Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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Spend your last full day in Venice to see famous landmarks like Basilica San Marco

Rome, Orvieto, Florence & Verona - 13 Days

Experience Italy's culturally-rich cities and stunning countryside during this 13-day itinerary. Kick off in Rome, where you'll see the Colosseum and the Vatican, before spending two days in the Umbria region. Then take a train to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where you'll learn how to make pasta and visit hill towns in Tuscany. Complete the adventure by exploring the neighboring cities of Verona and Venice—each with its charms—for a memorable trip.

Take evening walks in Rome to see historic attractions like the Pantheon

Rome, Orvieto, Florence & Verona - 14 Days

Experience a mix of Italian cities and scenic excursions during this two-week Italy adventure. First, you'll see Rome's legendary sights—like the Sistine Chapel and Spanish Steps—on your own and with a guide. Next, train to Orvieto to see Etruscan caves, followed by Florence for a cooking class and a drive through Tuscany. Finish in the UNESCO-listed city of Verona, home of Juliet's balcony, where you'll squeeze in trips to the Dolomites and Venice to complete the adventure.

Explore Florence's Renaissance art and architecture, including Palazzo Vecchio

Rome, Orvieto, Florence & Verona - 15 Days

Enjoy a mix of world-class cities and scenic excursions during this grand 15-day tour of Italy. After landing in Rome, spend three days seeing the legendary attractions independently and with a private guide. Then make your way to off-the-beaten-path Umbria to stay in an ancient walled city. Next is Florence for pasta-making and a drive through Tuscany before heading to the romantic city of Verona. You'll also boat through Venice's canals and sample the waterfront bar scene—the perfect end to the trip.

Spend two nights in Orvieto, a charming hill town in lesser-known Umbria

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 10 Days

Travelers with 10 days to explore Italy will love this trip through cultural cities and hill towns in the stunning countryside. It starts in Rome, where you'll visit the famous fountains, ancient ruins, and museums in Vatican City. Then take a train to Orvieto, a medieval walled town in Umbria, to explore an Etruscan cave network and taste local wines. Finish in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, to see Michelangelo's "David," make fresh pasta, and take a driving tour through Tuscany.

While in Florence, take a drive through Tuscany and visit San Gimignano

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 9 Days

This classic nine-day trip through Italy combines two of its most cultural cities with stops in the beautiful countryside. First, land in Rome to spend quality time in the Vatican and Colosseum before taking a train to Orvieto in the Umbria region—the country's green heart. Spend a night here before you continue to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where you'll take a walking tour, learn how to make fresh pasta and drive through Tuscany to finish the adventure.

You'll have three nights in Rome to take long, evening walks

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 8 Days

Take eight days to explore Italy by train, combing two world-class cities and a bit of the scenic countryside. You'll land in Rome, visiting the Vatican and Colosseum before going to the lesser-known Umbria region for a night in Orvieto. Enjoy some quiet time with walks along the ancient walls, exploring caves, and tasting local wine. Continue north to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where you'll see the masterpieces and learn Tuscan recipes to take home for the ultimate souvenir.

Spend your first full day in Rome with a self-guided visit to the Colosseum

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 7 Days

Experience two of Italy's most cultural cities at a relaxed pace during this one-week train trip. Start in Rome, visiting the Vatican museums and Colosseum before going to the lesser-frequented Umbria region for a stopover in Orvieto. Here you'll enjoy scenic walks along the ancient walls and join a wine-tasting session. Continue north to Florence to see Renaissance masterpieces and get a local's perspective during a private walking tour.

Spend one night in Orvieto, a stunning hill town outside of Rome

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 6 Days

This six-day train adventure through Italy combines world-class cities and stunning countryside. Start in Rome, visiting the Vatican and Colosseum before heading to the lesser-known Umbria region for a stopover in Orvieto. Finish in elegant Florence, where you'll see Renaissance masterpieces and enjoy predinner aperitivos overlooking the Arno River.

Explore Rome - 7 Days

Discover historic and modern highlights of the Eternal City in this 7-day tour. Hear stories of gladiators in Rome's ancient Colosseum, tour the iconic Pantheon and visit the Vatican Museum to see the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Explore the Galleria Borghese to see works by Rafaello and Caravaggio, then stroll around the peaceful gardens of Villa Borghese. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee in the Piazza Navona and unwind at night with a homemade Italian pizza and a glass of wine.

Explore Rome - 6 Days

Discover historic and modern highlights of the Eternal City in this 6-day tour. Hear stories of gladiators in Rome's ancient Colosseum and visit the Vatican Museum to see the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Explore the nearby town of Frascati, and visit the peaceful vineyards for a wine tasting. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee in the Piazza Navona and unwind at night with a homemade Italian pizza and a glass of wine.

Leave the tourist trail to visit Perugia, the capital of Umbria

Rome, Perugia & Florence - 10 Days

With a relaxed pace and some off-the-beaten-path finds, this 10-day Italian adventure gives you a taste of Rome and Florence without rushing through the highlights. Check off the Colosseum and the Vatican before getting a local's eye view of the Eternal City in its parks and markets. Hop over to Umbria to wander the medieval city of Perugia and visit rural wineries, then head to Florence for Renaissance treasures, a day trip into the Tuscan countryside, and an intimate pasta-making workshop.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio across Florence's River Arno as you explore this Renaissance city

Rome, Perugia & Florence - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary combines bucket-list sights with plenty of self-guided tours—so you can set your own pace as you discover the best of central Italy. Start in Rome to see the Colosseum at first light and go behind the scenes at the Vatican. Venture off the tourist trail with a trip into Umbria for walled cities and wine-tasting. End in Florence, choosing your own path through Renaissance squares, palaces, and museums before getting hands-on with a pasta-making and cooking experience.

Start your Italian adventure with a self-guided tour of Palatine Hill and the Colosseum

Rome, Perugia & Florence - 8 Days

Spend eight days soaking up central Italy's art, culture, and history as you zip between Rome, Perugia, and Florence by train. Start in the Eternal City to walk in the footsteps of the Roman Empire at the Colosseum before ducking into the museums and galleries of the Vatican. Head north into Umbria for wine tasting and two nights in the hilltop city of Perugia, then continue to Florence for a walking tour through its Renaissance splendor and a "skip the line" ticket to see Michelangelo's "David" up close.

The fountain of Neptune in Florence's Signoria Square

Rome, Perugia & Florence - 7 Days

With a week at your disposal, you can discover two of Italy's most historic cities with time to get off the beaten path in between. See Rome's ancient origins on Palatine Hill, then witness the spirit of the Renaissance as you tour the Sistine Chapel. Break up your journey north with a night in the hilltop Umbrian city of Perugia, and end your trip in Florence—where you'll explore the city's elegant piazzas, parks, and galleries before settling in for an "aperitivo" and a Tuscan sunset over the River Arno.

1 Week in the US Southwest: Desert Road Trips, National Parks & California Coastline

Jump in your car and explore the incredible natural landscapes the American Southwest has to offer. With one week to spend, get away from it all with visits to Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks. Admire expansive views of the Grand Canyon and the unique Antelope Canyon. Hike your way through the incomparable Zion National Park and enjoy the sunset in Bryce Canyon. Reinvigorate your traveling spirit by taking advantage of these week-long trips close to home. These trips are designed from Los Angeles and Las Vegas but can be adapted to other starting points within the area as well.

American Southwest National Parks Road Trip - 8 Days

The southwestern corner of the United States is home to some of the most frequently visited national parks. From hiking through Zion National Park to soaking in views of the Grand Canyon, experiencing these natural landscapes is truly something special. Explore the picturesque Antelope Canyon and traverse the trails of Bryce Canyon while getting to know the American Southwest up close on this adventurous getaway.

Northern California Long Weekend Trips: Coastal Drives, Wine Weekends, & Sierra Exploration

Escape the San Francisco Bay Area with one of these long weekend trips along the coast, into the wine valleys, or up to the Sierras. Enjoy days of hiking coastal trails along windswept bluffs, tasting world-renowned wines, discovering the historical past of California, or hiking up to granite cliffs or among the world's largest trees. Here are five great ways to get out of town this summer and explore more of your extended backyard.

Mexico Wine Country Getaway - 5 Days

Looking for a new area on the West Coast for a wine weekend? Discover the up-and-coming wine region of Baja California in Guadalupe Valley. This area has begun to produce wine in the last couple of decades, capitalizing on its unique microclimate, and is now appearing on the radar of many wine lovers looking for a compelling new experience. Grab your passport, escape the city, taste an array of excellent local wines, and enjoy the incredible scenery of the Guadalupe Valley.

Central California Road Trip: Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Paso Robles, & More - 7 Days

This loop through Central California offers a delightful sampler of the best of the Golden State: dramatic coastline, charming towns, captivating history and, of course, plenty of wine. Following the coast south from the Monterey Peninsula to Santa Barbara and Channel Islands National Park, before heading back north through some of the state's best wine regions, makes for an unforgettable week.

Florida Keys Road Trip - 7 Days

This itinerary takes you on a journey from Miami to Key West and back. In 7 days, you'll explore the Florida Keys by land and sea and discover the best that these islands have to offer. You'll spend time outdoors each day, but the activities will be varied, relaxing and exhilarating. Get ready to snorkel, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, float, and jet ski your way through this exciting week-long getaway.

Northern California Coast and Wine Country Road Trip - 7 Days

This weeklong road trip will take you along the stunning, uncrowded coastline of Northern California from Bodega Bay north to Mendocino, before heading back through some of California's top wine regions. After taking it slow in The Sea Ranch and kayaking through sea caves near the charming village of Mendocino, you'll make your way via the Anderson Valley wine region to the famous Napa Valley for hot springs and more vineyard hopping before returning to San Francisco.

California Central Coast Road Trip - 6 Days

Venture up the Pacific Coast Highway and take in the incredible ocean views on this road trip through California's central coast. Starting in Los Angeles, you'll explore the beach town of Santa Barbara and its charming neighbors, sip on a glass of red in California's wine region, and discover famed lookout points along Big Sur.

Northern California Road Trip: Volcanoes, Lakes and Waterfalls - 7 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you to some of the natural highlights of Northern California, featuring sparkling lakes, wondrous waterfalls, and the weird and exquisite landscapes left behind by volcanoes. After hiking up awe-inspiring mountain peaks and swimming in sun-warmed lakes, you'll make your way to the famous Napa Valley for some wine tasting before returning to San Francisco.

Northern California Road Trip: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and the Coast - 9 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you through the mist-shrouded Northern California coast, featuring the world's tallest redwood trees and verdant fern-covered gullies. Three national parks, Redwood, Lassen Volcanic, and Whiskeytown Lake, showcase Northern California's diverse landscape and geological history. Numerous state parks, awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and wondrous waterfalls all wait to greet you along the way. Whether it's volcano, lake, or towering tree, the sheer and immense beauty of what you encounter along this journey will inspire reverence for the region.

Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon - 7 Days

No visit to the US Southwest is complete without a trip to the Grand Canyon, one of the most frequented National Parks in the country. Take in the stunning views and hike your way around the South Rim before heading to Page, Arizona to admire the picturesque canyon walls of Antelope Canyon and lookout point of Horseshoe Bend. Bookend your trip with nights in Las Vegas, visiting the Red Rock Canyon National Reserve and getting a peek at the famous nightlife.

Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Red Rock Canyon - 7 Days

Sojourn to the California and Nevada desert landscapes, best enjoyed in spring, winter and fall. Travel back in time to the Old West with a visit to Pioneertown, and hike through the aptly named Joshua Tree National Park to see its incredible desert fauna and rock formations. Climb the desert dunes of the Mojave Natural Preserve and peer out the window of your car to enjoy vast desert landscapes. Immerse yourself in the extreme and unique beauty of Death Valley before discovering the colorful Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas.

California and Oregon Road Trip: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and the Coast - 12 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you through the mist-shrouded Northern California coast, featuring the world's tallest redwood trees and verdant fern-covered gullies. Three national parks, Redwood, Lassen Volcanic, and Crater Lake, showcase this area's diverse landscape and geological history. Numerous state parks, awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and wondrous waterfalls all wait to greet you along the way. Whether it's a volcano, lake, or towering tree, the sheer and immense beauty of what you encounter along this journey will inspire reverence for the region.

Wachusett Mountain Hike & Brewery

Spend a morning hiking the trails around Wachusett Mountain, which offers great views over central Massachusetts from the peak of Wachusett Mountain. Recharge and relax the afternoon away at nearby Wachusett Brewery, enjoying a flight of local brews, good food, and often live music in the outdoor setting.

Day Bike Ride to Chappaquiddick (Martha's Vineyard)

Leave the car behind and set out along flat bike paths along the coastline as you ride from Oak Bluffs to remote Chappaquiddick Island ("Chappy"). Relax on the windswept beaches on the small island made famous by the Kennedys. The total ride is about 18 miles (9 miles each way), with a very short bike ferry to cross the water.

Hike along Franconia Ridge in the White Mountains

The Best of Franconia Notch, White Mountains - 3 Days

The White Mountains in northern New Hampshire is New England's top hiking destination, easily accessed from the Boston area (only 2 hours away). Hikes in this region are steep, but rewarding with gorgeous views of the wilderness. Introduce yourselves to "The Whites" with a shorter hike along the Welch-Dickie Loop, which offers great views for (relatively) minimal efforts. On your other days, climb to either side of Franconia Notch to hike along the ridgelines. Spend your evenings back in Lincoln or North Woodstock enjoying great local food and beer. You could also consider camping in the Notch or a bit further east in the heart of the Whites.This trip can also be easily extended with a few more days by exploring Pinkham notch to the east (home to Mount Washington).

Long Weekend Trips in Southern California - 4 Unique Ideas

From long stretches of sandy coastlines to sprawling desert landscapes, Southern California has so much to explore for those seeking a weekend getaway. Sip wine amongst the vineyards of Temecula, soak up the sun in Santa Barbara, travel back to the Old West in Joshua Tree, or head down to Baja California's up-and-coming wine country.

Top Day Trips in Southern California

Outside of the expansive metropolis of Los Angeles, there is plenty to see and do in Southern California. From sunny beaches to quaint small towns, the natural beauty and coveted climate make this region a delight to explore. This list of day trips details some of the best options for spending a day experiencing all of what SoCal has to offer.

Joshua Tree and Death Valley Roadtrip - 5 Days

Take a trip to the interior of Southern California and its unique desert landscapes, best enjoyed in spring, winter and fall. Travel back in time to the Old West with a visit to Pioneertown and hike through the aptly named Joshua Tree National Park to see its incredible desert fauna and rock formations. Climb the desert dunes of the Mojave Natural Preserve and peer out the window of your car to enjoy vast desert landscapes. Finish up in Death Valley, immersing yourself in the unique natural beauty of this area before heading home.

Temecula Wine Getaway - 3 Days

Just a short drive away from the city of Los Angeles, Temecula offers the perfect escape for a long weekend. Nestled in a valley surrounded by sprawling vineyards and mountainous backdrops, this area offers a scenic spot to spend a few nights recharging. Explore the historic Old Town, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the area.

Explore Santa Barbara - 4 Days

Along the sunny central coast of California, you'll find Santa Barbara. Known for its laidback beach town atmosphere, this city has plenty more for visitors than just sandy shorelines. From charming neighboring towns to celebrated local wine, Santa Barbara offers the perfect getaway to unwind while exploring its natural beauty.

Mendocino and Sonoma Coast Adventure - 3 Days

The rugged, isolated coastline of Northern California is perfect to explore over a long weekend. This route showcases the best of this remote feeling, yet accessible, stretch of shore, from Bodega Bay north to Mendocino. Say goodbye to cell service and hello to spectacular natural beauty and incredible modernist architecture as you explore The Sea Ranch, then make your way north via Point Arena Lighthouse to the charming village of Mendocino. Stop off for a tasting of pinot noir in the Anderson Valley as you make your way back to San Francisco.

Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur - 3 Days

Take a long weekend to experience the classics of Central California: the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur. After a beautiful bike ride along the coast of Monterey and Pacific Grove, you'll explore the artist's colony of Carmel-by-the-Sea, get your fill of photo opportunities along the Big Sur coast, and wrap up with a relaxing outdoor spa day before heading home.

Yosemite Road Trip from the Bay Area - 3 Days

Visiting the granite paradise of Yosemite National Park is a must for any traveler. The park has some of the highest cliffs in the world, including El Capitan, featured in the 2018 documentary Free Solo. A visit to Yosemite can be as relaxed or active as you choose. You can largely stay in the comfort of your car while taking short walks at vista points, take rewarding day hikes from a home base hotel or campsite, or go on a multi-day backpacking adventure in the wilderness. No matter what style you chose, a trip to Yosemite will make lasting impressions.

Explore the beautiful coastline around Bella Coola

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 11 Days

This itinerary is very fast-paced, designed for those who want to experience the Great Bear Rainforest and Chilcotin Plateau in a short amount of time. You'll have 2-4 hours of driving each day, with two nights in the beautiful Bella Coola Valley to unwind and recharge before taking the long ferry sailing to Vancouver Island. You'll also get a brief feel of the historical Gold Rush Trail, as you overnight in Cache Creek.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 9 Days

In just 9 days, you'll drive the vast distance between Calgary and Vancouver, taking in the main highlights along the way. This specific route will have you spend two days in the Canadian Rockies before heading into the heart of the Kootenay Rockies to explore its small, historical towns. From there, finish your trip with a couple of days of enjoying the great wineries and restaurants of the Okanagan Valley before departing from Vancouver.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 8 Days

This fast-paced road trip takes you from Calgary to Vancouver in 8 days. You'll pass through the dramatic landscape of the Canadian Rockies, the picturesque towns of the Kootenays, and the laid-back wine country of the Okanagan Valley. This itinerary is designed for people who don't mind driving long hours in order to cover a vast region with numerous highlights.

Cape Cod Road Trip Getaway - 7 Days

Spend a relaxing week on the Cape with this road trip getaway. Start with a few days on Martha's Vineyard to help you quickly adjust to the pace of the Cape. Relax on windswept beaches, bike along island trails, and enjoy warm evening nights. Then it's back to the mainland Cape, where you will explore the more sparsely populated areas of the Lower and Outer Cape. Hike marsh-side trails, top massive sand dunes, climb local lighthouses, and refuel at weathered roadside clam shacks.The drive is only 2 hours from Boston to Provincetown (without traffic), and you can easily split this itinerary in two as well, with a long weekend in Martha's Vineyard or a few days in the Outer Cape.

Coastal Maine Road Trip - 9 Days

This coastal road trip is the perfect way to explore the top sights and hidden coasts of Maine, aptly referred to as "Vacationland". The route is quite flexible: you'll follow the bend in the coast from Portland to Camden to Acadia, with opportunities to explore lesser-visited peninsulas along the way. You can stick to the better-known spots (Portland, Camden, Acadia) or spend some time off the beaten path with a kayak ride through a marsh south of Portland, a boat trip to Monhegan island, or a day hiking around Isle Au Haute, part of Acadia National Park.

Family Fun in Gold Country & Lake Tahoe - 5 Days

Get out into nature and soak up some history with this family-friendly itinerary. Start in Old Sacramento, where you can learn more about the Gold Rush through an underground tour with the Sacramento History Museum. Then, it's on to Lake Tahoe, nature's playground, where the options are endless. You'll mix exertion and relaxation, powering your way up Donner Peak and Mount Judah, and taking a lazy float down the Truckee River. For a more casual outdoor encounter, you'll soak up some culture under the stars with an open-air performance in Sand Harbor.

White water rafting on the American River

Gold Country, Whitewater Rafting & Lake Tahoe - 6 Days

Explore history, adventure, and nature with this itinerary highlighting California's diverse landscapes. Start in Old Sacramento, where you can learn more about the Gold Rush through an underground tour with the Sacramento History Museum before heading to the South Fork of the American River for a whitewater rafting adventure. Next, mix exertion and relaxation in Lake Tahoe, where you will power your way up Donner Peak and Mount Judah, and take a lazy float down the Truckee River.

Wine Country & Hot Springs - 3 Days

This is the ultimate indulgence weekend. Start by tasting the spectacular Napa varietals as you drive and cycle through beautiful wine country. Relax your muscles with a soak in Calistoga's geothermal hot spring pools, and stroll through its Main Street, visiting the quaint stores and cafes downtown. Savor the flavors and fresh ingredients at some top-notch wine country restaurants.Head home full of good food and good vibes.

Weekend Trip to the Keys - 2 Days

Sample island life on this weekend road trip down the Overseas Highway. In just two days, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel a living coral reef, kayak through mangroves, and feed giant tarpon. You don't need to use your vacation days to experience the Florida Keys.

Sunset at the southernmost point of the continental US

Long Weekend Trip to the Keys - 3 Days

Explore the Florida Keys and enjoy all that the tropics have to offer in a long weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Miami. Snorkel the coral reef, lounge on a white sand beach, and kayak through mangroves on this three-day road trip to Key West.

Aerial view of the Dry Tortugas National Park

Long Weekend Trip to the Keys - 4 Days

Discover the best of the Florida Keys on this four-day road-trip from Miami to Key West. You’ll drive along the scenic Overseas Highway to Key West and back, stopping along the way to snorkel, SUP, and soak up the sun.

Day Trip to the Everglades

Covering 1.5 million acres of southern Florida, the Everglades National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from pythons to panthers. The fragile ecosystem here is protected as an International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and at only a short driving distance from Miami, a road trip to the Everglades is a great way to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature for the day.

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