a vibrant cityscape in one of the warmest places in Europe in April

Where's Hot in April in Europe? 20 Warm Places to Visit in April (2025)

Here are some of the best warmest places in Europe in April because everybody craves some sun and probably, the beach after cold winters. These hottest places in Europe in April are a must for sun-worshippers and you’ll find lots of recs on what to do and see at each place!

 

April signals the advent of spring in Europe and brings with it temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold, so you can explore the continent when it is at the peak of its beauty.

You can visit some of the best European destinations in April unperturbed by crowds and with warm weather throughout, which offers you better options for stays and sightseeing but at comparatively lower prices.

You can experience the charm of some of the warmest places in Europe in April, right from the less-explored places such as the island of Gozo in Malta, Gibraltar & Cyprus to the more traditional destinations such as Italy, France, Spain, Turkey, Croatia, Portugal, & Greece.

Colourful boats in Venice one of the Warmest places in Europe in April

20 Warmest Places in Europe in April

 


What’s The Hottest Place in Europe in April?

 


1. Cyprus

 

Average temperature: 25° /  15°

Average Sea Temperature: 20º / 16º

Average Daily Sunshine: 9 Hours

 

What is the weather in Cyprus in April? Cyprus is one of the hottest places in April in Europe, with the advent of Spring. Nights may get a little chilly. You can also expect little rainfall over a period of 4-5 days.

 

What to do in Cyprus in April? With mild temperatures, it’s the perfect time to bask in the sun’s embrace on one of the serene beaches in Cyprus and take a refreshing dip.

For those seeking a more invigorating experience, the Troodos Mountains provide the ultimate challenge. Explore awe-inspiring historical sites such as the Pafos Mosaics, the Tombs of the Kings, and the ancient city of Kourion.

Next, head to the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park, where history comes alive with ancient buildings, including a Roman Odeon, Roman baths, and a Byzantine basilica.

 

What to pack for Cyprus in April? If you are wondering where it’s hot in April in Europe, Cyprus is the most prominent answer.

Therefore, make sure that you pack adequate light breathable clothes such as t-shirts and shorts, along with swimwear to swim your tiredness away.

 

Where to stay in Cyprus in April? The five-star Elysium Hotel located in Paphos is located right on the beachfront and offers breathtaking sunset views of the Mediterranean.

The Saunders Holiday Home, located around 1 km from the beachfront and features a beautiful garden, is also a good option for a stay.


Warmest-places-in-Europe-in-April-Continent-Hop-18

Warmest Places In Italy In April

 


2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

 

Average temperature:19° / 15°

Average Sea Temperature: 20º / 16º

Average Daily Sunshine: 6 Hours

 

What is the weather on the Amalfi Coast in April? For all beach enthusiasts, Amalfi Coast is the best European destination in April due to its warm weather in April.

Maximum afternoon temperatures can be around 18°, making it the perfect time to explore outdoors. Do expect mild occasional rain showers.

 

What are the things to do on the Amalfi Coast in April? A guided tour of the nearby ruins of Pompeii, which were destroyed by a volcanic eruption from Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, is a must for your itinerary.

Take a sip of fine Italian wines at the very bottom of the Mountain and explore the wineries around.

Take a boat ride to the beautiful coastal towns of Positano, Amalfi, Sorrento, and Ravello, which offer great options for hiking and exploring nature.

 

What to pack for the Amalfi Coast in April? Since Amalfi Coast is one of the hottest places in Europe in April, carry light clothes and beach apparel for sunbathing and swimming.

The long walks and hikes would also require comfortable shoes, a jacket, and an umbrella, just in case the rain decides to wash away your plans!

 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast in April? Positano and Amalfi are the most sought-after spots for a stay on the coast.

Il San Pietro di Positano is one of the best hotels located in Positano with elegantly furnished rooms with terrace and sea views and gourmet food from a Michelin-starred restaurant.

In Amalfi, Hotel Santa Catarina is an Art Nouveau villa built on a rock overlooking the sea and offers stunning views of the entire coastline.


A view of the sea with flowers and turrets in Campania one of the Warmest places in Europe in April

3. Rome, Italy

 

Average temperature:19° / 9°

Average Sea Temperature: 17º / 14º

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in Rome in April? With spring slowly settling in, one of the warmest places in Europe in April, Rome offers warm weather in Europe in April with sunny days and chilly nights.

However, April is also the rainiest month in the Italian capital and you can expect some showers, albeit not too intense.

 

What to do in Rome in April? One of the earliest birthplaces of modern civilisation and the Catholic church, Rome offers spending architectural marvels such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica, one of Christianity’s holiest sites.

Mesmerize yourself with the guided tour of the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican, which contain detailed paintings and frescos depicting the Renaissance period.

For those seeking a spookier vibe, walk through the Roman catacombs, which are immense underground cemeteries.

Do not miss the chance to visit the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, which were once the centre of public life for everyday Romans.

 

What to pack for Rome in April? A jacket to protect you from chilly evenings and a poncho to protect you from showers are all you need to explore the city’s beauty.

 

Where to stay in Rome in April? For those looking for a stay in luxury, Umilta 36 is a grand hotel located in the centre of Rome offering faster connectivity to all major spots.

If you would prefer a budget stay, Olimpia is a prime air-conditioned apartment in the central area of Rome.

 


Cityscape with domes in Rome one of the hottest places in Europe in April
The Colosseum in Rome one of the hottest places in Europe in April

4. Sicily, Italy

 

Average temperature: 20° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 17º / 15º

Average Daily Sunshine: 7 Hours

 

What is the weather in Sicily in April? 

Sicily is the largest island in Italy, and all throughout April, it enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm days and cooler evenings. It’s the first month when it really starts to feel more like summer, and there’s way less rain and cloudy days.

You might encounter occasional rain showers, but they are usually very brief.

 

What to do in Sicily in April?

Some of the best places to visit in Sicily centre around the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. You can take a Valley of the Temples Skip-the-Line Guided Tour in Agrigento, wander the streets and local markets of Palermo, or hike up to the summit of  Mount Etna. 

Another famous place to visit is the hilltop town of Taormina. From here, you can see an ancient Greek theatre that overlooks a stunning view of the Ionian Sea.

 

What to pack for Sicily in April?

While the days are warm, evenings can be cool, so it’s wise to pack layers. Include comfortable walking shoes for exploring archaeological sites and rural landscapes.

Sunscreen and a hat are also must-haves for the sunny days in April.

 

Where to stay in Sicily in April?

Sicily is a massive Island, so it’s important that you choose the right place to stay, which is different depending on the purpose of your trip.

Palermo is the best spot for people wanting to relax on the best beaches in Sicily. There’s a great boutique hotel right on the port called Hotel Trinacria.

However, if you want more of a big city vibe, then Le Suites Del Duomo House in Catania is awesome, and people planning to see as many archaeological sites as possible should consider staying at Hotel Exclusive in Agrigento.


5. Venice, Italy

Average temperature: 18° / 7°

Average Sea Temperature: 16º / 10º

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in Venice in April? Venice is one of the best places to go in Europe in April due to its sub-tropical climate offering a perfect blend of warm days and mild and slightly rainy evenings.

 

What to do in Venice in April?  Stroll through the historic streets and along the winding canals, marvelling at the timeless beauty of St. Mark’s Square, the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica,and the palace of the Doge.

Take a romantic gondola ride through the Grand Canal and experience the city from a different perspective.

Discover what the vibrant neighbourhoods of Dorsoduro, Castello and Cannaregio have to offer.

Take a day trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello, known for their glassblowing and lace-making traditions.

 

What to pack for Venice in April? Venice is a city best explored on foot, so a pair of comfortable waterproof walking shoes and light breathable clothes are needed.

I recommend a light jacket for unexpected chilly evenings along with an umbrella so that the light showers do not dampen your evenings!

 

Where to stay in Venice in April? For modest travellers, the B&B Corte Campana is the perfect option as it is less than a kilometre away from the St. Marks Basilica, the Doge Palace and the Piazza San Marco.

The Mocenigo Grand Canal Luxury Suites is the choice of luxury, with a fully equipped kitchenette with a dining area, a fridge and a microwave and a distance of just 500 meters from the city centre.

People travelling by vaporetto in Venice one of the hottest places in Europe in April

Warmest Places in Portugal in April

 


6. The Algarve, Portugal

 

Average temperature: 18° / 7°

Average Sea Temperature:18° / 14° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 9 Hours

 

What is the weather in The Algarve in April? 

The Algarve is the entire south coast of Portugal. It’s about 150 kilometers wide and stretches 50 kilometers north of the ocean. The main city here is Faro. In April, the weather is much less rainy than in March, and it starts to feel more like summer without the intense heat!

 

What to do in The Algarve in April?

The best places to visit in The Algarve are the beaches. Some of the most well-known beaches are Praia do Camilo, Praia de Dona Ana, and Albufeira Beach.

The most famous thing to do at any time of the year is take a boat tour to Benagil Cave. If you’re able to come in early April, you can still beat most of the summer crowds!

 

What to pack for The Algarve in April?

Your packing list should include plenty of gear for warm weather and long beach days. For me, this looks like a couple of swimsuits, sunhat, and sandals.

I also like to bring a couple of cute outfits to wear for photos along the scenic coastline!

 

Where to stay in The Algarve in April?

Main Street Apartments is one of the most comfortable places to stay in Faro. It’s close enough to the city center to walk to bakeries, shops, and nightlife but far enough to avoid traffic when you’re taking day trips to other destinations in the area!

They offer fully furnished apartments with a great view of the city and a sofa bed in case you’re traveling with friends or a family.

 


7. Madeira, Portugal

 

Average temperature:13° / 7°

Average Sea Temperature: 19° / 17° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 6 Hours

 

What is the weather in Madeira in April? Madeira has warm weather in April in Europe with pleasant and sunny days, though it may get cold when the sun sets. You may experience little rainfall, but not such much so as to wash away your plans!

 

What to do in Madeira in April? For hiking enthusiasts, hike through the highest points of the island such as the Pico do Arieiro to the Pico Ruivo and soak in the sights of the mesmerizing sunrise.

Adrenaline junkies, prepare yourself to take a walk over the Cabo Girao skywalk, the highest cliff skywalk in Europe! Take a comfortable tour in a catamaran for a session of whale and dolphin watching.

April is the perfect time to witness the island’s rich floriculture in full bloom. So make sure you add  Jardim Botanico da Madeira to your itinerary.

 

What to pack for Madeira in April? A little umbrella and a raincoat are necessities. Additionally, pack layers if you plan to spend a lot of time outside, especially in the evenings.

 

Where to stay in Madeira in April? Funchal, the pristine capital city of Madeira, is the perfect base for your trip and offers a wide variety of stay options.

Football aficionados would be excited to stay at the Pestana CR7 Funchal, a hotel which has a partnership with legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo!

The Enotel Magnolia is also a highly-rated hotel located near the centre of Funchal and offers beautiful rooms.

 


The rugged cliffside in Madeira a warm places to visit in april in europe

Warmest Places In Greece In April

 


8. Kos, Greece

 

Average temperature: 20° / 13°

Average Sea Temperature: 19° / 15° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 9 Hours

 

What is the weather in Kos in April? April is a shoulder month in Kos, falling just in between winter and the summer making it one of the underrated warmest places in Europe in April.

Therefore, the climate is pretty mild, with the beginning of the month cooler than the end. The seas are just about perfect.

 

What to do in Kos in April? With its turquoise waters and golden sand, the beaches of Kos are a true paradise. Head to Psalidi, Kefalos or Lambi for a perfect day at the beach.

Take a boat tour to the Volcanic Island of Nisyros and stroll through its stunning lunar landscape.

Discover the ancient spots of Kos, such as the famous Asklepieion, the Roman Odeon, and the medieval castle of Kos. Read everything you need to know about April in Greece.

In fact, almost all of the Greek Islands are pretty warm in April, including Crete, Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos.

 

What to pack for Kos in April? Since the climate is mild, you need to pack light but do carry a jacket for the chill when the sun sets.

 

Where to stay in Kos in April? The Blue Lagoon City Hotel is located right in the city centre and around 200 meters from the port, with elegant rooms.

Villa Georgios offers beautiful apartments just off the bay and features many taverns and bars at budget-friendly rates.

 


Historic monuments by the beach in Kos one of the warm places in europe in april

9. Athens, Greece

 

Average temperature: 20° / 12°

Average Sea Temperature: 17° / 14° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather like in Athens in April? April makes Athens one of the best European destinations. On a pleasantly warm day, the city blooms with wildflowers, offering perfect options for sunbathing. In the evenings, the retreating winter chills the air a bit.

 

What to do in Athens in April? Take a guided tour of the ancient landmarks of Athens such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum.

Head to one of the nearby beaches, like Vouliagmeni or Sounion, to soak up the sun and enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Take a stroll through the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Check this Athens itinerary for more information.

 

What to pack for Athens in April? Short-sleeve tees, jeans, and a light jacket would be enough for daytime excursions, but layers are still required for the evenings.

 

Where to stay in Athens in April? The King George Palace is a historic hotel, located in the heart of Athens, that offers a sophisticated blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort.

The Athinais Hotel is a charming and budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Athens and is located a stone’s throw away from some of the famous landmarks in Athens.

 


Hottest places in Spain in April

 


10. The Canary Islands, Spain

 

Average temperature: 22° / 16°

Average Sea Temperature: 20° / 18° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in the Canary Islands in April? The Canary Islands of Spain definitely fall within the list of hot countries in April in Europe, with mild and sunny days.

The seas are a perfect temperature for taking a dip. However, as with all things Europe, evenings may get a little chilly.

Gran Canaria is the most popular Canary Island to visit in April, even though 4 other Canary Islands have warmer temperatures!

 

What to do in the Canary Islands in April?  Visit the island’s pristine beaches, where golden sands and crystal-clear waters invite you to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.

Explore the famous Playa de las Teresitas, El Bollullo, and Los Cristianos, and see why the Canary Islands are known for having some of the best beaches in Spain.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a guided hike to Mount Teide is a must for anyone.

For a unique experience, why not go whale and dolphin watching in April?

 

What to pack for the Canary Islands in April? Aptly renowned as one of the warmest places in Europe in April, you only need to ensure that you carry a jacket for chilly evenings.

 

Where to stay in the Canary Islands in April? Tenerife is the most sought-after destination to stay in the Canary Islands, along with Lanzarote.

On Tenerife, the Nivaria Beach Apartment and Villas are the perfect options with a beachside view, a pool with heating options, and elegantly designed rooms.

The Delmas Hotel Embelmatico, located in Lanzarote, is a modern villa offering picturesque views of the mountains.

 

A seaside resort with lots of palm trees in Tenerife where is hot in april in europe

11. Seville, Spain

 

Average temperature:22° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 20° / 17° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in Seville in April? Seville is amongst the hot places in Europe in April and has a mildly cool climate with a gentle breeze and occasional rain.

 

What to do in Seville in April? With the sweet scent of blooming oranges, Seville has a lot of options for you. Visit the Alcazar Palace, which is a true masterpiece of Mudejar architecture.

Soak in the majesty of one of the largest cathedrals in the world, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Catedral de Sevilla.

Take a cruise along the Guadalquivir River, where you can sip on a welcome drink and gorge on Spanish cuisine such as an Iberian acorn-fed ham appetizer with cured manchego cheese.

Make sure you also take a detour to the Plaza de toros de la maestranza, one of the world’s most prominent bull-fighting rings.

 

What to pack for Seville in April? As one of the hot places in Europe in April, you will only require light clothes for sightseeing activities and some warm sweaters to shield you from the little cool evenings.

 

Where to stay in Seville in April? Aquitania Home Suites is the perfect option, with an ideal location right in the city centre and offers great amenities.

Hotel Casa 1800 Seville is a four-star accommodation near the centre of Seville and has beautifully decorated rooms with fantastic service.

 


12. Malaga, Spain

 

Average temperature: 21° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 19° / 15° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in Malaga in April? Malaga is amongst the warmest places in Europe in April and has a sunny and warm climate, as the season gradually shifts from spring to summer.

However, keep an eye out for mild April showers.

 

What to do in Malaga in April? Art lovers, rejoice! Malaga is the birthplace of the famous painter Pablo Picasso and a visit to the Picasso Museum in Malaga is a must.

Visit the magnificent Moorish fortress of Alcazaba, which is a must-see for any history buff.

Málaga is famous for its delicious cuisine and what better way to sample it than by embarking on a tapas crawl through the city’s many bars and restaurants?

 

What to pack for Malaga in April? Having the distinction of being one of the hottest places in Europe in April, all you need to carry for Malaga are light clothes to help you beat the heat.

 

Where to stay in Malaga in April? The Gran Hotel Miramar GL is one of the best hotels located right in the centre of Malaga and that too on a beachfront! It is also a listed 20th Century building.

For those seeking a budget-friendly stay without compromising on luxury, Hotel La Chancla is located right on the beachfront in the traditional fishing neighbourhood of the city.

People lounging by the sea in Malaga hottest place in europe in april

13. Ibiza, Spain

 

Average temperature: 19° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 18° / 15° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 7 Hours

 

What is the weather in Ibiza in April? Ibiza has a mild and pleasant climate with typically warm and sunny days and chilly nights. However, Ibiza is also prone to receive little rainfall in April.

 

What to do in Ibiza in April? One of the warm places to visit in April Europe, known as the White Island, Ibiza has many things to do.

Take a boat trip along the rugged coast to discover the island’s hidden caves such as the Can Marca cave, the Cave of Light, the Cave of Santa Agnes etc. Each one is more mesmerizing than the last.

As the sun sets, the island comes alive with its legendary nightlife. Hit the clubs and dance the night away to the beat of the world’s best DJs.

 

What to pack for Ibiza in April? As one of the best places to go in Europe in April, all you need to carry are light clothes and shorts for your many walks.

But, in order to not get chilly at night, be sure to carry some warm clothes too.

 

Where to stay in Ibiza in April? Hotel Osiris is one of the best places to stay near the beach in Ibiza. This family-run hotel offers guests a selection of rooms and is only a short distance from the Es Puet beach.

Hostal La Torre Ibiza Cap Negret located in the city centre is a budget-friendly accommodation featuring a terrace and breathtaking views of the sea.

Yachts in the azure sea in Ibiza one of the hot places in europe in april

Hottest places in Turkey in April

 


14. Bodrum, Turkey

 

Average temperature: 22° / 13°

Average Sea Temperature: 19° / 16° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 9 Hours

 

What is the weather in Bodrum in April? Bodrum in Turkey is one of the hottest places in Europe in April, with warm daytime temperatures and relatively high humidity, though it’s mainly pleasant with blue skies.

Do keep in mind that you may witness moderate rainfall.

 

What to do in Bodrum in April?  Join one of the boat tours and sail around the Bodrum peninsula or take a dip in the blue waters, engage in snorkeling, or get tanned by sunbathing along the beaches of Ortakent, Bitez, Gumbet, or Turgetreis.

Immerse yourself in the rich history by visiting Bodrum Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For those having an interest in underwater archaeology, the castle houses a museum that displays many underwater artifacts.

Make sure that you take a stroll through the ruins of the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

 

What to pack for Bodrum in April? With its hot climate, all you need to carry are T-shirts and shorts with sunscreen to shield you from the heat. It’s safer to also carry an umbrella to protect you from the rain.

 

Where to stay in Bodrum in April? The Radisson Collection Hotel, Bodrum is a highly-rated accommodation offering peaceful vibes with beautiful rooms.

The Lujo Hotel A la Carte is also a beautiful option with its three private beaches and an on-site waterpark, though it is situated a little far away from the city centre.


15. Istanbul, Turkey

 

Average temperature: 17° / 8°

Average Sea Temperature: 13° / 7° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 6 Hours

 

What is the weather in Istanbul in April? Istanbul is one of the best places to go in April in Europe as the days are sunny, dry, and long but not too hot, signaling the end of winter and the advent of spring.

You may experience little rain showers.

 

What to do in Istanbul in April? One of the best reasons to visit Istanbul in April is the Tulip Festival, when the streets of Istanbul come alive with the vibrant colours of tulips in full bloom, filling the city with their sweet fragrance.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Tulip Garden in Emirgan Park.

Take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge and admire the stunning views of the city’s historic buildings, including Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, and the Galata Tower.

Take a tour of the iconic Hagia Sophia and marvel at the intricate mosaics and at the historical significance of this architectural masterpiece.

Stroll through the Basilica Cistern, which lies beneath the city’s streets.

 

What to pack for Istanbul in April?  Due to its warm sunny climate in April, you can wear light cotton clothes and shorts in Istanbul, except when you visit mosques.

Carry a light jacket in case the evenings decide to get cold.

 

Where to stay in Istanbul in April? Attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar are all within walking distance of the White House Hotel Istanbul. It’s in a fantastic location in the centre of the Historical Peninsula.

The Soho House Istanbul, located in the heart of Istanbul, is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring classy rooms and posh amenities.

 

The Hagia Sophia in Turkey a warm european countries in april
Start your itinerary in Istanbul. The easiest and convenient way to reach Istanbul is by flying. Istanbul has an international airport that is well connected to most cities across the world. However, you can also choose to take the train to Istanbul that runs from several European cities, but this takes a lot more time. You can even choose to drive into the country from neighbouring European cities. What to do in Istanbul Istanbul is a massive city so it’s important to give it a few days to explore properly. It is also important to relax on the first day and get familiarised with the new culture and settings as much as possible before venturing out to explore! Here are some of the best things to do in Istanbul that you can consider during your 10 days in Turkey itinerary - Walk around the Sultanahmet Square and visit the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque amongst other historical and architectural wonders. Shop for lamps, Turkish towels and other souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar. (Don’t forget to bargain!) Take a spa day and treat yourself to a traditional Turkish Hammam Try the Turkish hookah “nargile” at a streetside place around Taksim Take a Bosphorus River Cruise during sunset Check out Istanbul’s nightlife around the Bosphorus area and visit Taps Bebek for some heavenly beer! Try the traditional Turkish coffee and Turkish tea - or “cay” - at Kubbe Istanbul rooftop cafe. Walk uphill (or take a cable car) to Pierre Loti Cafe for a meal overlooking the city.

More Hot Places to Visit During April in Europe

 
 


16.  Croatia

 

Average temperature: 18° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 16° / 13° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 6 Hours

 

What is the weather in Croatia in April? As one of the warm European countries in April, Croatia has a mild temperature in April with pleasant sunny days and chilly evenings, with relatively good chances of moderate rainfall.

 

What to do in Croatia in April? Immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of the cities of Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb.

Marvel at the ancient ruins of the Roman palace in Split, wander the charming streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and admire the stunning Gothic and Baroque buildings in Zagreb.

See the sights of Kings Landing as you discover the film sites of the show in Dubrovnik.

 

What to pack for Croatia in April? On sunny days, a pair of T-shirts and jeans can help you on your long walks. However, you will need layers to keep yourself warm in the evening when the temperature drops.

Make sure you carry a good raincoat to brace through the showers.

 

Where to stay in Croatia in April? The cities of Zagreb and Dubrovnik are the preferred destinations for a stay in Croatia.

Hotel Capital in Zagreb is located in the heart of the city and has options of beautiful rooms with stunning views of the city.

The Rixos Premium in Dubrovnik is a highly-rated hotel located minutes away from the Old Town and offering panoramic views of the sea.

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17. Nice, France

 

Average temperature: 16° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 16° / 13° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 11 Hours

 

What is the weather in Nice in April? With its sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, Nice is among the warm European cities in April. However, for someone who is a thalassophyte, the seas around Nice are still not open for a swim due to chilly waters.

 

What to do in Nice in April?  Nice is among the warmest places in Europe. You can stroll through the maze of charming streets in its Old Town or Vieille Ville.

Take a scenic walk along the Promenade des Anglais as it offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and opportunities for people-watching, sunbathing, and cycling.

Immerse yourself in the city’s history at the Nice Côte d’Azur Museum.

Visit the Cours Saleya market as it is renowned for its vibrant flowers, with stalls overflowing with fragrant blooms, juicy fruits, and crisp vegetables.

Take a hike to the top of Chateau Hill. which offers panoramic views of the city and the seas and is home to several historic landmarks, such as the Castle Hill Cemetery, the Jardins Albert I, and the Monument aux Morts.

 

What to pack for Nice in April? With its mildly unpredictable climate due to coastal winds, it is important to pack both light airy clothes as well as heavy jackets, should you plan a visit to Nice in April.

A comfortable pair of shoes is a must since most of the sightseeing will involve lots of walking.

 

Where to stay in Nice in April? The Studio 21m² Rue de France is an apartment located in the centre of Nice and offers a breathtaking view of the French Riviera and the seaside.

The Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel is a 5-star property located in the centre of Nice and offers elegant rooms along with scores of facilities.


The promenade of Nice with colourful buildings and azure sea the warmest place in europe in april

18. Monaco

 

Average temperature: 16° / 11°

Average Sea Temperature: 16° / 13° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 9 Hours

 

What is the weather in Monaco in April? Monaco is the best European destination in April due to its fairly warm and pleasant weather following the settling in of spring. Be prepared to experience a wet climate.

 

What to do in Monaco in April? Join a group tour and visit the most famous sites of Monaco, from the medieval village of Eze, the Terrace of Monaco at La Turbie, the Principality of Monaco, and the fascinating city of Monte Carlo.

Take a scenic drive along the famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit, which winds its way through the streets of the city and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Princess Grace Rose Garden, visit the Oceanographic Museum and go to the famous Monte Carlo Casino, where you can try your luck at the roulette wheel.

 

What to pack for Monaco in April? Due to its pleasant weather, you can pack light for a trip to Monaco, with shorts and T-shirts. Do carry a jacket for the once-in-a-while chilly evenings and the rain.

 

Where to stay in Monaco in April? Boutique Hotel Miramar is the perfect place, with its close distance to the Grand Casino and a sundeck where you can sip on cocktails as you gaze at the sunset.

Port Palace is a palatial hotel which directly overlooks the yachts anchored around Port Hercules. The best perk is its location, right in the centre of the Monaco Grand Prix track!

 

Colourful yachts and buildings on a sunny day in Monaco the hottest country in europe in april

19. Gozo, Malta

 

Average temperature: 20° / 12° C

Average Sea Temperature: 18° / 15° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 8 Hours

 

What is the weather in Gozo in April? The climate of Gozo makes it one of the best places to visit Europe in April as it is quite cool, along with refreshing spells of rainfall which do not last for very long.

The days are sunny, warm, and long whereas the evenings can get a little chilly.

 

What are the things to do in Gozo in April? April is an ideal time for tourists to go swimming and sunbathing, preferably during the daytime.

You can also engage in scuba diving and snorkeling activities at Xlendi Bay, as Gozo offers clear waters and very diverse marine life.

You can also take a Quad Bike Tour in Gozo or a Hop-on Hop-off city sightseeing bus. Consider visiting beautiful arches such as the Wied il-Mielah window. Here’s a complete list of things to do in Gozo.

Do explore different Game of Thrones filming locations in Malta during your vacation.

 

What to pack for Gozo in April? Gozo has relatively warm weather in April in Europe during the daytime; however, evenings might get chilly.

Light rainfall can also be expected. So, make sure to carry light breathable clothes for the day and light jackets along with raincoats and an umbrella to protect you from the rain.

 

Where to stay in Gozo in April? For those looking for a preferably cheaper stay in Victoria, such as a Bed & Breakfast, Provicario is the preferred choice for most tourists, located just 300 meters away, it offers a magnificent view of the Gran Castellano.

For those of you preferring a luxurious touch, the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is a good option.


People swimming on the beach in Blue Lagoon Malta one of the Warmest places in Europe in April

20. Gibraltar

 

Average temperature: 20° / 13° C

Average Sea Temperature: 19° / 15° C

Average Daily Sunshine: 10 Hours

 

What is the weather in Gibraltar in April? Gibraltar is among the warmest countries in Europe in April, with pleasant temperatures throughout the day. Gibraltar also witnesses moderate rainfall in April.

 

What to do in Gibraltar in April? April is the ideal time to explore Gibraltar and its many attractions. Take a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, a high promontory offering a view of the stunning landscape.

Cruise through the Strait of Gibraltar and witness wild dolphins thrive in their natural habitat or the St. Michael’s cave, famous for its light show.

Pictures of landscapes like the Rock of Gibraltar can be made into lasting memories by converting them into custom enamel pins! Perfect to take home as a souvenir, exactly as you need it to be! The best bit is that you could probably make one even after you’re back, in case you forget to collect one in Gibraltar itself!

What to pack for Gibraltar in April?  If you are heading to Gibraltar in April, make sure that you carry a light jacket for the chill, along with a raincoat or an umbrella.

 

Where to stay in Gibraltar in April? The Rock Hotel is a magnificent hotel sitting atop the Rock of Gibraltar with its colonial style façade and offers stunning views.

The Bentley Holiday Apartments are a budget-friendly option with a panoramic view of the sea and the Rock.

 


A red and white lighthouse by the cliffside in Gibraltar the Warmest places in Europe in April

With so many exciting destinations to choose from, which ones are you picking for your next April vacation? These warm places to visit in April in Europe should surely keep you on your toes!

Croatia for its history, Istanbul for its tulip festival, or Ibiza for its nightlife and beaches?

 


FAQs

 

Where is the warmest place in Europe in April?

 

Cyprus is the warmest place to visit in Europe in April and has sunny and warm days with perfectly balanced cool evenings. You can also head out to the Amalfi Coast, Bodrum or Istanbul if you want to experience warmer weather in Europe in April.

 

Where is the warmest place to go in April?

 

For those of you wishing to go beyond Europe, Cancun in Mexico is one of the warmest places to visit in April, with a temperature ranging from 30° / 22 ° and is widely considered as the Caribbean of Mexico with stunning beaches and many historical sites of Mayan origin.

 

Which part of Europe is best in April?

 

If you want to experience a warm climate and enjoy a sunbathe or a swim in the seas, the Canary Islands, the Amalfi Coast and the French Riviera are the places to go, with their assortment of splendid white sand beaches.

Still, hoping for a cold vibe? Head to Switzerland and immerse yourself in its snow-clad peaks, skiing rings and green stretch of grasslands.

 

Is Italy warm in April?

 

Yes, Italy is quite warm in April. April is the beginning of the shoulder season in Italy and signals the advent of Spring, with warm, pleasant, sunny days and chilly evenings accompanied by occasional rainfall. It is the perfect place to be for those seeking respite from the cold.

 
 


Final Thoughts

So, if winter is lasting a little longer this year and you’re looking to escape the cold, there are tons of warm places in Europe in April that you can travel to!

All the spots on this list have near-guaranteed warm weather and sun, and a few even have relatively warm sea temperatures if you want to take a dip in the Mediterranean!

Cyprus is the hottest place in Europe, but I have guides that will show you how to plan an epic itinerary and other warm countries as well. These include Greece, Spain, and France,

However, my favorite place to go in April is Malta. Enjoy your spring getaway!

Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Orange buildings in the town of Eindhoven on a sunny day next to Phillips stadium

Is Eindhoven Worth Visiting in 2025? Top Reasons you Should and Shouldn't!

Eindhoven isn’t on visitors’ radar when they think of The Netherlands. However, this city which was the headquarters to Phillips, is the place to be if you’re into design! If you’re wondering ‘Is Eindhoven worth visiting’, here are all the top reasons to spend at least one day in Eindhoven!

If you’re thinking about visiting the Netherlands, you may be wondering which cities to go to. While Amsterdam and Rotterdam are undeniably popular tourist destinations, another city worth considering is Eindhoven.

‘Is Eindhoven worth visiting?’ you may be wondering. The answer is a definite yes! Eindhoven is a lively and creative city with a rich history and plenty to see and do.

This article will dive into reasons why is Eindhoven worth visiting, explore the city’s top attractions, its food and drink scene, and its many cultural and outdoor activities.

Buildings and sculptures in Eindhoven Is Eindhoven worth visiting

Is Eindhoven worth visiting?


Located in the southern part of the Netherlands, Eindhoven town is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Philips, the world-renowned electronics company and this legacy can be seen throughout the city. Because of its cutting-edge technology and innovative research institutes, Eindhoven is also known as the ‘smartest region’ in the world.

However, Eindhoven is much more than just an industrial hub; it is also a cultural city, with a thriving arts scene, innovative design studios and galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Eindhoven has something to offer everyone, whether they are interested in history, art, or outdoor activities. There is plenty to see and do in this dynamic city, from the Philips Factory Complex and the Van Abbemuseum to the many bike paths and nature reserves.

Another great reason why is Eindhoven worth visiting, is its connectivity with more than  75 destinations in Europe, via the Eindhoven Airport.


When is Eindhoven worth visiting?

 

Eindhoven is a year-round destination with something for everyone. The best time to visit Eindhoven, however, is between April and September, during the spring and summer.

The weather is mild and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot or by bicycle. It is also when many of the city’s outdoor events and festivals take place, including the well-known Dutch Design Week and the annual Park Hilaria fair.

However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and cooler temperatures, the winter months can also be a great time to visit and enjoy the city’s indoor attractions and holiday markets.


A cute cafe in Strijp S with people outside Is Eindhoven worth visiting

Where is Eindhoven and how to reach

 

Eindhoven is a city in the province of North Brabant in the south of the Netherlands. Eindhoven to Amsterdam distance is about 125 kilometres southeast.  Here are some ways to reach Eindhoven:

  • By Air: Eindhoven has its airport, Eindhoven Airport, which is only 8 kilometres from the city centre.

  • By Train: The city centre of Eindhoven is home to a well-connected railway station. It has direct connections to many major Dutch cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. International trains travel to and from Belgium, Germany, and other parts of Europe.

  • By Bus: Eindhoven has a good bus network that connects the city to other parts of the Netherlands and Europe. The central bus station is located directly across from the train station.

  • By Car: Eindhoven is easily accessible by car because it is located near several major highways. It is about a 1.5-hour drive from Amsterdam and a 1-hour drive from Rotterdam.

Once in Eindhoven, you can explore the city by bus or bike. If you prefer to travel by car, the city has a good network of taxis and car rental companies.


A statue of a bulb in the town of phillips in Eindhoven worth visiting

History of Eindhoven

 

Eindhoven has a long and interesting history that dates back to the Middle Ages when it was just a small village. Over time, it gained importance, particularly in the nineteenth century when it became an industrial centre.

Philips helped drive the city’s growth and reputation for innovation and technology.


Attractions in Eindhoven: : What is Eindhoven like?

 

You can spend one day in Eindhoven, and explore this vibrant town.  Here are some things do that are the reasons why is Eindhoven worth visiting:


Explore the museums of Eindhoven

Various museums in Eindhoven are one of the many reasons why is Eindhoven worth visiting.


Van Abbemuseum

The Van Abbemuseum is a modern art museum in Amsterdam that exhibits works by Dutch and international artists. It is well-known for its exceptional and thought-provoking exhibitions and is an excellent place to spend an afternoon.

The museum’s collection includes everything from contemporary art to works from the twentieth century. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions.


DETAILS

Van Abbemuseum

Address:  Bilderdijklaan 10, 5611 NH Eindhoven

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am-5 pm (closed on Mondays)

Price: €12,50 (adults), free (children under 18)



DAF Museum

 

The DAF Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction devoted to the history of the DAF truck and car company. You can learn about the company’s history through a variety of exhibits, including vintage vehicles and engines. The museum also houses a collection of art and design pieces made by DAF employees.


DETAILS

DAF Museum

Address: Tongelresestraat 27, 5613 DA Eindhoven

Timing: Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Price: Adults: €9.50, Children aged 5 to 15: €5.00, Children under 5: free


A cute cafe in Strijp S on a sunny day Is Eindhoven worth visiting
The Phillips stadium in Eindhoven with a woman outside is Eindhoven worth visiting

Philips Museum

 

The Philips Museum is a must-see in Eindhoven. It is housed in the former Philips headquarters and tells the story of the company’s history and innovation over the last century.

The museum includes interactive exhibits and displays, including a replica of the original Philips workshop. You can learn about the company’s innovative products, including the first Philips radio and the iconic Philips light bulb.


DETAILS

Philips Museum

Address: Emmasingel 31, 5611 AZ Eindhoven

Timing: €9 (adults), €6 (students), free (children under 18)

Price: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am-5 pm (closed on Mondays)



Visit the Philips Factory Complex

 

If you are interested in the city’s industrial history, you should visit the Philips Factory Complex. The complex was formerly the Philips electronics company’s headquarters and is now a cultural centre. The buildings, which include galleries, cafes, and shops, are open to the public.


DETAILS

Philips Factory Complex

Address: Emmasingel 31, 5611 AZ Eindhoven, Netherlands

Timing: Tuesday to Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm, Closed on Mondays

Price: Adults: €10, Children aged 6 to 18 years: €5, Children under 6 years: Free


Discover Eindhoven’s Design and Art Scene

 

Eindhoven has a long history of design and art. The city being home to several well-known designers and artists and continuing to be a creative and innovative hotspot can be one of the answers to your question: is Eindhoven worth visiting?

The city hosts the annual Dutch Design Week, which attracts thousands of designers, artists, and visitors from around the world, being one of the reasons why is Eindhoven worth visiting.


De Blob

 

De Blob is a vibrant art installation in Eindhoven’s city centre. It is a large inflatable structure that lights up at night, creating a colourful and playful atmosphere in the area.

You can walk around the installation and take pictures or climb up to the top of the structure to enjoy panoramic views of the city. From the top, you can see the city’s skyline, including the nearby Philips Stadium and the historic Dommel River.


DETAILS

De Blob

Address: Piazza 31, 5611 AE Eindhoven

Timing: open 24/7

Price: Free



A cute cafe in Strijp S in Eindhoven with bread on the table is Eindhoven worth visiting

Strijp-S

 

Strijp-S is a former industrial site that has been converted into a creative and cultural hub. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

The neighbourhood is known for its distinctive architecture, with many of the structures dating back to the early twentieth century. You can stroll through the streets and admire the art installations and street art that can be found throughout the neighbourhood.


DETAILS

Strijp-S

Address: Kastanjelaan, 5616 LZ Eindhoven

Timing: open 24/7

Price: Free to visit


Enjoy the outdoors at Genneper Parken

 

Genneper Parken is a lovely nature reserve in Eindhoven that is ideal for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. The park contains forests, lakes, and streams, as well as numerous hiking trails.

You can also take advantage of the park’s numerous sports facilities, which include a swimming pool, ice skating rink, and golf course.


DETAILS

Genneper Parken

Address: Antoon Coolenlaan 1, 5644 RX Eindhoven

Timing: open daily from 8 am-11 pm (times may vary for individual attractions within the park)

Price: Free to visit

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Explore the Village of Nuenen

 

The Village of Nuenen, located just outside of Eindhoven, is well-known for its association with Vincent van Gogh, who worked and lived there for two years in the late 1800s.

You can explore the Vincentre Museum, and take a walking or cycling tour through the countryside surrounding Nuenen, which will take you past many of the locations Van Gogh painted, including the famous Potato Eaters painting.

I would suggest booking this Van Gogh Village Museum Nuenen Entry Ticket in advance for a seamless experience.

A colourful mural of a robot on a street in Eindhoven is Eindhoven worth visiting

Take a tour of Eindhoven Bottle Distillery

 

The Eindhoven Bottle Distillery is a one-of-a-kind and forward-thinking craft distillery in the heart of Eindhoven. It is the world’s first distillery to produce spirits exclusively in glass bottles, having opened in 2016. You can take this guided tour of the distillery and learn about the process while sampling some drinks.


DETAILS

Eindhoven Bottle Distillery

Address: Cederstraat 1B, 5652 EB Eindhoven

Timing: Tours are available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at various times

Price:  from €12,50-€25 per person depending on the tour package chosen


Attend a Football Match

 

The PSV football club is based in Eindhoven, and attending a match is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s sports culture. The Philips Stadium is a cutting-edge venue that can seat up to 35,000 people, and the atmosphere on match days is electric.


DETAILS

Philips Stadium

Address:  Philips Stadion, Frederiklaan 10A, 5616 NH Eindhoven

Timing/Price:  Ticket prices and tour timings vary depending on the season and schedule, so it’s best to check their website for current information



Experience Eindhoven’s Nightlife

 

The city’s numerous bars, pubs, and nightclubs, are some of the reasons Why is Eindhoven worth visiting. Stratumseind, one of the Netherlands’ longest bar streets, is located in the heart of Eindhoven and is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. It has over 50 bars and clubs, with live music, DJs, and dancing.

Throughout the year, the city also hosts several music festivals and events, such as the annual Eindhoven Psych Lab and the Glow Festival, which features spectacular light installations and projections throughout the city.


The phillips stadium in Eindhoven is Eindhoven worth visiting

Taste Local Cuisine

 

Eindhoven has a diverse food and drink scene, with many local specialities and popular food and drink spots to try.

The city is well-known for its craft beer, and there are numerous breweries and beer gardens to be found throughout the city, such as the Little One Speakeasy Bar and Drinkers Pub. Don’t forget to try delectable local dishes like Stroopwafels, bitterballen, and herring.

What many will also like is that Eindhoven is multicultural so you will also find some great restaurants serving the freshest European, American and Asian cuisine here.


Visit  St. Catherine’s Church

 

St. Catherine’s Church is a lovely Gothic-style church in the centre of Eindhoven. The church, which dates from the 15th century, is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate interior. You can attend one of the many concerts and events held there throughout the year.


DETAILS

St. Catherine’s Church

Address: Kerkstraat 1, 5611 GH Eindhoven

Timing: Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Price: Admission is free


Two coffee glasses with a bowl of cheese at a cafe in Eindhoven is Eindhoven worth visiting one day in Eindhoven

Take a Bike Tour

 

The Netherlands is famous for its bike culture, and Eindhoven is no exception. It has various innovative bike paths such as the Van Gogh Roosegaarde Cycle Path, inspired by Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ and the world’s first-ever floating bicycle path, the Hovenring,

You can rent bikes and take a tour of the city’s many bike paths and trails. You can book this E-Fatbike Rental and explore the local sights of Eindhoven.



If you find this a little difficult to navigate, then consider booking this City Centre Walking Tour first to understand what this city has to offer.


Where to stay in Eindhoven

 

Eindhoven has some great properties to spend a night at, here are some recommendations:

Luxury: NH Collection Eindhoven Centre

Located less than a kilometre away from Philips stadium, NH Collection Eindhoven Centre is a 5-star hotel providing premium rooms with a breakfast buffet. Van Abbemuseum is 701 m away.

Midrange: Hotel the Match

Only 8 kilometres from Eindhoven Airport, this property is perfect for a one-night stay, featuring air-conditioned rooms, a garden, a bar, and free Wi-Fi.

A woman with a fresh tray of macarons in a bakery in Eindhoven is Eindhoven worth visiting what is Eindhoven like
A bicycle against the wall in Eindhoven what is Eindhoven like is Eindhoven worth visiting

Safety Tips: Is Eindhoven Safe?

 

Is Eindhoven safe for tourists? This is a question that you may have when planning a trip to this vibrant Dutch city. The good news is that Eindhoven is generally regarded as a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it is always important to take certain safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind so that you don’t worry about whether is Eindhoven safe.

One of the most important safety tips to remember when visiting Eindhoven is to be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of pickpockets and keeping your valuables close at hand at all times. Another important tip is to stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night.

If you’re travelling alone or with a small group, avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Instead, consider taking a taxi or taking public transportation to get around the city.

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on local news and government websites for any potential safety concerns in Eindhoven, such as protests or demonstrations. Trust your instincts and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Overall, while Eindhoven is a safe city to visit, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Is Eindhoven Safe? The answer is yes, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.


Approximate budget: Is Eindhoven expensive?

 

Eindhoven is regarded as a reasonably priced destination in the Netherlands. Budget-friendly lodging options range from €30-50 per night, with meals at local restaurants or cafes costing between €10 and €15.

A single trip on public transportation costs about €2-4, and many attractions are free to visit. Overall, Eindhoven can be a great choice if you are looking for a low-cost trip to the Netherlands.


A sign that says Hulstlaan in Eindhoven on a sunny day where is Eindhoven is Eindhoven worth visiting

Eindhoven is a city that should not be missed. It has something for everyone, with a rich history, a vibrant cultural scene, and a variety of activities and attractions to suit all interests.

So, why not plan a trip to Eindhoven and experience all that this fascinating city has to offer?


Why is Eindhoven worth visiting FAQs

 

  • How many days do you need in Eindhoven?

If you only want to see the main attractions, such as the Van Abbemuseum, the Phillips Museum, and the DAF Museum, you could do so in a day or two. However, if you want to spend more time exploring the city, experiencing its nightlife, or taking day trips to nearby areas like the Village of Nuenen or Genneper Parken, you should plan to stay for at least 3-4 days.

 

  • What is  Amsterdam to Eindhoven distance?

Eindhoven to Amsterdam distance is about 125 kilometres.

 

  • Is Eindhoven a good place to live?

Yes, Eindhoven is a wonderful place to live because of its vibrant culture, friendly community, and plentiful job opportunities in the technology and design industries. Furthermore, the city has a high standard of living, good public transportation, and a variety of housing options to suit a variety of budgets and lifestyles.

 

  • Is Eindhoven a good place to visit?

Yes, Eindhoven is worth visiting as it is an industrial hub and has a tremendous art and design culture with lots of museums and art galleries to visit.


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Is Eindhoven worth visiting
Is Eindhoven worth visiting

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Weekend in Majorca - The Best of Majorca in 2 Days (2025)

Majorca, or as Spain prefers to call it – Mallorca is a stunning island in the Mediterranean.

Even though it is full of luxury beach resorts, historic places carrying Roman and Moorish past, spectacular mountains, and sheltered coves, many prefer to spend only a weekend in Majorca.

The capital city of Palma is dotted with interesting places to visit during the day and bars and pubs to hit after the sun has set.

Other towns and villages on the island have preserved their charm. A historic tram ride is the perfect example of how Majorca lets you take a step back in the past.

When planning Majorca weekend, you will find plenty of tours and tourist attractions to add to the itinerary.

So, here is all the information you will need for your weekend in Majorca.


PLANNING YOUR MAJORCA ITINERARY| THE ESSENTIALS

Majorca tours worth checking out

 

Where to stay in Majorca


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How to plan a weekend in Majorca

 

Before getting to Majorca, most visitors have to pass through Barcelona. I’ve covered how to get to Majorca below however before getting to Majorca, I would suggest spending a couple of days in Barcelona if you haven’t visited before.

If you’re looking to do something a little different consider a boat hire in Barcelona! This is quite the unique activity in Barcelona. Not only can you head off by yourself if you know how to drive one but it is the perfect activity if you’re with a group.

The sunsets in Spain are mesmerizing and an activity like this makes for an unforgettable experience! An evening should be good enough however you could also spend the entire day as many boats do come with a kitchen and lounge area perfect to store belongings, food and drinks! Then head off to Majorca!

If you’re wondering what to do in Majorca, there’s lots other than just beach hopping! It is one of Spain’s most attractive yet underrated destination for a reason!

When it comes to spending 2 days in Majorca, the best way is to stay in the capital city of Palma, explore its places of interest for a day, and head to nearby towns or villages on the next day.

Staying in Palma will give you a chance to spend most of the time understanding the city’s history, architecture, and food scenes.

And as it has several interesting places nearby, you will be able to cover other villages without spending much time traveling.

Many people chose to stay in Alcudia during the weekend in Majorca, but it is recommended if you are looking for a slow-paced vacation without adding different tourist attractions to your itinerary.

 


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Where to stay in Majorca

 

The island of Majorca is home to numerous hotels, resorts, service apartments, and homestays.

From luxury 5-star hotels in Majorca to modest BnBs, you can choose from different types of accommodations for your Majorca weekend depending on your budget and interest.

Hotels in Palma – staying in the capital city of Palma will help you make the best of your weekend trip in Majorca. You can consider staying in Hotel Saratoga as it is located in the heart of the city with different tourist attractions only minutes away.

If you are a beach lover, then this beachfront Melia Palma Bay is an excellent choice. You will find Ca’n Pere Antoni Beach only 350 meters away. Along with an outdoor pool, a roof-top terrace with sea views is also available at the property.

Hotels in Alcudia – staying in Hotel Can Mostatxins is a treat when it comes to relaxation as well as architecture. Restored 15th and 19th century buildings make it a good place to stay and its spa facilities ensure you are pampered during your weekend in Majorca.

 

You can also consider PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort & Spa. Even though it is a little away from the city center, you will like its extensive sports and spa facilities. It is located next to Can Cap de Bou Beach making it a perfect hotel for your Majorca weekend.


Day 1 in Majorca

 

You can keep the popular La Seu cathedral and Royal Palace of La Almudaina for the morning.

These two are the main points of interest when you are only spending 48 hours in Majorca.

If you feel a bit tired after taking a tour of the Gothic Roman cathedral and the impressive palace, then you can stop by S’Hort del Rei for some time.

This public garden in Majorca is known for its delicate fountains and beautiful statues. It will make for a lovely stop when you want to relax and still enjoy the beauty of the island.

For the 2nd half of the day, Castell de Bellver is a must.

Located a little away from the center of the city, this 14th-century circular castle is perched on top of the hill. Taking a free guided tour is recommended to understand its interesting history.

If you take a bus to the castle, then keep in mind that the bus stops at the foot of the hill and you will have to walk uphill to reach the castle.

When using public transport, you can consider booking this Palma de Mallorca: 24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for covering as many sights as possible.

Depending on how much time you have, you can either stop by Es Baluard Contemporary Arts Centre or Palma Aquarium.

Both the places are popular tourist attractions in Majorca and attract travelers from around the world.

Or you can skip these places and spend the remaining time lazing around Cala Major. This sheltered sandy beach will make your Majorca weekend fun.


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Day 2 in Majorca

 

When it comes to making the best of the weekend in Majorca, it is recommended to take one of the popular Majorca day trips.

It will help you explore more places of interest without having to worry about transport.

A Tramuntana Tour with Historic Railway Ride is enjoyed by many. Taking this tour will give you a chance to soak in the stunning vistas of Tramuntana mountains and explore the charming towns of Deía and Valldemossa. Consider visiting Valldemossa on a day tour as you can get to ride the the historic train and spend a wonderful day in the country.

If you’re travelling with kids, and still need some activities that can keep them engrossed yet fascinated, the Palmaquarium is a great choice. Full of Mediterranean sea life and events this aquarium of the Balearic islands is sure to keep everyone in the family busy for at least half a day if not more!

They also focus on conversation activities and have the only 360 degree whale experience in all of Europe!


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How to reach Majorca

 

When it comes to getting to Majorca, taking a flight is the most preferred way. You can also consider taking a ferry to reach this beautiful Spanish island, but it is usually time-consuming.

And when you only have a weekend in Majorca, opting for a faster mode of transport is recommended. Here is detailed information about different modes of transport to reach Majorca.


Flight to Majorca

 

If you don’t mind flying and are looking for a quick island getaway Majorca is worth considering!

As Barcelona is the capital and a major hub, flights are available for cheap and a flight to Majorca takes about 50-55 minutes. Airlines such as Vueling have good connectivity. Majorca is well-connected to other major cities in Spain by plane. You can take a direct Majorca flight from Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia.

The international Palma de Mallorca Airport is also connected to different European cities, attracting millions of travellers every year.

That has made Majorca one of the top weekend trips from Barcelona.

While you are in Barcelona consider spending some time in the city if you haven’t visited it before. If you’re in a group, the best way to do this would be to opt for a bus hire Barcelona.

Bringing together all your family members or friends in one group to explore can be quite fun!

Another option is hopping on a flight from Valencia will also take less than an hour to reach Majorca.

If you want to reach Majorca by flight from other cities, then the rates may be a bit higher, but it will still take less than 2 hours if you take a direct flight to Majorca from Madrid.

That makes it an ideal choice for those spending a weekend in Majorca.


Ferry to Majorca

 

You can also consider reaching Majorca by ferry if you are okay with spending more time traveling.

The port of Palma is located on the southwest of the island and you will find Alcudia port on the northeast side. Both the ports are served by multiple ferry operators and see the traffic of over 100 ferries every week.

You can take a Majorca ferry from Barcelona or Alcudia and the shortest distance ferry will take around 5 hours to reach the island.

You can opt for these ferry services when reaching the island for your weekend in Majorca. The longer duration ferries need more than 7 hours to reach Majorca.

 


No matter which tours you book and which beaches you visit, a weekend in Majorca will give you a chance to soak in the Spanish vibes.

All you have to do is hop on a plane and Majorca will welcome you with open arms!


FAQs – Weekend in Majorca

 

  • Is 3 days in Mallorca enough?

Spending 3 days in Mallorca is enough to cover all the major attractions and activities.

You can visit Cap de Formentor, stay in Palma, and take a trip to Tramuntana which is popular for its historic train ride. It will give you enough time to see the famous points of Majorca without rushing yourself.

 

  • Is 2 days in Majorca enough?

When you spend 2 days in Majorca, you will get enough time to see what the capital city of Palma is famous for. You can spend one day exploring Palma and then the next day, you can plan to tour the nearby areas.

Many tourists opt for a day trip to Tramuntana where you can ride on a historic train and cover Deía and Valldemossa towns.

 

  • How many days do you need in Majorca?

If you are looking for a fast-paced trip to Majorca, then 2 or 3 days are enough. But if you are interested in a laid-back Majorca vacation then it is recommended to spend at least 5 days here so that you will get enough time to be a part of the local canvas.

 

  • What is the best month to visit Majorca?

The best time to visit Majorca is from June to September as these are summer months.

The weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. If you prefer shoulder season, then consider visiting Majorca in October. The spring months of April and May also see a lot of tourists for several cycling and sailing events.


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. These do not cost you extra to use, but will help provide Continent Hop with a small commission if/when you purchase through them, to recover some of the costs of running this website and providing free content to help you plan your travel. I appreciate your support!



People having a coffee at Cafe central in vienna how many days in Vienna

Here's How Many Days In Vienna is Enough for a FAB Trip! (2025)

Planning an Austria trip and looking to explore Vienna but unsure how many days in Vienna is enough? My Vienna travel experience and itinerary will help you decide if you will need only 3 days in Vienna or if you can manage a 5-day Vienna itinerary. This should help you decide how many days to spend in Vienna with a day by day breakdown so you have the BEST time!

A city that is connected to Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud. A city where the musical, artistic, and intellectual journeys of many have been shaped over the centuries. There are no points for the correct answer as we all know I am talking about Vienna.

So, How many days for Vienna are exactly enough?

Because from the royal Schönbrunn Palace to the medieval St. Stephen’s Cathedral, from Vienna Opera house to the Wien Museum Mozart apartment, and from Prater to Naschmarkt, it is a melting pot of different attractions.

With so much to see and do, how long should I stay in Vienna, you may wonder. Will 3 days be enough? Is a week too long?

Remember that no matter how many days in Vienna you spend, you will leave a piece of your heart behind in the winding lanes here. Just like I did! So, let’s get started!

The opera house in vienna how many days for vienna

How many days in Vienna is Enough?


Vienna is a city where even if you spend a week, it might feel inadequate.

For the question, ‘How many days to spend in Vienna’ will get you different answers from everyone.

But I know as a traveller how important it is to know the exact number of days any place will require to carefully plan your itinerary. (Unless it is an impromptu vacay! In that case, go crazy and do not worry about sticking to a calendar.)

How many days to explore Vienna totally depends on how you want your trip to be.

Are you interested in a slow-paced journey where you can cover even lesser-known attractions of Vienna? Then I will recommend a minimum of 5 days in Vienna as it will give you a chance to cover as many places as possible.

Are you looking for a quick getaway only scratch the surface of this beautiful Austrian capital? Then, how many days to see Vienna has a simple answer. You can spend 2 days in Vienna and make a fast-paced trip.

But the ideal answer for how many days in Vienna is enough will be 3 days. Spending 72 hours in Vienna guarantees the perfect trip.


How many days for Vienna
Day 1 in Vienna

Is 1 day in Vienna enough?

Here’s what to do if you have just 1 day in Vienna – St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Mozarthaus Vienna, Stadpark, Albertina, Vienna State Opera House, Karlskirche, Naschmarkt


Start your 1 day in Vienna with Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, or Stephanskirche, one of Vienna’s significant religious and historic sights.

The mix of Romanesque and Gothic structures you see today dates back to the 1350s and is standing on the site of ruins of earlier churches.

Its 446 feet high south tower dominates the city’s skyline while the multi-coloured tile roof and St. Stephen’s catacombs make for fascinating sights. You can check the visiting hours and book the guided tours of St. Stephen Cathedral here directly from the official website.

Then, head over to Mozarthaus which is located near the cathedral. This Mozart’s apartment turned museum is a must for every Vienna itinerary.

This is where the world-renowned composer of symphonies, concertos, and operas stayed here from 1784 to 1787.

Remember that this museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm and plan your visit accordingly. You can stop by Stadpark as this 19th-century English-style park is dotted with several monuments and statues.

The Vienna River flows through the park dividing it into two sections. Walk around this peaceful green landscape for some time before heading to the next attraction.

Albertina is one of the most interesting museums Vienna has to offer.

The extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings along with around 1 million old master prints is enough to keep you engaged for a minimum of 2 hours.

Beethoven shop in Vienna how many days needed to visit vienna

For guided tours, visiting hours, and ticket prices of Albertina, refer to their official site. Vienna State Opera House is a venue that took around a decade from 1861 to 1869 to complete.

The tickets for the performances are usually staggeringly high and are not easily available. But you can tour the opera house for an hour to understand its rich past. It is an interesting experience to know about the traditions that defined one of the leading opera houses in the world.

The beautiful baroque building of Karlskirche is known for its unique iconography. This 18th-century church is the place to get introduced to artistic delights.

The great dome and tall columns will tell you where Karlskirche stands and as you step inside, the combination of carvings, statues, marble stonework, reliefs, and wall paintings will welcome you.

You can check if the famous Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche is available during your visit. After soaking in the captivating beauty of Vienna, all you need is good food and good vibes.

So what can be a better place than Naschmarkt for this combination? This bustling market dating back to the 16th century is known for offering numerous culinary delights with more than a hundred stalls.

The best way to get the most out of Naschmarkt is to book this guided 2.5-hour Naschmarkt Food Tasting Tour. It will help you navigate through the maze of stalls and will also help you decide how to take your taste buds on a ride.

How many days you need in Vienna depends entirely upon your interests. But keeping the first day packed will help you cover more places.

Murals in a castle in Vienna how many days in vienna is enough

How many days for Vienna
Day 2 in Vienna

Is 2 days in Vienna enough?

Here’s what to do if you have just 2 day in Vienna – Schönbrunn Palace, Schönbrunn Zoo, Prater Park and Ferris Wheel


If you want to know how many days do you need in Vienna, then know that you will need at least 3 days in this beautiful city. Do you know why? It is because you can reserve one day in Vienna entirely for Schönbrunn Palace.

Even if you try to explore the palace in a hurry, you will need at least half a day. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site holds an important place in the history of Vienna and has become one of the popular tourist attractions today.

With 1,441 rooms and expansive gardens surrounding it, Schönbrunn Palace represents the 300 years of the past. It is highly recommended to book this Skip-the-Line Schonbrunn Palace Private Tour as the professional guide will help you explore the palace and the gardens in the best possible way.

Even though this tour takes less than 4 hours, you can spend a few more hours around here soaking in the imperial heritage experience.

For those who want to know what to do in Vienna 2 days, consider spending the evening at Prater Park as this place will take you back in time with its old-time amusements.

You will find many attractions including a planetarium, the Prater Museum, the Kingdom of Railroads, and the Kolarik Bouncy Castle on the premises. But what steals the show is Wiener Riesenrad – the 212 feet tall Ferris wheel that dates back to 1897.

Remember to book your Skip-the-cashier-desk-line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride ticket in advance and enjoy the panoramic views of glittering Vienna in the evening. So, that’s your answer to ‘how to spend 2 days in Vienna’.


Beautiful buildings in Vienna how many days to spend in vienna

How many days for Vienna
Day 3 in Vienna

Is 3 days in Vienna enough?

Here’s what to do if you have just 3 day in Vienna – Spanish Riding School, Natural History Museum, Kunsthistoriche Museum, River cruise, Danube Tower


When you ask ‘How many days do I need in Vienna?’ everyone will advise a minimum of 3 days as the city has so much to offer. Your 3rd day in Vienna will be packed with interesting attractions and activities.

Start your day with a place that attracts travellers from around the world. Spanish Riding School is dedicated to the training of powerful Lipizzaner horses and preserving the tradition of classical dressage.

With more than 450 years of history, it is a treat to watch the shows performed by horses and their trainers here. Keep in mind that even if shows are limited, you can visit Spanish Riding School in the morning to watch the training exercises.

Taking a guided tour will give you a chance to learn about the horses, their training, and the history of this unique attraction. If you are interested in the actual show, then here is the entry ticket for the Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School.

If you start your day early, you will be able to cover two of the interesting museums in Vienna.

You can first go to the Natural History Museum as it takes more than 2 hours to tour the exhibits here. Be it the gigantic dinosaur skeletons or the largest meteorite collections in the world, everything here is awe-inspiring.

Do not forget to go on the virtual trip to the edge of the Milky Way galaxy. Then, depending on the time, you can consider Kunsthistoriche Museum as this is located right next to the Natural History Museum.

Though smaller, Kunsthistoriche Museum is a wonderful place for art enthusiasts. When you wonder, ‘how many days to visit Vienna?’ remember that you can dedicate a day only to the museums and still it will not be enough.

The opulent interiors are a treat as well as the art collections that date back to the 15th century.

There are two ways to spend the evening. You can opt for this relaxing Evening Cruise Along The Danube. It will give you a chance to watch how the city starts illuminating after sunset. You can also enjoy dinner at the onboard restaurant.

Or, you can go to the open-air terrace of the Danube Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Vienna. This iconic landmark also has a cafe and a restaurant where you can grab something to eat while soaking in the vistas.


Town hall in Vienna on a sunny day how many days needed in vienna

How many days for Vienna
Day 4 in Vienna

Is 4 days in Vienna enough?

Here’s what to do if you have just 4 days in Vienna – Belvedere Museum, the Orangery, and the Palace Stables.


Start your 4th day in Vienna with Belvedere Palace. The premises consists of two Baroque palaces along with the Belvedere Museum, the Orangery, and the Palace Stables.

You can buy Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket as it will give you easy access to the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings.

Take a walk around the gardens and you will come across several baroque statues and decorative tiered fountains.

You can spend an afternoon at Hofburg Palace.

Dating back to the 13th century, the structure we see today has been expanded several times over the centuries. It is a place of complicated history where you will get to learn about Vienna’s past, art, architecture, and culture. After spending a couple of hours at Hofburg Palace, you can call it a day.

If you are a wine connoisseur, then Hidden Wine Cellars Tasting Experience is highly recommended for you.

It is a perfect opportunity to explore the Viennese wine scene at a relaxing pace.


Writer's statue in cafe in Vienna how many days vienna how many nights in vienna

How many days for Vienna
Day 5 in Vienna

Is 5 days in Vienna enough?

Here’s what to do if you have 5 days in Vienna – Belvedere Museum, the Orangery, and the Palace Stables.


Even though you can cover Vienna in 3 days, staying here for a minimum of 5 days will give you a chance to explore the lesser-known attractions in the city as well as opt for day trips from Vienna.

The capital city of Austria serves as the perfect base for different types of half-day tours as well. So, here are a few suggestions based on popularity –

Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift from Vienna is loved by travellers as it will take you to the magical landscapes of Hallstatt. Even though it takes around 13 hours, as transportation is arranged by air-conditioned vehicle, you will find it a comfortable experience.

If you are looking for something relaxing, then Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Vienna can be your choice.

Half-day Countryside Wine Tour with Meal is also a good option if you only want to spend a few hours away from the city. If you want to know how many days in Vienna and Salzburg, then consider adding one more day to your itinerary.

This Day Tour of Salzburg from Vienna will give you a chance to explore Salzburg’s famous tourist attractions.


Horse carriage in Vienna on a sunny day how many days do you need to see vienna


The best time to visit Vienna

 

Summer is the best time to visit Vienna with the months of June, July, and August being warm and rainy.

But it also means the city is crowded, especially on a weekend, and tourist attractions are packed. You may also experience higher flight tickets and accommodation prices.

If you are looking for shoulder season, then consider autumn in Vienna. Even though the autumn days are not as hot as summer, the weather is still pleasant.

The months of September, October, and November will bring out the quieter Vienna and lesser rain. So, even if you are yet to decide how many days for Vienna, pick the month that suits you the best.

 


Where to stay in Vienna?

 

When you wonder how many days should you stay in Vienna, know that you will need at least 3 days to see the city with a fast-paced itinerary.

So, here are some of the best hotels in Vienna no matter how many days to stay in Vienna you decide.

Book your stay at Hilton Vienna Park and you will find yourself in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw away from Stadpark and other major tourist attractions. This 5-star hotel in Vienna offers free wifi, private parking, family rooms, and a rich buffet breakfast.

If you are looking for mid-range hotels in Vienna, then Hotel Josefshof am Rathaus is the best choice. This 4-star property is located near Mariahilferstraße Shopping Street and Vienna City Hall.

Are you still trying to decide how many nights in Vienna? Then, even if you choose only a couple of nights in Vienna, this property will pamper you the best.

When it comes to budget stays in Vienna, Meininger Hotel Wien Downtown Franz tops the list. Be it the stylish rooms or a bar or a games room, you will find everything on the premises. The staff will also help you with bike rentals and luggage storage. If you are wondering how many days should I spend in Vienna, you can stay here even for a week without burning a hole in your pocket.

Schonbrunn palace on a sunny day in Vienna how many days you need in vienna

How to reach Vienna?

 

Vienna is well-connected to the rest of the world and can be reached without much hassle.

You will find direct or connecting flights from major European cities. You will also find a few US and Canadian cities that have direct flights to Vienna.

The options of a train or a bus are also available. Many travellers choose overnight train or bus journeys to reach Vienna from other European cities as it might be cheaper than a flight and also makes for an interesting travel experience.

If you are in Bratislava or Budapest, you can consider travelling to Vienna by boat. But keep in mind that there are not many boat operators and you will have to book your tickets in advance.


How to get around Vienna?

 

Vienna is the city where you will find multiple public transport options to take you around without burning a hole in your pocket. Subway and local trains, as well as buses and trams, connect the city, and many touristy areas in Vienna are also easily walkable.

It is highly recommended to buy Vienna PASS for the number of days you are spending in the city. This includes free or discounted entry to many attractions along with unlimited hop-on, hop-off bus rides.

If you are planning to use other public transport modes, then City Pass with Public Transportation & Discounts will give you unlimited free rides on a tram, metro, train, and bus line.

Hofburg palace in Vienna how many days in vienna

So, how many days for Vienna are you planning?

Are you interested in 3 days in Vienna where everything major is covered or are you finalizing a 5-day Vienna itinerary where you can also explore other Austrian towns and wineries?

Do let me know what you think is the best answer for how many days to spend in Vienna. I am sure the beautiful chaos of Vienna will be a memorable journey for you!


FAQs – How many days in Vienna

  • How long should I spend in Vienna?

Spending 3 days in Vienna is long enough to dedicate one day entirely to Schönbrunn Palace and also to add other lesser-known attractions to your Vienna itinerary.

  • Is 2 days in Vienna enough?

2 days in Vienna are enough only if you are okay with a fast-paced itinerary where hardly major tourist attractions are covered. It will not give you enough time to add all the charming palaces and museums Vienna has to offer and it may be enough to attend a concert or an opera.

  • Is 5 days in Vienna too long?

No, in fact, 5 days in Vienna can make for the perfect trip. It will let you cover all the important tourist destinations in Vienna including palaces, art galleries, and museums. 5 days in Vienna also mean a day trip to Hallstatt or a tour to a winery near Vienna.

  • Is 4 days in Vienna enough?

Spend 4 days in Vienna and you will get enough time to visit popular sights like Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and Albertina. With 4 days in Vienna, you will be able to squeeze in a half-day tour to a nearby winery or a day trip to Salzburg or Hallstatt.


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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how many days in athens Acropolis of athens on how many days to see athens how many days to spend in athens

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Things to do in Tenby in the Rain (2025) - The Best of Pembrokeshire!

Pembrokeshire is a great road trip and Tenby is one of its best fishing villages, however due to its location it can get tricky to find good days, so here’s things to do in Tenby in the rain so that you make the best use of your holiday here! (If you don’t plan to read or nap!)

The air was thick with sea spray as I made my way to St.Govan’s Chapel, a quirky yet rare location worth visiting.

We were not too far from Tenby, where we’d spend a couple of refreshing hours. It lies along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which covers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country.

The town used to be called ‘Dinbych y Pysgod’, which is Welsh for ‘little town of fishes’.

However, this stunning town isn’t just about fishing, be it sunny or not! Even if you end up finding a rainy day here when visiting, here’s some of the best things to do in Tenby in the rain (and some when it isn’t!)


A woman walking past a colorful bookshop in tenby things to do in tenby in the rain

Following the Norman conquest in the twelfth century, the town developed into an important Norman port, and a castle was built on Castle Hill to defend the town.

The walls that you can see around the harbour today were constructed by the Normans in the late thirteenth century after three attacks by the Welsh forces.

The harbour is lined with colourful, pastel-painted houses and has a thriving boating and fishing community. Boats from the Tenby Harbour depart for the peaceful Caldey island regularly.

Tenby is a great summer Welsh holiday destination with plenty of indoor things to do if you are here in the rainy or winter season. There are many Tenby attractions like the Tudor Museum or theme parks in the town which you can enjoy in the rain.

 


Things to do in Tenby in the rain

Here’s what to do in Tenby irrespective of the weather!

Pembrokeshire still looks beautiful in the rain, but understandably, you wouldn’t want to be outdoors for long. There are a few things to do in Tenby in the rain – indoor Tenby attractions where you can spend time without worrying about the rain.


Tudor Merchant House

 

The Tudor Merchant House is a late 15th-century townhouse furnished with household items and furnishing as it was in 1500. The National Trust maintained this building after it was donated in 1938.

By stepping into the building, you’ll be able to see the world of a prosperous merchant and his family in Tudor Tenby.

The house is open for guided tours only. You need to book tickets in advance and arrive at the allocated time to start the tour on time.


DETAILS

Address:  Quay Hill, Tenby SA70 7BX, United Kingdom

Timings: Open times and days are limited. See calendar here

Approximate price: £6.50 for adults, £3.25 for a child

Location can be found here


Bookstore sign in tenby town things to do in tenby in the rain

Colorful building by the beach in tenby things to do in tenby in the rain

Tenby Museum and Art Gallery

 

Established in 1978, the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is the oldest independent museum in Wales.

The museum overlooks Castle Beach and Caldey Island. It has two art galleries – one which has the permanent collection and the second exhibits changing temporary exhibitions.

The first art gallery displays the work of many famous Welsh artists such as Gwen and Augustus John, John Piper, David Jones, John Knapp Fisher, John Uzzell Edwards, and Meirion Jones.

You should also see ‘Story of Tenby Gallery’, which shows the town’s history from the 9th century onwards.
You can read about the Museum’s upcoming exhibitions here.


DETAILS

Address:  Castle Hl, Tenby SA70 7BP, United Kingdom

Timings: 10am – 4pm from Wednesday to Saturday (last admission 3.30pm)

Approximate price: £4.95 for adults. Children can accompany adults for free.


St Mary’s Church

 

St Mary’s Church, one of the largest parish churches in Wales, is in the centre of the town. The building dates from the 15th century, with some features retained from the 13th century.

The feature that stands out is the carved chancel roof with a paneled ceiling and carved bosses. The Church has two chapels, St. Thomas Chapel and St. Nicholas Chapel. The Church has many memorials from the 15th to 19th centuries.


DETAILS

Address:  High St, Tenby SA70 8AP, United Kingdom

Approximate price: Free entry


Llewellyn’s Gallery

 

Llewellyn’s Gallery is a photographic gallery which showcases the work of fine art photographer Gary Llewellyn. The Gallery has framed and mounted Limited Edition Prints and Llewellyn’s latest work that you can purchase.

This is a great place to buy a souvenir – the artist has beautiful photos of the Pembrokeshire landscape.

The Gallery is located near the Old Market Hall and is open on all days except Sunday.


DETAILS

Address:  Cobourg Shop, Upper Frog St, Tenby SA70 7JD, United Kingdom

Timings: 10:30am – 5pm from Monday to Saturday


Things-to-do-in-Tenby-in-the-Rain-continent-hop-5

When it comes to fun things to do in Tenby, I can’t help but think about its many theme parks.

While I don’t think you will be able to enjoy the parks entirely in the rain if it’s still pouring and you have more time to spend in Tenby, consider doing indoor activities at any of these theme parks in Tenby.


Dinosaur Park

 

The Dinosaur Park is an amusement park with walking trails, rides and lots of activities for kids.

While they have indoor activities, you’d be missing out on a lot if you actually visit when it rains – so this is not one of the best things to do in Tenby in rain.
This is an excellent place for families with kids, and there are enough rides and activities for kids to spend half or an entire day here. You can buy tickets here.


DETAILS

Address:  Gower View, Gumfreston, Tenby SA70 8RB, United Kingdom

Timings: Days when the park is open and opening time available here

Approximate price: £15.95 for adults, £14.75 for children


Heatherton World of activities

 

This park has different zones for activities. There are many activities here that you won’t be able to do in the rain. But there are indoor activities that you can do here, such as laser clay pigeon shooting, escape rooms, indoor bowls etc.

Pre-booking is a must due to covid restrictions, especially if you want to visit during school holidays. Book your visit here.


DETAILS

Address:   St Florence, Tenby SA70 8RJ, United Kingdom

Timings: Opening times vary: available here.

Approximate price:  Credit pass system for individuals/families. £14.60 to £22.65 for individual credit-based passes. Check more information here.


Dinosaur Park

 

The Dinosaur Park is an amusement park with walking trails, rides and lots of activities for kids.

While they have indoor activities, you’d be missing out on a lot if you actually visit when it rains – so this is not one of the best things to do in Tenby in rain.
This is an excellent place for families with kids, and there are enough rides and activities for kids to spend half or an entire day here. You can buy tickets here.


Folly Farm

 

Out of the different zones at this park, you can only experience the barn and parts of the zoo indoors. Folly Farm also has indoor play areas for kids. The large fairgrounds and outdoor play areas are best suited for when it’s not raining.

Pre-booking is not necessary, but if you’d like to book tickets in advance, book here.


DETAILS

Address: Begelly, Kilgetty SA68 0XA, United Kingdom

Timings: Planned opening times are available here (subject to Covid restrictions).

Approximate price: £21.95 for adults, £19.95 for children, annual pass available too


Two people sitting by the beach in tenby in sunshine things to do down tenby

Tenby attractions you can see when it’s not raining


If you’re here when it’s not raining, you can spend time at one of Tenby’s beaches. You can indulge in water sports, swim or simply sit by the beach. These are the three main beaches in Tenby –

 

  • Tenby North Beach – Large sandy beach with some rock pools and the Goskar Rock, often crowded during summer

  • Tenby South Beach – Another sandy beach but less commercialised as compared to the Tenby North Beach

  • Castle Beach – Smaller, sandy beach close to the Tenby Harbour

 

You should be able to rent deck chairs, find change rooms, and find cafes to eat at all the beaches.


Tenby Harbour

 

Spend time at the pretty harbour lined with pubs and restaurants. The Tenby Harbour also has a small beach called the Harbour Beach.

Sunset is a great time to be at the Tenby Harbour, and later you can spend time at the Harbour Brewery, a great place to try local brews and seafood.


Glamping Tenby

 

Tenby attractions include glamping sites, a great way to experience the coast.

There are many small towns, villages and neighborhoods dotting along the Pembrokeshire coast which have glamping facilities – and each of them has a unique specialty to boast of. The most popular choices for areas to stay are Tenby, St.Davids, Milford Haven and Fishguard to name a few.

Many yurts, bell tents and treehouses are available for glamping in Tenby. However, if you’re looking for a great experience, irrespective of how the weather turns out, consider opting for a luxury glamping experience – Unique Hideaways is a good option.

 


DETAILS

Address:  Eastern House, Porthcurno, Penzance TR19 6JX, United Kingdom

Timings: Mid-May to late October 10 am to 5 pm

Approximate price: Adult £9.00 / Children under 18 (under 5 are free) £5.50 / Student £8.00 / Family (2 adults and up to three children under 18) £26.00


Colorful house by the beach in tenby things to do in tenby in the rain

Things to do around Tenby


Places to visit around Tenby include St David’s, Milford Haven, Pembroke and Saundersfoot.

While there is no dearth of beautiful coastal towns in Pembrokeshire, many of these are a little far from Tenby. If you have limited time, here are the best things to do near Tenby.


Caldey island

 

Getting to the peaceful Caldey island needs only a few minutes by boat from the Tenby Harbour. Caldey Island is home to a group of Cistercian monks who farm the land and sell their products to visitors.

Boats run from the Tenby Harbour to Caldey island every half an hour except Sundays. The weather affects these trips, and no boat will likely sail to the island if you are here in stormy weather.

The boat will drop you at Priory Beach on the island. There are no vehicles on the island, so you’ll have to walk.

The island is a haven for flora and fauna – you can possibly see red squirrels, hedgehogs and Soay sheep on the island. You can visit the Old Priory, Sy Iltyd’s Church, and St David’s Church.

A small village shop sells the chocolate and perfumes that the monks produce. You can also see how the chocolate sold here is made in the chocolate factory. You can walk around the coastal path and get a view of the island from the lighthouse on the island.


St Catherine Island

 

St Catherine island, or St Catherine’s Rock as it is called locally, is a tidal island near Castle Beach. St. Catherine island is worth visiting for its spectacular views and wildlife. You can see the fort while on the island and spend time at the beach.

You can walk to St Catherine Island from Castle Beach at low tide.

The island is accessible only if you visit when the tide’s out, and the weather is reasonable. Check the daily Facebook announcements here and information about in-season visits here to know if it’s accessible when you plan your visit.

You can also check the tide timetable to know about high tide Tenby when the island is not accessible.


Catherines island near tenby fun things to do in tenby

Manorbier Castle

 

The Manorbier Castle is a Norman castle located in the Manorbier village, about 10 kilometres away from Tenby. You can walk up to the seaside castle and spend time at the Manorbier beach.

Pre-booking is not needed, but the castle is closed on some days every month.


DETAILS

Address:  Manorbier, Tenby SA70 7SY, United Kingdom

Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM

Approximate price: Adults £6 for adults, £4 for children and seniors


Freshwater West

 

About 28km away from Tenby is Freshwater West, Wales’s most dependable spot for a good surf session. Freshwater West Beach is considered one of the best places to surf in Wales.

The peaks can go as high as 6-8ft, and beginners shouldn’t surf here due to the strong undercurrents. The best time to surf is between April to October.


How to get to Tenby?

 

By air: The closest airport to Tenby is Cardiff. Cardiff Airport is 150 km away from Tenby. You can get to the airport by car (about 2 hours) or train/bus (5 to 5.5 hours). Cardiff is well connected to London, Belfast, Edinburgh and many other European cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, Malaga etc.

By train: You can get to Tenby via train from Cornwall, London, Swansea, Manchester, Edinburgh and many such destinations in the UK. Trains are usually open for booking 3 months in advance in the UK.

By road: Get to the A478, which will take you to Tenby. Like trains, many major cities are connected to Tenby by bus.


Tenby from London

 

Tenby is well connected to London by road, bus and train.

By road: Tenby is about 382 kilometres away from London. You can drive to Tenby in 4.5 hours or take the bus.

National Express runs frequent coaches from London to Tenby. The bus departs from Victoria Coach Station in London and arrives at Tenby’s Upper Park Road bus stop. Tickets cost between £22-£29

By train: There is no direct train to Tenby. You’ll have to change the train at least once to get to Tenby or even twice.

By air: There are no direct flights. Flights will need 3-5 hours or more due to the stop/s.

It’s easier to take the bus or drive to Tenby than travel by train or flight.


Best time to visit Tenby

 

Tenby has a temperate maritime climate with warm summers and cool winters. It rains throughout the year and can, as such, be unpredictable when it comes to rain.

June, July and August are the hottest months in Tenby. If you visit in August, the island has more visitors due to school holidays. Winters (December – March) are cold and wet. The winter months get the most rainfall.

The best time to visit Tenby is anytime between April to September. But if you want to avoid crowds, avoid the summer months: the island gets thousands of visitors every summer.

It’s best to check weather forecasts before planning your visit as there are only limited Tenby things to do when it rains.

Many Tenby attractions, such as beaches and theme parks, are best to visit when it’s not raining.


colorful houses by the beach in tenby attractions in tenby

Boats along the beach in tenby things to do

Things to do in Tenby in the Rain – FAQs


 

What to do if it rains in Tenby?

If it rains in Tenby, you can visit a few places, such as the Tudor House, Tenby Art and Museum Gallery, St Mary’s Church and do indoor activities at a few of the theme parks in the town.

 

Where can I go on a rainy day in Pembrokeshire?

St On a rainy day in Pembrokeshire, you can do indoor activities or see the city’s churches and art galleries.

The weather in Pembrokeshire is quite unpredictable, but it rains more in the winter months, with October being the wettest month. It is partly cloudy throughout the year and can rain during any month.

 

Where can I go in the rain in Wales?

There are many indoor things to do in Wales, whether you are in Cardiff, Swansea or one of the towns in Pembrokeshire. You can shop, spend time at one of the museums, spend time at indoor activity centres or spend time at an art gallery in the city.

 

Is Tenby good for a holiday?

Yes, Tenby is good for a holiday if you are here for the beaches or to enjoy its small-town atmosphere. The attractions in Tenby also make it an excellent place for family holidays with kids due to its many theme parks and zoos.

Things to do down Tenby also include seeing Norman castles and nearby islands.

 

What county is Tenby?

Tenby is a part of Pembrokeshire county. It is a part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park on the western shore of Carmarthen Bay.

 


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Here's How Many Days In Athens is Enough for a FAB Trip! (2025)

Planning your next Greece trip and wondering how many days in Athens is enough? Then I’ve broken this Athens itinerary into what you can do each day depending on the number of days you have. It will help you decide how many days do you need in Athens to make the best of your time

The ancient city of Athens is the perfect amalgamation of past and present, making it a charming destination in Europe. The towering Acropolis, vibrant neighbourhoods, mouthwatering food, and sprawling museums make it one of the best places to visit in Greece.

But then, with so much to offer, how many days in Athens can be enough to cover it all? I would suggest a minimum of 3 days for all the significant sites.

After all, the Acropolis, Plaka, and Panathenaic Stadium are the reasons why to visit Athens. I am glad to have found this time and money-saving Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket while planning my itinerary.

Based on my Athens experience, spending 5 days in Athens is the best way to understand this city. So, if you want to know how many days do you need in Athens and how to plan your itinerary, my experience with this Greek city would be helpful.

Aerial view of athens on how many days in athens is enough

How many days in Athens is Enough?


How many days in Athens do you need if you are visiting Athens for the first time?

You can spend 3 days in Athens and cover the most important places like the Acropolis of Athens, the National Archaeological Museum, and Monastiraki ruins.

3 days in Athens will also be enough to stroll around colourful Plaka or Monastiraki and grab a coffee in one of the cute cafes around. If you are staying in Athens for 24 hours, then this Athens in a day itinerary is all you need.

Got more time on your hands? Stay in Athens and reach for the lesser-known sites and neighbourhoods to be a part of the local canvas.

How many days to spend in Athens for a day trip to Delphi or Meteora? Here is a well-planned 3/4/5 days itinerary for the benefit of all those wondering how many days do you need in Athens.

If you are interested in spending a week in Greece, this Greece 7-day itinerary will be helpful.


How many days in Athens?

Is 1 day in Athens enough?

Here’s what to do if you have just 1 day in Athens – Acropolis of Athens, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora of Athens, Monastiraki Square, and Plaka


Many people first head to the Acropolis Museum and then go to the Acropolis. But I suggest exploring the Acropolis first so that you will understand which parts of the Acropolis Museum are useful for you and what the exhibits here are all about.

The best way to escape the crowd and explore the Acropolis of Athens as leisurely as possible is to hit the entrance a little before 8 am. When the doors open, you can be one of the first visitors to enter before the tours start covering the grounds.

After a lot of research, I decided to buy the Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Along with the Acropolis, it covers the Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Library, Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery, and Aristotle’s School. With additional audio guides for Plaka, Acropolis, and Parthenon, this Athens combo ticket is a lifesaver for first-time visitors.

I had heard and read so much about the Athens Acropolis that I wondered if it would feel underwhelming. But as I sat foot inside the premises, I was awe-struck by all the well-preserved archaeological remains of different ancient buildings here.

In fact, the timeless captivating beauty of the Acropolis is the reason why visit Athens Greece. Each one carries historical, religious, and cultural significance that is engrossing to understand.

How many days to spend in Athens to give justice to this fascinating place? You will need one entire day to explore the popular tourist attractions in Athens. Ensure you are spending enough time here to visit important sites like

  • The Parthenon
  • Old Temple of Athena
  • Erechtheum
  • Odeon of Pericles
  • Propylaea
  • The Temple of Athena Nike

If you need help with how to go through all the sights and make the best of your time, then this Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour is highly appreciated.

It will help you explore the ruins on the hill as well as the Acropolis Museum in 4 hours, keeping the second half of the day for other interesting points.


After having lunch at one of the many restaurants around, head off to the Ancient Agora of Athens.

Agora translates to a gathering place and this is where social, political, and commercial gatherings used to happen. Some of the most important sights to cover here are –

  • Temple of Hephaestus
  • Hadrian’s Library
  • Southwest Temple

Do stop for some time to take in the breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the Agora and also look over the city from this site.

Now that you have done enough sightseeing for a day, it is time to go to Monastiraki Square.

Right outside the Agora of Athens, this square represents one of the oldest areas in Athens. If you are visiting Monastiraki Square on a weekend, then you are in for a treat.

This whole square turns into a local market where everything from clothes to souvenirs is sold, and that too with bargaining to your heart’s content! As this is the shopping district in the city, you will find plenty of shops lining the street and selling different antiques.

Grab a bite or enjoy coffee at one of the traditional tavernas around here and then head to the famous Plaka neighbourhood. How many days needed in Athens to soak in the fun vibes of these areas? At least one whole evening should be dedicated to Plaka.

Plaka is known for its narrow cobblestone streets dotted with neoclassical buildings, giving it the feel of a tiny village right in the heart of the city.

It is a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Even though Plaka has several museums like Frissiras Museum, keep this night only for relaxation.

Take a walk along Adrianou Street and enjoy souvenir and handicraft shopping. Pamper your taste buds with a variety of food before calling it a day.


Acropolis of athens on how many days to spend in athens


acropolis of athens in how many days to visit athens

How many days in Athens?

Is 2 days in Athens enough?

Here’s what to do if you have 2 days in Athens – Kerameikos Archaeological Site, Panathenaic Stadium, Athens National Garden, and Kolokotroni Street


Kerameikos Archaeological Site is one of the lesser-visited places in Athens. It is included in Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket.

Packed with different ancient building ruins, funerary sculptures, and temple columns, this is one of the best archaeological sites in Greece.

You will also find Kerameikos Cemetery here which was used for burials for over a thousand years. Visit the museum on the premises and check the collection of burial-related artefacts and original burial monument sculptures.

How many days to see Athens’ well-known sites? You can spend at least 3 days in Athens and include the most important ones in the first 2 days.

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium next as it is one of the top historic places in Athens.

This is the only marble stadium in the world. Panathenaic Stadium is famous for hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympics in 1896.

Considered to be the first international Olympics in modern history, this place is an important milestone in sports history. You can get the official audio tour of this stadium to make the most of your time.

How many days for Athens so that you can eat at different eateries and famous restaurants?

For that, you will need to spend more than a week in Athens.

But instead of searching for a good restaurant, I suggest opting for this Athens Street Food Tasting Tour. This 3-hour tour is the best way to pamper your taste buds as you sample the Greek street food with a local guide. It can be an all-inclusive experience as vegetarian options are also available.


Acropolis of athens on how many days do you need in athens

How many days in Athens?

Is 3 days in Athens enough?

Here’s what to do if you have 3 days in Athens – Mount Lycabettus, Kolonáki, Monument to the Unknown Soldier, National Archaeological Museum, Mnisikleous Street


Start your day early with a hike to Mount Lycabettus. This is one of the popular hiking trails in Athens and is less than 1.5 kilometres.

With less than one hour to complete, this moderately easy hike to Mount Lycabettus will reward you with spectacular views of the capital city.

You can also take the Lycabettus Hill Cable Car to reach the top of the hill.

Have breakfast at the hilltop restaurant and visit the Saint George’s chapel perched on the top of the Lycabettus. But how many days do I need in Athens to enjoy this hike to the fullest? You will need at least 3 days so that you can dedicate one early morning for Lycabettus.

Spend some time strolling around Kolonáki if you are a shopping enthusiast. Be it the international shops you are interested in or upscale Greek boutiques that catch your fancy, you will find everything in the Kolonáki neighbourhood.

Stop by the Monument to the Unknown Soldier where you can watch the changing of the guard ceremony every hour.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum next where everything from the prehistoric collection to life-like sculptures await you.

Its extensive collection of Greek Antiquity artefacts has put it among one of the top museums in the world.

It is recommended to check the timings and ticket prices of the National Archaeological Museum before planning your visit.

If you are a history buff and spending more than 3 days in Athens, consider buying a special combo ticket for 15€ that includes the National Archaeological Museum, Christian Museum of Athens, Epigraphic Museum, Numismatic Museum and Byzantine.

Consider spending a leisurely evening roaming around Mnisikleous Street which is located in Plaka district.

This is where you will find lively Mnisikleous stairs dotted with multiple food joints. Pair this traditional Greek cuisine with a glass of wine, sit on the stairs, and enjoy the view of the city. This bustling area is perfect for spending the evening in Athens.


How many days in Athens?

Is 4 days in Athens enough? / Is 5 days in Athens too long?

 

How many days in Athens is enough? I have heard this question far too many times from those who believe 4 days may be too much in this city!

For those spending 4 or more days in Athens, this capital city has a lot to offer. Hidden from the touristy crowd, you will find numerous gems in the neighbourhoods of Athens. Or, you can opt to get out of the city by booking the best of day trips from Athens.

Here are a few of the remaining tourist attractions in Athens that you can visit –

Varvakios Central Market – the central market in Athens is a vibrant place and a heaven for foodies. This is where you will find the best Greek version of tapas – ouzo and meze. Stop by the Karayiannis for spicy lamb meatballs or try authentic Greek dishes from Stoa ton Athanaton.

Museums in Athens – how many days should I spend in Athens to cover museums and art centres? I wondered after checking the long list of all the popular places. You will find several interesting museums including the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Benaki Museum, the Byzantine and Christian Museum, the War Museum of Athens, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art.


Aerial view of athens in athens how many days and how many nights in athens

Day trips from Athens

 

There are different day trips from Athens that you can choose from depending on your interests. But how many days in Athens will you need to cover these day trips?

Spend at least 5 days in Athens so that you can go to Delphi or Meteora. For a seamless experience, I would suggest some of the top-rated day trips many tourists have loved. These trips include transport, lunch, a local guide, and skip-the-line tickets wherever needed.


Delphi Archaeological Site Full-Day Guided Trip – this 11-hour trip to Delphi will give you a chance to explore local Greek villages along with visiting popular sites like the Temple of Apollo and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia. Entry to the Archaeological Museum of Delphi is also covered.

 

Meteora Monasteries & Caves Day Trip – When you are in Athens, do not miss an opportunity to explore the enchanting landscape of Meteora. Be it the ancient monasteries or the hermit caves, this Meteora day trip from Athens is full of wonders.

 

Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio – travel comfortably to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mycenae, marvel at the theatre of Epidaurus, and stroll around the picturesque coastal city of Nafplio.

 

Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch – this well-planned day trip from Athens to the Saronic Islands is the perfect way to catch some tan. How many days to visit Athens and then head out to explore the Mediterranean Sea and the islands? I would suggest reserving one full day for Poros, Hydra, and Aegina.


acropolis of athens in how many days to see athens

How many nights in Athens?

Where to stay in Athens?


How many days to spend in Athens and where to stay to make the most of your time in this fascinating city?

You can spend a minimum of 3 nights in Athens and stay in the popular Plaka neighbourhood to soak in the local vibes.

Staying in Plaka or Monastiraki will allow you to reach the popular sites of the Acropolis on foot. If you are looking for budget hotels in Athens, then consider Akadimia or Thiseio. Here are a few hotel suggestions in Athens to suit your needs –

 

Luxury hotel in AthensElectra Metropolis is located in the heart of the city near Plaka. Its elegant rooms, spacious suites, spa and wellness centre, and 2 swimming pools ensure a pleasant stay while being close to all the popular places.

Mid-range hotel in AthensThe Athens Gate Hotel is known for offering 4-star facilities without burning a hole in your pocket. It is conveniently located opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus and is minutes away from the New Acropolis Museum.

Budget hotel in AthensArethusa Hotel is located near Plaka and offers simple yet cosy accommodation for budget travellers. AC rooms, free wifi, and 24-hour front desk are some of the facilities at this hotel.



acropolis of athens in how many days needed in athens

So, how many days in Athens are you planning to spend? Did I convince you that this magical city needs more than 3 days to explore? Or are you planning a quick weekend getaway in Athens?


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


PIN FOR LATER!

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One Day in Amman - Fab Things to do in Amman (2025)

Just one day in Amman can get quite busy as if you’ve never been to a Middle Eastern or Asian destination it can be quite overwhelming! So take your pick from these Amman things to do based on your interests to see the best of Amman in a day in Amman!

While I wasn’t in Asia, taking a walk through the streets of Amman felt quite close to being home – yet the food and history around did make sure to make me feel I was exploring a new place as well!

Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is where most tourists start or end their Jordan itinerary. The well-connected city is the country’s cultural, political, and economic centre.

The city, which is pretty modern now, is, in fact, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. An excavation in 1994 uncovered homes that are believed to have been built during the stone age around 7000 BC.

I’d suggest you keep at least one day in Amman for sightseeing.

Or maybe split it in half a day from when you arrive and when you leave Jordan if you’re flying in and out from here. Two days is ideal if you want to experience most of the fun things to do in Amman.

There are many Amman things to do, from fascinating ancient ruins to eating delicious hummus and kunafa.

Here is a list of all things to do Amman: pick and choose depending on the time you have.


Street art of a woman with thick hair in amman - things to do in Amman

One day in Amman – The best Amman things to do!


Amman things to do: See the Roman Theatre and Amman Citadel

 

The Roman Theater was built between 138CE and 161CE during the reign of Antoninus Pius when the city was under the control of Romans and was actually called Philadelphia!

This second-century architectural marvel is a set of curving stairs built to seat about 6000 people in a way that would shield spectators from the sun. The Theatre still hosts plays, summer concerts and important cultural events.

The Theatre is flanked by two museums: the Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions and the Jordan Folklore Museum. The museums display handicrafts, costumes and jewellery from Jordanian and Palestinian folk heritage.

You can also see the Roman Nymphaeum, just a few metres away from the Theatre. It’s a partially preserved public fountain that dates back to the 2nd century.

A kilometre and half away from the Roman Theatre is the Amman Citadel National Historic Site. The places worth seeing here are the Temple of Hercules, ruins of the Byzantine church, the Umayyad Palace and the Jordan Archaeological Museum.

The inscription close to the Temple of Hercules dates it to around 160 CE. A huge statue of the Roman hero Hercules was built here. Today, only the hand of the large statue remains, along with some temple pillars.

The other place worth visiting is the Umayyad Palace, a palace that was built when the Umayyad dynasty ruled the city. The Palace is actually a ruin: most of it was destroyed due to an earthquake. A restored domed entrance and walls with Islamic art remain here.

The ruins of the Byzantine church of the 6th century also lie within this complex. Expect to see the church’s pillars, floor plan, and mosaics here.

You can learn more about these ruins and see other artefacts from archaeological sites in Jordan in the Jordan Archaeological Museum situated next to the church.

Visiting these two sites is a must on an Amman things to do list , even if you spend only one day in Amman.


For a city like Amman what to see when the sun sets?

The Citadel offers beautiful panoramic views of the city. So if it’s possible, finish visiting the ruins before sunset and catch a gorgeous sunset from here.

There are steps connecting the Theatre and the Citadel. You can actually climb stairs and walk up to the Citadel from the Theatre.


DETAILS

Roman Theatre 

Address: Taha Al-Hashemi St., Amman, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM

Cost: Free

Amman Citadel 

Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan

Timings: Sunday to Thursday: 8 AM to 7 PM

Cost: 2JD

Pro tip: Ramadan affects hours of operations for monuments and public places in Amman. Check if hours have been reduced when you decide what to do when putting together an Amman things to do list.


The citadel in Amman - things to do in Amman

Amman things to do: See the colourful old city centre: Al-Balad or Downtown Amman

 

Explore the downtown area and visit one or more of the souks here.

You can visit Souk Gold for gold and silver jewellery (just opposite Souk Mango), Souk Mango for dresses and bridal wear and Souk El-Khodra, a local market for fruits and veggies.

If you have more time for places to go in Amman in the downtown area, see the Duke’s Diwan, a well preserved local home that was constructed in 1924 and is one of the city’s oldest buildings. Or, better still, admire Amman art, i.e. street art in downtown Amman.

You can also make your perfume made from essential oils, also called ‘Ittar’ or ‘Attar’ at one of the shops here. You may be surprised to find some of your favorite perfume brands here at a fraction of the price, but be wary that it may be a replica!


Amman things to do: King Abdullah Mosque

 

Close to the Souk El Khodra is the beautiful, blue King Abdullah Mosque, one of the best places to go in Amman.

The blue-domed mosque was built between 1982 to 1989 by King Hussein as a memorial to his grandfather, Abdullah I of Jordan.

The large mosque can accommodate up to 10000 visitors. A small section of the mosque can accommodate 500 women.

One of the only one open to Non-muslims – people can enter the mosque only if they’re dressed appropriately.

Men are expected to wear full-length trousers and shirts. Women are allowed to enter fully covered, without bare arms or legs and wear something covering their hair.

Shoes need to be taken off before entering.

Another mosque you can visit is the Al Husseini mosque in the Downtown area on King Talal Street. Located near the spice souk ( Souq Al-Sukar) and the souvenir souk (Souk Bukharia) it is convenient to visit if you are in the Downtown area.


DETAILS

KING ABDULLAH MOSQUE

Address: Near Suliman Al Nabulsi Street, Amman

Timings: Please check timings locally when in the area as timings differ

Price: 2 JD, NOT included in the Jordan Pass

AL HUSSEINI MOSQUE

Address: K. Talal St. 1, Amman, Jordan

Timings: Not open to non-Muslim visitors


Panoramic view of buildings and street art from citadel in amman - things to do in Amman

Amman things to do: Stroll, shop and eat on Rainbow Street and Jabal Amman

 

Rainbow street is a lively city area full of cafes, hookah establishments, shops and fun places in Amman.

I was told that it is at The Boulevard shopping center that the locals tend to hang most often when they have time to spare, however start your Amman things to do tour at Jabal Amman.

Jabal Amman is the 1st circle – the city of Amman is divided into circles for administration.

Another from the list of popular places to go in Amman is the Al-Quds, famous for its fresh falafel. While in this area, you can also eat at the well-known Gerard ice cream.


Amman things to do: Street art in Jabal Amman

 

There’s an interesting mix of graffiti and quirky street art in Amman especially at Rainbow street.

While at the Citadel, you will notice many buildings have massive art on them however it is at Rainbow street that you will find the most colorful!

There are also a few illustrations on the road connecting Rainbow street and Downtown that passes next to the restaurant Sufra, which are worth a watch.

The lane right in front of Mr. Lollies is where you’ll find street art on Rainbow street and also the hanging lanterns.


Amman things to do: Smoke Shisha or a Hubbly Bubbly

 

One of many Amman attractions includes hookah shops where you can try hookah/shisha, or ‘hubbly-bubbly’ as it’s called here. You can observe and interact with locals here.

Shops offer it for a price of 4-5 JD. This street is also where a lot of young people hang out. If you want to explore pubs and nightlife, then Rainbow street is the place to be. Potion Lounge, The Corner’s Pub and Cantaloupe Gastro Pub are some of the popular options for pubs here.

If you’d like more places to go in Amman for art, consider visiting the nearby local art galleries like  Nabad Art Gallery or Jacaranda Images.

If you’re here on a Friday between May/June to the end of September, you can shop at the Souk Jara, a vast flea market for handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, jewellery etc. The market is open from 10 AM to 10 PM every Friday during the summer period.

 


Ice cream shop in 1 day in amman - things to do in amman
Colorful truck and street art at rainbow street in one day in amman - things to do in amman

Amman things to do: Spend time at museums in Jordan

 

There are four more museums worth your time in Jordan while picking Amman things to do. Pick which you based on your interests and time available :

  • Jordan Museum

    Jordan Museum brings Jordanian history and culture to life through exhibits, antiques and heritage properties.

    For those visiting Jordan for the first time, it’s a great way to get acquainted with Jordan’s cultural sites and cities. It is the largest museum in Jordan, with multiple exhibition areas, a conservation centre and a library.

    The museum exhibits Ain-Ghazal statues, one of the largest known plaster based human figures from around 6500 BC.

 

  • Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts

    The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts displays work from all around the world but focuses on Middle Eastern art from in and around Jordan.

    It displays over 3000 works of drawings, paintings, sculptures, installations, graphic art, ceramics and photography.

    The Gallery also hosts different exhibitions, screenings, workshops, etc., from time to time. Check out what’s on currently here.


Wondering what to see in Amman for more contemporary art? Consider visiting the Darat Al Funun, not far away from the Citadel. It exhibits contemporary Arab art in beautifully restored buildings from the 1920s.


  • Royal Automobile Museum 

    Established in 2003, this Museum displays King Abdullah II’s collection of vintage and modern cars and bikes. Vehicles displayed here include cars from the pre-1950s, modern sports cars and Rolls Royces.

 

  • Royal Tank Museum

    This is a large exhibit space with more than 140 tanks, many of which were used in actual battles. You can learn about the country’s military history through exhibits and military artefacts.


DETAILS

 

Jordan Museum 

Address: Next to Greater Amman Municipality Building. Ali bin، Abu Taleb St., Amman, Jordan

Timings: Saturday – 10 AM – 3 PM, Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 10 AM – 2 PM (Ramzan hours), Closed on Tuesday and Friday

Cost: 1 JD for Jordanians, 5 JD for Non Jordanians

 

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts 

Address: XW58+53Q, Amman, Jordan

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Fridays and public holidays

Cost: 1 JD for Jordanians, 7 JD for Non Jordanians

 

Royal Automobile Museum 

Address: XRMG+4GQ, At Tibbiyya, Jordan

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM every day, Closed on Tuesdays

Cost: 3 JD without an audio guide, 5 JD with an audio guide

 

Royal Tank Museum 

Address: Amman, Jordan

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM, closed on Tuesdays

Cost: 2 JD for Jordanians, 5 JD for Non Jordanians


Amman downtown in a day in amman - things to do in Amman
Amphitheatre in an Amman itinerary - things to do in amman

Amman things to do: Try local Jordanian food

 

Amman has abundant street food as well as fine dining restaurants.

Souks are great places to try street food. There are many great options to explore in downtown Amman and Rainbow street as well.

Locals eat Ful medames for breakfast. Ful medames, or simply ful, is a stew of fava beans cooked with olive oil, spices and herbs.

For the main course, go beyond falafel, knafeh/kunefe and baklava.

The national dish of Jordan is Mansaf. ‘Mansaf’ means large platter. It is a meal of tender meat (usually goat, check for camel meat) cooked in sheep milk’s yoghurt. The meat is then laid on rice and wrapped in shrak (thin bread).

Other things worth trying are the fattet hummus, shawarma and maqluba.

You can also get Bedouin tea/coffee and Zaarb here. But try these in Amman if you are not heading to Wadi Rum.

If you are visiting Wadi Rum, i.e. spending some time with Bedouins or staying at a Bedouin overnight camp, you will be served Zaarb and Bedouin tea here. Zarb is a Bedouin dish with slow-cooked meat and vegetables.

In Amman, you must try fresh fruit juices sold around Souks or any places that serve food in the city.

The best places to have local jordanian fare in Amman is at Hashem. This is where the King and Queen have dined in Amman and it is for a reason!

They have a fixed menu, it is vegetarian and costs 8 JD for a plate of pita bread, simple salad, hummus, falafel, pickles and a cup of fresh mint tea!

Try Knafeh at Habiba sweets opposite Cafe central for something sweet! Costs 1 – 2 JD and it is super traditional!


Person holding falafel in downtown amman in what to see in amman - things to do in amman

Where to go in Amman to try the best food?

 

Here are some of the top-ranked places for food places to go in Amman –

Hashem Restaurant

Al Usra Restaurant

Shawerma Reem

Shams El Balad

Al Quds (Rainbow Street)

Gerard Ice cream

Habibah Sweets for Kunafa (Several branches in the city, there’s one in the downtown area)

 

These are primarily cheap places to eat, some mid-priced. If you are looking for fine dining, try the Sufra restaurant on Rainbow street.


DETAILS

 

RESTAURANT HASHEM

Address: King Faisal Street Amman, Jordan

Timings: Open 24 hours

 

HABIBA SWEETS

Address: K. Hussein St., Amman, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 12 AM


Amman things to do: Relax at a Hammam

 

Amman may not be known for its Turkish baths or ‘hammams’, but there are a few excellent ones in the city.

If you’re heading to the Dead Sea, you can book a hotel with spa facilities in case you are spending a day there. That way, you get access to the Dead Sea from the hotel and spa facilities later in the same place.

If you are going to the Dead Sea only for half a day or plan to access the public beach at the Dead Sea, consider one of these top-rated Turkish baths in Amman –

Willow Stream Spa 

Sultan Ahmad Turkish Hammam

AlPasha Turkish Bath

Gaia’s Cocoon 

Argana Moroccan Hammam & Spa


Amman-things-to-do-Continent-Hop-10

Day trips from Amman


While you’ll need at least a day for things to do Amman, if you plan on staying here longer, I’d suggest day trips from Amman to Jerash or from Amman to Dead Sea. Both Jerash and the Dead Sea are 50 km away from Amman.

Here is a guide on what to do when you visit Jerash ruins.

I’ve been to the Dead Sea and feel swimming in the Dead Sea is an unmissable experience. So you must take the short road trip and visit the Dead Sea if you’ve travelled to Amman.

There are many 2-3 day tour packages that couple Aqaba, Dana, Petra (Wadi Musa) and Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Jerash in different permutations and combinations.

If you choose to visit these places as a part of a day tour package, choose wisely. These places are full of sights and offer unique experiences which need a reasonable amount of time.

It’ll probably be a rushed, unsatisfactory sightseeing trip if you choose a day tour package with too many sites and cities. There’s so much to do and see in Wadi Rum.

If you don’t plan enough time for Wadi Rum, you’ll miss out on magical experiences like stargazing under the clearest skies and spending time with Bedouins in a camp.

You’ll need an entire day at least inside Petra (Or consider staying the night too in the city if you want to do a Petra at night tour).

Here is a list of what to do in Jordan with all the tourist spots, and it’s pretty long. Pick and decide what interests you.

If you have the time only for a short 5-6 days or a week-long trip to Jordan, here is a 5 days in Jordan itinerary.


Amman may be just the capital to pass by on their trip to Wadi Rum, Petra or the Dead Sea but its actually the entry point to Jordanian culture and the way of the people!

You should do your best to spend at least one day in Amman – the food and the people will make sure you return to this unforgettable destination!


Old bookstore in downtown activities in Amman - things to do in Amman

One day in Amman / Amman things to do – Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is Amman worth visiting? 

Amman is worth visiting for its ancient Roman ruins, souks and delicious Jordanian food.

You can easily spend a day or two here. Besides, the well-connected city serves well as a base if you want to go to Petra, Jerash, the Dead Sea or even Wadi Rum.

 

What is there to do in Amman in 2 days? 

In 2 days, you can do most of the Amman activities listed above.

A plan for seeing Amman in 2 days would give you enough time to see the Citadel and Roman Theater, wander through souks in the city, try some of the Jordanian food, enjoy nightlife and possibly see a museum or two in the city.

 

How many days do you need in Amman? 

I would recommend 2-3 days in Amman if you wish to see most of the city.

In 2 days, you can cover most of the things to do Amman suggested in this post.

In 2 days too, you should be able to see the Citadel and Roman Theater, visit the souks, enjoy the food in the city and see a museum or two. If you are spending only 1 day in Amman, see the Roman Theater, the Citadel and visit either the downtown or Rainbow street area.

 

Is Amman a beautiful city?

Amman cannot be compared to Wadi Rum or Petra when it comes to natural beauty, but the city has its own charm.

Beautiful ancient ruins, gorgeous views from the Citadel, some of the best souks for Jordanian things and friendly, warm locals make the city worth visiting.


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Island Quotes for Instagram - 100+ FAB Island Hopping Quotes (2025)

Who wouldn’t want to go on a holiday and enjoy some island life? Beaches, palms and maybe some fresh seafood? These island quotes for Instagram are meant not just for your social captions but also to inspire your next trip! There’s numerous sections like Island hopping quotes, Island sayings, Greek island quotes, and tropical vacation quotes should help with that!

There’s something utterly magical about islands, isn’t there? Whether it’s the serene beaches, the lush greenery, or the sense of escape they evoke, islands have a way of speaking directly to our souls. That’s why I’m thrilled to share some of my favourite island quotes with you today.

From the poetic to the humorous, these island quotes capture the essence of island life, making us yearn for the salty air and sandy shores. So, whether you’re an island hopper at heart or dreaming of your first island getaway, these quotes about islands are a reminder of the beauty and tranquillity that await.

colorful houses on an island in summer in Europe


Island quotes


When you’re posting your island adventures on Instagram, finding the right island quotes can be tough. That’s where island quotes for Instagram come in handy.

These island quotes  are snippets of wisdom and wonder that have not only inspired me to pack my bags and chase the horizon but have also reminded me why we’re so drawn to these slices of paradise on Earth.

 


Island quotes for Instagram


These island quotes for Instagram are perfect for adding that extra touch to your photos, making them stand out. Whether it’s a stunning beach pic or a beautiful sunset, these island quotes can capture the feel of the moment. If you’re looking for the perfect words to go with your island pics, these island quotes for Instagram are the way to go.

  • “They kissed in the middle of the sidewalk, letting the crowds of people flow around them like water around an island.”

– Lawren Leo, Love’s Shadow: Nine Crooked Paths

  • “It’s not that you’re actually an island, Alice. It’s just that you still act like one. And nobody can change that but you.”

–  Jennifer E. Smith, Windfall

  • “Every man is an island, and every heart seeks the ferry to cross the main…”

– Mykyta Isagulov

  • “On the island, time is measured in sunrises and sunsets, and worries dissolve into the vastness of the ocean.”

– Unknown

  • “Fame is an island, and right before the castaway, the getaway of being known without being known.”

– Criss Jami, Healology

  • “An island is a refuge for the soul, a place to reconnect with nature and rediscover ourselves.”

– Unknown

  • “Being in the middle of the ocean slows things down.”

– Steven Magee

  • “To take a good rest in life time to time, you must know the ways to make yourself a remote island! An island no one can reach…”

– Mehmet Murat ildan

  • “Perhaps the palms had been whispering warnings in the sultry breeze.”

– T.L. Parker, The Devil’s Graveyards

  • “No, the safest thing is to become an island. To make your house a citadel against all the garbage and ugliness in the world. How else can you be sure of anything?”

– Nickolas Butler, Shotgun Lovesongs

  • “Life is better with a touch of island magic.”

 

island quotes quotes about islands island quotes for instagram island quotes instagram island hopping quotes

Island hopping quotes

 

Island hopping is like jumping into a series of amazing mini-adventures. Each island has its vibe and secrets, and I’ve found some great quotes about island hopping that capture the thrill of moving from one island to another.

 


Island hopping quotes with family

 

These quotes for island hopping are like little reminders of the fun and freedom you feel when you’re exploring new beaches and soaking up different cultures with your loved ones.


island quotes quotes about islands island quotes for instagram island quotes instagram island hopping quotes

  • “Faith is an island in the setting sun, But proof is the bottom line for everyone.”-Paul Simon
  • “Every island to a child is a treasure island.” – P. D. James
  • “Sandy toes and salty kisses, enjoying the island life with my loved ones.”
  • “Islands are natural workshops of evolution.” – Richard Dawkins
  • “Finding my paradise, one island at a time.” -Unkown
  • “I particularly enjoy the great synchronised skeins of pelicans that fly above the waves in summer. How, being animals, they know how to write the letter V just so in the sky is anyone’s guess.” ― Sol Luckman, Musings from a Small Island: Everything under the Sun
  • “Grateful for this time with my family, surrounded by sun, sand, and love.”
  • “No matter how hard one tried, this island was not a place of leaving easily. It clung to a person like dew. He was still here, always still here” ― Emma Seckel, The Wild Hunt

 

 


Island hopping quotes with friends

 

These island hopping quotes talk about the excitement of discovering new places with your friends and making memories along the way. Sharing these island hopping quotes is like sharing the best part of travelling – the feeling of adventure. Let’s check out these island hopping quotes, and who knows? Maybe we’ll be inspired to plan our next island-hopping trip soon.


quotes about island hopping island hopping quotes with family quotes for island hopping island hopping quotes with friends

  • “It was then I thought of Corsica, the place we had discovered together. I craved the wind, the sun and salt, the simplicity of the island.” ― Lucy Foley, The Book of Lost and Found
  • “Sun, sand, and friendship goals on this epic island getaway.”
  • “ Someone asked me, if I were stranded on a desert island what book would I bring… ‘How to Build a Boat.’”- Steven Wright
  • “The general knowledge of time on the island depends, curiously enough, on the direction of the wind.”- John Millington Synge
  • “True friendship multiplies the good in life and divides its evils. Strive to have friends, for life without friends is like life on a desert island… to find one real friend in a lifetime is good fortune; to keep him is a blessing.” – Baltasar Gracian
  • “Grateful for this island adventure with my best friends, where every day is a new adventure.”
  • “My dream is to be on my boat. Or on an island. Or in my house in the country. That’s my dream.”- Cameron Mackintosh

 


No matter how hard one tried, this island was not a place of leaving easily. It clung to a person like dew. He was still here, always still here
— Emma Seckel, The Wild Hunt


Island sayings


When it comes to sayings about islands, there’s a kind of magic in the words that locals and travellers alike share. These island sayings and quotes are more than just words; they’re little nuggets of wisdom passed down through generations, capturing the laid-back vibe and the soulful rhythm of island life.


  • “The island is ours. Here, in some way, we are young forever.” ― E. Lockhart, We Were Liars
  • “Islands are metaphors of the heart, no matter what poet says otherwise.” ― Jeanette Winterson, Sexing the Cherry
  • “Every island is a treasure waiting to be discovered, revealing its secrets to those who seek its enchantment.” – Unknown
  • “In a sense, each of us is an island. In another sense, however, we are all one. For though islands appear separate, and may even be situated at great distances from one another, they are only extrusions of the same planet, Earth.” -J. Donald Walters
  • “The island is a sanctuary for the dreamers, the seekers, and the wanderers of the world.”
  • “Islands are nature’s retreats, offering refuge to weary souls and rejuvenation to tired hearts.”
  • “It would be like Prospero’s island, but in a good way: not a country of exile, a model world, safe and peaceful and private. A magician’s land.” ― Lev Grossman, The Magician’s Land
  • “No island is an island, he said. There is no new land, just the same body broken open.” ― Matt Rasmussen, Black Aperture: Poems

 

“In a sense, each of us is an island. In another sense, however, we are all one. For though islands appear separate, and may even be situated at great distances from one another, they are only extrusions of the same planet, Earth.”
— J. Donald Walters


Greek Island quotes

 

Every time I stumble upon quotes about Greek islands, it’s like I can feel the warm sun on my skin and the cool sea breeze in my hair all over again.  So, if you’re anything like me, always dreaming of that next island escape, let these island quotes whisk you away to the Greek islands, if only in your heart for now.

quotes about island hopping island hopping quotes with family quotes for island hopping island hopping quotes with friends

  • “My childhood in Corfu shaped my life. If I had the craft of Merlin, I would give every child the gift of my childhood.” – Gerald Durrell
  • “According to some theories, the legendary Atlantis said to have sunk beneath the sea in a great cataclysm, is in actuality the Greek Island of Santorini, which sank partially during the eruption of a volcano around 3500 B.C.E.” – Laura Brooks
  • “Right now I’d love to be sitting on a Greek island somewhere because of being Greek American, eating great octopus salad and some fantastic lamb. Or sipping a little ouzo. I think the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest… Lots of nuts, vegetables, fruits, fresh fish, lean meats, yoghurt.”- Cat Cora
  • “Greece has got something like 1400 islands. There is so much of Greece you can’t know even if you’re Greek. It’s sprinkled out all around the edge of the Aegean, all over the place. It’s already a secret place wherever you go, even if it’s somewhere huge like Athens or Corinth. The place enchanted me.” – Joanna Lumley
  • “The light of Greece opened my eyes, penetrated my pores, expanded my whole being.”– Henry Miller
  • “It takes a lifetime to discover Greece, but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her.” – Henry Miller
  • “Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the good fortune to sail the Aegean sea.” – Nikos Kazantzakis
  • “Gradually the magic of the island [Corfu] settled over us as gently and clingingly as pollen.” – Gerald Durrell
  • “I like to read in the bathtub. Ideally, that bathtub would be located on a small Greek island.” – Adam Mansbach

 


Man gone fishing near an island in Europe in summer

Phi Phi Island quotes

  • “The crystal-clear water in Thailand offers the best swimming and snorkelling experience.”-Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters
  • “Can we stop for a minute, I need to Phi Phi”
  • “There is a life before and after the voyage, there is a life before and after Thailand. “-Gregg Bkk
  • “Meet me in Koh Phi Phi.”
  • “You do not need a miracle to disappear. All you need is a place like Phi Phi Island.”
  • “The sweet-smelling aroma of the island spices still hung in the air. It filled his nostrils and titillated his appetite all over again. His appetite drove him mad for something much more than food.” ― Luke A.M. Brown, The Non-Silence of the Lamb: Contemporary Version

 

island sayings island sayings and quotes sayings about islands greek island quotes quotes about greek islands

Tropical Island quotes – tropical vacation quotes


island sayings island sayings and quotes sayings about islands greek island quotes quotes about greek islands

  • “From the gentle sway of palm trees to the rhythmic crashing of waves, island vibes create a symphony of tranquillity and joy.”
  • “Sugar cane island, Sweetest place on earth, Bridgetown, Barbados, Land of my birth” ― Charmaine J Forde
  • “The island of La Palma in the Canary Islands is really steep.”― Steven Magee
  • “Living in flip flops and island sunsets.”
  • “Harbour Island in the Bahamas is beautiful, with turquoise water and pink sand.” – Diane von Furstenberg
  • “Take me to that island where people celebrate in the streets in August, -No Titles Required! Take me to Barbados..246” ― Charmaine J. Forde

  • “Harbour Island in the Bahamas is a wonderful little island with beautiful beaches, a great restaurant culture and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.”- Helena Christensen
  • “I’m an island boy, so I love my reggae and soca music.” -Dule Hill
  • “No one leaves this hidden treasure, Feeling the same way they came, They always refer their friends to this Gem, This island with a beautiful name, My beautiful “Bim”—Barbados” ― Charmaine J Forde
  • “My favourite place in South Korea is Jeju Island: it’s a tropical paradise with sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and the magnificent Geomunoreum lava tube system of underground caves.” – Lee Hyeon-seo
  • “Hawaii and Fiji are two of the best island groups in the world to visit as a vacationer. The great hotels, the fascinating local people, the exciting history of the two contrasting island groups, and the unmatched scenery make these two of the most enticing stopovers.”- James A. Michener

 

phi phi island quotes tropical island quotes island girl quotes island vibes quotes island life quotes tropical vacation quotes

I’m an island boy, so I love my reggae and soca music.
— Dule Hill


island sayings island sayings and quotes sayings about islands greek island quotes quotes about greek islands
phi phi island quotes tropical island quotes island girl quotes island vibes quotes island life quotes tropical vacation quotes

Island Girl quotes


Island vibes are all about that chill, laid-back feeling you get by the beach, with sand between your toes and a cool breeze. These island vibes quotes capture that perfect, carefree mood.


  • “There were tales that only the island knew. Ones that had never been told. I knew because I was one of them.” ― Adrienne Young, Spells for Forgetting
  • “Best of an island is once you get there – you can’t go any farther… you’ve come to an end of things…”– Agatha Christie
  • “I’m happy anywhere tropical.”
  • “Back before there was time, I lived with my father on an island, tucked away in an endless archipelago that reached up out of the cold salt water, hungry for air.” ― Erica Bauermeister, The Scent Keeper
  • “I like to be grounded by nature, go hiking… go to an isolated island that’s not glamorous and touristy at all.”- Cote de Pablo
  • “When you grow up on an island, what matters is how you stand to the sea.”-  Roddy Doyle
  • “If there’s heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached to it.” – Jimmy Buffett
  • “ I followed my heart, and it led me to the islands.”
  • “Dear Beck, It’s not your fault you were born on an island. Of course you identify as an island. But, dear girl, you’re not an island. Be populated. Be welcoming to love. Love, Beck.” ― Caroline Kepnes, You

 


“There were tales that only the island knew. Ones that had never been told. I knew because I was one of them.”
— Adrienne Young, Spells for Forgetting


Island Life quotes


  • “Believe. No pessimist ever discovered the secrets of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted island, or opened a new heaven to the human spirit.” ― Helen Keller
  • “Can you see a serene island in the middle of a stormy ocean? And the wise man is that calm island!” ― Mehmet Murat ildan
  • “It was the inverse of an island in the sea.” ― Elisabeth Eaves, Wanderlust: A Love Affair with Five Continents
  • “The problem is, we really are an island. And the truth is, we really have been marooned. And to compound it all, that old myth is true: we really are sinking, just not in the way we’ve always been led to believe.” ― Judith Huang, Sofia and the Utopia Machine
  • “Island life teaches us to appreciate the beauty of nature, to slow down, and to live in harmony with our surroundings.” – Unknown
  • “We live on an island surrounded by a sea of ignorance. As our island of knowledge grows, so does the shore of our ignorance.”-  John Archibald Wheeler
  • “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” —John Donne
  • “I’m from the city near an island where no one believed in me, I never gave up the fight. Look at me now I’m on top.” ― Jordan Hoechlin
  • “Think what it would be like if you got back to your island and there was no old man, no girl any more. No mysterious fun and games. The whole place locked up forever.” ― John Fowles, The Magus
  • “Little islands are all large prisons; one cannot look at the sea without wishing for the wings of a swallow.” —Sir Richard Francis Burton
  • “The larger the island of knowledge, the longer the shoreline of wonder.” ― Ralph W. Sockman

 

phi phi island quotes tropical island quotes island girl quotes island vibes quotes island life quotes tropical vacation quotes

Wrapping up, these island quotes really hit home for me, reminding me why I adore islands so much. It’s like each of these island quotes for Instagram is a mini vacation in itself, taking me back to those sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. I hope they’ve done the same for you, bringing a slice of paradise into your day.

 


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Island quotes for instagram island island hopping quotes
Island quotes for instagram island island hopping quotes

Jerash Ruins All Info (2025) - Visiting the Best Preserved Roman Ruins in Jordan

The best thing about Jerash is that the ruins of Jerash are so huge there’s enough space for everyone without feeling cluttered and it is only 40 minutes away from Amman. Jerash ruins are worth a visit and here are the best things to do in Jerash!

 

There was a whole hour to go, however, due to the sheer size of the Jerash ruins, the guards wanted to make sure everyone knew that it was time to leave soon.

We were sat near the South Gate and most people had left except for another couple sat on the far right.

It felt as if we were the only people in the ruins of Jerash in Jordan (the best preserved Roman ruins in Jordan) and as the sun set in the horizon, it enveloped the whole amphitheatre in a warm orange glow.

Not only was it quite romantic, but it was also quite fun to visit a historical location not swarming with tourists, that you could enjoy just forty minutes from Amman.

While Amman does have the Citadel and Downtown area, markets etc, Jerash has a lot to offer, more than the Jerash ruins. There are forests, traditional food and museums, perfect for someone who loves history and offbeat destinations and is worth adding it to your Jordan itinerary!

Woman at the South gate of the Jerash ruins

What to do in Jerash ruins + things to do in Jerash

 

While there may be quite a few things to do in Jerash, the ruins in Jerash are still the best place to start or end your day in Jerash.

The entrance to Jerash is included in your Jordan Pass. If you’ve paid for this before coming to the country, it will help you save time and money.

Here are details if you’ve not purchased it in advance.


DETAILS

 

Jerash Roman ruins Entrance Fee

Address: 7VHQ+GP8, Jerash, Jordan

Location can be found here

Hours: Open Daily 8 AM – 6.30 PM

Entry Fee: The entry fee is 12 JD. Entry is free for children under the age of 12. Included in the Jordan Pass. Includes your entrance to the archaeological museum.

Transport Options: Best to self-drive as public transport to Jerash is unpredictable


Essential tips for your visit to Jerash, Jordan

 

  • Make sure you get a visa to Jordan. Many countries need a visa and it’s easier to get one before you arrive. Alternatively, you could also get one on arrival. It costs about 40 JD for a visa on arrival

  • Getting a Jordan Pass works out to be cheaper if purchased together with the visa. It costs about 70 JD and entry to numerous sites is included and you can skip the queue!

  • Most people understand and speak English however Arabic is the local language

  • Make sure to dress appropriately especially when visiting places of worship. However, in most places, it is alright to wear jumpsuits and maxi dresses as Jordan isn’t quite conservative

  • The best time to visit Jordan is May to October when temperatures are between 25-30 degrees. For cooler temperatures, in the other months, it dips below 20 and can get quite cold in places like Wadi Rum

  • Make sure you get travel insurance before you travel and rent a car at the airport itself if you plan on driving yourself


Within the ruins of Jerash – Temple of Artemis

 


This sanctuary was constructed as a shrine to Artemis, the patron goddess. She was the Greek goddess of wild animals, the hunt, vegetation and childbirth.

The temple resides inside a gigantic courtyard. Construction of the sanctuary started around 200 AD, but it was never completed. Only 12 of the planned 32 columns were built. The ancient ruin sits on an extensive system of underground vaults, for which their specific purpose is still unknown.

Later in the 27th-century, Byzantine era, it was used as a fort by a group of Crusaders. Visiting this exquisitely well-preserved Roman ruin. It provides a hefty dose of history and is not to be missed.

Artemis temple at Jerash ruins at sunset

Within the ruins of Jerash – Arch of Hadrian

 


This colossal arch was built in recognition of the Roman Emperor Hadrian during his stay here in 130 AD. This arch is the largest known arch in the Roman Empire, standing over 20m high and 25m wide.

Luckily when the arch was discovered, all fallen pieces could be saved and reattached. The reconstructed ruin provides an authentic look at its preserved beauty.

This is yet another unfinished ruin in Jerash. The arch was originally not intended to be lone-standing, but rather act as a grand entrance to the city. Unfortunately, the city walls weren’t ever built there. Now it’s just stones steeped in history.


Within the ruins of Jerash – Oval Plaza

 

The Oval Plaza is an iconic ruin known for its size and detailed tilling. The oval shape is not commonly seen in Roman architecture, but it was chosen to accommodate the odd angles of the land.

Outlining the oval courtyard are high columns, reaching up to 8m high. The columns were built in 200 AD, but the paving was only done much later due to financial depression.

Leading up to the Oval is the Cardo Maximus, an 800m paved, column-lined street that makes the entrance that much grander. When you’re done admiring the exquisite Roman style, this Archaeological site in Jordan has tons more to be explored.


Arch of Hadrian at Jerash ruins
Woman walking at Oval plaza at the ruins of Jerash

Within the ruins of Jerash – Hippodrome

 

A Hippodrome isn’t to race hippopotamuses, but rather ancient Roman horse chariots.

This stadium was built in the early 300 AD and measures 265m long with space for 17,000 spectators.

While this ruin is a spectacular sight, it is uncertain if the track was ever completed.

By 400 AD, the north part of the stadium was turned into an amphitheatre for gladiator fighting and other popular sports. Additionally, the south side was deserted and became a place for squatters.

In 600 AD it was changed again to a quarry to repair the city wall and by 700 AD it became a burial site for those who didn’t survive the plague. Finally, in 749 AD an earthquake crumbled it.

Today you can view the hippodrome and take a walk through history, witnessing history that’s left behind


Hippodrome at the ruins of Jerash

Within the ruins of Jerash – Temple of Zeus

 

Zeus was the God of Lightning as well as the chief Greek deity. The sanctuary of Zeus was used as a place of worship from the bronze age through to the Roman era.

The site is made up of two terraces. The lower terrace was built in 27 AD and the upper, larger temple was later built in 160 AD. There is a grand staircase leading from the bottom to the top.

The temple was used throughout the centuries by settlers, farmers and craftsmen. But after the 749 AD earthquake, the temple was abandoned and only used by groups of crusaders in the 12th Century.

You will be spending a lot of time walking in the hot desert sun, so make sure to bring sunblock and water with on this excursion.


Temple of Zeus at ruins of Jerash

Within the ruins of Jerash – Jerash Museum

 

Before you go, make sure to visit the museum and visiting center. This museum used to be nestled inside one of the vaults of the courtyard of the Artemis Temple but was moved in the 80s.

The Jerash museum houses some exquisite artifacts including mosaics, glass, gold jewelry and coins found in the underground tombs of the Jordan ruins. The Museum has informative and interesting displays of the Jerash region and history.

While the artifact selection is rich, visit Jerash museum as it also offers endless views of the rolling hills of Jerash and the ancient, modern spread on either side.


Oval plaza at ruins of Jerash

Outside the archaeological Jerash Ruins

 


If you’d like to spend more time in Jerash, here’s a few things to do in Jerash other than the Jerash ruins.

 

King Talal Dam

 

The King Talal Dam lies between the hills of Northern Jordan and the Zarqa River. The dam was built in the 1970s to store over 80 million liters of water for the cities. The reservoir lake is over 7 km long and up to 450 m wide.

There are stunning hiking trails that lead to the dam and around it. The views over the camel-coloured dunes and arid hills are breathtaking. Hiking to the dam makes for a great outdoor activity for families and groups of friends.

 

Location: Can be found here

—————

 

Lebanese House

 

Nicknamed ‘Umm Khali’, this nomadic restaurant is just a 10 minutes stroll from the center of Jerash. The restaurant has been open since the 70s.

Not only is this national treasure rich in history, but they offer an array of hot and cold mezze, fresh homemade bread, wondrous salad selections and splendid food off the grill.

This establishment is the top choice for traditional Lebanese food in the city and is not to be missed during your stay.

 

Location: Can be found here
Timings: 12 PM to 11 PM everyday


City of Jerash as a backdrop at the ruins of Jerash

Dibbeen Forest Reserve

 

The Dibbeen Forest Reserve is a national park in Jerash Jordan. The park consists of eight square kilometers of lush alpine and oak forest. Walking under the canopy fills your lungs with a damp wooded aroma that creates a sense of peacefulness.

While this park is small, making up only 1% of Jordan’s land area, it’s home to 17 endangered species and is recognized as a national biodiversity hotspot. You can spend hours walking through the reserve’s marked trails, learning about the indigenous fauna and flora of Jordan.


Entrance to Jerash site one of the things to do in Jerash

Jerash, Jordan and How To Get There

 

By flight: If you’re on another continent, and planning on traveling by plane, you’ll most likely travel to Amman first. Amman is the capital and largest city in Jordan. Most cities have connecting flights to Queen Alia International Airport.

 

By Road: If you’re coming from surrounding countries, like Israel, or have just landed at the airport, you can hop on a bus to Jerash. At the Raghadan station near downtown Amman, you can get the North Terminal bus straight to the ruins of Jerash. But note, that if you’re going to cross the border from anywhere other than Israel, you’ll need to get a visa.

 

You can also rent a car and drive to and around Jerash city. Prices start at around £4 Per Day from local car hire companies in Jordan. The roads are well-maintained and comfortable to drive on, making it a great option for families.

Just 1.5 hours away, make a stop and unwind by floating in the Dead Sea, It’s a great and relaxing addition to your Middle Eastern Trip and is thought to have amazing benefits to your mind and body.


Jerash Jordan north gate

Where to Stay in Jerash Jordan

 

If you’re staying for a few days to explore Jerash city, somewhere like Atoom Hotel is a great choice. Atoom Hotel is in the heart of Jerash and is easier to travel from than the outskirts of the city. The Jerash Ruins are less than 2.5 km or a 30 minutes stroll away.

Wanting to stay somewhere a little more local? Ajion Mihna Guest House has spectacular views of the city and hillside as well as uber accommodating hosts. During your stay, you’ll be treated to a Jerash breakfast buffet to jump-start your day. The accommodation has a car rental service, which you can use to visit attractions like, Ajloun Castle, just 10 minutes away which is another spot worth adding to your Jordan itinerary.

 


To be honest, I only visit museums if they have something offbeat to offer, like an airplane museum in Estonia, however this archaeological site is not to be missed just for the sheer size and well-preserved ruins.

While you could spend the whole day here, if it’s a hot day it is worth at least a half day visit. Make sure you cover well to avoid the sun, wear sunblock and carry water with you as there isn’t a store inside the site.

Jerash is sure to be one offbeat trip you’re sure to remember from your Jordan visit, it certainly won’t disappoint!

 


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Road Trip to Normandy Itinerary for 3 Days : Beaches, Cliffs, and More (2025)

Taking a road trip to Normandy is the best way to explore this stunning French region. To make the most of your time, you need a well-planned Normandy itinerary. This one has beaches, some of the best regions and city attractions; get ready to witness beautiful French landscapes!

Normandy is a French region that is blessed with breath-taking natural beauty and at the same time, cursed with a cruel past.

But instead of turning it into a bitter land, Normandy has succeeded in preserving its elegance through sandy beaches, towering cliffs, churches, museums, and art centres.

And the best way to travel to Normandy is by road so that you can witness the rugged land frozen in time. When you plan a road trip to Normandy, you will realize this sprawling region cannot be fit into a number of days.

Your Normandy itinerary can include everything from Rouen to Caen or only the cliffs of Etretat or towering Mont-Saint-Michel depending on how many days you spend here.

This article includes how your trip to Normandy can include different fascinating sights without making it fast-paced.

Cliffs of Etretat with a Church on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Best time to visit Normandy


Summer is the best time to visit Normandy as the weather is mild. Thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the climate is usually humid.

The months from May to October are considered the peak tourist season. Especially in June around the D-Day celebration, you will find everything packed and booked.

This month also witnesses higher rates for flights and accommodation. So, not an ideal time if you are travelling on a budget.

You can consider the months of May and October for your road trip to Normandy when tourists are fewer and all the museums, beaches, and attractions are also open.

If you are looking for a shoulder season for planning trip to Normandy, consider the months of autumn or winter. But remember that autumn usually brings in the rain and winter months mean many local businesses are closed for the holiday season.

If you’re looking to visit D-Day beaches in Normandy this may not be the best time to visit, summer may be the best time.


How to reach Normandy


Normandy is well connected to Paris as well as the rest of the country by different modes of transport.

 

By car : If you want to start your road trip to Normandy from Paris, then you can rent a car and drive to the region of your choice.

You will need around 2.5 hours from Paris to reach Normandy, but depending on which region you decide to explore, you might need an additional hour or so to reach your destination.

By train : Travelling by train to Normandy is preferred if you are interested in reaching large towns or cities. There are several trains every day from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris to Caen, Rouen, Granville, Cherbourg, and more.

It takes around 2 hours by train to reach Normandy from Paris. Check train tickets, prices to Normandy and the detailed timetable to book your tickets via SNCF.


Cliffs of Etretat on a sunny day with the beach on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Road trip to Normandy – where to go and essentials


The best way to explore Normandy is to divide it into sub-regions and then decide which parts you can visit, depending on your interests.

If not, you will need weeks to cover the entire region. You can decide which cities you want to visit and then plan your Normandy itinerary around them. This article should help for a South of France road trip that does not include the cities listed below.

Here are the major communes and cities that are mostly covered in Normandy road trips.

  • Caen

  • Rouen

  • Le Havre

  • Cherbourg

  • Étretat

You can check the itinerary and decide which cities suit your interests best.

Makes sure you have car essentials you may need on a road trip with you to avoid any hassles in addition to your personal list. Some of these that tend to be forgotten are:

  • Travel blanket
  • UV window shade
  • Car cooler
  • Flashlight
  • Duct tape


Colourful houses in Honfleur on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Normandy itinerary 3 days

 

For those spending limited time in this region, this 3 day Normandy itinerary can work well.

It will give you enough time to understand history, get a glimpse of local culture, soak in the beauty of beaches, and visit the famous sites around.Your Normandy France itinerary includes Rouen, Étretat, Le Havre and Honfleur.


Road trip to Normandy itinerary Day 1 – Rouen

 

Start your 1st day of the Normandy itinerary with Rouen as it is only 1.5 hours away from Paris.

The city that dates back to the 1st century has rightfully earned the right to be the capital of Normandy.

The old town of Rouen has successfully preserved its historic charm. You will find plenty of sights to explore in Rouen during your Normandy road trip.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, popularly known as Rouen Cathedral, is one of the must-visit places. This cathedral dominates the skyline of Rouen with three towers, each one carrying a different architectural style.

This towering structure adorned with sculptures, statues, and artworks will need at least an hour.

Spend some time wandering along Le Gros Horloge as this busy street in Rouen is full of quirky shops and cafes. The main attraction here is the 14th-century astronomical clock of Gros Horloge which uses the oldest mechanism in France.

The old market square known as Place du Vieux-Marché is also a great place to add to your 3 day Normandy itinerary.

It has a sombre history as this is the place where the patron saint of France Joan of Arc was executed in 1431. You will find a church dedicated to her at Place du Vieux-Marché.

This whole area is dotted with historic buildings, elegant restaurants, and lively bars.

Rouen Museum of Fine Arts is a treat for art lovers. This place proudly displays a fine collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings that date back centuries.

Check all the useful information regarding ticket prices and how to get there before planning your trip.

Keep at least an hour for Rouen Botanical Garden on your Normandy trip. This 8-hectare garden has thousands of plants and is open every day without any entry fee.


Cathedral in Rouen on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Where to stay in Rouen?

 

Holiday Inn Express is a 3-star hotel in Rouen where private parking is offered making it a perfect place for your Normandy road trip. It has air-conditioned rooms and breakfast here includes gluten-free options as well.

Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale is located in the heart of the city and is less than 200 meters from Notre Dame Cathedral. With free Wi-Fi, free parking, family rooms, a restaurant and a bar on the premises, this makes for a good stay option in Rouen.


Road trip to Normandy itinerary Day 2 – Etretat

 

Head to Étretat on your 2nd day in Normandy and you will find the true essence of this region.

A commune blessed with rising white cliffs, pebbly beaches, and breath-taking landscapes, you can spend weeks in Étretat without getting bored of the views.

But alas, you only have a day and this is how you can spend it to make the most of your trip –

Head to Etretat Beach first thing in the morning and you will find everything from lingering fishing boats to adrenaline-rushing adventure sports here.

On one side of the sprawling seawall you will find fishermen getting ready for the day and on the other side of the beach are spectacular Falaise d’Amont cliffs.

You can climb the cliffs and there is a walkway for most of the area. But you can decide if you want to hike the cliffs and spend half a day around here or if you want to have a relaxed vacation on the beach.

Either way, your Normandy itinerary must include a visit to the white cliffs to soak in the stunning natural beauty. If you want to hike a simple trail, then there are some parts that can be covered in an hour or so.


Cliffs of Etretat on a sunny day by the sea on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Next, stop by Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. This beautiful chapel was originally built in the 1850s but couldn’t survive the Second World War. When it was rebuilt after the war, even though small, it gained attention for its historic importance.

Etretat Gardens are located nearby and are proud to be the neo-futuristic garden. It has living sculptures on the cliffside along with interesting installations and artworks all merged into nature.

It is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm and its seven gardens attract thousands of nature enthusiasts every year.

Musée du patrimoine d’Étretat is located near the gardens. It is a great place if you want to learn about the history of Étretat. It will be interesting to know how this sleepy fishing town played an important role in World War Two.

After you are done stepping back in time at the museum, head to the beach for a stunning summer sunset.

There are several areas around the cliffs that are away from touristy crowds and offer peaceful evenings. But it is recommended not to wander off to unknown beach sections as high tide makes it unsafe.


Where to stay in Étretat?

 

Dormy House is a must if you want to be welcomed by the view of the cliffs of Etretat and the sea. With 4-hectare gardens surrounding the property, this hotel ensures you get to stay in the heart of nature and relax during your trip.

For those travelling on a budget, Hotel Des Falaises is a good option. It is only 2 minutes away from the Etretat beach and is known for its cosy rooms and modest décor.


Cliffs of Etretat at sunset by the sea on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Coastline of Etretat by the sea with colourful houses on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Road trip to Normandy itinerary Day 3 – Le Havre and Honfleur

 

When you have limited time in Normandy and still want to explore as much as possible, it is recommended to club Le Havre and Honfleur together.

These two towns are located only half an hour away. You can spend the first half of the day in Le Havre and reserve late afternoon and evening for Honfleur.

Your Normandy road trip itinerary in Le Havre can begin with Hanging Gardens. This is a 19th-century fortress with sprawling lawns and a variety of flowers and plants. You will also get to enjoy sea views while walking around here.

You can next head off to Le Havre Beach as it is located nearby. This sandy beach has a variety of eateries around that offer tasty local cuisine.

St. Joseph’s Church and the interesting sculpture of Catène de Conteneurs can also be included in your Normandy itinerary.

When you reach Honfleur in the afternoon, you can relax for some time in Jardin des Personnalités. This peaceful garden along the sea is a perfect place to catch your breath after all the wandering around.

Spend some time in the evening along Port of Honfleur and be a part of all the hustle and bustle. You will find charming roads and a plethora of bars and restaurants ready to pamper your taste buds here.


Where to stay in Honfleur?

 

Hôtel L’Ecrin is a place that’s transformed from an old period house. Its luxurious rooms maintain the historic charm and offer a comfortable stay.

After a tiring day of your Normandy road trip, you can relax at the spa, equipped with a sauna, hot tub and hammam on the premises.

If you are looking for simpler yet historic, then Hotel Le Dauphin Les Loges is your place to be. It has combined three 17th-century wooden houses and has family rooms, free Wi-Fi, and Spa and wellness centre.


Colourful boats and houses by the marina in Honfleur on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Road trip to Normandy itinerary 4 days – Add Caen

 

If you are spending 4 days in Normandy, then adding Caen to your trip is a must.

The most popular things to do in Caen are Mémorial de Caen, L’Abbaye-aux-Hommes, Caen Castle, Caen Botanical Garden, Museum of Fine Arts, and The Abbey of Sainte-Trinité.

It is recommended to book this Caen Like a Local: Customized Guided Walking Tour as this city has many things in store. This guided tour will give you a chance to understand what you can further explore in a day.


Where to stay in Caen?

 

Located in the historic city centre, Campanile Caen Centre Gare is a place of elegant decor and homey vibes.

This fully air-conditioned hotel is known for its hearty breakfasts, ensuring you are good to continue your road trip to Normandy with good food.

Wondering where to find a pet-friendly hotel in the Normandy region? Ace Hôtel Caen Nord Mémorial is your answer. The Botanical Garden of Caen is only 2.4 kilometres from this hotel.


Road trip to Normandy itinerary 5 days – Add Mont Saint Michel

 

You will need at least 1.5 hours to reach Mont-Saint-Michel from Caen. this magical island looks straight out of fairy tale books and is known for its Gothic-style Benedictine abbey.

It is recommended to Entry Ticket to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in advance to avoid waiting in line


Tips for a road trip to Normandy

 

  • You will need a driver’s licence, and a passport to rent a car. Vehicle insurance and vehicle registration documents are a must while driving.

  • Driving is on the right side of the road in France.

  • Tolls are common on motorways and you can avoid them by travelling through small connecting roads. But it may take more time.

  • Country roads are narrow and public transport is not easily available.

  • Free parking slots are limited and hard to get. Search for parking areas in advance to avoid the last-minute hassle.

  • It is necessary to carry layers of clothing while travelling to Normandy. This region has a little unpredictable weather and you may need an umbrella and a light coat on the same day.

  • Traffic is heavy on weekends. So, calculate more driving time even for short distances.

If you are planning a road trip to Normandy in summer, then it is recommended to book your flights and accommodation at least 2 months in advance to avoid summer price surges.


Mont saint Michel on a sunny day on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

Buildings and yachts by the sea in Honfleur on a road trip to Normandy itinerary

When you will be done with your Normandy trip and head back to Paris, you will realize how much more this region has to offer and how you need to visit this place again.

Normandy has such charm that it will call you back and hopefully, you will pack your bags and leave for another Normandy road trip someday. Just like I am waiting to go back to Normandy soon!


Road trip to Normandy itinerary FAQs

 

  • Is it difficult to drive in Normandy?

Driving around in Normandy is not at all difficult as it has good roads and easy-to-find, well-connected towns and communes.

 

  • How much time do you need in Normandy?

You need at least 3 days to explore the natural beauty and interesting history of Normandy. But many people usually opt for day trips to Normandy from Paris or a weekend getaway. If you can manage to spend a week in Normandy, it will give you enough time to be a part of the local canvas.

 

  • Is day trip to Normandy from Paris worth it?

Yes, day trip to Normandy from Paris is worth all the hassle as it will give you a chance to drive through ancient towns and beautiful landscapes. You will get to see sandy beaches, towering white cliffs, churches, monuments, museums, and gardens all in one day.

 

  • Is Normandy worth seeing?

Yes, Normandy is worth seeing due to its D-Day beaches, brutal history, stunning land, historic towns, and a number of sights that adorn this region.


Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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Traditional Food in Cyprus + Meze: Best Dishes To Try (2025)


a traditional cyprus food meze of halloumi, cypriot sausage, gemista, tzatziki dips and grilled meat


Tasting the traditional food in Cyprus is one of my favorite parts of traveling there. I love authentic Cypriot dishes. They use simple ingredients but have influence from numerous regions nearby that create complex flavors in every dish.

If you're looking for the best traditional Cyprus food to try on your visit to the Mediterranean Island, here are the best foods, dips, desserts, and Cyprus meze to try! 

The evening we arrived in Cyprus, all we had time to do was get something to eat before the restaurants closed for the day. We quickly changed, left our luggage in the room, and picked the restaurant that was closest to the hotel.

I didn’t check the reviews or the menu. I just knew I needed food!

But I got really lucky because The Ficardo ended up being way more impressive than what I expected. They had all the staple Cypriot dishes, but we ordered Stifado and Kleftiko, which was the best meal we had on our visit to Cyprus.

Not Many people visit Cyprus for the food, but that's one of the biggest reasons I can't wait to return! Traditional food in Cyprus recipes is influenced by Greek, Byzantine, French, Italian, Catalan, Ottoman, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It's truly a melting pot and produces some incredible dishes!

This list will help you understand exactly how each dish is prepared so you don't feel lost next time you order a meal in Cyprus!


Traditional Food in Cyprus: Must-Try Dishes

Includes Cypriot meze, salads, dips, drinks, sweets and desserts


BEST APPETIZERS AND MAINS

1. Stifado

Since Stifado is what I had on my very first evening in Paphos, Cyprus, it’s right to start this guide of Cypriot dishes you need to try with this.

Stifado is one of Cyprus' famous foods with Greek Origins. However, no tomatoes are added to the Cypriot version. Instead, there are lots of pearl onions, vinegar (as I’d noticed from my first bite), garlic, red wine and, the main spices are cinnamon, bay leaves and, peppercorns.

It reminded me of Sorpotel, tangy with a hint of vinegar somewhere, the right amount of spice but not hot. It did seem it wasn’t fried like you need to for Sorpotel but had been slow-cooked for a long duration, which made the meat really tender.

In Cyprus, Stifado – also spelled 'Stiffado' – is usually prepared with wild hares or rabbits. It can be even made with tripe, octopus, beef, veal, and the vegetarian version, with chestnuts.

It’s the perfect comfort dish for a cold winter’s evening, but I had no regrets about having it in August as it’s a favorite in Cyprus. The dish is usually served with pilaf, potatoes, or Bulgur wheat, which is similar to couscous.

a traditional cypriot food - rabbit stifado

traditional cypriot dish of beef stifado


2. Kleftiko

We’d ordered Kleftiko with the Stifado, and it was the perfect combo. Not because the two are to be had together but because the Kleftiko is as equally comforting as Stifado. Kleftiko is another dish that is slow-cooked. The leg of lamb is cooked for about four to five hours. Sometimes potatoes go underneath it and turn out tasty, too!

Kleftiko is made from lamb and has Greek origins, too. The name originates from the Klephts or kléftes, which means "thief," who were anti-Ottoman rebels located in Ottoman-occupied Greece.

These mountain inhabitants were also ‘sheep-thief’ viz. sheep rustlers, who used to steal lamb, then bury it in a pit to bake it whole after covering the makeshift oven with earth so that the smells wouldn’t escape. A traditional round, white oven or a mud stove is used nowadays.

The marinade is a mix of bay leaves, garlic, herbs, lemon, salt, and pepper, which is then poured over the lamb, and the lamb is then left inside the fridge to marinate overnight or at least for four hours. A different method also uses wine in the marinade, which makes it different from Greek cuisine.

It then goes in the oven, covered in parchment paper or foil, and the oven does all the work for you. It is ready when you can use a fork to easily pick pieces of the meat off the leg.

Mostly served at family get-togethers and special occasions, it can be sometimes shredded to pieces and served with any accompaniment like Bulgur wheat, but usually it’s the potatoes.

 

typical traditional cyprus food of lamb kleftiko

typical traditional cypriot dish of lamb kleftiko


3. Chirino me Kolokassi

Taro has been used by Cypriots for ages. Taro or elephant ears do not look like potatoes but definitely taste like it and are prepared the same way, too. Taro is used widely in Asia, Oceania, Africa, and some parts of Europe. Baby taro are called ‘poulles’ and are shallow fried in the shape of fries.

Taro goes well with pork, chicken, or beef, but Chirino me Kolokassi is pork with taro, where taro and meat are first fried together well, after which the spices, tomato, and celery are added to it.

This dish, part of typical Cypriot food, is then left to simmer till all of the ingredients become tender.

Chirino me Kolokassi is a very hearty dish, which makes it perfect for winter. However, it can be a little difficult to find the dish during summer.

 

traditional cypriot dish of chirino me kolokassi stewed pork


4. Afelia / Afella

Another food from Cyprus with Greek origins, Afelia, was the equivalent of Ovelia in Greece, which meant cooked meat. In Cyprus, Afelia is made from pork marinated in red wine. While it has Greek origins, it is a staple of traditional Cyprus cuisine.

The main spice that is used in Afelia is coriander seeds. Batches of pork are boiled with the spices till the water dries out and then lightly fried in a tava, similar to a saucepan, in olive oil before the wine is added to it. The spices used most often are coriander seeds, which are a must, pepper, bay leaves, garlic, and cumin.

The dish is ready when the wine that is added to it gets evaporated, too. Usually served with rice.

 

traditional cypriot food of afella or afelia made from pork


5. Moussaka

Anyone who’s heard of Greece and likes world food would have heard of Moussaka. Surprisingly, I had one of the best Moussaka of my life in the Akamas Peninsula in Cyprus at a place called Polis.

Polis is renowned for its herb garden, and they cleverly use most of them in their dishes. The moussaka I had here was aromatic, and I hungrily scraped the last bits of it from the clay pot it is usually served in.

While the dish is synonymous with Greek cuisine, its origins are believed to be from the Levant region from a dish called musakhkhan. Musakhkhan or Mussakhan is roasted chicken baked with onions and spices over Taboon bread. A Greek chef, Nicholas Tselementes, who had worked at renowned restaurants around the world, including the Hotel Sacher in Vienna, added the layers and the bechamel sauce to it to make it more European.

Moussaka has eggplant, potato, and minced meat as the main ingredients. It is covered with a thick layer of béchamel sauce that turns crispy and golden.

 

traditional Greek Cypriot food of Moussaka


6. Tiropittes / Tiropitas

If you're wondering what to eat in Cyprus when you don't have much time, Tiropittes are a great option!

It's an appetizer made from phyllo pastry and a cheese and egg mixture - so essentially, a feta cheese pie. They are usually served before a meal or as a snack, and I love grabbing one while exploring the Paphos for the day.

Sometimes, bechamel sauce is also added to the cheese mixture to make it even more creamier. They are served either as individual triangles or a whole batch in a casserole dish and cut up into squares.

You can also buy them frozen and cook them in the oven back at your Cypriot Villa.

 


7. Gemista

Gemista always reminds me of stuffed bell peppers (a.k.a. capsicums) I had as a child, but these were stuffed with either chickpea flour or minced meat.

Gemista or Yemista translates to ‘stuffed’ in Greek. It can be not only peppers but also tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant that are stuffed with rice, minced meat, or a mix of both and then baked in the oven till browned. It also

The rice needs to be cooked thoroughly so that it’s not al dente, but it needs to be done with the peppers and not separately so that the rice absorbs the flavors of all the ingredients and spices. It also needs to have oodles of olive oil, which makes it wrinkly once done. Locals say that if the dish looks great, it probably won’t taste that good!

The traditional version is apparently vegetarian, where no meat is used. Almost every household has its own family recipe for it, and meat is generally used in winter to make it hearty. The dish can be served by itself or as an accompaniment with meat.

 

traditional cyprus food of gemista which are stuffed vegetables with rice


8. Souvla

Souvla, not to be confused with Souvlaki, is the Cypriot version of the Greek dish, with the meat cuts being larger and slow-cooked for a longer time. In Greece, Souvla means ‘spit’ (like the fire), and a souvla is roasted lamb.

There is more distance between the meat and the charcoal barbecue, and the chunks are spaced uniformly so the meat cooks evenly. The cuts are usually from the neck and shoulder of lamb, pork, or chicken.

Once the Souvla is cooked, the meat is brought closer to the charcoal to brown it a little.

Souvla, like Gemista, has many variations, and the type of meat, as well as the spices that go on it, can vary from region to region. Black pepper, garlic, onion, dry parsley, oregano leaves, and freshly ground coriander seeds are the spices most commonly used. It is a popular meal for festive occasions as families come together to grill the meat.

Souvla is similar to Indian ‘tikka’s’, where chunks of meat are marinated, sometimes overnight, and then grilled or barbecued. However, the yogurt is mostly absent.

Souvla can also be added to pita bread with a pocket, which is thinner and larger in Cyprus, with salad and dips like tzatziki to make a summery sandwich. It is street food in Cyprus but can be found in all restaurants and taverns.

 

traditional greek cypriot food of souvla which is grilled meat


9. Spanakopita

Another food item with Greek origins, Spanakopita, cannot be considered traditionally Cypriot it is still very popular among the locals. A delicious layered savory pastry made of phyllo (filo) or puff pastry and stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, spring onions, and egg, it tastes best when hot.

Different Greek islands make it in their own way. But proper homemade spanakopita also involves using ‘village dough’, which is slightly thicker than phyllo pastry sheets.

It can be made vegan, too! You just have to replace the cheese with tofu.

Since spinach already contains a lot of water, the excess must be squeezed out either by adding salt to it and leaving it for a while or boiling it for a short duration and then squeezing the water out later. The puffs are very versatile and can be had at any time of day, including tea.


10. Ttavas

Ttavas is associated with a lovely village in Cyprus, Lefkara, popular for its traditional lace. Here it is called Lefkaritikos Ttavas.

Ttavas, means a ‘clay pot’ where the meat, lamb or goat, is placed together with rice and vegetables, usually onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. Cumin is one of the most important spices in Ttavas. Then add pepper and vinegar. before adding enough water to cover the ingredients, covering it with foil, and baking it for about 4 hours.

It’s a dish packed with flavor as all the ingredients cook together, imparting a unique flavor. Each region uses a different mix and quantity of vegetables, which makes it even more distinct.

 

traditional greek cypriot dish of spiced pork called ttavas


11. Macaronia tou Fournou/ Makaronia tou Fournou

Oven-baked macaroni in Greek is the Cypriot version of pastitsio. What makes it different, though, is that halloumi is used in place of the usual variety of cheese, parmesan, that is used in pastitsio.

The mince is not cooked in tomato sauce, which makes it different from pastitsio.

Makaronia tou fournou means 'pasta baked in the oven,' the pasta tubes are layered with cheese and minced pork meat and then placed in a large oven until it is browned. Sometimes, cheese is sprinkled on the top to make it crispy.

This layered pasta dish also contains bechamel sauce, and mint is used liberally for seasoning.


12. Kolokouthkia

Courgettes, fried together with scrambled eggs in olive oil, are usually part of a Cyprus Meze platter. They also add traditional Cypriot spices, mint, lemon, and pepper most of the time.

As it is so simple to make, locals make it for breakfast or when they are running short on time. A great option for vegetarians and people who like eggs.

At restaurants, it's not really a full meal, but a popular meze served with a side salad.

 

traditional cypriot food called kolokouthkia


13. Loukaniko

Traditional Cypriot sausages, Loukaniko, have an unmistakable flavor of fennel. A thin, long sausage with Greek origins, the minced meat is marinated in red wine with some salt. Pepper, cumin, and coriander are added to it (as with most Cypriot dishes). Then it's made into sausages, smoked, and dried.

The sausages can be grilled, fried, or barbecued and served as part of a Meze.

Invented as long ago as the 3rd century BC in a place called Lucania, Loukaniko has a dried berry called “schinia” (Cypriot berry that looks like pink pepper) added to it. I found many Mastic trees, on which Schinia grows, on the walk to the Baths Of Aphrodite on the outskirts of the Akamas Peninsula National Park.

These trees are found throughout Cyprus.

The addition of the wine makes them look slightly purple, and the spices make them spicy and tasty.

 

traditional cypriot sausages called loukaniko


14. Cypriot Meze Foods

The Meze in Cyprus (a.k.a. ‘small dishes’) is perfect for anyone wanting to try various options before committing to a meal. It's also sharable, so it's great to order a Meze Platter for the table so that everyone has something to snack on before the first course.

Sometimes, main courses can also be served as part of a meze, albeit in a smaller quantity. It may also contain salads and desserts.

Meze has Persian origins. However, many countries in the Middle East and the Mediterranean have their own meze platters that serve the best traditional dishes. It is similar to tapas in Spain.

A Meze will have anywhere from 5-20 dishes, depending on what you choose. Expect pita bread and a variety of dips such as tzatziki, taramosalata, and hummus. Ouzo and Arak are the best drinks to have with a meze.

It's also quite common to get some meats with your meze, too. For example, Keftedes (Greek Meatballs) are commonly included in a Cypriot meze platter! 


15. Fried Halloumi Cheese

A highly addictive food from Cyprus, this brined cheese is made with a mixture of goat and sheep’s milk, which has a very high melting point that's ideal for grilling or frying.

Set with rennet, the absence of bacteria makes it very unusual and reminds many of mozzarella. Over time, due to increased popularity, cow's milk is also being used in sparse proportions.

White in color, rubbery, and salty, it has no distinct flavor, which makes it the perfect addition to almost anything, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and meals.

Believe it or not, hot Halloumi goes really well with watermelon.

 

traditional cypriot grilled halloumi cheese


16. Sheftalia / Sheftalies

Sheftalia or sheftalies are traditional kebabs from Cyprus without skin that use caul fat to form the sausages. Ground meat (mostly pork) is added to finely chopped onion and parsley with salt and pepper and formed into small kebabs.

They reminded me of cevapi from Romania, which were equally flavorful and had no skin.

Sheftalia comes from the Turkish word şeftali (kebab), but şeftali means peach in Turkish. This is because in Persian, the same word means a ‘fat berry’, and since fat is used in the making of this kebab, hence the name!

Shoulder cuts high in fat are used so that the kebabs stay juicy when cooked by grilling or frying. A mixture of lamb and pork can also be used. Caul fat is easier to use than sausage casings, doesn’t have a ‘meaty’ smell to it, and looks like a spider’s web. It is also almost as thin as parchment paper.

The sheftalies are mostly grilled and, once done, browned, which makes them very crunchy from the outside and juicy inside. Like Souvla, they can be added to a pocket pita bread with salad to make a sandwich.

 

traditional cypriot kebabs called sheftalies or sheftalia


17. Koupepia

Stuffed vine leaves, popularly called Dolmades (plural of Dolma) in Greece, are the inspiration for Koupepia, although its origins are from the Middle East.

Dolmades are vine leaves (grape leaves) that are stuffed with the main elements of rice and ground meat. The Cypriot version adds a sauce of tomato, herbs, and cinnamon to it, which makes it unlike dolmades, as dolmades are served with avgolemono sauce, made with egg and lemon.

The vine leaves are first blanched, and then the stuffing is then added to the vine leaves and carefully wrapped before steaming.

The vegetarian version, served at Lent, is made without using meat.

 


18. Koupes / Koubes

Croquettes shaped like torpedos, Koupes are another dish originating from the Levant region.

Minced meat, parsley, onion, and spices are stuffed inside a casing made of Bulgur wheat, flour, and egg and then fried. The casing is made by making a roll, then squeezing one end shut, and then adding the stuffing from the other before closing it.

Koupes are also popular as street food and can be made into a vegetarian version, too. The meat is simply replaced with mushrooms. Like spanakopita, many people consider koupes part of Cyprus snacks that you can have throughout the day and are served with lemon wedges and a salad if had as a main meal.

 

traditional cypriot food called koupes or koubes


More Traditional Cypriot Dishes

ACCOMPANIMENTS, SEASONINGS, SALADS, AND SOUPS


19. BULGUR

Bulgur is mostly made from durum wheat and is served as a side dish like couscous and rice, with most of the meals described above. It is also used to make pilafs, make koftes, and is added to Cypriot salads and soups.

One of the most simple Bulgur dishes is Pilafi Pourgouri, made from bulgur with tomato juice and onion. It's healthy but a poor man’s dish in Cypriot cooking as a poor man’s dish.

 


20. PITA

Pita or pitta bread is a flatbread made from wheat flour originating in the Middle East. It is yeast-leavened and is used commonly in Cyprus. Pita with pockets is used to make sandwiches in Cyprus by using Souvla or Sheftalia.

 


21. LOUVI

Louvi is a traditional Cypriot salad made from black-eyed peas with garlic, onions, parsley, and silver beet or Swiss chard. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. The dish is very nutritious, high in protein, and is great during the summer months.

It is a staple in Cypriot houses, and tomato and cucumber are served on the side with Louvi.

In addition to these food items, olives, olive oil, artichokes, and chickpeas are a staple in every Cypriot household.

The spices and seasoning used most commonly in Cypriot cuisine cooking are coriander seeds, lemon, mahlepi (mahlab) - a Middle Eastern spice made from ground cherry pits that taste similar to marzipan. Carob syrup is used occasionally as a drizzle on desserts and cheese and in salad marinades.

As for Cypriot soups, Trahana is often added to soups. Trahana is made by boiling bulgur in sour milk till cooked and then left to dry. Trahana can then be added to any soup. This makes it one of my favorite things to bring home from Cyprus as a souvenir.

 

traditional cypriot dish of bulgur wheat


DIPS

Almost all of these dips are served as part of a meze platter and go really well with grilled meat, salads, and pita. They go really well when making a pita sandwich.


22. TALATOURI (TZATZIKI WITH MINT)

This traditional Cypriot dip is made by using either fresh or dry mint and lemon juice in place of vinegar. This is what makes it different from Tzatziki. These ingredients with lots of garlic olive oil are added to hung/strained yogurt or creamy Greek yogurt to make talatouri. Seedless cucumbers are grated and then added so are to keep the texture creamy.


23. TARAMOSALATA

Only seafood-loving folk will like this dip as this one contains smoked fish roe with garlic, parsley, lemon, grated onions, and bread all blended together. It’s best to make and have it fresh, as sometimes food coloring is added to tinned taramosalata. Roe of cod is mostly used.


24. TIROKAFTERI

This spicy feta cheese dip/spread is made smooth by adding milk to the cheese and then mixing it well. Chilies, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic, oregano, and olive oil are also added to this dip, which is also used as a marinade for meats in some regions.


25. HUMMUS

The famous hummus is also served at most places. As mentioned previously, chickpeas are a staple here, and the influence of Middle-eastern cuisine here makes it obvious.

For those who haven’t heard of hummus before, it is a dip that originates from the Levant region and is made by mashing chickpeas with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and tahini.


26. TAHINI

A creamy sesame butter when used as a dip, tahini has garlic, onions, and lemon juice. Tahini is added as a condiment to hummus, falafel, and babaganoush. Honey can also be added to tahini and drizzled on desserts as a sweet alternative.

traditional cuisine of cyprus with dip of tzatziki


DESSERTS IN CYPRUS


27. BAKLAVA

Synonymous with the Middle East, Baklava is a traditional pastry made with phyllo (filo) or layers of unleavened dough with chopped nuts and honey in between. It is extremely popular in Turkey and parts of Cyprus.


28. LOUKOUMI

For anyone who has ever had Turkish delights, Loukoumi should taste no different. Made from starch of gel and sugar, these chewy treats dusted with powdered sugar (to avoid sticking to each other) come in various flavors (my favorite being rose) and are available almost everywhere in Cyprus. Traditional flavors have no chopped nuts or dates added to the cubes.


29. KOULOURAKIA

Kolourakia are pastries that are hand-shaped, usually in the form of twisted wreaths, figure eights, horseshoes, or circles. They are butter-based and may sometimes have sesame seeds sprinkled over them. They taste great with tea and can usually be found during Easter time.


30. GLYKO TOU KOUTALIO

These candied preserved fruits or vegetables are extremely sweet and are usually served to guests on a small spoon with a glass of water. Glyka, often known as ‘spoon sweets,’ are flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and sometimes geranium.

Figs, cherries, citrus peels, watermelon rind, and nuts are some of the commonly used items, and the process of making Glyka is similar to marmalade. It’s another great souvenir to take back home or as a gift!


31. PASTELLI

A traditional Cypriot sweet made from Carob syrup, carob syrup is boiled till it reaches the desired consistency and then twisted and shaped by hand. It is often made in the summer months as it is easier to mold it without the mixture cooling faster.

To this day, the village of Anogyra in Limassol still continues to make homemade Carob syrup and pastelli in the traditional way.


32. EKMEK KADAYIFI

Made from rusk-like bread and topped with whipped cream, Ekmek Kadayifi is a dessert with Turkish origins. Is it simple to make, and the bread almost always gets soaked in a caramel ‘serbet’ (sherbet) before being served.


33. LOUKOUMADES / LOKMA

Dough balls are deep-fried and then soaked in sugar syrup or honey. Cinnamon, crushed or flaked nuts, sesame, and powdered sugar are used to generously coat them. They look like gulab jamuns (for those who have tasted this Indian sweet) and taste like doughnuts coated in honey.

They are always light and spongy in texture, while the size of the dough balls can vary.

 

traditional dessert in cyprus


DRINKS


COCONUT WATER

I was excited and quite happy to find coconut water in Cyprus. While many may assume that the numerous beaches in Europe warranty countless coconuts, unfortunately, it isn’t so in all countries. It came in a tray with ice and kept it cold, which made me quite happy!


FILTAR

Traditional Cypriot liqueur flavored with a blend of aromatic herbs and sun-ripened orange. The family recipe has been passed down from the 13th century and was obtained by the owner’s ancestors, who got it from a monastery in Kantara. Great as an aperitif.


COMMANDARIA

A dessert wine that is amber-colored, it is made in the foothills of the Troodos mountains in the Commandaria region of Cyprus. It has a high alcohol content and is believed to be the oldest named wine still in production. It has been mentioned as far as 800 BC.


ZIVANIA

A Cypriot pomade brandy made from distilling a mixture of grape pomace (the pulp left after extracting juice) and local dry wines. It is colorless and smells of raisins. Zivania (a.k.a. ‘firewater’) has a higher alcohol content than most other drinks in Cyprus.

It is used by locals to treat some wounds, massage sore body parts, and as a remedy for colds and toothaches.


OUZO

A dry anise-flavored aperitif, Ouzo is not native to Cyprus but can be found in a few European countries. It tastes similar to Arak and Sambuca. Served as shots in small glasses or can be mixed with a small amount of water, too.

All of these traditional drinks act as lovely Cypriot products to take back home as gifts!

 

traditional cypriot drink of beer keo

coconut water in cyprus


Best Places to Eat in Paphos, Cyprus

Food in Paphos is just like any other part of Cyprus, and here are some great restaurants to have it! If you’re looking for where to eat in Paphos, make a note!

FICARDO

A great find, a short walk away from the sea, located near SODAP beach. Lovely atmosphere, and the restaurant is open till late.

The best bit is that almost all dishes are super tasty and priced well, too. Do not miss out on the traditional Cypriot dishes.


OUZERI

Hands down, one of the most romantic restaurants in Paphos. Located right next to the sea, they have live music in the evenings. The food is delicious. The restaurant may not be placed in the budget category, but it is worth it. Opt for the fresh seafood.


LAONA

Laona was the best restaurant to try meze. It's budget-friendly yet really tasty, and the service was great, too. By the time we were done, we had tasted almost all the traditional Cypriot foods. The meze also had dessert included. Included in town, it’s a great stop when exploring the city of Paphos or searching for street art.

Cyprus is a favorite with holidaymakers, who love it for the beach and the countless hours of sunshine, but there’s hardly anything said about the food here, which can be simple yet tasty and quite hearty too.

The taverns here have a rustic look and serve street food in addition to the traditional items and are great if you’re looking to have a quick meal or a drink within budget.

Make sure you try the cuisine in Cyprus, as there are few places in the world where you can have an amazing meal while listening to the sounds of the sea and watching the moonlight twinkle on the waves, and Cyprus does not disappoint!

a place to eat in paphos for traditional cypriot food


 

Traditional Cyprus Food: FAQs

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL FOOD IN CYPRUS?

There are many traditional foods in Cyprus that you should try, but the ones that are most well-known are Souvla, Koupepia, Halloumi Cheese, Afella, Stifado, and Loukoumades.


WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR FOOD IN CYPRUS?

The most popular food in Cyprus is Souvla. You can find these meat skewers on almost every menu, and it's common for them to be the primary dish at larger family gatherings in Cyprus.

WHAT IS A TRADITIONAL CYPRIOT BREAKFAST?

A traditional Cypriot breakfast typically is a platter of local produce. This includes fresh bread, Halloumi cheese, fried eggs, Anari (traditional cheese), Elies Tsakistes (crushed olives), and cured meats. There is also marmalade (various fruits), and everything is served with roasted Cypriot coffee.


IS CYPRIOT FOOD DIFFERENT TO GREEK?

Yes, Cypriot Food is different from Greek food. While Cyprus has a large portion of ethnically Greek citizens and shares a lot of Greek Culture (especially with the cuisine), most dishes are not exactly the same and have slightly different ingredients or recipes that make the food unique to Cyprus.


 

Final Thoughts: Best Traditional Food in Cyprus

If you are traveling to Cyrpus anytime soon, you're in for a treat (literally)! The food here is delicious, and you'll never run out of new dishes to try. It's also very unique. Most of the dishes resemble something you might find in Greece, Turkey, or Egypt, but when it's prepared using traditional recipes and local ingredients, it becomes a completely new dish!

My favorite traditional foods in Cyprus will always be Stifado and Kleftiko. That's probably due to a bit of nostalgia since it was my first meal in Cyprus, but it's also a local favorite and something that everyone should try at least once when visiting the island. 

No matter what you order, once you finish eating, be sure to check out Edro III Shipwreck near Paphos. This is a great addition to your travel plan, whether you spend one day or 7 Days in Cyprus! 

 

 

PIN FOR LATER!
 

If you're looking to try traditional dishes in Cyprus, this guide lists many Cypriot foods that you need to try on your next trip to the island of Cyprus. Cypriot dessert, drinks, salads, dips and spices are included in the guide. Also contains some…

If you're looking to try traditional dishes in Cyprus, this guide lists many Cypriot foods that you need to try on your next trip to the island of Cyprus. Cypriot dessert, drinks, salads, dips and spices are included in the guide. Also contains some…

 


What’s the best cuisine you’ve ever tasted? I’d love to hear them in the comments below!


EXPLORE MORE FOOD IN EUROPE

 

 



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13 Exciting Things To Do in Winter in Malaga (2025)

Thinking of spending winter in Malaga?

Whether you want to visit Malaga in December to see the Christmas lights or in January/February, it’s a great time to visit the city! Here is why you should consider visiting, how to get there, and the best things to do in Malaga in winter!

 

Malaga is one of the most visited cities in Andalusia, Spain.

It’s part of the ‘Costa Del Sol,’ which means ‘coast of the sun.’ The region started being called so by an Austrian diplomat and businessman, Rodolfo Lussnigg, in 1928.

He used this term as Malaga and other cities along the Mediterranean coast of Andalucía are always sunny, even during winter.

Malaga is full of fabulous beaches, historic sites, specialty museums, and scrumptious tapas to enjoy in between sightseeing. You’ll also notice lots of distinct cultural influences here.

It’s a 3000-year-old city that was first colonized by the Phoenicians and then inhabited by the Greeks, Romans, Moors, and others!

Malaga is fun to visit and has great weather all year round!  But here’s why you should take a trip during winter in Malaga.

Malaga Cathedral in winter in Malaga in December

Winter Weather in Malaga

 


Malaga’s warm Mediterranean climate means it’ll be mildly cold if you spend winter in Malaga. So, consider a Malaga winter trip to spend time on some of the best sun-kissed beaches or mountain getaways in Andalusia.

The winter season in Malaga is from December to February. It rains on some days, but Malaga in the winter is much better than most European places. Malaga winter temperatures in the daytime range from 10 to 17°C, and the sun’s out for 5-6 hours every day.

It does rain on a few days, though. The table below has information about Malaga’s winter weather:

 

1

Why Visit Malaga During Winter?

 

Malaga in Winter may not be the best time to visit for swimming since the Mediterranean is pretty cold, but you can still relax by the beach and soak in the winter sun. You can also take a sunset boat ride to watch the sunset over the ocean and see dolphins that sometimes swim near the boat.

Winter in Malaga is the low season for tourism. So, there would be no crowds on the gorgeous beaches and streets if you spend winter in Malaga, except during Christmas time.

And, you can also save money on accommodation or flights as these are cheaper around this time.

Another reason you should take a trip to Malaga in winter is the resplendent streets lit up with Christmas lights. Calle Larios, a shopping street in the port city, is lit up with hundreds of lights in a tunnel-like formation every year during Christmas.

The street looks magnificent every year, and the festive atmosphere in the streets is contagious.

The Christmas lights attract many visitors. Spaniards from nearby cities also come to Malaga for the Christmas light shows. The lights are turned on at 6.30 pm every evening, and there’s a sound and light show that happens two-three times every evening.

There are also five traditional Christmas trees that you will find decorated in the nearby streets. These Christmas lights are switched on in the last week of November every year and switched off on January 6.

Additionally, some places in Malaga have elaborate nativity scenes that you can enjoy.

Travellers visiting Malaga in December during Christmas can shop from the Christmas markets. These are in Paseo de Parque and Muelle Uno, where stalls sell food, gifts, accessories, antiques, and other things.

Another reason to plan a trip during winter in Malaga is the city’s proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is a 2-hour drive from Malaga. It has a ski resort with beautiful pistes for skiing.

If you aren’t into skiing, it’s still worth visiting, spending some time in the Sierra Nevada, and walking around the place to soak in the breathtaking views of rugged mountains and valleys.


How To Get To Malaga In Winter

 

It is worth noting that come November 2023, the ETIAS entry check will be launched for Spain which will be applicable to all who enter Spain visa-free, including visitors from the US and the UK!

This is to ensure that people who are a threat can be kept away and residents and visitors can feel safe!

Malaga’s airport, Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, is well connected to major cities in Spain and Europe. Malaga is also connected to other parts of the world through this airport.

Do book flight tickets in advance, though, if you want to visit Malaga in December during Christmas time. Many tourists visit Malaga in December during Christmas to see the Christmas lights in the city.

If you are flying in from another country and spending time in other Spanish cities first, you can also take a train or bus to Malaga.

AVE trains, which are high-speed trains, run from Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Valencia Granada and Cordoba to Malaga’s Maria Zambrano train station. Interbus and ALSA run buses from Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Valencia and Cordoba to Malaga. Or you could hire a car through a local car company and drive to Malaga if you want to do a road trip.

People relaxing on a beach in winter in Malaga in December

Best Things To Do in Malaga in Winter

 


1. Relax at the Beaches

 

The beach water’s cold in winter. So swimming isn’t ideal if you are spending winter in Malaga. Swimming is possible if you visit earlier; swimming is one of the top things to do in Malaga in November or other autumn months. But you can relax on the beach, take a boat ride and enjoy seafood at the restaurants near the sea. You can spend time at any of these beaches in Malaga –

 

Playa La Malagueta: Locals and tourists come to this beach which is only a few minutes from the city centre. It’s not the most beautiful beach in Malaga, but a good place to sit by the beach or have a drink at one of the ‘chiringuitos’ (bars at the beach).

 

La Caleta: This is a lovely beach with views of San Sebastián and Santa Catalina castles. It’s in the affluent La Caleta neighbourhood. You can spend time on this beach sitting by the sea, paddleboarding, windsurfing or eating in one of the places on the promenade.

 

Playa Peñon del Cuervo – Peñon del Cuervo is a picturesque, peaceful beach that’s 10 kilometres away from Calle Larios Street. A large rock near the shore cuts the beach into the water in two halves. Peñon del Cuervo is a fantastic beach to relax, as it’s calm compared to the other beaches in the city.

 

Playa El La Palo – La Palo is a calm beach surrounded by fishermen’s homes. It’s between Pedragalejo beach and El Chanquete Beach/El Dedo beach.

 


2. See the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

See the Gibralfaro Castle on a hill that overlooks the city and the port. The fort was built centuries ago, in 1340 AD, and is now a protected site. Situated nearby is the Alcazaba, a palatial fort built in the 11th century.

Here’s the important info you should know before you go;

Address: Alcazaba – C/ Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga, Spain | Castillo De Gibralfaro Cam. Gibralfaro, 11, 29016 Málaga, Spain

Opening Hours: April 1st to October 31st from 9:00 to 20:00
1st November to 31st March from 9:00 to 18:00
Closed: 24th, 25th, and 31st of December and the 1st of January

Entrance Fee: General entrance: 3,50€ for one monument; 5,50€ for both Alcazaba and Gibralfaro. Reduced entrance: 1,50€ one monument; 2,50€ for both Alcazaba and Gibralfaro



Gibralfaro castle in winter in Malaga in December

3. See the Malaga Cathedral and Roman Theatre

See the Malaga Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Church built in a Renaissance architectural style. It was constructed between 1528 and 1782 and is surrounded by a portion of the remaining Moorish walls in the city. It’s only 4 kilometers away from the Gibralfaro castle.

Another place close by is the Roman Theatre or the Teatro Romano de Málaga. It’s located at the foot of the Alcazaba. Here you can see an ancient Roman theatre with steps and a stage.

Here’s the essential information;

Address: C. Molina Lario, 9, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM every day except Sundays, Sundays 2 PM – 6 PM

Entrance Fee: 8.00 € for either entry or entry to the roof, 8.00 € for combined entry and access to the roof. All ticket combinations can be found here


4. Visit Malaga’s Museums

 

Malaga has marvellous museums that are worth visiting. These are some of the best Malaga museums:

  • Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda (The Automobile and Fashion Museum) – This museum showcases luxury vehicles and haute couture. It also showcases the artistic and historical evolution of the region since the nineteenth century through thirteen thematic rooms.

  • Museo del Vidrio y Cristal de Malaga – This museum showcases glass and art from various eras in a mansion that was built in the 1700s.

  • Museo de Malaga – This is an archaeological and fine art museum that showcases the art of artists from all over Spain.

  • Coleccion del Museo Ruso – This museum showcases Russian art and culture in West Europe.

  • Picasso Museum Málaga – This museum, in Buenavista Palace, has several works of Pablo Picasso which were donated by his family.

 

Note: If you visit in February, include a visit to all the fascinating museums in your list of things to do in Malaga in February. Malaga celebrates February 28 as Andalusia Day. It’s a bank holiday, but museums are open, and entry to museums is free on this day!


5. See the Malaga Port

 

The port of Malaga is of the oldest operated ports in the Mediterranean. You can walk around Malaga Port and see the coast. Or you can have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants by the port.


6. Stroll through the Malaga Park

 

Malaga Park is a 33-acre huge park with sculptures, fountains, and a botanical garden. It’s a calming place where you can spend time in nature.

Make sure to check the winter weather before you go because this is one place that you want to go when it’s sunny!

Address: Paseo del Parque, 1, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Park Website: Spain.Info



Winter in Malaga Cathedral with buildings behind
Alcazaba fortress in Malaga in December winter in Malaga

7. Shop at Calle Larios

 

Calle Larios Street is well known as it’s where tourists see the Christmas lights if they visit Malaga in December. Calle Marqués de Larios, or Calle Larios, is an upscale shopping street. This is a great place to shop for luxury brands. You’ll also find small boutiques and excellent cafes here.


8. Go Skiing at Sierra Nevada

 

As mentioned above, Sierra Nevada Ski Resort is just a 2-hour drive from Malaga. So, you can take a day trip to the Sierra Nevada to see snow-capped mountains if you visit Malaga in winter.

It might not be quite as impressive as the Swiss Alps near Lucerne in Winter, but it’s still an incredible ski resort with over 120 unique trails and a vertical drop of nearly 4000 feet!

resorts!


9. Eat Tapas in Magala In Winter

 

You’ll get finger-licking good tapas in Spain, but in Malaga, food combines the traditional and new. You can eat fresh seafood here and local dishes made with food grown in Malaga.

Malaga has a thriving agricultural economy. Olives, tangerines, grapes, almonds, raisins, and many seasonal fruits and vegetables are grown here.

Here are some of the delicious traditional dishes you should try in Malaga;

Paella – You’ll get delicious paella here with fresh seafood in it. Paella is a rice dish from Valencia: it’s rice cooked with meat, seafood, and vegetables.

Fritura Malagueña Fritura Malagueña is fried fish. Sardine, other fishes, and even squid are fried in batter and served with homemade aioli.

Gambas Pil-Pil Gambas Pil-Pil are prawns cooked in pil pil sauce. Pil Pil Sauce is made by infusing garlic and chili in olive oil.

Gazpachuelo Malagueno This soup is made with egg yolk, olive oil, mayonnaise, garlic and potatoes.


10. Day Trip to Grenada

 

Grenada is just under 2 hours from Malaga, so it’s very common for locals and tourists to take a day trip from Malaga to Granada!
 
Granada’s blend of cultures, architecture, and cuisine make it a great place to visit. You can see the architectural marvel of Alhambra, the Albayzín quarter’s charming streets, and embrace the city’s rich history through visits to the Royal Chapel and the Albaicín.

There is a bus from Malaga to Grenada for budget-conscious travelers, but the trains are much faster since they don’t have to worry about traffic.


11. Take a Road Trip From Malaga

 

Spending winter in Malaga is probably the best time to take a road trip in the Andalusia region. You won’t have to navigate through traffic in every Spanish village, and the weather makes it very comfortable to wander through towns and embark on short day hikes.

There are so many great places you can pass through on a road trip from Malaga. One tip, though, is to avoid rushing. Try to add no more than 2-3 stops each day so that you have time to enjoy each city, village, or scenic area in Southern Spain.

Some popular stops are Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda, the white villages, and Nerja.


12. Check Out the White Villages (White Pueblos)

 

Another place that people love to take a road trip to Malaga is the White Puebloes (White Villages) scattered across the region. These idyllic towns, known for their whitewashed buildings, offer a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life. 

These villages boast stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, unique local cuisine, and charming narrow streets to wander.

Each village is unique, too. Mijas is known for donkey taxis and artisan shops, while Ronda’s primary attraction is a dramatic bridge spanning a deep gorge. Frigiliana, on the other hand, is famous for its extra-sweet wine and romantic ambiance.

You’ll also find many great restaurants with traditional dishes and seemingly endless tapas.


13. Go Hiking in Malaga

 

The mild weather in Malaga throughout the winter makes it one of the most comfortable seasons to go hiking. You won’t sweat through multiple shirts, but unlike northern Europe, you won’t need your winter coat!

There are plenty of hikes on the outskirts of the city. Some of the most popular hikes include:

El Caminito del Rey: Easily the most famous hiking trail near Malaga. It’s a breathtaking hike where the trail clings to the side of a sheer cliff as you traverse through the Gaitanes Gorge.

El Torcal de Antequera: This hiking area is famous for limestone rock formations that evoke an otherworldly scene throughout the trails.

La Maroma: As the highest peak in the Malaga region, La Maroma is a challenging ascent that leads to panoramic views of the Rif Mountains in Morocco to the Sierra Nevada.

Río Chillar: This refreshing riverside hike, just outside Nerja, combines invigorating wading through crystal-clear waters with shaded paths through lush vegetation. The highlight is the stunning waterfall at the end of the trail.


Malagueta beach in winter in Malaga in December

Winter Events and Holidays in Malaga

Malaga in December

 

Verdiales Festival – The Verdiales festival is a song and dance competition of Verdiales, a traditional dance form. Here, you’ll get to see competing pandas (groups who sing verdiales) showing traditional folk dance in their colourful costumes.

The origin of Verdiales is uncertain, but it first developed in Los Verdiales, a region north of Malaga. The name Verdiales comes from verdial, a type of olive grown in this region.

This festival happens on December 28 every year and is held in different locations every winter in Malaga.

 

Malaga in January

 

Three Kings Day –  You can see this celebration if you’re visiting Malaga in January. Seeing this is one of the best things to do in Malaga in January.

Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany, is a traditional celebration that happens in Malaga on January 5 every year. Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, the three wise kings who are an important part of the nativity set, walk through the city’s streets.

The Three Kings parade runs through the historic city centre. Children are handed out sweets, and gifts are exchanged. People in Malaga, too, follow ‘Los Reyes Magos,’ the Spanish Christmas tradition — they leave a shoe outside the door or in their living room to receive gifts from the three wise men.

 

Malaga in February

 

Malaga Carnival You can see the Malaga Carnival if you visit Malaga in February. Malaga Carnival starts in February and ends before the period of Lent starts. There’s an official carnival parade, a parade for children, and a few other events that happen during this time.

The main parade includes costumed performers and dancers who walk through the city to reach La Malagueta Beach for the ‘burial of the anchovy.’

Burying the anchovy at the beach is an important carnival tradition and comes from the Spanish tradition of the ‘burial of the sardine.’


FAQs – Winter in Malaga

 

Is Malaga Worth Visiting in Winter?

 

Yes, Malaga is worth visiting in winter because of its mild weather, low crowds, and great outdoor opportunities. Winter lasts from December to January, and the daytime temperature is 13-18°C. Besides, fewer tourists take a trip during winter in Malaga. It’s also much more affordable, and you can see the beautiful Christmas Lights around Malaga!

 

Is Malaga Cold in Winter?

No, Malaga is not cold in winter, but it’s also not very warm. Instead, Malaga has very mild winter weather, which is great compared to most places in Europe. From December to February, the winter season in Malaga, the daytime temperature hovers around 13-18°C. The lowest temperature is 8-9°C.

 

What is Winter Like in Malaga, Spain?

 

Winter is mild in Malaga, Spain. So you’ll need a warmer and a layer of winter clothes, especially at night. But it’s pleasant to be out during the day. Daytime temperature is around 13-18°C. So you can spend time by the beach or do sightseeing.

 

Can I Go to the Beach in Malaga in Winter?

 

Yes, you can go to the beach in Malaga in winter. Winter Malaga is mild. You can spend time by the beach or take a boat ride. The beach water needs to be warmer for swimming. The water is cold: it’s around 15-17°C. However, some locals do swim in beach water during the winter.

 


Sardines being roasted by the sea in winter in Malaga in December

Final Thoughts: Malaga in Winter

Although it’s not the first place to come to travelers’ minds when thinking about holiday destinations, one of the best regions to consider is Malaga in winter!

If you love offbeat destinations, outdoor adventures, and slim crowds, then it’s the perfect place for you! I also love to spend the winter in Malaga for the Christmas lights and festivities around December!

It’s truly one of the most fun and romantic winter getaways in Europe.

But if you’re not sold, then maybe taking a winter holiday in Malta or going to Morocco in the winter will better suit your travel preference!

Lavinia Dsouza

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.


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