Travel Insights

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

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You'll find plenty of compelling spots to soak up the views in Lake Garda

Luxury Italian & Swiss Lakes by Train - 14 Days

La dolce vita beckons on this two-week luxury tour that hits the highlights of Italy's northern lakes region and includes sojourns to the best of Switzerland's mountain resorts and lakeside towns. You'll begin on the shores of Lake Garda for sightseeing in Sirmione, then cross the Alps to glamorous St. Moritz. The elegant villas of Lake Como come next with trips to Bellagio and Varenna, followed by a scenic train journey back to Switzerland for enchanting mountain hikes and elegant stays in Zürich and Lucerne.

Luxury Italian & Swiss Lakes by Train - 15 Days

Enjoy the famously punctual trains of Italy and Switzerland on this 15-day itinerary that will take you through the beautiful Alpine lakes via a relaxed scenic route. In addition to the many lakes themselves, you'll experience historic castles, Alpine peaks and passes, and culinary creations on your journey.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera, Lake Maggiore & More - 15 Days

Find your inspiration on this 15-day luxury trip through northwest Italy. Bask in the sun-baked hues of Portofino, rich culinary scene of Piedmont, and churches of Turin. Then, continue high into the Alps and down to the indulgent villas of Lake Maggiore and its Borromean Islands, where carefully cultivated beauty can be found around every corner.

Kick things off in true luxury style in the Riviera village of Portofino

Luxury Northwest Italy: Riviera, Piedmont, Valle d'Aosta & Lake Maggiore - 14 Day

Soak up the enchanting countryside and cuisine of northwestern Italy with this luxurious two-week vacation. You'll taste wine and learn to cook Ligurian cuisine in Portofino and the Cinque Terre, then transfer to Piedmont for gourmet food and truffle hunting in the UNESCO-listed Langhe Wine Region. The Valle d'Aosta's up next with trips to Turin and the Alpine resort of La Thuile before a laid-back finale on Lake Maggiore has you cruising around the Borromean Islands by private boat.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera, Lake Maggiore & More - 13 Days

Take 13 days to travel in style through Northwest Italy. You'll get insider access to spots like a secluded monastery accessible only by boat, the classic wineries of Barolo, truffles of Alba, and Library of Turin. Head to the mountains, where you'll pass through the Doorway of the Zodiac to the Sacra di San Michele and into the ruins of a former Roman settlement before winding down on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera, Lake Maggiore & More - 12 Days

Wake up in wonder every day of this 12-day trip plan through Northwest Italy. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of the sea in the resort town of Portofino, amid a renovated 17th-century monastery in Genoa, and high amid Alpine chalets as you make your way through the region's attractions.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera & More - 11 Days

The views alone are worth luxuriating in on this 11-day itinerary. Admire the crystal waters and rocky coastlines of Liguria, lush hills of the Piedmoont, and mountaintop spectacles of the Alps as you travel in plush style through Northwest Italy's hottest spots.

Start your grand tour of Italy's northwest in Portofino, jewel of the Riviera

Luxury Northwest Italy: Riviera, Langhe, Turin & Alps - 10 Days

Discover the history, culture, and food of Italy's Riviera, the Langhe Wine Region, and the mountainous Valle d'Aosta on this 10-day luxury trip. You'll start in Portofino and explore a medieval abbey only accessible by sea, then learn the secrets of the perfect Genovese pesto sauce. Transfer to Piedmont for an indulgent few days hunting for fresh truffles and sipping Barolo wine, then it's off to Turin and the Valle d'Aosta for Roman ruins, elegant café culture, and a breathtaking trip up Monte Bianco.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera, & More - 9 Days

Sample some of the finest flavors of Northwest Italy on this nine-day journey. Whether it's fresh seafood along the waterfronts of Portofino and Cinque Terre, rare truffles and wines of the Piedmont region where the slow food movement was born, or city cafes in Turin, your trip is sure to leave a good taste behind.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Alps, Cinque Terre, Riviera, & More - 8 Days

The Sacra di Michele sits alongside a pilgrimage route from France to Italy and boasts features like the Doorway of the Zodiac, Great Staircase of the Dead, and Tower of the Beautiful Alda. Hear some its stories, and many others, on this eight-day itinerary which takes you from the seaside resorts of the coast to the Piedmont countryside to the mountains of Turin.

See the birthplace of the "Slow Food" movement and tour UNESCO-listed wine country in the Langhe region of Piedmont

Luxury Northwest Italy: Portofino, Langhe & Turin - 7 Days

Take a full week to treat yourself on this luxurious excursion that whisks you from the colorful cliffs of Italy's Riviera to the world-renowned vineyards of the Langhe region. Stroll the seaside streets of Portofino and the cliffside trails of Cinque Terre, then experience the Slow Food scene, not to mention incredible wines, in Bra and Alba. Finish in Turin, where you'll explore the city's historical highlights and enjoy a memorable journey to the mountaintop monastery of Sacra di San Michele.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Turin, Cinque Terre, Riviera - 6 Days

Six days will take you on a sweep through some of Northwest Italy's most indulgent spots. Split your time between the coasts in Portofino and Cinque Terre; the rolling hills of the Piedmont region, home to wine, cheese, and truffles; and the medieval streets of Turin with a history tour.

Dramatic coastline on the island of Šipan off the coast of Dubrovnik

Dalmatia Adventure: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar & Split - 9 Days

From kayaking and swimming to hiking and cycling, this 9-day itinerary of Dalmatia is perfectly crafted for your next travel adventure. You'll begin in southern Dalmatia in Dubrovnik where you'll kayak to nearby Elafiti Islands to swim and snorkel and ride a bike through the Konavle, and then venture through the dramatic Pelješac peninsula. You'll explore Korčula and Hvar covering the island terrain on a hiking and biking excursion and end your stay in the modern-ancient city of Split.

Luxury Northwest Italy: Turin, Cinque Terre & Riviera - 5 Days

Catch a glimpse of luxuries of Northwest Italy with this five-day itinerary. You'll spin through seaside towns of Portofino and Cinque Terre, then go inland to hunt for truffles in the Langhe region. End in the city of Turin with an insider tour of its most historic spots.

Far North Queensland Getaway: Cairns, Port Douglas, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest - 5 Days

Explore Far North Queensland on this active, five-day getaway. Begin in Cairns, get acquainted with Indigenous culture and fare, and stroll through the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. Next, take a day trip to the largest coral reef system on the planet—the Great Barrier Reef—where you can cruise, snorkel, and explore this world-famous destination. Then, take the trip to Port Douglas to visit local wildlife, the Daintree Rainforest, and the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people.

Grab a paddle and take to the waters of Gorges du Verdon

France in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

No matter where you find yourself in France this month, there's a host of events and fun outdoor activities to experience, especially now that the weather is often great. Hike and bike the rugged mountain terrain of Mont Ventoux, kayak down the Verdon River in the south of France, and sip full-bodied wines of the Rhône Valley. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

The Azay-le-Rideau Châteaux in the Loire Valley

France in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is a fabulous month to visit France. The weather is delightfully sunny and warm in the south and mild elsewhere, the flowers are in bloom, and the shoulder-season prices still offer a bargain. Now is a great time to get yourself to the Loire Valley to discover the ornate châteaux strewn throughout the region. Find out what more there is to do and where else to go with this April guide.

France in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

One of the last months to visit France on a budget, low-season March packs a punch. From winter sports on world-class slopes and cozy après-ski environs to fewer crowds competing for Mona Lisa's attention, there's something for everyone in March. Read this monthly guide for more.

See masked Carnaval revelers in February

France in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February in France may be right in the middle of the chillier off-season, but those who venture here during this month are in for some pleasant surprises and wild parties. Not only are there fewer crowds to contend with, but all across the country, the French welcome in the spring with one of the biggest celebrations of the year: Carnaval.

Winter is for skiing in the Trois Vallées ski area

France in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Colder than other months of the year, January is the perfect post-holiday month for cultural exploration, strolling the French Riviera without the crowds, and hitting the slopes of any of the top-notch mountains and resorts. And bonus, the world's longest-running carnival begins, enlivening the town of Limoux in southwestern France. Find out what to do and where to go with this January guide.

Central Christmas tree and surrounding market in Strasbourg

France in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December attracts Christmas and New Year visitors looking to spend the holidays in style. This is a great month to discover important works of art in world-class museums, sip hot chocolate while wandering the colorful stalls of German-influenced markets, and welcome in the New Year with a champagne toast and firework display over the Eiffel Tower.

Tuck indoor into a museum, like Paris' Louvre, to get out of the drizzle

France in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Cold, gray, and rainy, November is best suited for urban and cultural exploration: museums and galleries, food and wine. While this may seem like a less-than-ideal time to visit weather-wise, there are fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and world-class wines and truffles to be had. There's even a festival celebrating the release of new wine mere weeks after the grape harvest. Read on to learn more.

The fall is a great time to head indoors to check out the châteaux in Burgundy wine country

France in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September feels like an extension of warm and sunny August, with the added bonus of diminishing crowds. Now is the time to tour wine country and explore the French Riviera, and if you're looking for a hotel or flight deal, you'll want to plan your trip closer to the end of the month. Let this guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

France in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Though the weather is a little cooler and greyer, October is still one of the best times of year to discover France. Most attractions remain open, and you won't have to compete with hordes of holidaymakers like in the peak seasons. Discover France as you taste seasonal delicacies, explore vineyard-covered wine country and historic châteaux, and immerse yourself in cultural events like Nuit Blanche in Paris.

Calanque de l'Éverine beach on the lesser-frequented Côte Bleue

France in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

France is warm, sunny, and crowded in August. But if you know where to go, you can plan the perfect summer holiday that all but ensures great weather and great adventure. And if you want to get in some beach time, read on to learn more about where to go for that less-frequented option.

Lavender fields near Valensole are best seen blooming in July

France in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is the warmest month of the year; the sea is its most inviting, the sky is its most clear, and all across the country, there's an exciting event taking place, like the grueling Tour de France. It's the perfect month for getting outdoors to see and do it all. This is also the month of France's biggest holiday, Bastille Day, with celebrations all over the country. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go (and how to beat the inevitable crowds).

Cirque de Gavarnie in the French Pyrenees

France in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is an excellent time of year to visit France, now that the weather is consistently warm (on land and in the sea!), the flowers are in bloom, and exciting festivals and cultural events are taking place throughout the country. Yet, opportunities to snag airfare or accommodation deals are dwindling, and the crowds of tourists are ever-growing, so the earlier you can go in the month, the better. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in France this month.

Beautiful sunset from the coastline of Ston

Scenic Southern Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Pelješac, Korčula, & Mljet - 7 Days

Discover Southern Dalmatia's wild beauty on this week-long itinerary that starts and ends in Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Board a speedboat to the lush Elafiti Islands, visit wineries on Korčula and the Pelješac peninsula, and enjoy sweeping views over the Adriatic from a parapet walkway in Ston. This tour perfectly incorporates cultural exploration of popular coastal towns with relaxation and adventure to remote island settings.

Scenic Southern Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Pelješac, & Korčula - 5 Days

Spend five days exploring the cultural and historic sites around Dubrovnik and its surrounding regions. Discover stunning baroque and renaissance architecture in Dubrovnik, set sail to explore the quiet beauty of three nearby Elafiti Islands, Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud, and explore the wild terrain of the Pelješac peninsula. You'll kayak the Adriatic, visit long-forgotten villas, and sip on delicious endemic-to-Croatia wines.

The Veliki Tabor fortress in the Zagorje region, Croatia

Northern Dalmatia: Zagreb, Plitvice, Zadar, & Split - 7 Days

This week-long tour through Northern Dalmatia features Plitvice Lakes National Park and the historic coastal cities of Zadar and Split. You'll begin in Zagreb, as well as spend a day touring the bucolic Zagorje region, before working your way through spectacular Plitvice Lakes. From here you'll carry on to Zadar, stopping to explore the maze-like medieval streets of Šibenik, and end your tour in the modern-ancient city of Split.

The old town of Sibenik on the Adriatic coast in Dalmatia

Northern Dalmatia: Zagreb, Plitvice, Zadar, & Split - 6 Days

Uncover Croatia's colorful history and culture on this 6-day itinerary focused on Northern Dalmatia. From the lively capital of Zagreb you'll find your way to the country's most popular park, Plitvice Lakes National Park, and continue to historic Zadar along the Adriatic coast. Cap off your trip with three nights in fascinating Split.

Plitvice Lakes, en route between Zagreb and Split

Northern Dalmatia: Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Šolta Island & Split - 5 Days

Explore Northern Dalmatia's cities and stunning coastline on this 5-day trip, starting in Zagreb, the charming capital of Croatia. Continue to Croatia's most popular national park, Plitvice Lakes, to walk amid glassy lakes and cascading waterfalls, ending your adventure in the ancient city of Split along the Adriatic. Stroll through Zagreb's 1000-year-old town center, visit ancient Roman remains in Split, and enjoy a day of sailing to Šolta Island.

Highlights of Sydney: Bondi Beach, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House & More - 5 Days

This five-day Sydney itinerary provides an active adventure through New South Wales' capital city. Take a sightseeing tour of all the best neighborhoods and sites—The Rocks, Bondi Beach, Kings Cross, and Mrs Macquarie's Chair included. A day trip to The UNESCO World Heritage region of the Blue Mountains allows you to explore the outdoors and interact with animals. The trip concludes with a guided tour of the famed Sydney Opera House and a thrilling climbing excursion up Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Croatia Multisport: Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice, & Zagreb - 16 Days

Take in the wild and rugged beauty of Croatia's top sights and attractions on this complete adrenaline-fueled 16-day adventure. You'll cover three historic cities along the Dalmatian coast—Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar—as well as spend two nights in Zagreb with exciting day trips to nearby islands and ancient fortressed cities. Hike and bike island terrain on Korčula and Hvar, spend a day canyoning the Cetina River, and walk amid waterfalls and emerald-green lakes in stunning Krka and Plitvice Lakes national parks.

Spend two leisurely days driving around the Brittany region

Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley - 14 Days

This epic trip loops around three beloved regions in France with a nice mix of free time and guided tours. Start in Normandy to visit historical sites—spanning 900 years—between Bayeux and Omaha Beach. Next is Brittany, where you'll have free time (and a car) to explore the wild, rugged coastline at your own pace. Then experience UNESCO-listed villages and castles in the Loire Valley before finishing with two days in Paris.

Enjoy an evening stroll along the Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 5 Days

Five days may not be long, but if you focus your energy, you can create the perfect Spanish holiday. This itinerary focuses on Madrid and Barcelona, and in the former, you'll visit its most famous city sights, enjoy gourmet walking tours, and visit local artisans. In Barcelona, you'll discover this Catalan gem via its cuisine as well as an unforgettable cruise around its port by sailboat.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 6 Days

Even in less than a week, it's possible to get to the heart of Spain—you just need to focus on the right places. This six-day whirlwind cultural tour achieves exactly that by focusing on Madrid and Barcelona, ensuring you get the most out of each. Not only will you see famous sights like the Royal Palace and El Prado Museum, but expert local guides will give you a delicious introduction to both cities on private food tours.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 7 Days

With a full week, you can experience both the highlights of Spain's most famous cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Not only that but on this seven-day whirlwind itinerary, you'll also find time for day tours to historic towns outside the nation's capital. And when you do finally end up in Barcelona, prepare yourself for a delicious food tour and sunset sailing experience on top of visiting its most famous neighborhoods.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 8 Days

In just over a week you can not only experience the highlights of Spain but go off the beaten track as well. This eight-day itinerary delivers on the famous sights and neighborhoods of Madrid and Barcelona, but you'll really immerse yourself on gourmet walking tours of these cities. Throw in a sunset sailboat cruise around Barcelona and you have the recipe for the perfect Spanish holiday.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 9 Days

If you really want to do Spain differently, you'll not only visit the famous sights but you'll opt for cultural tours as well. This 10-day itinerary offers just such an authentic experience as you'll not only visit the plazas of Madrid and Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, but you'll take foodie tours and road trips to country villages. For a finishing touch, you'll enjoy a luxury sunset cruise on the Mediterranean Sea.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 10 Days

This 10-day tour of Spain allows you to visit the highlights, like the plazas and palaces of Madrid, while also getting off the tourist track. This is a deep immersion into Spain's rich culture as you travel from the capital to Barcelona while also taking day trips to ancient villages like Pedraza and Segovia as well as countryside wineries. Throughout the adventure, you'll enjoy some delicious food as you stop at authentic tapas bars and covered markets.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 11 Days

Even in a nation with a heavy tourism footprint like Spain, there are still secrets to discover. On this 11-day itinerary, you'll get to the heart of this incomparable nation on city tours of Madrid and Barcelona, hikes along the stunning Costa Brava, countryside wine tastings, and day trips to historic towns like Segovia and Pedraza. Plus there's a delicious encore as you tour cheese farms, olive-oil shops, and artisan chocolatiers.

Kayaks on the beach waiting for your next paddle

Islands of Belize: Tobacco Caye & South Water Caye - 7 Days

On this seven-day tour of Belize's best islands, you'll spend time discovering underwater marine life while enjoying the pristine beaches. Begin at the Tropical Education Centre, where you'll embark on a nocturnal tour of the Belize Zoo. Then, head to Tobacco Caye to start exploring the mangroves and coral reefs. The trip continues to South Water Caye, where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, and dive your way through the Southern Barrier Reef.

Experience Belize: Glover's Reef & Maya Caves - 7 Days

This seven-day adventure combines the best elements of Belize—the inland exploration of Maya ruins and rainforest caves, along with several days to discover the remote coral atoll of Glover's Reef. Perfect for active families and couples of all skill levels, this itinerary offers the flexibility to relax, paddle, snorkel, dive, and sea kayak, depending on your preference.

Belize Lighthouse Reef Adventure - 7 Days

The seven-day adventure begins with an overnight at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, then heads out by boat to Lighthouse Reef. You'll explore the Lighthouse Reef atoll—a tropical marine park and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site—via various snorkeling and paddling opportunities. Spend five nights at your Half Moon Caye Basecamp, which offers both guided and independent excursions, and end your trip with a night in Belize City.

Get your heart pumping with an early-morning trek in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park

Patagonia Trekking Adventure: Los Glaciares, Torres del Paine & More - 13 Days

This 13-day Patagonian trek is designed for adventurers and includes the best outdoor viewpoints in two countries. Explore the peaks, valleys, and glaciers of Torres del Paine, and then cross the border from Chile into Argentina to discover more of the stunning panoramas through hikes, boat tours, and more in El Calafate and El Chaltén. You'll also have time in two capital cities—embark on a sightseeing tour in Santiago and wind down the trip on your own in Buenos Aires.

Authentic Lithuania: Castles, Culture, & Craft Beer - 3 Days

On this quick, three-day tour of Lithuania anchored in Vilnius, you’ll explore cultural sites, along with plenty of brewery tours and tastings along the way. You’ll also attend a basketball game featuring the decorated BC Žalgiris team, visit a castle in Kaunas, and take a trip to the Biržai region, complete with its historical beer museum.

Lyon, Annecy & Chamonix - 10 Days

This 10-day adventure combines three of France's easternmost gems, starting with the nation's capital of gastronomy: Lyon. While here, indulge in its outstanding dining scene, visit nearby vineyards, and meet farmers and artisans. Then travel to Annecy, a storybook medieval town so gorgeous it's nicknamed the "Venice of France," before finishing in Chamonix and hiking the tallest peak in France—Mont Blanc.

Explore the historic ruins of Rome's ancient colosseum

How Many Days to Spend in Rome

If you're heading to Italy, your first stop will likely be Rome. With its position halfway down Italy's western coast, it's a convenient travel hub and one of Italy's most appealing destinations in its own right. Spend at least a couple of days exploring, starting with Rome's most famous icons—the Colosseum and the Vatican—and stay for the fun neighborhoods, food, and excellent day trip opportunities. See our recommendations below for one night, five days, and everything in between.

Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona - 12 Days

To get off the beaten path in Madrid and Barcelona requires venturing beyond the popular city sights and immersing yourself in the culture. This 12-day itinerary offers such an experience, as you meet local artisans in Madrid, venture into the countryside for wine tours, go on art walks, enjoy tours of local markets and tapas bars, cycle around Barcelona, hike the Mediterranean coast, and more.

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