By March, the coldest part of the winter is wrapping up and you can begin seeing signs of spring. Wildflowers start blooming and warmer days sneak in, scattering themselves among the colder, grayer days. The atmosphere is pleasant yet none of the tourists have arrived—and since it's still considered off-season, you'll enjoy smaller crowds and cheaper prices, too.
February is a fantastic time to visit Athens. Although the first part of the month can still be wintery and frigid, by late February the temperatures begin warming up slightly and the Carnival season (called "Apokreas") descends. This fun, indulgent time in the three weeks leading up to Lent involves all sorts of fun and festivities. The best part? Due to the colder weather, there are hardly any crowds.
January is the coldest month of the year in Athens—nighttime lows dip to 45°F (7°C)—but it can also be one of the best months to visit due to the lack of crowds. The sun stays out until about 5:30 pm, so there's plenty of time for daytime tourist activities, the Acropolis and other ancient ruins create beautiful backdrops for bright red sunsets, and the city is alive with art and culture.
Athens is cold and wintery in December—but there's hardly anyone here, which makes it a great time to visit if you want to escape the crowds. The weather is sometimes blustery and it's not uncommon to experience rain at this time of year. However, the fact that you have the city all to yourself (and the festive atmosphere around Christmas) is often enticing enough to make you forget about the chilly weather.
There's no wrong answer to how much time you should spend in Paris, but for a solid itinerary, you'll want at least four days. This is enough time to accomplish some world-class attractions and some lesser-known arrondissements that are on the up and up—whether you choose to explore by foot, metro, bike, and/or electric scooter. Check out some possible itineraries, ranging from 24 hours to a week (and beyond).
The Greek islands offer an irresistible combination of white-sand beaches, mountain scenery, and ancient history. If warm weather is important to you, summer is indisputably the best time to visit, when you’ll most likely have pleasant temperatures for the beach. However, the islands can get busy in summer—fall and spring are better bets when it comes to avoiding crowds.
Located southwest of Athens, the Peloponnese peninsula is home to some of Greece’s most historic spots. Although summer is the busiest season, crowd levels won’t be on par with Athens or the popular Greek islands, so you can relax and soak in the pleasant weather and attractions year-round. The weather in the Peloponnese is similar to the Greek capital; expect hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, with a temperate spring and fall. Read on to learn more about the best times to visit.
Valencia is a Mediterranean city with a legacy as rich as Barcelona. Its historic Old Town is a walkable area whose highlights, like the Valencia Cathedral and Quart Towers, you can see on a day trip. With more than 24 hours, there are beaches and paella food tours you can indulge in. And in five days you can do all of the above plus visit can't-miss attractions like the famous aquarium at the City of Arts and Sciences.
On this eight-day excursion, you'll visit Bogotá, the largest city in Colombia and a melting pot of people from around the country. Travel to Medellín and see with your own eyes how it's transformed from one of the most dangerous cities to a fascinating destination. Then explore Cartagena, the jewel of the Caribbean ocean, and go on a trip to the beautiful beaches and islands nearby.
This short but extensive itinerary brings you into the very heart of the Ecuadorian capital and its surroundings. You will tour Quito's beautifully preserved historic center to see fine examples of colonial architecture, learn about history and culture at the Ethnographic Museum, and enjoy the best panoramic view of the city. The adventure continues north of Quito in Otavalo and Cotacachi, renowned for their local crafts. Finally, take a day-trip to Cotopaxi National Park—its namesake volcano is one of Ecuador's most famous natural landmarks.
See the highlights of Quito and the Galapagos Islands on this short itinerary. Start out in the city, touring the capital and its surrounding region to experience local history and culture. You'll see colonial architecture, visit an indigenous market, and try traditional cuisine. From here, catch a short flight to the Galapagos Islands. These famed islands provided Charles Darwin with the research and inspiration for his Theory of Evolution, and boast endemic species such as the blue-footed booby, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises.
If you want to experience all of Kenya's top destinations—while also getting the chance to lay back and relax—this exciting 12-day itinerary is for you. You'll start the trip in the bustling capital Nairobi before departing for Kenya's national parks to discover majestic landscapes, see the Big Five, spot diverse bird species, visit chimpanzees, watch an animal migration at Maasai Mara, swim in turquoise blue water, and more.
This nine-day tour of India’s Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) combines fascinating culture, monumental architecture, untamed wildlife, and historic splendor. See some of the most compelling highlights of northern India, including the magnificent Taj Mahal, the "pink city" of Jaipur, and the wealth of attractions in Delhi. Nature lovers are also in luck, because in addition to the "classic" Golden Triangle Circuit, you'll also visit the Ranthambore National Park, where there's a high chance of spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger.
During this eight-day exploration of Ethiopia, you'll discover ancient history, endless landscapes, artistic riches, and delicious cuisine. Starting in Addis Ababa, you'll meet 'Lucy', one of the oldest human skeletons found on earth. Traveling further afield, explore the incredible churches at Lalibela and the remains of millennia-old kingdoms at Axum and Gondar. Visit Simien Mountains National Park, with some of the highest peaks in Africa. You'll soon understand why Ethiopia is nicknamed the 'Land of Origins'.
This 10-day itinerary highlights some of Croatia's more popular attractions, including the medieval hill town of Motovun and the "Adriatic Pearl," Dubrovnik, with a unique twist. For example, you'll venture into the romantic Istrian peninsula to seek out the prized truffle and explore Dubrovnik's limestone-paved streets on a private tour of two of the country's most esteemed artists. You'll also discover trendy cafés in Zagreb, marvel at Plitvice Lakes' enchanting beauty, listen to Zadar's Sea Organ, and visit famed Diocletian's Palace in Split.
Combing nature, history, and culture, this Italian tour takes you through the ancient cities of Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Rome, plus Lake Como and Cinque Terre, all with luxury private transfers and guides. Enjoy meandering through museums, art galleries, and monuments, as well as trying the regions famous prosciutto, riding a gondola at sunset, and discovering hip neighborhoods. Relax on the shores of Lake Como before settling in Cinque Terre, where you'll hike from one village to another.
Myanmar and Thailand are two of the most exciting Southeast Asian destinations. This 11-day tour includes a variety of highlights from both countries, including the cultural riches of Myanmar, and the beautiful tropical beaches of Thailand. Explore the ancient temples of Bagan, be amazed by the glittering gold Shwedagon Temple in Yangon, and cruise around Inle Lake. Then, spend several days relaxing on beaches and island hopping around Krabi.
Lonely Planet describes the Snowman Trek through the Bhutanese Himalayas as one of the most challenging treks in the world. You'll see some of the country's most remote areas and camp in altitudes above 16,400 feet (5,000 m), enjoying some of Bhutan's pristine natural beauty. Before and after the arduous trek, you'll have time to explore the beautiful Paro region and visit the country's most famous landmark: the astonishing Tiger's Nest Temple.
Venture into the heart of Mongolia's wilderness on this five-day trekking tour through Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. You'll spend three days hiking in the park and taking in the pristine beauty of this protected land. You'll also immerse yourself in Mongolian culture with a visit to an eagle hunters' village and an overnight stay in a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt).
Go deep into one of the most biodiverse spots on earth, the Yasuní National Park. Located in the heart of the Amazon, you'll explore pristine forests, rivers and lagoons while keeping an eye out for different species of monkeys and birds, as well as endemic insects and plants. You'll also have the opportunity get to do a cultural exchange with the native Kichua people to learn about their history and culture.
Experience the tranquil magic of a Japanese winter during this immersive eight-day itinerary. Starting in Kyoto, you'll head to the snowy Kiso Valley to hike along the ancient Nakasendo Trail, spending each night in quaint wooden villages or hot spring inns. After a week spent savoring regional cuisine, snowshoeing through cedar forests, and soaking in natural mineral pools, you'll enjoy your final night in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo—the historical endpoint of the trail.
A perfect option for families and couples looking for a short escape during the holiday season, this five-day trip will introduce you to Estonia's cherished Christmas traditions and charming capital city. Explore Europe's best Christmas market in Tallinn's Old Town, sip hot beverages in cozy cafes, see medieval streets decked out in twinkling lights, and take a snowmobile ride through a fairytale forest.
This 14-day introduction to the scenic and less-visited northeast will give you a totally different perspective of India. Start in historic Kolkata, one of India's most exciting mega-cities. Fly north to Nagaland, where you can spend time at the annual Hornbill Festival (held in early December), a spectacular display of Naga tribal culture. Continue to the Kaziranga National Park in Assam to spot animals on safari, ending in the small state of Meghalaya.
Runners will delight in this active tour of Kenya. The itinerary features three nights in the small town of Iten, known as the "Home of Champions," a safari in the country's best wildlife reserve, and a few days to relax on Diani Beach. You'll spend an afternoon watching Olympic athletes and elite marathoners train at Kamariny Stadium, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Mara River, and swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
This 14-day tour showcases some of Japan's top sights, as well as a few hidden spots rarely glimpsed by tourists. Start with the futuristic neon lights of Tokyo, where you'll walk the grounds of the city's oldest temple and learn to make your own sake. Then, it's off to Izumo for a homestay with a local family and a soak in natural hot springs. Wander traditional temples alongside curious deer in Nara, explore the remote Goto Islands, and end with views of Nagasaki from the heights of Mount Inasayama.
Visit the best of the west and north regions of Iceland on this nine-day trip. Although this route is not recommended for winter travel, it is a great way to skip the summer crowds headed south. Visit the black-sand beaches and fishing towns in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, go on scenic hikes to Dettifoss and Asbyri Canyon, and take in the incredible sights around Lake Mývatn. Enjoy time in the Arctic Coast and less-populated Northeast, along with some whale watching in Husavik. On the way back to the capital, stop in West Iceland’s Borgarnes, and take a memorable hike to Glymur Falls.
In nine days, enjoy Iceland's best waterfalls, black-sand beaches, cliffs, fishing towns, and hiking in the highlands, along with a trip to a locals’ island hideaway. The itinerary includes minimal driving, scenic trails, and a nice balance of popular sights—like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Thorsmork—and lesser-known gems—including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Westman Islands. Explore several glaciers, soak in hot springs and warm lagoons, enjoy the highlights of the capital city, and more.
Discover Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia as you hike and bike your way through this exciting multisport itinerary. You'll trek in the mountains of the Konavle countryside, bike over the historic Ciro route amid the wild and unspoiled nature of the Popovo polje, and canoe and swim your way down the green Trebižat River. With time left over to explore three historical cities, atmospheric Kotor, enchanting Mostar, and bewitching Dubrovnik, you'll get to know southeastern Europe intimately.
Kenya offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, and you can experience them both on this 10-day tour. Have the chance to spot a huge range of wildlife by visiting the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the unparalleled Maasai Mara, and beautiful Lake Naivasha. Spend time with the local Maasai people at a special camp, where you can learn about their lifestyle and camp out with them the traditional way. In 10 days you'll get an exciting taste of the best of Kenya.
The western state of Gujarat is renowned for its distinctive handicraft and textile traditions. You can experience the best of these on this 11-day tour of the state. Starting in the capital, Ahmedabad, you can visit the Calico Museum of Textiles, one of India's finest cultural collections. Continue through a number of architecturally significant towns and cities, including Vadodara and Bhavnagar. End with a few days in and around Bhuj, on the edge of the spectacular Rann of Kutch Desert, and awash with finely produced textiles and local crafts.
Explore northern Portugal and the scenic Douro Valley on this weeklong trip that dives deep into the area's sights, landmarks, culture, and flavors. Tour Porto with the help of an expert guide and a culinary excursion, then head to the spectacular Douro Valley, one of the loveliest wine regions in Europe. Taste flights of port or local table blends and relax by the water's edge. Discover charming Guimarães, Braga, and Viana do Castelo, and end at Peneda-Gerês National Park with waterfalls and nature.
Bhutan, is emerging from the mists of its self-imposed isolation and is more accessible than ever. Bhutan offers high mountains, lush valleys, pristine ecology, and incredible wildlife and birds, including the rare black-necked crane. This 13-day itinerary includes popular western and lesser-visited central parts of the country. You'll enjoy a range of cultural and natural activities, as well as moderately challenging (but relatively short) day hikes, all surrounded by beautiful, pristine nature.
Explore the highlights of Eastern France on this week-long itinerary. With Champagne tastings, wine routes, and historical villages galore, you'll get to experience the best of the region's offerings. Start in Reims to visit the famed Taittinger Champagne House, the head to the Alsace region to see the towns of Hunawihr and Riquewihr.
Perfect for active walkers, this trip combines a four-day walk on Japan's Nakasendo Trail, which connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the days of shoguns and samurai, with a visit to three historic Japanese capitals, Tokyo, Nara, and Kyoto. You'll begin your trip in Tokyo, then take to the trail and stay in post towns once used as feudal-era stopover points. You'll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nara, Yoshino, and Mount Koya, then spend two nights in Kyoto, where geisha still entertain well-heeled guests, and Buddhist temples beckon.
If you have six days to spend in France, it's best to focus your time on one or two regions. Fall in love with Paris before road-tripping to the Loire Valley, get to know the charming villages and national parks of Provence, or cruise around the islands off the coast of the French Riviera. You can even cross the border and spend a few days in Spain. Learn how with these unique itineraries.
If you only have five days in Portugal, you can pair two major cities—Lisbon and Porto, for example—or choose one region for an in-depth experience. Explore the dreamy Algarve coast, head to the wine-famous Duoro Valley, or stick to Lisbon and its surrounds. The itineraries below offer unique options that appeal to all kinds of travelers, from Portugal first-timers to foodies and wine enthusiasts to sun worshipers.
Explore Eastern France in eight days of outings on this itinerary. Sip Champagne in Reims, scope out the Germanic influence in Strasbourg, and cruise the canals of Colmar before you end your trip, sampling Alpine cheese on the banks of Lake Annecy.
Kick off a nine-day tour of the knockouts of Eastern France as you follow this itinerary. You'll taste Champagne in grand estates, wander through half-timbered villages, and sample wine and cheese on the banks of Lake Annecy as you explore in the company of expert guides.
Float through Eastern France on a bubbly Champagne cloud as you follow this 10-day route. After you make your way through the Champagne houses of Reims, you'll traverse the German influences of Strasbourg, cruise the canals of Colmar, and stroll the shores of Lake Annecy and promenades of Nice.
Follow eleven days of excellence along the excitement of Eastern France with this agenda. You'll stroll through the Champagne houses of Reims, streets of Strasbourg, and vineyards of the Alsace and Lorraine. Top it off with some Alpine cheese in Annecy and a dip in the waters of Nice before you depart.
Keep Moët & Chandon in a pretty cabinet and eat cake just like Marie Antoinette on this 12-day itinerary fit for a queen. You'll sample the Parisian pastries of Le Marais, artworks in the glass of the Louvre, and elaborate architectural facades of Strasbourg, Colmar, and Alsace. Sip wine with cheese pairings in Annecy before ending the trip on the beaches in Nice.
Find a lucky 13 days in Eastern France as you follow this route from Paris all the way to Monte Carlo. Cruise down the Seine, sip your way down the "Avenue of Champagne," and stroll the German-influenced streets of Strasbourg. Relax on the shores of Lake Annecy before you spend two days living large in the French Riviera in Nice and Monte Carlo.
Traverse Eastern France for two weeks as you travel through this tour. After two days of exploring Paris, you'll sip Champagne in Reims and wine in the Alsace and Lorraine. Saturate yourself in the scene of Lake Annecy with wine and cheese tastings and a cycling tour before you unwind on the Riviera with two nights in Nice.
Frolic for 15 days through France's eastern hotspots as you follow your expert new friends along this route. From pastries in Paris and Champagne in Reims, to Alsatian wines and Alpine cheeses, down to the glittering indulgence of the French Riviera, you're sure to leave fully sated.
Spend 16 days on a saunter through some of Eastern France's most scenic towns and landscapes. You'll stroll the streets of Paris, indulge in Champagne tastings on the Avenue of Champagne, admire the colorful houses and canals of Alsace, and cycle along the shores of Lake Annecy.
Seventeen days of stellar sights await you with this excursion through Eastern France. Gaze at the artworks of the Louvre, vineyards of Epernay and Alsace, and charming village pathways. Make your way to the lakeside and mountain views surrounding Annecy before you head off on a quick getaway to the beaches of the Riviera.
Take a new excursion every day of this 18-day Eastern France itinerary. You'll stroll the streets of Paris and sample your way down the Avenue of Champagne before riding in a VW Kombi through the vineyards. Follow it with Alsatian villages, cycling and cheese tasting in Lake Annecy, and three nights in the fabulous French Riviera.
With two weeks to spend in Slovenia, you'll have plenty of time to visit several different regions and to really get to know the country in detail. Go on a road trip to see the sights from the Alps to the Adriatic, or add a stop in Rovinj to see more of Istria. If you want an active vacation, opt for a hiking and biking tour of the country to visit Ljubljana, the Julian Alps, Piran, and more, or pick a tour of Slovenia and Istria that includes all that plus sailing, canyoning, and rafting.
Match Morocco's unique culture with its stunning nature in this country-wide tour that explores the charms of its bustling imperial cities—Casablanca, Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakesh—and its rural landscape. Meander the old town medinas, meet local craftsmen, and barter at bazaars before heading out into the Sahara Desert and up into the High Atlas mountains to hike through dense forests and deep river canyons. Continue your adventure by summiting the highest mountain pass, visiting historic Berber towns and Roman ruins, riding camels into the sunset, and relaxing in a traditional Hammam.
Combining culture and outdoor adventure, this 12-day tour features the best of Morocco, starting with the markets and monuments of the imperial cities Casablanca, Fes, and the famous "Blue City", Chefchaouen. Next you'll explore the country's natural side in the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, sleeping in Bedouin-style tents and high alpine Berber Towns. Experience cultural delights like riding camels at sunset, meandering ancient Roman ruins, visiting old kasbahs, and enjoying traditional Hammam treatments in the bustling city of Marrakech.
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