See a different side of Europe with this unforgettable adventure to the northern Baltic region and the Nordic country of Finland. The journey begins in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, where you'll stroll through its well-preserved medieval center. After visiting some of the nation's prized national parks and lakes you'll board a ferry to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, for a tour of its historic fortress and day trips to medieval cities.
Over 10 days in the Baltics, you'll discover Lithuania and Latvia's historic landmarks plus embark on a cultural tour of Jewish heritage. It's a comprehensive itinerary covering museums, Jewish minority communities, historic synagogues, former ghettoes, and various memorials to the thousands of Jews in the Baltics who were murdered by the Nazis. You will also have time to visit seaside towns and cities, home to some of the most gorgeous coastline in the region.
This two-week holiday is your opportunity to discover northeast Europe and three beautiful countries hugging the Baltic Sea. You'll arrive in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where you'll tour medieval castles and cathedrals. Then it's off to Latvia and Estonia to visit the lakes and forests of their national parks, go on walking tours of ancient towns and cities, and overnight in opulent countryside manor homes. You'll even have the option for a quick day trip to Finland.
Over seven days you'll cover the highlights of Latvia, from the medieval capital city of Riga to its gorgeous coastal villages. You'll also stop at unique locales, like abandoned fallout bunkers and former KGB headquarters, that are throwbacks to when Latvia was controlled by Soviet Russia. In between, you'll tour well-preserved castles, cathedrals, and opulent palaces, some of which date back as far as the 13th century.
It's still peak season in August in Bolivia, with plenty of blue skies and dry days that are ideal for tackling outdoor pursuits all over the country—from hikes in the footsteps of Incas in the Andes to jungle tours by boat in the Amazon. In the latter half of the month, temperatures begin to slowly creep up in the rainforest and the savanna, but it’s still nice and cool on the altiplano. The best digs are snapped up quickly during this popular month.
The onset of spring in September marks the end of the peak season rush in Bolivia, so in many ways this is a fantastic month to visit, with largely dry days, warm weather and far fewer crowds. As the country edges into the less busy shoulder season, you should be able to snag some deals on tours and accommodation. While rising temperatures have taken the bitter edge off nights on the altiplano, this is the hottest time of year in the Amazon.
October is the height of spring in Bolivia. If you want to sidestep the crowds of winter, this is a fantastic time to visit, as there is still plenty of dry, sunny weather everywhere from the depths of the Amazon to the heights of the Andes. Rains are slowly but steadily increasing, so come prepared for the odd downpour. Shoulder-season benefits are many, especially when it comes to scoring deals on tours, outdoor activities, and accommodation. And the drop in visitor numbers is a blessing at big-hitters like the Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca.
Summer is swiftly approaching and bringing with it rainy days to much of Bolivia in November, though nothing like what will fall in the coming months. Come now and you'll experience the country at its tranquil best, with few crowds at major sights and milder weather up on the altiplano, where the showers are slowly transforming the parched highlands into a lush carpet of wildflowers.
Christmas might be around the corner (along with several other interesting festivals) but the weather in Bolivia this month is surprisingly good. In fact, of all the low season months from November through March, December is arguably best for a visit, with lower rainfall, higher temperatures, and more overall sun. And if the rain does come down, Bolivia has a phenomenal culture to tap into, which can usually be done indoors: at one of La Paz's standout museums, for example, or in buoyant cities like Sucre or Tarija.
July is peak season in Bolivia, with warm, bright, largely sunny days, though things can feel cooler up on the altiplano. Such reliable weather makes this a brilliant month to come for outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking in the Andes to expeditions into the wildlife-rich Amazon. That said, this is also one of the busiest months, ruling out special deals on accommodation and tours. Plan ahead if you want to visit during this popular time.
One of the driest, brightest months of the year, June ushers in the start of peak season. But with the biggest crowds still yet to arrive, this a terrific time for snapping up the few remaining deals on tours and accommodation. Cooler temperatures everywhere from the Andes to the Amazon also mean this is a great month for all manner of outdoor pursuits, but you’ll want to pack layers for the chilly nights. The country celebrates some memorable festivals now too, such as the winter solstice celebrations at Tiwanaku.
The rain steadily eases up in May, bringing with it drier days, brighter skies and refreshingly cooler temperatures. This is a great time to visit all regions of the country, from the heights of the Andes to the depths of the rainforest. And if you’re up for an outdoor adventure, go now for perfect conditions for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and more. Just bear in mind that you won’t be the only one traveling—the dry season marks the start of peak season in Bolivia.
The end of the wettest weather brings travelers in greater numbers than have been seen in Bolivia for some months. Suddenly, visitors are eyeing up Bolivia's phenomenal outdoor activities, particularly its hiking, and crowds of both international and national holiday-makers descend on the country for that famous Latin American celebration of Semana Santa, or Holy Week. As the rain decreases, so it begins to get both sunnier and cooler in most areas.
It might still be a wash-out of a month in much of Bolivia, with rain especially heavy in the Amazon, but in the Andes and Savanna it's slowly drying up. Sun is definitely on the horizon, if not already here in places, with average daily temperatures in much of the savanna only a degree or two off their annual highs. It's an important time for harvesting coca (in the Andes and parts of the Amazon) and grapes (in the Savanna)—plus, Carnival can also fall at the beginning of March, as can Holy Week.
The rainfall slackens off a little bit in February compared to the last couple of months, but this remains a decidedly drippy time of year in the majority of the country. Temperatures are almost at their annual peaks in the rainforest and much of the savanna, while the Andes are decidedly chilly. However, one big party this month brightens things up, and that's Carnival time. There are some truly spectacular celebrations across Bolivia for this at the end of the month.
The rain comes down heavily in January across the majority of Bolivia, despite temperatures in some regions such as the rainforest being at their annual high. There is still plenty to see and do. This is a brilliant time to explore Bolivia's big cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Santa Cruz, including a glut of cultural attractions that visitors in better weather pass over. The southeastern savanna is the most agreeable region now, and though parts of the Andes and rainforest inaccessible due to rain, swelling water levels make for excellent white water rafting.
This packed 5-day itinerary is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure who are on a time crunch. Beginning and ending in dynamic Vancouver, discover British Columbia's rugged beauty beyond the city as you follow the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway to the year-round outdoor destination of Whistler. Explore the village, see the colorfully graffitied boxcars of historic Train Wreck, and hike the Garibaldi Lake Trail for some of the province's most rewarding views.
Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway on this quick road trip between Vancouver and Whistler. Enjoy the urban pleasures of the city before getting a taste of the mountains in the upscale, chalet-style village of Whistler. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there are a number of opportunities: half-day hikes to alpine lakes, panoramic road-side vistas, luxury spas, and gondola rides to mountain peaks.
With 7 days, you'll have plenty of time to explore Vancouver and the Coast Mountains around Whistler. This trip is best suited for those looking to spend most of their time outdoors—there are countless day hikes, alpine lakes, and scenic vantage points to check out. In between adventures, you'll also get a taste of some of the best restaurants in Canada and have time to explore the downtown and cultural highlights of the city.
Santorini is always a good idea, whether you are visiting in fall or during summer. The spring is perfect for enjoying warm weather, hiking, and exploring the island in a more intimate atmosphere. During the summer, you will enjoy swimming in the sea, several cultural events, and a lively scene. Fall is all about art and history, while winter makes for the perfect romantic getaway.
With Mykonos being an all year round destination, you will easily find something to do in every season. Watch beautiful colors take over the island in spring and visit places such as Delos Island and enjoy a lot of sightseeing. When summer arrives, you will find an abundance of watersports, parties, and great adventures. Enjoy the warm weather in the fall and explore the museums, talk with locals, and go kayaking along the coastline. Winter makes for a quiet getaway with solitude, charm, and excellent shopping opportunities.
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with some of the best beaches and most beautiful scenery. Nature sets the island apart from the others because of the green landscapes and hills, blending with the ocean colors. From spring to fall, there are a lot of activities taking place, and you can enjoy culture, watersports, festivals, and fantastic food. Every season has its charm, and the summers are highly popular among tourists, while winters are romantic and quiet.
Kenya is an excellent place to holiday in Africa, especially for safari-goers. With a full week, you'll get to experience the country's healthy national park and conservancy presence with loads of wildlife, mixed with possible cultural experiences, beach relaxation, and active excursions, including a multi-day trek. Below, we've listed several expertly crafted itineraries packed with iconic Kenyan adventures (and even one with neighboring Tanzania)—all with cool overnight options in eco-lodges and safari camps.
With less than a week in Kenya, you can make the most of your time by visiting the vast landscapes within a three-hour radius of Nairobi. While it may be tempting to cover more ground, sticking to this geographical area gets you out of the car frequently for a plethora of activities and wildlife. Below, we've listed several expertly crafted itineraries loaded with iconic Kenyan experiences.
Ten days in Ireland is enough to get to know a particular region, like the Dingle Peninsula, or to travel more widely and see the country's highlights. Opt for a road trip around Northern Ireland, go on a western cycling tour of medieval castles and whiskey distilleries, hike the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands on an outdoorsy adventure, or drive yourself around to the country's top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.
With strategic planning you can cover China´s highlights, like Beijing, Xi´an, and Shanghai, in a week. In those three cities alone you´ll find the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, and Yu Garden, a centuries-old green space. Or, if you´re thristing for an off-the-beaten path adventure, consider a sampan ride down the Li River or head to Yunnan, near Tibet, for nature excursions to mystical mountain peaks. Consult the itineraries below to find out which journey is right for you.
For a relatively small country, Vietnam offers something for everyone, be it mountain hikes, city tours, or lazing on tropical beaches. The options for excursions are near endless, as you could focus on highlight cities like Hanoi, Hội An, and Ho Chi Minh, or opt for excursions in national parks and trips on famous waterways like the Mekong Delta. Whatever your interest, the below itinerary options cater to every taste.
Turn a brief five-day vacation to northern Vietnam into an unforgettable discovery of Hanoi's secret gems and a visit to the beautiful river lands of Ninh Bình Province. You could also see the central coast and the ancient citadel of Huế, or travel further south beyond the bright lights of Ho Chi Minh City where an exciting excursion to the Mekong Delta awaits. And if you're eager for a hike amid the rice terraces and humble villages of rural Vietnam, consider five days discovering the Pù Luông Nature Reserve.
September is by far one of the best times of the year to visit Indonesia. The weather is warm and beautiful with sunny skies and an almost complete lack of rain anywhere; yet the crowds thin out as kids go back to school so there are fewer tourists than July and August. The result is an idyllic destination with beautiful beaches, stunning volcanos, and reasonable crowd sizes.
August marks the middle of the high season in Indonesia when the weather is hot and sunny; the skies are blue; and the tourist attractions are bustling with people. It's one of the best months of the year to plan a vacation, whether you plan to head to the white sands beaches of Bali or the volcanic peaks of Java. The only downside is that it can be crowded so plan accordingly.
July is a month when Indonesia is at its absolute best. The weather is dry, the ocean is warm, and the beaches are full of people surfing, snorkeling, and playing in the sun. It's the perfect time to hike one of the volcanos, explore the many temples, and wander through the bustling street markets. It's high season, and hence more crowded and expensive. Still, if you're seeking a vacation with great weather and plenty of activities, it won't disappoint.
June is one of the best months of the year to visit Indonesia. It's hot, sunny, and dry with blue skies overhead and idyllic conditions for activities like beach-going, volcano hiking, and exploring the many cultural sites that the region has to offer. Tourist numbers are higher this time of year but not as crowded as later in the summer, providing a great blend of good conditions and space to move around.
May is the beginning of the dry season when Indonesia transitions from a long, wet winter into summer. The weather is sunny and beautiful—with occasional scattered showers— and tourists begin arriving again. The white sand beaches along Bali's southern coast are idyllic and still fairly uncrowded, and the volcanos on Java, Lombok, and other islands are finally in the perfect condition for climbing.
April is a shoulder season in Indonesia when the country shifts from its wet, rainy low-season into a more pleasant dry season that's sunny and full of tourists. It still gets a fair amount of rain—in fact, some consider April to still be wet season. However, you'll find far more dry days than earlier in the year and there are hardly any tourists, which makes it a great "best of both worlds" destination.
March is a rainy month in Indonesia, and large swaths of the country get pummeled with tropical storms. Although Bali remains less affected, many of the other islands are susceptible to flooding and washed-out roads. That said, the rain usually comes in short, intense bursts followed by sunshine and blue skies. Plus, the crowd sizes are small so if you don't mind a little bit of rain, it can actually be a great time of year for a visit.
During February, rain falls on many of Indonesia's islands as tropical monsoons roll across the sea. It's considered low season—tourists aren't out in heavy numbers, making it a great time to come to escape the crowds. The storms typically don't last more than a few hours and the rest of the time it's full of lush, green jungles and sunny beaches with blue shorelines.
January is the wet season in Indonesia, and many of the islands get hit with rain—making it a less-than-ideal time if you're seeking sunshine and beach-going activities. That said, it usually only rains for a small portion of the day and there are plenty of locations where the precipitation is lighter. Best of all, there are hardly any people around, so you won't have to contend with the crowds that swarm beach resorts during other times of the year.
Rainy season is in full effect in Indonesia in December. The monsoons sweep across the ocean and bring rain to the majority of the islands, making it a less-than-ideal time weather-wise. That said, there are hardly any crowds during this month (with the exception of the Christmas holiday) and prices are often cheaper. For those reasons, some tourists find December the perfect time to plan a vacation.
Indonesia is wet and rainy in November, although that doesn't necessarily mean it's not a good time for a vacation. It rains to some degree on most days; however, the storms don't usually last for more than a few hours and the rest of the time it's sunny and beautiful. Plus, prices are lower and crowd sizes are smaller.
October marks the beginning of the rainy season in Indonesia and although there are still plenty of things to do that don't involve beaches and sunshine, it's not the most ideal time for a vacation if weather is a big factor for you. That said, it's a great time to go with fewer crowds and the prices are much cheaper. Plus, temperatures stay warm and the rain showers typically only last a few hours so some travelers find it worth the other perks.
British Colombia has the perfect trip for everyone, any time of year. From cosmopolitan Vancouver to the vast tracks of wilderness in the north, from wine tasting in the rolling hills of the Okanagan to salmon-fishing in wild waters of Haida Gwaii, there really is something for everyone. To help you figure out your perfect trip, we've broken down the main regions for you to consider.
Ten days in India is enough to go beyond the highlights of one region, enjoying off-the-beaten-path sites or remote locales that wouldn't be possible with a shorter trip. Pair a classic Golden Triangle Tour—including a sunrise Taj Mahal visit—with two days in Ranthambore National Park, a protected tiger sanctuary. Or, experience the best of Rajasthan, from the Golden City of Jaisalmer to the blue houses of Jodhpur. Other options include a guided hiking trip in Kerala, and a multi-country tour that crosses the Himalaya into Nepal.
With two weeks to explore India, you can take your time and get to know more of the country. Visit the Golden Triangle and relax on Kerala's beaches, or opt for a cultural itinerary that includes some of India's most intricately-carved temples. For a more active vacation, spend two weeks cycling through Karnataka and Kerala, or combine your trip to India with a visit to Nepal to see temples, palaces, and views of the Himalaya.
With only a week to visit India, maximize your time by sticking to a single region. Opt for a tour of the Golden Triangle—New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—or take in the highlights of Rajasthan. If you're looking to relax, head to the beachs of Kerala. Active travelers will love a bike tour through Karnataka, with stops at hills stations and national parks. And if you're looking for a cultural experience, head into the Himalayas to see monasteries and temples in Ladakh.
Five days is a quick trip to India, but you'll still have time to explore important sites, stroll through markets, and discover a slice of this fascinating country. Try a Golden Triangle tour to see Delhi, the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, or pair Maharashtra wine tasting with Mumbai. Other options include tiger-spotting in Ranthambore National Park, visiting Buddhist temples in the Himalayas, or relaxing on the beaches of Goa. Find out more with these five unique itinerary ideas.
If you've only got five days in Ecuador, pick from one of the country's three main ecological zones to maximize your time. Base yourself in Quito and explore the surrounding region, or head directly to Yasuni National Park for four days of wildlife viewing and rainforest adventures. If you prefer remote wilderness, bypass the city and fly directly to the Galapagos to see giant tortoises, snorkel, and visit an uninhabited island.
Travelers who want to visit Fes and Chefchaouen typically plan a trip for 7 to 8 days that also includes Marrakech, Merzouga, and Ouarzazate. If you're only headed to Fes and Chefchaouen, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in about 4 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 3 days. Read on for the best itineraries including Fes and Chefchaouen and beyond.
Most travelers will find that 9 to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 7 or 8 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop, or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Chania, Ios, or Nafpaktos. Get inspired with our Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos trip ideas below.
Seven to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Greece travelers interested in visiting both Athens and Santorini, especially when also including Mykonos. If you're only headed to Athens and Santorini, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 7 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 4 days. For the best itineraries including Athens and Santorini, keep reading below.
Seven to 11 days is a great length for a Greece trip with stops in Athens and Thessaloniki. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 3 days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Crete. See more ideas for Athens and Thessaloniki itineraries below.
