you plan to visit in the summer where prices are a bit higher.

For example, in the summer season, the Acropolis costs 20€, so this ticket could definitely help save you some money if you visit lots of sites.

Check out this website for more information on what this ticket offers exactly. It can be bought in person at any of these 7 sites listed just above.

Athens In 3 Days: Day 1

We’ve selected our favorite options for each day so that you can choose what stands out the most to you, and then personally tailor your itinerary for your 3 days in Athens.

The Acropolis Museum

Location: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athens 117 42

Cost: 10€ (1^st April – 31^st October), 5€ (1^st November – 31^st March)

Hours: Generally 9am – 4pm (see here for exact times for different seasons)

You’re spending 3 days in Athens, so let’s face it, you NEED to climb the Acropolis at some point. It’s almost mandatory.

But before doing so, visiting the Acropolis museum beforehand is definitely a good idea as you’ll get so much more info and context about the Acropolis before going up there. It’ll make it more meaningful!

Not to mention…its also one of the highest rated museums in the world. So, yeah…no big deal or anything.

Located at the foot of the Acropolis, we recommend coming here first thing in the morning of Day One to eat a traditional Greek breakfast at the museum’s restaurant (they stop serving it at noon). You can read more about this breakfast here.

Blessed with elegant glass walkways, panoramic views of the Acropolis, the Elgin Marbles, and ancient Greek statues dotted all over, as museums go, this museum pretty much has it all.

You’ll also learn so much since the artifacts found around the Acropolis are explained in incredible detail, and there are people available if you’d like to ask questions and learn more.

Once done exploring, sit and get a caffeine boost in the form of a coffee at either the café that overlooks the excavation sites, or the Acropolis museum restaurant overlooking lush views of the Acropolis.

Book tickets for the Acropolis museum here.

Top tip #1: On Friday nights the restaurant’s 2^nd floor stays open until midnight serving gourmet food using the finest ingredients prepared in the traditional Greek way. Perfect for a romantic evening!

Acropolis

Location: Acropolis of Athens, Athens 105 58

Cost: 20€ (1^st April – 31^st October), 10€ (1^st November – 31^st March)

Hours: 8am – 6:30 pm (though hours can change depending on the season)

Now you’ve learned a lot about the facts and history of the Acropolis, you’re ready to climb and experience it yourself.

And it’s good to get really accustomed to it because it’s located near the city center of Athens (about a 15-minute walk from Syntagma Square), and it will be a constant companion as you explore Athens.

Seriously, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to glimpse it from every angle possible as you sip wine in a restaurant or explore the winding avenues across the city center.

The Acropolis was built in the 5^th century BCE and among the many marvels clustered on or around the Acropolis are the Temple of Athena (built 427 BC), dedicated to the city’s patron goddess, and the Theatre of Dionysus (first built in the 6^th Century BC), probably the world’s first theatre, and on the north side of the Acropolis, the Erechtheion, a temple dedicated to Poseidon and Athena.

The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the Parthenon (built 448 BC)—the emblem that best epitomizes the sophistication of ancient Greece and one of the most photographed structures on the Acropolis.

Top tip #1: Bring water!

Top tip #2: If you want perfect views away from the crowds then take a walk up Filopappou Hill, on the Acropolis’s South-West side, where you’ll have all the time and space you need to frame a perfect photo.

Top tip #3: If you want a tour guide for the Acropolis, then we recommend contacting respected tour guide Nadia Pavlikaki.

Top tip #4: Acropolis Athens tickets can be bought separately, but they are also included in the Athens Combined Ticket mentioned above (the combined ticket version only includes the Parthenon and Erechtheion though).

Top tip #5: Good places to eat nearby include Tzitzikas kai Mermigas (Mediterranean cuisine), Koi Sushi Bar (Japanese), Avocado (Vegetarian), Vegan Beat (Greek Vegan)

Here’s a map to give you an idea of walking distances from Syntagma Square to the Acropolis, to Filopappou Hill.

Pnyx

Location: Pnyx Archeological Site, Dimitriou Eginitou 14, Athens 118 51

Cost: Free

Hours: 8:30am – 3pm (Winter), 8am – 7:30pm (Summer)

At the foot of the Acropolis (about a 10-minute walk away) is a site that has played a role in Athenian democracy—one of the major developments of human history.

It’s called Pnyx (pronounced “p-nick”) and it was the first site of the assembly of Athens, and later played host to the great disputes between the most prominent speakers in Athenian civic life. As such, it has a strong claim to being the very place where democracy was born.

It’s also a pretty great place to take pictures of the city.

Top tip #1: Check out the Philopappos Monument just a stone’s throw away that is dedicated to a Prince of the Kingdom of Commagene, Philopappos.

Top tip #2: Also check out the Prison of Socrates that is also nearby. It isn’t that grand or impressive, but its worth it just for the historical significance.

Top tip #3: Good places to eat nearby include Kirios Who (Greek café & brewpub), Aschimopapo (Mediterranean & Greek), Kapari (Greek cuisine), Jaipur Palace (Indian)

Areopagus

Location: Areopagus Hill, Theorias 21, Athens 105 55

Cost: Free

Hours: Always open

Another spot at the foot of the Acropolis is the Areopagus (pronounced “ehr-ee-AH-puh-guhs”). It also is known as “Mars Hill” and is only about a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis.

Its fame comes from the fact that it was, first of all, in use as a sort of ancient public court, but moreso as the place from which the Apostle Paul stood to address ancient Athens, a moment that was hugely influential in spreading Christianity to Europe.

This site offers a spectacular view over Athens and is a popular spot for watching sunsets or sunrises. So if you’re wondering what to do in Athens on your first evening, seeing the sunset here is a brilliant idea.

So we recommend heading up there at dusk on Day One, grab a beer from one of the street vendors and reflect on the timeless quality of the city while the sun sets over you, just the same as it did for Pericles and St. Paul.

Top tip #1: Good places to eat nearby include Klepsýdra (Greek cuisine), Yiasemi (Mediterranean café)

Mount Lycabettus

Location: Athens 114 71

Cost: Free

Hours: Always open (but the restaurant closes at 1am, and churches will close late)

Located a 45-minute walk away from Areopagus is Mount Lycabettus—the highest spot in Athens (277 meters / 909 foot) and a mountain definitely worth experiencing!

Athens really does have some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. Another fantastic vantage point from which to view it is the summit of Mount Lycabettus, a small peak that rises in the middle of suburban Athens like a volcano from the waves.

It can feel like quite a climb to get to the summit in the Greek sunshine, but luckily there is a funicular railway (“the Teleferik”) that can carry you to the top and back if you don’t fancy the hike. Costing 7.50€ for a round-trip or 5€ one-way, it departs every 30 minutes and only takes about 3 minutes to reach the top.

Alternatively, you can set off on a Mount Lycabettus hike that, from the funicular railway, will take around 30 minutes to reach the summit depending on your fitness level. Wear comfy shoes since most of the way up is via lots of steps.

At the top, you’ll find the small but charming white Chapel of St. George (an ornate place with lots of history to pray in and light a candle), and a large open-air amphitheater, as well as spectacular views from the Acropolis to the Aegean sea. On the west side, you’ll find the underrated Holy Church of Saint Isidore, which is the hidden gem of Mount Lycabettus.

There’s even a Mount Lycabettus restaurant up there called the Orizontes restaurant, which is sometimes affectionately called the “terrace of Athens”. It’s quite expensive but eating up there in these surroundings is something pretty special. Seriously, I can’t think of a more picturesque place to eat Greek food! Romantic? Yes, just a wee bit.

Top tip #1: Good places to eat nearby include Scala Vinoteca (Mediterranean & European cuisine), 5F (Mediterranean & Vegetarian)

Athens In 3 Days: Day 2

Panathenaic Stadium

Location: Vassileos Konstantinou Avenue, Athens 999-20

Cost: 5€ (adults), 2.50€ (children and over-65s)

Hours: 8am – 7pm

To kick-off with Day Two as you explore Athens in 3 days, we recommend checking out The Panathenaic Stadium (pronounced “pan-ah-thay-nay-ic”).

It’s an ancient Greek Olympic stadium that opened in 566 BC and is also the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It is basically the site at which our concept of athletics can be said to have originated, as early as the 4^th Century BC.

Even if you’re not much of a sports fan, the site of an arena made entirely from marble and its 204-meter track length is sure to knock your socks off.

The entry price includes an audio guide you can listen to as you walk around, so you’ll be sure to learn a lot of the history and facts surrounding this impressive stadium.

Top tip #1: Toilets cost about 50 cents, so bring change.

Top tip #2: Come here from 7:30am to 9am and you’ll be able to start your morning right on Day Two by jogging around the Panathenaic Stadium’s track! You just need to fill out this form here to get started.

Top tip #3: Good places to eat/drink nearby include Αρbarοριζα (Cocktail bar), Mystic (Mediterranean & Italian), Colibri (Italian & Pizza)

Temple Of Olympian Zeus

Location: Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias & Leof. Vasilissis Olgas, Athens 105 58

Cost: 6€ (1^st April – 31^st October), 3€ (1^st November – 31^st March)

Hours: 8:30am – 3pm (Winter), 8am – 7:30pm (Summer)

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was built by the Greeks in dedication to Zeus, whom they believed was the “father of gods and men”. Accordingly, it was built with the express purpose of being the most colossal structure in classical civilization.

Though the temple was also used for the purpose of boosting the gravitas of its main benefactor, Emperor Hadrian, who was honored pretty much to the same level of Zeus from what we can deduce about the design of the temple.

The gargantuan Temple of Olympian Zeus took some 640 years to build and, once complete, stood in use for only around 100 years.

After first being sacked by Barbarians it fell into further disrepair in subsequent years, as a result of being pillaged for building materials and damaged by natural forces. It was around this time that the Statue of Zeus at Olympia was destroyed too.

Nonetheless, it remains a truly impressive structure today, even if it does require a little imagination to visualize what the temple would have looked like in all its glory.

The columns that remain leave you in no doubt of the vast scale of the building, and the ambitions/hubris of the men who began building it around 2550 years ago.

Top tip #1: Also check out the Arch of Hadrian which is just a 2-minute walk away across the street!

Top tip #2: Temple Of Olympian Zeus tickets can be bought separately, but they are also included in the Athens Combined Ticket mentioned above.

Top tip #3: Good places to eat nearby include Jaipur Palace (Indian), Duende (Mediterranean & European), Veganaki (Greek Vegan)

Ancient Agora Of Athens

Location: Adrianou 24, Athens 105 55

Cost: 8€ (1^st April – 31^st October), 4€ (1^st November – 31^st March)

Hours: 8:30am – 3pm (Winter), 8am – 7:30pm (Summer)

The Ancient Agora of Athens is the ancient marketplace where much public life was carried out. (The literal meaning of the word agora means “meeting place”.)

It’s not as well-preserved as the Forum in Rome, but it’s still breathtaking to think you are stood on the streets where Socrates once walked and interrogated his fellow citizens.

Another good thing about this place? It’s way less crowded than the Acropolis of Athens, but many people consider it the second-best thing to do in Athens (after the Acropolis, of course!)

Top tip #1: There are rocky paths here that will probably be difficult for people using strollers.

Top tip #2: Ancient Agora of Athens tickets can be bought separately, but they are also included in the Athens Combined Ticket mentioned above.

Top tip #3: Good places to eat nearby include Dinner in the Sky (Mediterranean & European cuisine), Cinque Wine & Deli Bar (Wine bar & deli, Greek cuisine), Little Kook (Patisserie), Nancy’s Sweet Home (Desserts), Aleria (Mediterranean & Greek cuisine)

Aristotle’s Lyceum

Location: Rigillis 11, Athens 106 75

Cost: Free

Hours: 8am – 8pm

Aristotle’s famous Lyceum school can be found a 15-minute walk away from the central Syntagma Square, but unfortunately, not much of it remains in the present day. If you weren’t aware of its history, you might just pass it by as insignificant.

However, we’ve included it just for its historical and cultural value. This is the exact place where Aristotle taught Macedonian Nobility in the 4^th Century BC…One can only wonder what it must have been like to attend Aristotle’s school!

After he had finished tutoring Alexander the Great from 339 to 335 BC, he opened this school in 335 BC, and it quickly gained renown. Aristotle would go on to teach here for 12 more years, leaving it in 323 BC, and passing away in 322 BC.

As you’ll probably already know, Aristotle was the student of Plato, who in turn was the student of Socrates (whose prison is only about a 15-minute walk from here). Aristotle’s philosophy would go on to impact the world for generations.

Aristotle’s Lyceum is worth visiting if you have a keen interest in philosophy or archaeology, but perhaps not worth adding to the top of your list unless you have plenty of time to explore.

Top tip #1: Aristotle’s Lyceum tickets can be bought separately, but they are also included in the Athens Combined Ticket mentioned above.

Top tip #2: Good places to eat nearby include TGI Fridays (American cuisine), Chez Michel (European café), Katsourbos (Mediterranean & Vegetarian)

Tower Of The Winds

Location: Aiolou, Athina 105 55

Cost: 3€

Hours: 8am – 5pm

Located in the Roman Agora, the Tower of the Winds, sometimes called Aerides, is considered the world’s most early meteorological station that was, according to some sources, built in 47 BC by Andronikos of Cyrrhus.

It has a really elegant, understated design and is made of white Pentelic marble. It also has 8 sides with each side facing a point on the compass.

With restoration work only recently completed in 2016, do try stopping by here if you’re in the area…it’s worth it!

Top tip #1: Tower of the Winds tickets can be bought separately, but they are also included in the Athens Combined Ticket mentioned above.

Top tip #2: Good places to eat nearby include Yiasemi (Mediterranean café), Hard Rock Cafe (American cuisine), Ydria Cafe (Mediterranean & Vegetarian)

Walk The Streets Of Plaka

Location: Athens 10556

Cost: Free

Hours: Always open

Athens’ most visited residential district is famous due to its proximity to the Acropolis, its host of museums, street performers, and a dizzying array of architectural styles. The streets here burst with color, and dozens of shops, restaurants and bars compete for your attention.

A personal highlight was the bar, “Brettos”, on Kydathineon Street. Here, a 15ft wall of brightly-lit, colorful liquor bottles is a stunning backdrop for a glass of ouzo. It’s also Athens’ oldest distillery.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Plaka’s many delights, put together by AthensGuide.

Top tip #1: Also check out the neighborhood of Psyri (about a 15-minute walk from Plaka), it’s a great place to drink and dine with delicious food found in tavernas that often includes live rembetika music playing in the background. Psyri is also a good place to check out come nightfall — finishing off Day Two here would be our recommendation.

Top tip #2: Good places to eat nearby include Smak. (Greek pizza), Yiasemi (Mediterranean café), Zorbas Restaurant (seafood), Taqueria Maya Athens (Mexican)

Don’t forget that nearly all of these attractions listed above are included in the Athens Combined Ticket which can be bought at any of the 7 sites included in the ticket.

Athens In 3 Days: Day 3

Some of the best places to visit on a trip to Athens lie outside the city limits but can be reached easily, although it’s usually best to book a tour. Here are three of our favorites day trips from Athens that you can choose from on Day Three of your 3 days in Athens!

1. Day Trip From Athens: Delphi

The famous priestess of Apollo changed the classical world with some of her prophecies, and the site is still well-preserved today.

If you’ve read Plato, Ovid, Sophocles and the like, you may already be familiar with the legends and mysteries surrounding her unique gifts, but if not, you can brush up here.

The ruins are spectacular and impressive—just seeing them will tell you why so many people visit here each year.

Athens to Delphi usually takes around 3 hours and a half by coach. It’s a long coach ride from Athens, but well worth it. By car, it can often take around 3 hours.

The whole trip, featuring exploring the ruins, seeing the museum, including a guided tour from a knowledgable guide, eating at the restaurant in Delphi, and heading back often takes around 10 hours. So it’ll be a full day of exploration!

You can buy tickets to the Delphi tour here.

2. Day Trip From Athens: Cape Sounion

Perched on a hill-top above the Aegean Sea, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion (built between 444 – 440 BC) is yet another Greek landmark that combines history, legend and natural beauty. It is another serious contender for your bucket list while in Athens.

The temple is mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey and is also said to be the place where King Aegeus drowned himself, giving the Aegean Sea its name.

You can also see another piece of history: Lord Bryon’s signature etched on a column here in the 1800s. Furthermore,  it’s also quite nice to combine all the history with a swim at one of the exquisite beaches nearby. What more could you want?

The coastal drive passing the Saronic Gulf on the way to Cape Sounion is beautiful; especially if you catch a nice sunset overlooking the sea.

Since this day trip lasts around 4 hours in total, it’s not as long as the day trip to Delphi, meaning you’d have more time to continue exploring Athens on Day Three.

You can buy tickets to the Cape Sounion tour here.

3. Day Trip From Athens: Dive The Devil’s Hole At Vouliagmeni

If you love diving then this is how you finish exploring Athens in 3 days in style.

This natural undersea sinkhole, around 45 minutes drive from Athens (we recommend paying around $30 for an Uber taxi), is thirty feet deep, surrounded by natural walls and reefs, and is thought to connect to nearby Lake Vouliagmeni by a series of tunnels, though this has never conclusively been proved.

The Devil’s Hole, as this undersea sinkhole is called, has been raved about by countless divers. Just watch the video above to get an idea of how amazing this dive is.

If you have your PADI Open Water certification you can book your dive here.

If you aren’t a certified diver you won’t be able to dive the hole, but if you’re keen to have a try diving anyway then consider booking a “discover scuba” session here.

If you’re not into diving, then Lake Vouliagmeni is worth seeing anyway since this beautiful lake will feel like your own personal water hole to enjoy a peaceful afternoon reading a book, going for a swim, and eating a picnic.

Only about a 30-minute Uber trip from the city center of Athens, you can also even take the bus or metro to get there.

By metro and bus, simply take the Red metro line to Elliniko metro station and then take the E22 bus from there. The bus comes there 4 or 5 times every hour during the day and the route name is Stathmos Elliniko – Saronida. Once on the bus, get off at the stop called “Limni” (which is Greek for lake).

So why not wind down from all that busy time spent exploring Athens and enjoy Day Three sitting back and relaxing on Lake Vouliagmeni? Also, consider enjoying an evening meal in Vouliagmeni before heading back to Athens.

Great restaurants include BlueFish (Mediterranean cuisine & seafood), or Panorama (Mediterranean cuisine & seafood) or the brilliant but pricier options of Ithaki Restaurant (Mediterranean & European cuisine & seafood) or Moorings (Mediterranean & European cuisine & seafood).

If you have a sweet tooth also check out Waffle House which is the Greek answer to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—lovely ice cream flavors  (e.g. Mosaic chocolate and Aegean SeaSalt) served over possibly the best waffles you’ll have ever tasted. Not a bad way to conclude your 3 days in Athens if you ask me!

Where To Stay In Athens, Greece

Between April to mid-November places to stay in Athens are usually in high demand. Book early to avoid this and to also obtain the best prices.

Here are our choices of the best accommodations for three nights in Athens, Greece, arranged by location. As is common these days, all these places offer free WiFi.

Near Syntagma Square (City Center)

3-star hotels:

• Hermes Hotel — a great option for people visiting Athens for 3 days on a budget. Location is perfect and the quality is still pretty great. Check out prices here.
• Attalos Hotel — another great and cheap play to stay in Athens, Attalos Hotel’s prime central location is within walking distance from the metro and Monastiraki Square. Check out prices here.

4-star hotel:

• MET34 Athens Hotel (Travellers’ Choice 2019 Winner) — our recommended choice if you’re in Athens. Good for families or solo travelers. A bit on the pricey side though. Check out prices here.

5-star hotel:

• Wyndham Athens Residence — a newer hotel with some great staff. Reasonably priced considering its 5 stars. Check out prices here.

Near Pnyx

3-star hotel:

• Acropolis Hill — clean and cozy, and only around a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis, this hotel comes with a pool, delicious free Greek buffet-style breakfasts and is good for families too. Check out prices here.

5-star hotel:

• Divani Palace Acropolis — a bit of a hidden gem in the city, this luxurious hotel is great for the family, and will also make you feel like royalty (seriously, the staff treats you so well here!) Great for people on honeymoons or on wedding anniversaries. Check out prices here.

Near The Temple of Olympian Zeus

4-star hotels:

• NLH Fix – Neighborhood Lifestyle Hotels — another great option, immaculately clean, comfortable queen-sized beds, great location. Check out prices here.
• AD Athens Luxury Rooms and Suites — with a great rooftop bar, location, and rooms, the AD Athens Luxury Rooms and Suites is a worthy contender to stay at near the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Quiet and modern, many people have loved staying here. Check out prices here.

Near Mount Lycabettus

5-star hotel:

• St. George Lycabettus Lifestyle Hotel — incredible views of the surroundings including the Acropolis, great breakfasts, good for families, and a bit calmer since away from the city center. Check out prices here.

In The Plaka District

3-star hotel:

• Arethusa Hotel — coming with a free breakfast buffet, air-conditioned old-fashioned rooms, and near Plaka and Syntagma Square, Arethusa hotel is reasonably priced and easy to get to from the airport. Check out prices here.

4-star hotel:

• Plaka Hotel — within walking distance of pretty much everywhere, Plaka Hotel offers a rooftop bar and garden, a central location, and amazing views (and not to mention a yummy Greek yogurt included in the breakfast!) Check out prices here.

Cheap Places To Stay In Athens

• If you’re on a bit of a budget consider staying at Victory Inn (a 2-star hotel). It’s away from the city center and the attractions in this article but it’s at a good price, so any money spent on transport will be easily minimized with your savings. Many people have really enjoyed their stay here. Check out prices here.
• For budget travelers, also consider using Airbnb (if you’re unsure about this idea, check out this positive article we wrote about using Airbnb).
• For people seeing Athens in 3 days on a strict budget, consider staying in hostels such as Chameleon Youth Hostel or Athens Backpackers.

Other Travel Tips For Your 3 Days In Athens

1. For evening meals, just round up the bill to tip (but tipping is optional here)
2. Carry some cash, Athens still uses it quite a bit
3. Uber works great here, download the app on your phone before arriving to use it to hire taxis
4. Expect to see people smoking, Athenians smoke a lot of cigarettes!
5. Use the metro, it’s cheap and easy-to-use (but be on guard for pickpockets)
6. Learn some basic and essential Greek phrases

Even if human life carries on for millennia, it’s hard to imagine any city leaving a greater legacy behind than this one.

It’s a happy coincidence that the birthplace of some of our most enduring buildings, stories and ideas should be in such a gorgeous natural environment.

We hope you enjoy seeing Athens in 3 days, and we’re sure you’ll see why there’s really nowhere on Earth quite like Athens!

Suggested next reading: 7 Very Best Greek Islands You Need To Experience

The post The Ultimate Guide To A Perfect 3 Days In Athens appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Unfortunately, many think of the region still being war-torn, but those times were well over 20 years ago in the 1990s. Today, Dubrovnik is becoming a hotspot for travelers. With its beautiful architecture, friendly locals, incredible seafood, and laid back way of life, it’s no wonder that Dubrovnik is high on any travelers bucket list.

Most visit during summer, but I’d recommend heading there in either early Spring or in Fall when the crowds calm down. You’ll be able to get so much out of your experience in the “Pearl Of The Adriatic”.

Here are the 5 best things to do in Dubrovnik:

Old Town

When people think of Dubrovnik, they immediately think of Old Town. The UNESCO World Heritage site was originally built in the 13^th Century and made Dubrovnik an important port on the Dalmatian coast.

The Old Town was damaged by an earthquake in 1667 and a lot of the town had to be rebuilt. The war in the 1990s also destroyed parts of the Old Town, but you would never know it today. The interesting part about this area is that it features many different architectural styles such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

The city today is looking at ways to reduce the number of visitors coming to this part of Dubrovnik. Still, if you have a chance to visit Dubrovnik, you have to walk around Old Town. Be sure to take an after-dinner stroll, it is magical.

Lokrum Island

This ancient island was first mentioned in writing in the year 1023, but has always been in the background of Old Town. Today, however, the UNESCO World Heritage site is now having its moment in the spotlight.

Only a short 15 minute ferry ride away or a longer kayak ride, Lokrum has plenty to offer those that visit. One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive on the island is the peacocks that greet you. They were brought onto the island well over 100 years ago and now they are all over.

Be sure to see the ruins of the old Benedictine Monastery that was originally built during the Medieval period. They are a little difficult to find, but if you walk around long enough, it’s impossible to not run into them. The flora and fauna are protected so that’s why you’ll notice that nothing is trimmed or cut.

Overall, Lokrum Island is a fascinating day trip to take from Dubrovnik and is certainly not to be missed.

War Photo Limited

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Juan Carlos Balarezo (@balarezojc)

Unfortunately, many people think that Croatia is a war-torn country. Sure, it had its issues over 20 years ago, but today, you’d have no idea when you visit.

The political situation in the Balkans is extremely complicated so I’d recommend that everyone take a visit to War Photo Limited to learn more about the history of the region. Starting with the end of Yugoslavia, you’ll learn why Balkans entered a war and how it got to where it is today.

While most museums have a lot of reading to do, War Photo Limited walks you through the history using pictures. They currently have a fascinating exhibit on how Kosovo won their independence and what that means for the world.

Beyond the breakup of Yugoslavia, War Photo Limited explores other wars from around the world. They do a great job of objectively explaining the conflict and what the current situation is in these regions.

Be sure to stop by for an afternoon and soak in the work from some of the best photojournalists on Earth.

Hike To The Peak (Mount Srd)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sunetra Travel | Singapore ☽ (@globetrottingsu)

Once you’ve properly explored the smaller streets of Dubrovnik, it is time to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Mount Srd looms over the northern part of Dubrovnik and is the tallest peak at 412 meters (1,315 feet).

Depending on how active you want to be getting to the top, there are 3 ways to access the peak. The first way up is via cable car that leaves from Petra Kresimira Street and takes a few minutes to reach the top. The second way up is with a car. The final (and best way up in my opinion) is to walk up.

The hike takes about 90 minutes but offers stunning views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea below. The path starts at Jadranska Cesta so you’ll have to walk a good bit just to get to the trailhead.

I would recommend doing this trail earlier in the morning since the second part of the trail offers no protection from the sun. Be prepared with sunblock, water, and a hat if you choose to hike it in summer. At the top is Fort Imperial, which offers incredible views as your reward.

If you have time, be sure to check out the Museum of Croatian War of Independence. The museum walks you through how Croatia achieved its independence during the 1990s and houses over 500 different pieces from its history.

Mount Srd is well worth the trip up and is so much more than just incredible pictures for your next Instagram post.

Trsteno Arboretum

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Croatia Full Of life (@croatiafulloflife)

If you haven’t had enough nature yet, be sure to head to the oldest arboretum in the world. Located just 30 minutes north of Dubrovnik city center, Trsteno Arboretum was built in the 15^th Century by a local family who wanted sailors to bring back seeds and plants with them from their travels.

Some of you might recognize it from a little show called Game Of Thrones as it has served as one of the many filming locations in and around Dubrovnik. Among the plants from around the world, there are beautiful sculptures and works of art.

After you’ve had enough of walking around the gardens, take a dip in the sea and cool off. In my opinion, there is no better to watch the sunset than at Trsteno.

Suggested next reading: The Best Croatian Islands You Need To Visit

The post 5 Perfect Ways To Get The Most Out Of Dubrovnik appeared first on Modern Trekker.

However, each Lake definitely has its own unique characteristics that are important to be aware of when choosing which one to visit. So why not review this list and find which one is your Lake soulmate?

1. Lake Garda

We start with the daddy of the Italian Lakes. Not only is it the largest of all Italy’s Lakes but its sheer size means that it’s also incredibly diverse.

Do you fancy a bit of outdoor sports? Not a problem. You can choose from windsurfing, canyoning, mountain biking, hiking, rafting and hand gliding to name but a few.

Maybe art and culture if more your thing. If so there are a plethora of cultural sites to visit, including museums, churches, open-air antique markets, medieval villages and Venetian castles.

Maybe you’d just like a bit of pampering and good food. Then you can relax in a hot spring at Thermal Park Del Garda and finish it up with a local or international meal at the onsite restaurant.

With all this it’s no wonder that 7% of all tourists to Italy, end up at Lake Garda. Thank goodness there’s more than enough space for everyone.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BEST PHOTOS OF ITALY (@destination_italy) on Oct 20, 2018 at 12:21pm PDT

2. Lake Como

Shaped like an upside-down Y, Lake Como has always attracted those interested in the aesthetic. Whether it’s artists, writers and musicians like Flaubert, Gioacchino Rossini or Vincenzo Bellini, or the modern day crowd of celebrities and famous types, Como has always been all about the look.

Balancing up to date accommodation and comfort with Neo-Classical looks, Como is not a cheap area to visit. However if you have the cash or just want to treat yourself, you could do much worse than a holiday here.

Pick summer for outdoor sports such as windsurfing, canoeing, water and jet skiing. Or winter for skiing on slopes with Alpine scenery.

If you fancy something a bit more low key, like a round or two of golf, Como has you covered with seven internationally known and loved golf courses.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Eleanor Travel ❃ London (@eleanorexploring) on Oct 20, 2018 at 6:28am PDT

3. Lake Maggiore

Ever thought you might have been a European noble in a past life? Then you might already have visited Lake Maggiore as this was the place to see and be seen in olden times.

Nowadays the second largest lake in Italy is a lot quieter but still holds onto memories of such times with its beautiful villas, castles and churches all standing proudly along the lake’s banks.

It also boasts a relatively tranquil atmosphere as its location surrounded by mountains means it’s brilliantly sheltered from any chilly North winds that might spoil its ambiance. As a result, it’s popular with fans of walking or mountain biking. Also with those who love discovery as it nestles many smaller islands among its large waters. Perfect for those low key adventurers out there.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Tracey Pharoah (@traceypharoah) on Oct 10, 2015 at 11:59am PDT

4. Lake Iseo

Maybe you’re a fan of lake islands but don’t want to be overwhelmed with choice. Then Lake Iseo might be the place for you as it holds Monte Isola, or Europe’s largest island lake.

A visit here means you could have a holiday within a holiday as the island is easily explored by jumping on a bike and pedaling round its beautiful fishing villages and olive groves. Contrarily even though it holds the largest lake island, Iseo is actually the smallest of Lombardy’s lakes, which gives it a charming, local feel.

But if it’s adventure you’re after, it’s only 19 miles away from Valcamonica and the chance for some seriously good skiing. Or you could take our recommendation and sit back with a glass of excellent, local sparkling wine and just watch the sunlight dance on the water. Lovely stuff.

5. Lake Orta

We’ve left this one to last as it’s the only for the true Lake enthusiasts. If you’ve read this far, congratulations. You are about to be rewarded with the knowledge of this practically undiscovered hidden gem.

Lake Orta has been described as one of the most captivating of all the Italian Lakes and yet it’s relatively unknown status means it’s unburdened by visitors.

This little piece of tranquil beauty really could be yours for the taking. You’d only have to share it with a small community of nuns living in a monastery there and perhaps the odd writer or two. Nietzsche, Byron, Balzac all apparently were visitors at one time or another.

If combining literature and Italian lakes is your thing, then be sure to check out the Poetry on the Lake festival in September. We can’t think of a better location to truly immerse yourself in the written word.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nicolas Scapin (@ihatenicolasscapin) on Sep 11, 2018 at 10:46am PDT

And that’s our list. Did one of these Italian Lakes pique your interest? Or maybe you had a firm favorite already mapped out in your mind? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Suggested next reading: 8 Gorgeous Towns On The Amalfi Coast That Are Fit For Royalty

The post 5 Italian Lakes That Will Make Any Trip To Italy Extra Special appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Before you know it, you’re searching for more, scrolling through countless pictures of Italy from every possible angle. Gorgeous, rustic, rolling hills with a faint mist slightly obscuring the dazzlingly orange sunlight that paints the chiseled, timeless landscape and excites the explosive shades of green in every leaf, every blade of grass swooning in the beauty of it all.

Freshly made pizza slowly rising in an oven coated with flour as the ripened San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella melt and ooze together, becoming entwined in what you suspect would be the most intoxicating bite of your life.

Italy sure looks enchanting.

You book your plane tickets and, within a few long months you find yourself standing inside your Italian dream. It’s beautiful, of course. But what you failed to see while scrolling on Instagram many months ago was that, in actual fact, Italy is not quite as immaculate as you first assumed.

You don’t regret your purchasing decision but, perhaps, you realize this is an opportunity to become slightly more world-wise and more consciously aware of expectation vs reality when it comes to traveling in general.

And so, my friends, here were my 8 observations of expectation vs reality when I traveled to Italy (from a Brits perspective!)

1. Driving In Italy

Expectation: Rolling hills, lots of sunshine, a happy and calm disposition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Irma (@irms_p)

Reality: I’ve never felt so stressed. Why is everyone’s car so battered and bruised? Did I just see a car parked on a roundabout? Why was that person shouting at me from their car?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Scott Rennie (@doctorrennie)

2. Food In Italy

Expectation: I’ll definitely eat more than just pizza in Italy.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmqzWwRFdG_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: The chef preparing my order (the same as what I ordered yesterday…and the day before yesterday).

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chef Matthew Driscoll (@the_pizza_series)

But it tastes so good, so who cares?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by S A R A O T E R I (@sara.oteri)

3. Personal Space In Italy

Expectation: I will continue to presume that I have an invisible circle barrier around myself that successfully inoculates me from the outside world.

Reality: Although it’s a warm gesture, my reserved non-Latin personality could never get used to it!

4. Crossing The Road In Italy

Expectation: Elegant, easy, care-free, with clear road-markings and signs indicating when to walk and when not to get hit by a car.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgTu3EtgBDC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: Who needs order when you can just embrace a certain type of chaos that somehow runs seamlessly like clockwork?

5. Dress In Italy

Expectation: I just assumed most people would be wearing T-shirts and shorts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmvL6iYgWW6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: Scarves! Why is everyone wearing scarves? It’s like 95 degrees outside.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MaritRa (@maritraag)

6. Countryside In Italy

Expectation: The countryside in Italy will consistently offer stunning views.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Discover Tuscany (@discovertuscany)

Reality: To be fair, that one is mostly true!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by World TravelBloggers Community (@travelbloggeres)

7. Cities In Italy

Expectation: Italy’s major cities will inspire me at every turn with that European charm.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bmyv9m9A-n3/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: Oops. I’ll just pretend I didn’t see that.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Photographer Croatia (@katarina.tati)

8. Conversations In Italy

Expectation: Like other Western and non-Latin places, people in public will speak politely and reservedly to each other so as not to offend or draw any undue attention to themselves.

Reality: Best friends having what appears to be shouting matches with each other and waving their hands enthusiastically (its the Latin way…apparently!)

Here’s how to understand some of those Italian hand gestures!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by REAL ITALIANS (@real_italians)

Finally, you arrive back home after your trip to Italy. Sure, you may have realized there was quite a discrepancy in expectation vs reality, but you had a fantastic trip nonetheless.

Italy is a wonderful country, it’s people are charming, and the food stunning, so who cares if it wasn’t exactly as you expected? Being surprised by the adventure is kind of the point of travel anyway, right?

Suggested next reading: Venice: How To Enjoy It Without Destroying It

The post Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life appeared first on Modern Trekker.

As one of the oldest cities in Europe (centuries older than London, Rome, or Paris), the city’s hills hold hundreds of years of uniquely Portuguese stories and culture, and it is diverse enough for everyone to find something they love.

City Center

First things first—at the start of your trip to Lisbon, the best way to get acquainted with the city is by taking a free walking tour to get acclimated with the city and learn a little bit about its history along the way. Most walking tours will start in the Praça Luís do Camões, a historic square and central meeting point for tourists and locals alike.

From there, you’ll cover the highlights and walk through Barrio Alto, visit Praça do Comércio (one of the most easily recognizable spots in Lisbon), and wander through the winding alleyways of Alfama, one of the oldest sections of Lisbon.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nadine (@girlinpaname) on Jan 2, 2015 at 1:44pm PST

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Vania Santos (@shooting_star21) on Sep 16, 2018 at 4:13am PDT

If you opt to venture out on your own, definitely make a point to stroll through Alfama to forget that you’re in the center of Portugal’s biggest city for an hour or so, and get a peek into how the people of Lisbon have lived for centuries.

Due to its position atop a hill, many of Alfama’s buildings survived the 1755 earthquake and tsunami that destroyed much of Lisbon’s lower-lying structures, so it truly is a fascinating glimpse into the past.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Riccardo (@riccardo_scc) on Sep 24, 2018 at 12:30pm PDT

Alfama is a great place to listen to Fado, a unique music style that evolved in this section of the city. It is best characterized by the Portuguese word saudade, which roughly translates to “longing”.

The best description of Fado music I heard was from a local, who described the feeling of Fado as music capturing the feeling of finding a t-shirt or something that belonged to an ex-boyfriend or girlfriend years after the relationship has ended, and the feelings of nostalgia and loss that come along with it.

It’s a beautiful experience that you don’t need to speak Portuguese to be able to understand, and one that you definitely should not miss during your trip to Lisbon. Just note—any café that has a drink minimum or charges you an entrance fee to listen to Fado music is not a traditional Fado café, so be wary when choosing a spot.

Lisbon is also an incredible place to search for street art. You can find great pieces just about everywhere you look, but some of the best spots can be found in Barrio Alto, Mouraria, Alfama, Alcântara, and near many of Lisbon’s metro stops (Picoas is the most famous, but the others are great as well).

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by LISBON STREET ART TOURS (@lisbonstreetarttours) on Dec 9, 2017 at 9:54am PST

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by LISBON STREET ART TOURS (@lisbonstreetarttours) on Jan 17, 2018 at 10:08am PST

Sunset Spots

Because it is built on a series of several hills, there are many breathtaking spots throughout the city to watch the sunset. If you’re looking for a great dinner with a great view, head to Chiado and ride the Ascensor da Bica funicular up the hill (or walk, if you’re looking for a workout).

At the top, there are dozens of restaurants where you can get a delicious, reasonably priced dinner out on the terrace while you look out over the city.

For a good sunset picnic spot, grab a bottle of wine and some sandwiches and head up to the Castelo de São Jorge.

The Moorish castle was the center of power in medieval Portugal for over 400 years, and although it was damaged and later abandoned by Lisbon’s ruling class in favor of a larger, more accessible location, it remains a fascinating part of the city’s history and now one of its main tourist attractions.

After you walk around inside, grab a spot on the castle grounds, look out over the sprawling city, and imagine how awesome it would have been to be royalty.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Portugal on the Top (@portugalonthetop) on Jul 7, 2018 at 5:28am PDT

If you’re looking for another unique but definitely memorable sunset spot, head a little bit out of the city to the Panoramic Restaurant of Monsanto, an abandoned restaurant with an incredible view of Lisbon and the surrounding area.

Belém

One of Lisbon’s most beautiful and fascinating districts lies just a few miles outside the city center and is definitely worth visiting if you have the time. Some of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks such as the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Jerónimos Monastery are there.

Of course, no trip to Belém is complete without a trip to the Fábrica de Pasteis de Belém for some traditional Portuguese pastries (both the cream-filled pasteis de nata and pastel de Belém, an egg tart).

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pastéis de Belém® (@pasteisbelem) on Oct 8, 2018 at 9:00am PDT

Belém is just absolutely beautiful at golden hour (starting about an hour before the sun sets) when the monuments are lit up with a gorgeous golden glow. It’s also the best time to visit the pastry shops because the line will be the shortest, so it’s a good stop on the way back from the beaches in Cascais or Estoril, if you have time for a beach day trip.

Nightlife

Lisbon nightlife is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced but has definitely one of my favorite nightlife cultures.

Around 11:30pm, head back to Praça Luís do Camões and meet up with your friends to walk through Barrio Alto. At night, the neighborhood transforms completely and the streets fill with people.

Bars in Lisbon are unique in that they are very small—often just a bar with a few beers on tap (Sagres and Super Bock are the Portuguese beers of choice) and your choice of liquor. Make sure you get it in a plastic cup (since no glass is allowed on the streets) and head outside to mingle with the hundreds of people lining the streets for blocks.

Do note that streets will be fairly empty until around 11pm—the Portuguese go out late and stay out until the wee hours of the morning.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Giuliana & Elton (@casalforadacaixa) on Oct 10, 2018 at 5:10pm PDT

Before embarking on my trip to Lisbon I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with it the way I did, but it’s become one of my favorite cities and definitely a must-see stop on your trip through Portugal.

PS. Be sure to also check out Hot Clube de Portugal in Lisbon, which is one of the best jazz bars in the world!

The post How To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Lisbon, Portugal appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The sun may set, but the city always seems capable of kicking into a new gear, seems to find a new kind of energy. What had been a bright, electrifying city in the daytime becomes a vast, pulsating organism in the darkness. Move southwards, however, and the night takes on a different quality. Here, orange clusters of light glow softly against the blackness of sea and land. The blaring clubs are a long way off and instead small towns appeal to us with gentle siren songs, offering peace and pleasure for our often-weary journeys.

Sunrise reveals new wonders. We behold picturesque towns teetering precariously above the glittering seas. We see stately villas perched in mid-air; cathedrals that occupy any available openings in the rock face; cafés, restaurants and throngs of people that gather like children at their feet. Rugged yet refined, the Amalfi Coast epitomizes perfectly the natural drama and cultural elegance we speak of when we speak of Italy.

Once a string of modest fishing villages, the towns around Amalfi soon became the home of Emperors. Drawn by in by the region’s abundant resources and strategic positions, Tiberius and Augustus were among the first to apprehend the qualities that would later allow the Duchy of Amalfi to evolve into a maritime republic that could rival Venice in the Middle Ages. Nineteenth-century aristocrats on their “Grand Tours” added prestige to the region; intellectuals and artists, a sprinkle of inspiration; film stars, a squeeze of glamour and wealth. By the time you and I plan our trip the cat has not just been let out of the bag—it’s been to college, got married, and set up a family in an up-and-coming bag somewhere very far away.

Fortunately for us, the relative lack of infrastructure connecting these separate conurbations over the centuries means that each town has managed to preserve some of those distinct characteristics that differentiate it from the next. In this article we’ll take our own Grand Tour down the coastline, starting in Sorrento and ending in Vietri Sul Mare. The Amalfi Coast is perfection incarnate but is diverse enough to accommodate everyone, from celeb spotters, to nature lovers, to book nerds.

Hopefully, if I do my job right, by the time you’ve finished reading this article you’ll know which town on the Amalfi Coast best encapsulates your perfect type of perfection.

1. Sorrento

Once the playground of Europe’s rich and famous, Sorrento is a fairly small town with a glamorous past. As the northern gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento benefits from easy access and offers spectacular sweeping views over the bay, meaning that it’s a very popular destination for first-time visitors.

The food and drink are excellent. Lemon groves are a key feature of the region and Sorrento is one of the best places to taste the delicious local limoncello, an obligatory part of every trip. The Piazza Tasso, the central square, is home to the town’s best cafés and is the perfect spot to set up shop with a newspaper, or simply watch the world go by. The Museum Correale houses a decent art collection in an 18^th Century villa, and while the 15^th Century Cathedral is perhaps not as striking as some in the area, it’s still worth your time to investigate.

Pros: Easily accessed. English quite widely spoken. Stunning views.

Cons: A little more crowded than some spots. On the more expensive side.

Perfect for: Explorers. It’s the perfect destination for people who intend to combine their visit with a trip to Naples or Pompeii.

2. Capri

Brigette Bardot, Clark Gable and Sophia Loren, these are just some of the names whose presence in Capri during cinema’s Golden Age helped create it as a space of style and elegance in the public imagination. Not that Capri needs much help, of course. But beyond the glittering façade there’s actually a lot to see and do on this small island on the Amalfi Coast.

Among the highlights are the ruins of Villa Jovis in the North East. The Roman Emperor Tiberius, fearing assassination, founded the villa as a safe refuge, and governed from there until his death in 37 AD. It’s now one of the best-preserved Roman villas in all of Italy. Capri was also the former home of Maxim Gorky, a prominent Soviet intellectual who once played host to Vladimir Lenin himself in Capri. A monument to their meeting now stands in the Gardens Augustus in Central Capri.

Perhaps the most unforgettable of all Capri’s many treasures, though, is the Grotta Azzurra, or “Blue Grotto”. Strange natural lighting means that the water in this naturally formed cavern takes on a shade of blue that is deeper and richer than you’d think possible. It’s a popular destination so be prepared for long queues; however, if you go towards the end of the day then it’s less likely you’ll have to wait around, and less likely the pilot of your boat will hurry to rush you out.

A post shared by Simone Woollard (@simonewoollard) on Aug 20, 2018 at 1:41pm PDT

Pros: Lots to see. Charming streets and squares. A touch of glamour.

Cons: Can get crowded. Expensive.

Perfect For: Instagrammers, historians and movie buffs.

3. Nerano

Our next stop along the coast is the small, quiet town of Nerano. Prices here are much more reasonable and there are fewer human bodies competing for space, so it’s a great place to unwind. Despite being smaller than its coastal cousins, Nerano still has plenty to be proud of. Its local cheese and spaghetti dishes are among the best in the region and its also home to a Marine Reserve, making it an ideal spot for those with an interest in diving or snorkeling.

A post shared by Abraham Doblado (@abradoblado) on Aug 22, 2018 at 10:20pm PDT

Pros: Quiet. Relatively inexpensive. Secluded beaches with marine diversity.

Cons: A little too quiet, perhaps?

Perfect for: Literature lovers. The peaceful vibe is perfect for reading, and it’s also said to be the spot where The Sirens beckoned to Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey.

4. Positano

Arguably the brightest gem in the crown of the Amalfi Coast, and by consequence, it’s most crowded, Positano’s reputation rests on the idea that it’s the most quintessential and picturesque town on La Costiera. If you’re not put off by large crowds, then Positano certainly has a lot to offer. The pastel-colored houses that line the cliff faces are an undeniably spectacular site, especially at dusk when each window seems to invite entry into a unique world of sensuous pleasure. The trattoria and gelateria are among the region’s best, as are the boutique shops, meaning the town attracts everyone from local Italian holidaymakers to A-list celebrities. If you need a bit of break then Arienzo Beach, a short walk from the main marina, provides a slightly quieter spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Pros: Beautiful setting. Lively nightlife. Good beaches

Cons: Very crowded in peak season. Very expensive.

Perfect for: Families and luxury seekers.

5. Praiano

A post shared by Paolo Balsamo (@paolobalsamo) on Aug 21, 2018 at 5:09am PDT

Praiano, a beach lover’s paradise between Positano or Amalfi, is less busy than its more illustrious neighbors. Wide, spacious sands offer plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a slice of the coast to yourself—it also benefits from sunshine all day long. Those long hours of daylight can make it feel like the sun never sets sometimes, but when it does you’re sure to notice: Praiano is famous in the region for its glorious sunsets. Climb the cliffside to watch the evening draw in and Praiano’s fortuitous setting will reward you with views that lead the eye down the coast to Positano, and on towards Capri.

The nearby town of Conca dei Marini is home to the Grotta dello Smeraldo, another sea cave that is bigger and less frequented than the one on Capri. Unlike Capri, here the water deepens from royal blue to emerald green as the light changes throughout the day. Maybe a spot to try a time-lapse photo?

Praiano is also one potential starting point for the rather grandiloquently named “Path of the Gods”, a relatively gentle hiking trail that winds over the clifftops towards Nocelle, a small town just east of Positano. Prepare to annoy your companion with audible gasps as each small town and cove comes into view below.

Pros: Excellent Beach. Hiking.

Cons: Not as easily accessible

Perfect For: Nature lovers, honeymooners and romantics.

6. Amalfi

A post shared by Network 1MLL followers 6 pages (@best_amalficoast) on Aug 23, 2018 at 3:59am PDT

In my mind’s eye I sometimes think of the Amalfi coast like a chessboard. Sorrento and Salerno are the rooks and Positano is the Queen—the town with the widest reach and biggest influence. Amalfi, however, is the King. This is the lynchpin, the crown jewel, the seat of power and the center around which everything is built.

Like its sister towns, Amalfi is picture-postcard beautiful. The duomo, easily the most stunning on the whole coastline, is the centerpiece and has an interesting history to boot. After the “Sack of Constantinople”, in 1204, the remains of the Apostle Andrew were removed and transported to Amalfi, where they still stand to this day. The duomo was built around these relics and is particularly striking for the ways in which it blends Arabic architectural influences with the more traditional Norman and Romanesque styles of the age. Arabic influence is also felt in the local production of “bambagina”, a sort of robust and valuable writing paper that has been made in the town since the Middle Ages and can still be bought today.

Pros: History. Architecture. Art.

Cons: Crowded and more expensive

Perfect For: People who want to be at the heart of the action.

7. Ravello

A post shared by IG AMALFICOAST ® (@ig_amalficoast) on Aug 23, 2018 at 11:44am PDT

In the hills above Amalfi lies the town of Ravello, a rarefied, harmonious kind of place that feels like an eyrie perched high above the clutter of the human world. This is a space of stately villas and manicured gardens where the scents of flowers mix with the sea air to leave you feeling a little bit like you’re in a slightly fantastic but particularly pleasant dream. One of its most famous former residents, the writer Gore Vidal, set up camp in a villa called La Rondinaia (The Sparrow’s Nest), a retreat which he described as “a wonderful place from which to observe the end of the world”.

Two of Ravello’s finest villas are the Villas Cimbrone and Rufolo, and you’d be hard pressed to find two more elegant spaces anywhere in Italy. In 1880 the German composer Richard Wagner visited the latter of these and was so besotted with the place that he used it as inspiration for his opera Parsifal. To honor his visit, and somewhat controversial legacy, the town of Ravello now hosts a music and arts festival in his memory every year.

Pros: Beautiful gardens. Not too crowded. Views to die for.

Cons: Not on the beach.

Perfect for: Botanists, musicians and those who like their art “highbrow”. 

8. Vietri sul Mare

A post shared by Perfect Italia (@perfect_italia) on Aug 23, 2018 at 7:37am PDT

The last stop on our trip down the Amalfi coast takes us to Vietri sul Mare. This is a very small town and not really set up for tourists, so it’s a different sort of prospect than some of the towns we’ve encountered far, but let me try to make the case for a visit nonetheless.

Traveling south, Vietri is only accessible via the “Road of 1,000 bends”, a narrow and occasionally precipitous thoroughfare that can be a bit tricky to navigate, even for experienced drivers, so let the buses do the work if you have the option. English is not widely spoken here and some of the amenities lag a little behind the rest of the coast. Vietri more than makes up for that, though, with rustic charm by the bucketload. If you want to see what the Amalfi coast really was before the jet-set discovered it, this is the place for you.

Vietri is a charming but basic fishing village. Lightweight boats bob lazily in the harbor and not a whole lot seems to happen. That sounds pretty good to me, but if you’re looking for something extra then you’ll find it in Vietri’s age-old ceramics tradition, known as majolica. Arts and crafts aren’t always my thing, but this stuff really is beautiful. Striking, creative and authentic, it’s the perfect memento to take home from your trip. Even if you’re reluctant to buy, take a few shots of the brightly colored dishes piled high in the shopfronts and you’ll know you’ve been somewhere really different.

A post shared by Daniele Meriani (@daniele_meriani) on Aug 26, 2018 at 4:07pm PDT

Pros: An authentic experience of small-town life

Cons: A bit tricky to reach, English not widely spoken. Not as beautiful as Amalfi, Ravello or Positano.

Perfect For: Getting off the beaten path.

The Amalfi Coast won’t let you down. Whether you’re planning a bit of rest and relaxation after Naples, a family holiday the kids will never forget, or a romantic getaway, the Amalfi Coast has it all. Yes, it’s popular, but some places are popular for a reason, and no less amazing for that.

If you’ve read our guide and still can’t decide which town is right for you then why not sail the coast and see a few? Sounds expensive, I know, but there’s a way of doing it that won’t break the bank. Think of IntersailClub* as the Airbnb of sea travel. Here you can reserve a cabin that will allow you to sail from town to town without the expense of chartering a boat yourself.

The Amalfi Coast is a smorgasbord. Take a nibble at each piece and see which bit tastes best to you.

Suggested next reading: Nowhere Like Naples: Why You Need To See Italy’s Best Hidden Gem

*This is not an affiliate link. We have no financial incentive to promote InstersailClub.

The post 8 Gorgeous Towns On The Amalfi Coast That Are Fit For Royalty appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The North is continental Europe, they say, but the South is the real Italy.

How true this is, I’m unsure. What I am certain of is that there really is something different about the South. There’s a kind of electricity in the air, an intensity and vitality to life that makes this place unique. Cross that invisible border south of Rome and you start to feel like you’ve entered a new world.

Rome might be the Eternal City, but Naples is a lightning bolt. From the clamor of the streets to the vibrancy of the colors, everything about this city shocks you into living completely in the moment. In the words of Arthur John Strutt, “See Naples and die [they say], but I say, see Naples and live”.

The very large elephant in the room

Very few places on Earth embody the phrase “devastatingly beautiful” quite so literally as Naples. Here, Mt. Vesuvius is a constant reminder of both the bounty of nature and the fragility of our lives within it. Vesuvius has erupted almost 30 times in the last 2000 years—the last being in 1944—and there’s no telling if and when it will happen again. About 4,000 years ago the volcano erupted with unimaginable force. An explosion of a similar magnitude today could wipe out much of Naples.

I grew up in England, where nature is laughably benign, so the thought of living one’s life in the shadow of an active volcano is truly humbling to me. There’s a stereotype that Neapolitans are a hardy bunch who prefer to enjoy the pleasure of the moment than store up riches for tomorrow. If there’s any truth to this, then you sort of understand every time you look up at that peak.

If you want a closer look than it’s easy to arrange a hike up to the top of the crater. It’s not an arduous climb and there is nowhere better to get views of the Bay of Naples, but bear in mind that the volcano is long overdue an eruption, so you will be taking a small risk.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

The devastation of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD, and the macabre figures left behind have caught the world’s imagination. Many of the wealthiest people who lived in these towns had long since read the warning signs and retreated to Rome. The ones who were left behind, and whom we now see encased in stone, were poorer citizens who had no financial freedom to escape the blast. It’s truly haunting exploring the ruins of those towns—every time you turn around the volcano is there again, a brooding, menacing presence in an area of spectacular natural beauty.

Pompeii is the bigger of the two sites and can take a whole day to explore. Herculaneum is smaller and slightly better preserved of the two and can be done in half a day. It’s easy to get to both sites from central Naples and we’d recommend booking onto a tour as there are loads of details you’ll miss without an expert guide. Night tours are also available and provide an interesting perspective on things—as well as a chance to beat the heat!

For ticket prices, transport and everything else you need to know to plan your trip, click here.

Treat your face

You probably know that pizza, the food that dominated the world, began its life in Naples. What you may not know is that it needs to be made to a strict set of standards. True Neopolitan pizza should be made with San Marzano tomatoes, grown on Vesuvius’s fertile plains, the buffalo mozzarella should be from Campana, and the whole thing should be baked in a wood-fired oven.

Pizzeria Oliva da Salvatore e Carla, on via Sanita, is our recommendation, but any restaurant bearing the prized “Pizza Vera” signs is bound to deliver a quality experience.

Neapolitan food does not begin and end with pizza. Far from it. Spaghetti alle vongole—spaghetti with clams—is a local favorite, and Naples is almost as famous for its pastries, such as the shell-shaped sfogliatelle, as it is for pizza.

The South of Italy is a food lover’s paradise and Naples is the best place to sample it all.

Seeing the Sights

Any city that can mix it with Rome, Florence and Venice has to be pretty special, but Naples definitely belongs in that conversation. The stunning Piazza del Plebiscito is a grand central square to rival any in Europe, and the smaller Piazza Bellini is a study in shabby chic built atop ancient Greek ruins.

Art lovers may want to explore the marvelous sculptures housed inside the 16^th Century Cappella Sansevero or take the full tour in the vast collections of the Museo di Capodimonte. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, head on over to the Museo MADRE for all things weird and wonderful in Italian modern art.

History buffs will want to check out the Fontanelle Cemetery Caves or the San Gennaro Catacombs. The collection of Graeco-Roman artifacts at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale is one of the world’s finest, and the Castel dell’Ovo is one of the world’s oldest military fortifications, but for sheer visual drama, the Castel del Nuovo towers above the rest.

Be sure to take time to wander the streets of Santa Lucia. This is the spot where many Neapolitans left their home to seek a new life in America. Nowadays it’s one of Naples’ most distinctive and characteristic neighborhoods and an ideal place to get a taste of daily life in the capital of the South.

“God” was here!

It’s probably a bit of a cliché to describe football as a religion by now but in Naples it really feels like it. Back in the 1980s, Diego Maradona—arguably the world’s greatest ever footballer—led SSC Napoli to their first ever league title. Since then Napoli has remained one of the country’s most successful teams with certainly one of the country’s most passionate fanbases.

After all, it’s hard to argue with religion when you’ve seen god in the flesh.

Naples is a crazy, anarchic, soulful city. Slightly dilapidated but effortlessly beautiful, it’s a city that’s often criminally overlooked. The first time I visited I got off the train and looked around me. Everywhere there was something happening: mopeds zipping around, people having loud arguments in the street, some children were having a shoot-out with BB guns in the middle of a public square.

Everything was energized—like all life had been supercharged somehow. It’s infectious, too. Go see for yourself.

Suggested next reading: 7 Secret Treasures Waiting To Be Unearthed In Rome

The post Nowhere Like Naples: Why You Need To See Italy’s Best Hidden Gem appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The same is true of Venice.

If ever there were a city that lived up to the hype, that delivered on every promise, then it’s La Serenissima. It’s no surprise that even in this age of mass travel, when more and more cities become available to visit, Venice is more popular than ever.

I mean, look at this place!

But such beauty comes with a cost…

Overtourism puts a huge strain on the infrastructure of a city. This is especially true for Venice, where expansion and modernization to accommodate increased traffic is not possible, and which now groans under the weight of its admirers. There are less tangible effects, too. Because visitors now outnumber Venice’s shrinking local population by such a margin, many residents worry that the city is being turned into a sort of amusement park; that the city’s unique character is being transformed by the very people who come to see it.

Such concerns have prompted Venetians to street demonstrations in recent years and it’s impossible not to empathize with their position. Visitors can bring benefits, sure, but they can also suffocate a place. Too much tourism will kill you, quoth Freddie, just as sure as none at all.

So what to do? There are no easy fixes, but there are measures we travelers can take to help minimize the negative impact we have on the environment and maximize the benefits of our economic contribution.

We’re not here to preach, but here are a few ideas to take into consideration when visiting Venice.

Visit in Low Season

This is relative, of course, because Venice is popular all year round, but crowds really become unsustainable during the Carnivale in February, the Easter holiday, and the summer months from July to August. Visiting in Spring means you still get the sunshine but will enjoy much smaller crowds. The locals benefit from having visits spread out more evenly across the year, and you benefit from the more tranquil and authentic atmosphere that make Venice so special (as well as slightly cheaper prices). Better yet, visit in Winter to see a side of Venice that many will never experience: crisp starlit skies, sleepy streets, spectacular sunsets and fog rolling across the Piazza San Marco.

What’s not to love?

Stay Overnight

Although there’s nothing wrong with day-trippers per se, the Mayor has expressed concern that in a small, cramped city like Venice, these temporary visitors contribute to the overcrowding without contributing as much to the local economy, in the form of, say, hotels, restaurants, and so on. If you’re able to afford a longer stay then not only are your hard-earned dollars much more likely to end up in local pockets, where they’re appreciated, but you’ll also have the benefit of walking the streets by night when the city is at its most magical.

Speaking of day-trippers….

Reconsider the Cruise

Cruise ships contribute even more to the same mass-body, low-spend problem that day trippers present, but the liners also create a fresh set of issues. Not only do they arguably contribute more carbon to the atmosphere than airplanes (per-mile), but according to one study, the wastewater and other emissions also account for 77% of all marine pollution. Added to this, there’s noise pollution, increased traffic on the water, and unsightly disruption to the old-world, small-scale vibe.

Recent efforts to ban the largest cruise liners from approaching the Grand Canal have had some limited success, but challenges remain. Now, it’s not our business to tell anyone how to spend their money, but I am going to bang the drum for train or bus travel as an alternative route into Venice. It’s greener, cleaner, you get to see much more of the places you visit, learn from other communities, and contribute to their economies.

Cultural exchange and mutual enrichment—in every sense of the word—isn’t that the point of travel after all?

A post shared by Waleed Jamshaid (@alchemist.wj) on Nov 10, 2017 at 4:28pm PST

The train station, it goes without saying, is also stunning.

Eat Local

Who wouldn’t fancy looking out at the Campanile or the Ponte Rialto over fine food and wine? I’ve done it myself, I admit. However, if we really want to add something to the places we visit—and avoid an unexpectedly hefty bill—then we really need to get out and eat like locals do. In Venice this means chicchetti: various types of finger-food and snacks, a bit like tapas. Locals wander the streets hopping between bacari to sample different dishes; join them and not only will you be supporting local businesses and minimizing crowding in tourist hotspots, you’ll also sample some of the most authentic and tasty dishes Venice has to offer.

A post shared by Veronica Ricasoli (@veroniha) on Jun 2, 2018 at 2:39pm PDT

Avoid AirBnb

AirBnb is a double-edged sword and elsewhere on the site we’ve written how great an experience it can be to use their service. There is a downside, however, that’s particularly worth keeping in mind when visiting Venice. Because Venice is so perennially popular and space is at such a premium, living spaces that would once have been available for locals to purchase or rent are now being leased to tourists. This is sustainable up to a point, but with locals being priced out of the market and tourist numbers rising exponentially, the city faces an affordable housing crisis that poses a real existential threat to the character of the city.

A post shared by Kirsty van Haght (@kirstyvh) on Jun 16, 2017 at 9:00am PDT

Venice has some incredibly gorgeous hotels available at all price points, so make full use of them. If you’re looking for suggestions on where to stay, I found the Jewish quarter in Cannaregio Sestiere to be charming, secluded, and an interesting window into Venice’s past. It was also within easy walking distance of everywhere I wanted to explore.

Ditch the Smartphone and Guidebook

The thing that stuck with me about Venice after my first visit was how beautiful it is. I mean how beautiful all of it is. Every back street, every quiet campi, each window frame and historic bridge is just impossibly picturesque, so why not take a walk through the backstreets? Of course, you’ll want to see the major sites, but once you’ve done that, ditch the guidebook and just walk. Get lost. Panic slightly. Realise that it’s really easy to find where you are again. Repeat.

Make your way at random, beat the crowds, find your Venice.

A post shared by Venice Official Tourist&Travel (@veneziaunica) on Mar 11, 2018 at 1:38am PST

Also be sure to stop in one of the many churches to explore the treasure trove of artistic riches held within. One even contains the body of Titian: the towering Grand Master of early Renaissance painting and one of Venice’s most famous sons. In the spirit of this article, I’m not going to tell you which church that is or where to find it—but I am going to hope you stumble on it by chance. Trust me, it’s more fun that way.

Head into the Lagoon

If you have the time, a visit to one of the neighboring islands is well worth the effort. Better yet, base yourself at a hotel there. It doesn’t mean you’ll miss the main attractions of Venice, which are only a short ride on a vaporetto anyway, but again you’ll be minimizing crowding and spreading the positive benefits of tourism around. The island of Murano claims to be the resting place of ancient dragon bones (it definitely isn’t) and fine traditional glassware (I’ll take their word for it). Burano, on the other hand, sees Murano’s glass-making tradition and raises it lace-making. It’s also a quirky fishing village with cheerful colored houses that are guaranteed to brighten your day.

Another excellent option would be the Lido di Venezia. This sandbar on the other side of the Venetian lagoon plays host to the world-famous Venice Film Festival every September and has traditionally been a playground for the rich and famous throughout its illustrious past (take that, lace-making tradition!) Bibliophiles may recognize the Grand Hotel des Bains as an important location in Thomas Mann’s novella, Death in Venice, though sadly the building is now being converted into luxury apartments.

Though the glory days are arguably behind it, the present-day Lido is reinventing itself as a model for sustainable tourism in the area and a much more sensible alternative to staying in the city.

A post shared by Gonzalo Caceres Dancuart (@gonzalocaceresd) on Jul 30, 2018 at 5:27pm PDT

Hopefully, this guide has been of some use in planning your trip to Venice. It’s a unique city—a miracle really—and we all have a role in protecting it for future generations. I’m incredibly excited to be making my fourth visit there next year, so hopefully our paths will cross on a backstreet somewhere in the future.

“To build a city where it is impossible to build a city is madness in itself, but to build there one of the most elegant and grandest of cities is the madness of genius” – Alexander Herzen.

And, one more:

“For our anniversary, my wife and I went to see Godzilla, and then we ate at Barnyard Venice, and it was like, ‘We are crazy! The Kardashians have to keep up with us!’ – Bill Hader (presumably talking about a different Venice).

Suggested next reading: 8 Things To Do In Florence That Will Make You Feel Like A True Italian

The post Venice: How To Enjoy It Without Destroying It appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Nice

Nice can be considered the capital of the French Riviera; a city always on the move, always in celebration, and that will always amaze with its impressive number of English-style pubs, trendy bars, and crowded clubs. Never miss people at any time of the year: it will be the retro charm of the old city, the elegant belle époque style architecture, the languid life that takes place around the port, the many art museums, or the wonderful walks along the sea that will make you fall in love with this city. Nice really is a place to be discovered in every season of the year.

2. Cannes

The most famous city of the Riviera lights up every May for the International Film Festival, assaulted by stars—famous or not—by journalists, photographers and curious, clogging the walks, hotels, and clubs in search of fame. Between expensive hotels, elegant buildings, crowded beaches, you will be a bit dazzled by the lively town. Despite the Croisette—the most exclusive promenade of the French Riviera—being a must-see, Cannes does not excel in originality, though it does make up for it in opulence and showiness. We suggest you explore Le Suquet, the old district, picturesque and pedestrian, after following the allée des Étoile de cinéma, or the path that follows the imprints of the hands of the stars imprinted in the cement.

3. Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is the smallest sovereign state in the world after the Vatican and only 20% of its inhabitants are really Monegasque, thanks to its facilitated tax policy. This small French Riviera town exudes opulence with it high-tech skyscrapers, crowded celebrity yachts, exclusive casinos, and venues that serve sophisticated cocktails. Despite its wealth, there are other parts of the city—hidden corners—that are still rustic and authentic and, in their own ways, are very special places to visit, especially during major occasions such as the Grand Prix Formula 1, which forces one to visit other areas of the city other than just the opulent high-tech skyscrapers, celebrity yachts and lush cocktail-serving venues.

4. Saint Tropez

If once it was a village of outworld charm, today this town is home to yachts and an uninterrupted flow of wealthy people who wear designer clothes in search of a perennial catwalk. Despite its worldly vocation, Saint-Tropez preserves a beautiful citadel with roofs with bright red tiles, a bell tower, and a fascinating historical center.

5. Villefranche-sur-Mer

This magnificent fishing village overlooking a natural inlet is a fourteenth-century village characterized by narrow streets, stairways, and arcades that served as shelter during the war bombing. Villefranche-sur-Mer features many fishing boats swaying on the pier and beautiful views of Cap Ferrat.

6. Port Grimaud

This fishing village is a real, little gem hidden inside high walls that also hide delicious colorful houses that parade along the canals crowded with many kinds of boats. This idea of building on the water was conceived by the architect François Spoerry on the inspiration of the marsh villages with 12 km of docks, 7 km of canals to accommodate up to 3000 boats.

7. Fréjus

The town still bears the signs of its ancient splendor: in fact, it is known as the “little Pompeii” in France, thanks to the numerous Roman remains. The ancient Forum Julii, renamed as a result of the conquest by Julius Caesar, today preserves its ruins in the middle of the pedestrian center, between pastel colors already typically Provencal and the fresh tree-lined squares.

8. Islands of Hyères

Those who want a holiday of the clearest and most crystalline sea cannot miss the islands of Hyères, a real corner of paradise unhindered by the strict rules for visitors. The most famous (and the most equipped)  island is definitely Porquerolles: unforgettable for its colors and its beautiful nature can be explored by bike, on foot along the many marked trails, or with underwater excursions to admire the seabed. If Le Levant is not accessible as a military site, Port-Cros, on the other hand, is a natural park that can be visited only on foot, using different paths, all highly recommended.

9. Antibes and Juan-les-Pins

The town of Antibes and its twin Juan-les-Pins are the emblem of the French Riviera: a small fortified town full of charm, a crystalline sea that enchants, wonderful villas hidden by the lush vegetation of Cap d’Antibes, a rich port of elegant boats and the Picasso Museum, full of works by the great painter. Unsurprisingly Antibes, thanks to its central position between Cannes and Nice, is a first class tourist destination. The old town, with its winding alleyways and its Picasso museum, the aged walls, the harbor where the yachts love to moor, the Fort Carré which dominates the Old Vieil Antibes, the Marina Baie des Anges, and, moreover, not discounting the free municipality of Safranier which offers a perfect postcard landscape all around, explains why Antibes attracts numerous tourists all year round. Together with the renowned Marineland park, with its marine shows, the beaches of Antibes are the most attractive tourist attractions.

10. Les Trois Corniches

To connect Nice and Menton there are 3 parallel roads, all at different levels of height, which run close to the mountain. These are paths of absolute beauty that cross picturesque villages, allowing you to admire breathtaking views, and are ideal for anyone who loves winding roads and adventures.

Road tripping to make the most of the French Riviera experience!

Load the bags in the trunk and leave. The French Riviera has so much to offer from the crystal clear seaside to the picturesque historical little villages. So, what are you waiting for? For the most entertaining and beautiful way to explore the French Riviera, road tripping is the way…it’s the best feeling in the world…even more exciting than the moment when your plane lands after a long flight because there is more physical contact with the journey; when the wheels start spinning, adhering to the asphalt, the world sets in motion around you.

A road trip reveals the subtle changes place-by-place of all that surrounds you, little by little. It enables you to freely explore more every time you enter a different territory, literally discovering it at every meter. Just a window to separate you from the outside world. Nothing is out of reach because it is always fine to stop—when you want, where you want—to get in touch with the outside. Traveling by car is like leaving the trail behind you. What then remains in you is forever; just close your eyes. The French Riviera is one of these road tripping dreams you won’t want to wake up from. Road tripping the French Riviera also helps you catch the most “off the beaten path” locations—and, trust me, there are a LOT of hidden gems around the French Riviera you’ll be thrilled to discover. You won’t regret it!

Suggested next reading: Belgium’s Best Kept Secret Is Jaw-Droppingly Pretty

The post 10 Beautiful Locations In The French Riviera Worthy Of Your Bucketlist appeared first on Modern Trekker.

La Carboneria (the coal-house) was built in 1864 and was used as a squat from 2008 to 2014 until the occupants were evicted by the police and the building was earmarked for destruction. However, the city council intervened and the building was preserved as a site of historic and artistic interest. The large mural on the exterior wall means it’s now one of the best places to see street art in Barcelona.

2. El Raval

Once one of Barcelona’s most notorious districts, El Raval has been rejuvenated in recent years thanks, in part, to its central location near Las Ramblas. Nowadays it’s one of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods in Barcelona and the region’s cuisine and nightlife have benefited from this influx of influences. To get a sense of El Raval’s difficult past, visit the ‘Baby Drop-Off’ at Carrer de les Ramelleres, a wooden hole in the wall where destitute mothers used to leave their children to the care of the Church.

3. Olympic Stadium

Built in 1929, the original Olympic Stadium was intended to host the 1936 Olympics, a privilege that was ultimately awarded to Berlin. Barcelona finally got its chance to host the games in 1992 and the lighting of the torch by archer Antonio Rebollo remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history. The Olympics were instrumental in revitalizing Barcelona, both economically and architecturally, so the place is vital to understanding modern-day Barcelona and is well worth a visit, whether you’re a sports fan or not. Moreover, if you can catch a concert at the Olympic Stadium, that’ll surely be a night to remember!

4. Drive an F1 Car on the Spanish Grand Prix Circuit

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as a bit tasty behind the wheel then now’s the time to prove it. The Spanish Grand Prix has been held in Barcelona since 1992 and motorheads have the chance to prove their mettle by taking to the same circuit. A range of F1 cars are available but the 2011 Williams is the most current F1 car available to drive anywhere in the world. You’ll need a driving license (obviously) and *very* deep pockets, but cheaper alternatives in Ferraris are available too.

5. Carmel Bunkers

Because Barcelona is backed by mountains there are many spots that offer awe-inspiring vistas over the city but, if you’re looking for a place that’s secluded and inexpensive, the Carmel Bunkers should be at the top of your list. Built as anti-aircraft fortifications during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers then fell into disrepair, before being salvaged by city officials keen to preserve the history and unique city-views this spot holds.

6. Barceloneta

Lively, independent, and full of enticing restaurants and bars, Barceloneta is one of the prime locations to experience local life in the city. You can take a visit to the zoo, hit the beach, or ride a cable car for some awesome views over the city. The streets really come alive during the Festival de Saint Joan—held on the Summer Solstice each year—when locals party and let off fireworks late into the night. If you want to get a taste of the festival, take a listen to ‘Barceloneta Heat’ by musician Greg Tank (below), a track inspired by the celebrations.

7. Icebarcelona

After spending the day in the Spanish sunshine, what could be better than a nice cooling drink? At Icebarcelona you can walk from the beachfront into freezing temperatures for a cocktail served in an ice glass. Enjoy the ice sculptures and chat with locals and tourists alike, before heading back out into the warm evening air.

8. Mount Tibidabo

Tibidabo might not be Barcelona’s most famous mountain but it’s still well worth a visit, especially if you have kids with you. At the summit is the spectacular Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor, a masterpiece of modern ecclesiastical architecture. Nearby is also Tibidabo Amusement Park, an old-fashioned theme park with many rides that offer panoramic views over the city and to the Balearic Sea beyond.

9. Camp Nou

Ok, this one might not be that surprising but I had to include it nonetheless. As a lifelong football (soccer) fan, I had to make a visit to Camp Nou, the largest football stadium in Europe and one of its most historic. Over the years this arena has been the home to the greatest footballers to have ever played the game, and even if you’re not a football fan, there is something about being nestled within 100,000 of the most passionate fans in world football that will send electricity right through your body. Win, lose or draw, it’s guaranteed to be an experience you will never forget.

Other Barcelona articles you should read next:

1. 6 Simply Wonderful Day Trips From Barcelona
2. 9 Cultured Spots In Barcelona Art Lovers Simply Can’t Miss

The post 9 Unique Must-Do Things In Barcelona That Many People Miss appeared first on Modern Trekker.