Europe – Roaming free – tales of wanderlustbykelley

6 Must-Haves when Visiting a Cold Destination

When planning a winter vacation, many people automatically think of tropical destinations like Hawaii or the Caribbean. However, there are other great options to consider – cold destinations! These can be just as beautiful and enjoyable in the wintertime and offer a different kind of experience. If you’re looking for some ideas on where to go, read on for this list of six must-haves when visiting a cold destination.

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1) Warm clothing

The first necessity when traveling to a cold destination is warm clothing. Layering is key— opt for lightweight layers like wool and fleece, as they provide the best insulation while still allowing you to move comfortably. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and womens thermal socks; these are essential in keeping your body heat regulated when temperatures drop. It’s also important to note that the temperature can change drastically during different times of day, so it’s wise to bring a range of options for long days out exploring.

In addition, waterproof and breathable fabrics are ideal for outdoor activities, as they will keep you both warm and dry. Look for items with waterproof shells and durable synthetic insulation that won’t lose its warmth when wet.

2) High-quality winter boots

High-quality winter boots are an absolute must when visiting a cold destination. It’s important to invest in a pair of waterproof, insulated boots that can handle snow and ice without causing your feet to get too cold. Look for features like removable liners, which provide extra warmth in extreme temperatures; Vibram soles for added traction on icy surfaces; and breathable fabric so your feet don’t overheat. Additionally, it’s helpful to have gaiters or boot covers so your ankles and lower legs stay dry and warm.

3) Sunglasses

Though it may seem counterintuitive, sunglasses are a must-have when visiting cold destinations— even in winter! This is because the sun’s rays reflect off snow and ice, making UV exposure higher than usual at these times of the year. So don’t forget to pack a pair of quality polarized lenses to keep your eyes healthy during long days outside.

4) Lip balm

The cold weather can be harsh on your skin, particularly the delicate area around your lips. To keep them hydrated and protected from the elements, make sure you have a quality lip balm with SPF on hand at all times.

5) A good camera

Cold destinations offer some amazing sights, and you don’t want to miss them! Make sure you have a quality digital SLR or point-and-shoot camera with extra batteries. Winter conditions can be harsh on electronics, so it’s best to bring backups of any important components, such as memory cards and lenses.

6) A sense of adventure

This may not be something you can pack in your suitcase, but it is essential when visiting a cold destination: a sense of adventure! Cold climates provide the perfect backdrop for all kinds of outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new — you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Visiting a cold destination can be daunting, but with these must-haves in your travel arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to having the trip of a lifetime! So whether it’s admiring the beauty of a snow-covered landscape or taking part in a winter activity, make sure you take advantage of all that cold destinations have to offer.

A Must-See Guide To Traveling Reykjavik

If you are thinking of traveling around Europe at some point in the near future, you should absolutely put Iceland right at the top of your list. This is a hugely enjoyable place to visit, with so much on offer, and it’s one of those truly unique destinations that can be surprisingly fascinating to wander around. There are of course many parts of Iceland you may want to check out, but a particularly popular part is Reykjavik, which has plenty on offer.

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In this post, we’ll take you through some of the things that you absolutely must do and see if you want to make the most of a visit to Reykjavik. As long as you have thought about some of the following, you should find that you are going to enjoy the experience a lot more, and really get as much out of it as possible.

Go For A Swim

A lot of places in Europe are known for their swimming areas, and Reykjavik is no different. Here you will find some of the continent’s best open air swimming pools, but that’s not all. You will also find plenty of opportunities to swim in the mighty waves of the Atlantic, and there are also a lot of geothermal pots that you can spend time in too. These are known to be set in particularly beautiful destinations, so they are definitely somewhere that you will want to try out at the very least. It should be right at the top of everything you hope to do while you are in this stunning part of the world.

Take In The Cafe Culture

Also in similarity to lots of Europe, Reykjavik does have its own particular cafe culture, and this is something that you should consider an absolute must if you are going to go to the Icelandic city sometime soon. This is the kind of thing you can get into just as a way to unwind after a long day, or if you just want to do some people-watching here and there. There are so many amazing cafes in Reykjavik that you can check out, and all with different kinds of themes and styles to them too, so that is absolutely something to consider when you visit the city.

Check Out The Church

There are of course more than one church in the city, but there is one in particular that is absolutely worth looking into. It’s called the Hallgrimskirkja Church, and you will find it slap bang in the center of the city, so it is hard to miss! It’s one of the most well-known landmarks in the city, being visible from pretty much every corner of the city itself, and there is a fantastic 360-degree viewing platform at the very top that you will certainly want to check out too. This is probably the best view you will get of the whole city, so for that reason alone it’s worth taking a look. Chances are, you won’t be able to avoid it anyway!

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Explore By Foot

There are a lot of hidden secrets and surprising gems that you will come across if you explore the city by foot, so this is something that you should put some time aside for if possible. Ideally, give yourself at least a day or two just to wander wherever your feet take you, so you can take in the city in this organic way. You will find that this is a truly incredible city to walk around, and a very safe one too, so that is something to take advantage of. Exploring in this manner is certainly going to be worth your while.

Go Whale-Watching

There are many local excursions you can go and check out if you are using Reykjavik as your base, and it’s definitely worth taking a look at many of these while you are in the area. A great example would be the opportunity right on your doorstep to go whale-watching in the ocean. If you head to nearby Faxafloi Bay, you will have a very good chance of seeing a number of whales, dolphins, porpoises and more aquatic wildlife. This is an absolute ust if you want to try and see some beautiful natural animals while you are visiting Iceland.

Those are just some of the things to consider when you visit Reykjavik. You will find that the locals are friendly and the city itself is enjoyable, and with these kinds of activities to choose from, you’re sure to have a great time.

French Foodie Experiences Which Will Satisfy More Than Just Your Tastebuds

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For many of us, food takes centre stage when we travel. Food is, after all, one of the fastest we can get to the heart of a place. Local cuisine can tell us everything, from the history of our destination to its underlying values. Variations between local delicacies can also show you a great deal about the politics in each area. In short; anyone who goes anywhere should spend a fair amount of time making the most of the food.

Of course, some countries offer better eating opportunities than others. France, for example, is a food lover’s haven. With winning bistros like Le Baratin on offer, that should come as no surprise. Far from just serving up those iconic snail dishes, French eateries offer a whole load of culinary delights. So much so that many people visit here for the food alone.

If French cuisine gets you excited, you’ll be pleased to hear that the foodie fun needn’t stop with eating. There are also some spectacular food and drink experiences which could take your culinary trip to a new level. Keep reading to find out what they are.

Very French vineyards

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It wouldn’t be a trip to France without a few vineyards, would it? There’s something quintessentially French about sprawling vineyards and wine tasting. And, lucky for you, there are plenty of experiences which could see you getting stuck right in. Options like the iconic Bordeaux Wine Tours offer the chance to get right to the heart of the best vineyards. Even better, you can take this is as far as you like. Most options offer a one-day tour of the grounds, complete with tasting sessions. Others, like the Silver Travel Bordeaux experience, could see you spending a whole three days on wine. It all depends on what tickles those taste buds.

All the olives

While we’re on the subject of French traditions, olives are also worth your attention. In the South of France especially, these are in abundance, and any grow in vineyards similar to wine. Again, there are plenty of tours for the largest olive orchards going. Any one of these could see you viewing a side of France you never knew. Or, you could get right into the heart of the trade by staying somewhere like A Compte Hotel. Here, you can stay in the aptly named ‘olive loft,’ where you have the chance to look out onto an olive grove every morning. Can it get any more idyllic than that?

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A full-blown food tour

If these specialist subjects don’t appeal, you could always go for a full-blown food tour. Options like the Gourmet Marais tour offer three-hour experiences which could see you tasting the best cuisine from Le Marais. Or, you may prefer the Montmartre food and wine tour. Lasting for up to 210 minutes, this trip will see you landing at up to ten gastronomy stops. All with a knowledgeable guide. What better way could there be to get stuck into the best of French eating?

Why Food Should be Centre Stage During Your Travels

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Traveling is the best way to learn about different cultures and experience all kinds of new things. But, whether you are toughing out a hike up an ice-capped mountain or relaxing on a tropical beach, the food and drink you choose makes all the difference to your trip.

Cultures grow up around the foods they eat and how they dine together. If you really want to get to know a new culture, you should always try the various foods at your disposal. For all that globalization has spread cuisines around the world, a pizza in Chicago is very different to a pizza in Naples.

Learning About Food

Every time you travel you should open yourself up to the opportunity to learn and exploring food is a great chance to discover new ways of cooking and preserving food. For wine lovers, this will come as no surprise since visiting vineyards is a holiday in itself. And when you could visit OakGlenn and go on a wine trail, it’s a difficult chance to pass up!

But wine isn’t the only learning opportunity. Italy is well known for its food and there are plenty of schools along the Amalfi coast that welcome tourists keen to learn about Italian cooking. Paris is another hot location for cookery lessons but don’t rule out the other cities and locations you visit. You would be surprised how many friendly restaurant and cafe owners are happy to share their secrets!

Discover New Flavors

If you’re into food and drink, there are few things as great as tasting something for the first time. Every area you visit will have a local delicacy or a particular way of cooking something and you never know when you are going to try the best possible version of something. While there are some pretty weird foods you may not fancy around the world, it is definitely worth your while to give some new things a go. Your new favorite food could be right around the corner!

Part of the joy of discovering new flavors is that you can take these ideas home and experiment with your own cooking. Sharing food is a fundamental part of being human and experimenting with new flavors at dinner parties is always fun.

Visit New Places

When you travel, you probably go to the same places everyone else visits but when you go for the food, your whole world opens up. Though you might expect some incredible food from capital cities and metropolises like London, Paris, Beijing and New York, often the smaller cities are where the beating heart of food can be found.

Instagram has had a big effect on the places we choose to go and while being able to take an awesome picture is fine, you would be surprised by the things you can find when you follow your taste buds instead.

Though food may not be the only reason you choose to travel, it can take you to some amazing places. And what better memory of your travels can there be but a recipe you can try at home?

Three Places 2019 Needs To Hand To You

We all love a bucket list, don’t we? The one thing that nearly everyone has on that list is the destinations across the world that make their souls sing. Finding destinations that you can go to that make you feel like you’ve accomplished something in your life is not always easy, because your choice of destination has to appeal not just to you, but to all those with whom you travel.

2019 is going to be a big year for travel, with more destinations and more innovative travel solutions than ever before, and it’s also going to be a big year if you’ve resolved to do new things and see new places. You should go and capture the world in the best way that you can, and travel is the way to do that. Getting on a plane and seeing new places from a relaxing Caribbean vacation to an adventure in the Galapagos is how you want to make memories in your life. There are hundreds of destinations to watch out for, and we’ve got three places that you want handed to you in 2019, so that you can see the world in a new light.

Plane view

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The Peloponnese, Greece

The tourism in Greece is always going to be high when you have an islands as beautiful as the ones that make Greece what it is. However, you can head to the go-slow corner of the Mediterranean by discovering the Peloponnese. Heading to the mainland and discovering the wide-open spaces that Greece has to offer in the off-season is the way to go for 2019 with Patras and Pyrgos finally being linked by train again, which means that you can explore the region in the most relaxed way possible.

Egypt

The Grand Egyptian Museum may have been delayed again, but for the first time in eight years, there is a waiting list for city hotels and boat trips along the Nile. There has been a few years of civil unrest in Egypt, and now it’s back on the map and people want to see it all. Nile cruise liner Sanctuary Retreats has now launched weekly sailings of its boutique wooden boats. These are all kit out with leather deck chairs and art deco features to die for.

Matera, Italy

This romantic ravine in Italy attracts those who want a more immersive experience in a new destination. Matera is built into the rocks and it’s a strange city that sits miles from anywhere else. People come from all over to see the sassi, the troglodyte cave dwellings where citizens lived in the dark until it was abandoned. Now? They’re hot property and people come from all over to view them. It’s one of the most romantic places in Italy to go and it’s somewhere that absolutely should be on your bucket list this year.

Taking the time to travel is good for the soul – don’t wait around to book, either, shop for the best deals online today.

Travel Destinations With Public Transport To Die For

While the notion of public transport isn’t the sexiest, it is one of the most helpful, especially when you’re trying to find your way around a new destination. Quality public transport can often mean the difference between getting the most out of your holiday and failing to do so.

According to the World Economic Forum, a kind of inter-government agency that likes to keep score of how well various countries are doing, some places are a heck of a lot better than others when it comes to getting around on the public dime. No, the USA isn’t among them. Let’s take a look at the top travel destinations with public transportation options to die for.

Austria

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Austria, that little landlocked country in the heart of Europe, isn’t the first place you’d think of for having great public transportation. But the country needs it, due to the fact that a lot of its land area is right in the heart of the Alps, one of the most inhospitable places on Earth.

Public transport in Austria isn’t the traditional network of buses and trains (although you can still find these in the country), it’s a series of cable cars and gondolas which open up the mountains that set the country apart. Each year millions of tourists flock to destinations like Mayrhofen, and they rely on being able to take the cable car to enjoy their stay.

Netherlands

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The Netherlands is, in many ways, the complete antithesis of Austria – incredibly flat, and not at all landlocked. According to the World Economic Forum, it ranks an impressive third in the world for its public transport. But do people use a lot of bus accident lawyers here? That’s the interesting thing about the Netherlands: its public transportation is based around its industrial canal system and great ports along the coast. You can get to practically all the major cities by boat, both by public barge, ferry, and private boat.

Singapore

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Over the last four decades, Singapore has experienced something of an economic “miracle.” The Asian city-state was once just as poor as surrounding Malaysia, but thanks to some smart investment projects, it’s managed to supercharge its wealth in an unprecedented way, becoming richer on a per-capita basis than most Western countries.

How did it do it? Scholars have asked the question, and many say that it has to do with the country’s efforts to provide incredible public transport. Like many Asian city-states, Singapore’s wealth is built around its port – which, of course, is one of the best in the world. The city is also crisscrossed by rail and bus networks to rival those of New York and London.

Hong Kong

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The World Economic Forum says that Hong Kong has the best public transport infrastructure in the world, meaning that people who go there on vacation will have the easiest time getting around. Incidentally, Hong Kong is ranked 11th in the world for tourism, making the island dependency a double-whammy for people who love to travel. Will you visit this vertical city?

Terrific Transportation: Getting Around in Style on Your Next Trip!

Looking to add a bit of style, luxury or just something a bit different to your next trip? Why not think about different ways to get around? There are all kinds of vehicles and modes of transportation that you can take advantage of that are not only practical but fun too. Here are just a few variations for your to consider.

Use a limo service

Do you have a special night out planned for while you’re away? Maybe you’re away with a big group of friends on a party holiday, and there’s a particular club you’re all looking forward to. Perhaps you’re on a trip with your partner, and you want to plan something special for your anniversary, Valentines Day, their birthday or the night you’re going to propose! You might have booked a show, night at the theatre or other occasion for the family and arriving in a limo would be the icing on the cake. If you just want a super luxurious getaway, you could have one pick you up from the airport- companies like Sabra Limo Service. A nice way to get to your hotel after a long flight, it certainly beats a crowded bus! There will be limousine companies dotted around in most destinations, so have a look ahead of time and get it booked up if it’s something you want to add to your trip.

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Hire a cool car

Planning on going on a road trip, or doing some driving while you’re away? Maybe you want to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or defeat Route 66. You might want to take a drive through the stunning French countryside, or drive the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. Whatever you have in mind, if you’re going to be on the roads why not do so in style? You can hire a car of your choice, it could be a luxury model that you’ve always wanted to own or a rugged 4×4. It could be a muscle car, a supercar or whatever you fancy. Have a think about the kind of route and what would best suit the journey you’ll be doing. Either way, finding a stylish way to get around can add comfort and luxury to your getaway.

Take a ride in a helicopter

A ride in a helicopter can enable you to see breathtaking views and is an all-round thrilling experience. You could see the New York skyline from above, or see the Las Vegas strip all lit up from the air. You could fly over London taking in iconic sights, or see the stunning scenery of beautiful England. Once you’ve decided where you’ll be visiting, do some research and find out if there are helicopter trips nearby. Be sure to book ahead as these kinds of things are popular and in high demand, and it’s no wonder as they can allow you to make memories that last a lifetime. If you want to add some glamour, excitement and something a little different to your trip then this is a really good way to go about it. There are often limitations, for example children under four years old usually can’t fly and anyone under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. There are often weight restrictions too, so be sure to read the fine print before you book.

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Charter a yacht

Is there anything nicer than the wind in your hair and clear blue seas all around on a gorgeous sunny day? Getting out onto a yacht can be relaxing if you want it to be, or it could be an opportunity to throw a party! You could sit on the deck and sip a drink, or you could watch wildlife. You could charter a yacht yourself, or hire one with a driver and complete with staff if you just want to lie back and enjoy the luxury. Many come with cleaners, a chef and more. If you’re visiting a scenic, coastal location then you shouldn’t find it difficult to locate a company that offers everything you want. If you’re staying in a city by the sea, a yacht can give you incredible views from the water at night when everything is all lit up.

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Book a cruise

Cruises fell out of fashion for a while. They were seen as something more for an older generation, however these days they’re well and truly back. The release of modern, beautiful cruise ships such as Quantum of the Seas means cruising is appealing to a younger market again. They’re great for couples and families, but really suit just about any kind of holidaymaker. You have everything you need all in one place right on the boat, and also the benefit of being able to visit lots of places on one trip. Cruise ships have shops, restaurants, things to do, areas to sit and sight see and so much more- making it a far nicer way to travel than on a cramped plane! When you stop at each location you can explore the place and see a new part of the world. It’s a wonderful way to see the world, and possibly the best form of transport!

Add something a extra special to your next break by considering one of the above, they make a great way to get around as well as allowing you to experience some true luxury! They’re not budget options, but if you’re planning something spectacular they’ll certainly make an impression.

Have you ever utilised one of these transport methods, or would you like to?

Mamma Mia! Fall In Love With Italy

Have you been thinking about taking a European mini break sometime soon? Or maybe you want to spend longer in this part of the world so that you have enough time to explore its wonders?

There are lots of impressive regions and countries to visit in Europe, but there is a reason why Italy is the most-visited one there is – it’s a simply stunning country with a fascinating history and culture. Not only that, though, but it has some truly delicious cuisine and local specialities. Whether you want to enjoy a short city break or spend a couple of weeks lounging by a pool or on the beach, Italy is most certainly the place for you!

Once you’ve made up your mind about an Italian vacation, you need to then whittle down its many areas and cities to decide where you want to go. Unfortunately, there are so many amazing options, you might be a little spoiled for choice! Here are some of Italy’s best destinations; hopefully, this quick roundup can help you decide.

Rome

Rome

There’s no wonder many tourists head straight for Rome, the country’s gorgeous capital city. There are hundreds of historical sights and attractions dotted around the city, including the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain. To make sure you see as many as possible, you might want to book a couple of the various Rome tours that take tourists to the main points of interest. When you aren’t doing the sights, you should spend some time wandering around the historic streets of Rome and take in some of the stunning Renaissance architecture.

Milan

Milan

If you love fashion and shopping, then you should spend a few nights in Milan. It’s Italy’s home of fashion, and you will find a lot of trendy independent boutiques as well as big designer brands, such as Gucci and Prada. For the ultimate shopping experience, be sure to visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is one of the most famous shopping malls in the world. Of course, you don’t have to stick to shopping during your Milan trip. You can also visit the Sforza Castle and the grand Teatro alla Scala theater

Venice

One of the most visited cities in the world, Venice is a favorite of travelers and tourists alike. You will be able to enjoy a lazy day relaxing on a gondola as you sail along one of the city’s many canals. In fact, those canals have been created from the lagoon that the city was originally built upon. Over a hundred islands make up Venice, and it is well worth doing a spot of island hopping to explore as much as possible. Be sure to check out the St. Mark Basilica as it makes a great location for some vacation photos. Doge’s Palace is a gothic-style museum that overlooks the water and is a great way to spend a few hours.

Naples

Naples

If “eating a lot of pizza” is near the top of your Italian to-do list, then you absolutely have to go to the city of Naples. This is the home of the traditional Neapolitan pizza, which is arguably the best kind of pizza you can get in the whole of Italy. Once you’ve had your fill, you could visit the impressive Royal Palace of Naples. It’s also worth taking a day trip out of the city to Mount Vesuvius. Lots of organized tours take tourists to the dormant volcano to hike up to the top. Naples is also quite close to the ancient city of Pompeii. The city was devastated after Mount Vesuvius erupted but it, and most of its inhabitants, have been preserved for hundreds of years under layers of ash.

Lake Como

The Italian Lake District

If you take a trip up to the north of the country, you will come across the Italian Lake District. This is where you will find the famous Lake Como, which is known for its gorgeous crystal-clear waters and mountain views. There will be plenty of hiking opportunities around the lake, and many tourists also choose to take a boat ride out onto the water. While you are in this region, be sure to visit the well-maintained public gardens that line most of the lake. Lake Garda is another popular stop-off for tourists, as this is where you will find fantastic mountain biking opportunities and plenty of water sport activities as well.

Sicily

Sicily is easy to spot on a map as it is the large island that looks like it is being “kicked” by Italy. It’s the biggest Mediterranean island, so you can imagine just how much to see and do there is! You’ll be able to walk to the Valle dei Templi, which is one of the island’s most notable archeological sites. The island is also home to Mount Etna, another volcano that you will be able to hike up to. If you would rather spend your time in Italy relaxing, you will be happy to know that Sicily has some beautiful beaches. To team history and relaxation, you should visit Licata so that you can wander around the historic port when you are bored of sunbathing.

Tuscany

Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its rural areas, but don’t worry if you would rather sample some city living. The capital of this region is Florence, and there’s plenty of culture and fun to be had there! When you are ready to see the gorgeous Tuscan countryside, you should take a trip to Cortona. This small town is situated right on the side of a hill and benefits from some truly inspiring views. You might also want to visit La Verne, which was the quiet retreat of St. Francis. You can pay homage to the saint or simply visit the busy Franciscan monastery that is still present on the site.

As you can see, there are some really fantastic places to visit while you are in Italy. In fact, there are so many, you might want to organize a road trip around the country to fit in as much as possible!

Paris: So Much More Than The City Of Love

Renowned as being the city of love, Paris is famed as being the world’s most romantic city, but there is so much more to Paris than a city steeped in romance. The city’s boulevards which are lined with historical monuments, its beautiful boutiques, and classic bistros, and its traditional museums combined with its more modern tech start-ups, design stores, quirky wine bars and cocktail lounges, and multimedia galleries are what makes this city such an incredible place to visit and explore.

There four things that make Paris well, Paris, and these are the iconic architecture, the glorious food, the stylish boutiques, and of course, the creative treasures. Paris is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most incredible cities, and not just for loved-up couples but also for solo travelers and family groups. It’s one of Europe’s most enthralling destinations because of the amount that it has on offer to see and do – there is nowhere quite like Paris.

Paris is the city that inspired countless renowned authors to pen some of their most imaginative works, from Victor Hugo to Ernest Hemmingway. It is also the place where most of the significant art movements of the past 50 years have been born. To top it off, Paris is where classical music, jazz, and theatre have thrived.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris sometime soon, a word of advice – plan like crazy. Why? Because you could, quite literally, spend weeks exploring Paris. When you’re heading off to somewhere like Paris that has numerous attractions to offer, planning your time really pays off. Paris is so much more than the city of light and love, so here’s how to make the most of any trip to this incredible place.

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Put at least one museum on your radar

When it comes to choosing a museum to visit on your trip, The Louvre is an obvious choice. It’s an incredible place complete with three wings packed full of history dating back to Greek times. Of course, being such a popular place, The Louvre almost always has huge queues, which can mean waiting in line for hours to get in, that’s why it can be beneficial to plan your visit in advance and book queue jump tickets from sites like The Paris Guy.

Not keen on seeing The Louvre, alternatively you could visit the Musee d’Orsay which houses some of the city’s most incredible Impressionist painting. There’s also the Musee Picasso and the Musee Rodin, both of which are smaller but no less impressive.

Stroll along the river Seine

Fancy spending some time outdoors? Then a stroll along the river Seine could be a great option to consider as it’s one of the most enjoyable ways to spend time outside in this incredible city. A great place to start is at the Jardins du Trocadero – you can see some incredible views of the Eiffel Tower from here.

If you choose to cross the river, there’s the Berges de Seine, a pedestrianised area which is often filled with bouquinistes – aka second-hand book stalls. You can walk down this route towards the Cathedrale Notre-Dameon, which is another impressive sight.

Don’t forget Montmartre

Montmartre is a must-see location when in Paris. It might be a highly popular hilltop sight, but the crowds don’t tend to impact how beautifully charming this place is. It’s a fact that no visit to Paris, regardless of how long or short, would be complete without exploring Montmartre. While there, you have to climb the steps to the Scare-Coeur – it’s incredible views are a must see.

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Be quintessentially Parisian and have a picnic

If the sun is shining, there’s nothing more Parisian than having a picnic. Pack a hamper full of gourmet treats – or better yet, buy a readymade picnic from one of the many delicatessens that span this city – and head to the Jardin du Luxembourg. The best street to head to for picnic supplies is Rue Montorgueil, a shopping street lined with cheese stores, bakeries, and patisseries serving all many of incredible cakes.

See the Marais

The Marais are made up of a network of ancient streets that have a distinctly different feel to the rest of Paris. Originally the Jewish area of the city, this area is now known for its beautiful boutiques and an incredible array of independent galleries. In the Haut Marais area, you will find a selection of modern cocktail bars; there’s also the Marche des Enfants Rouges here. While in the south of this area, you will find the Place des Vosges – a beautiful sight that you don’t want to miss.

Head east

The east quarter of Paris has changed significantly over the past few years and was once the rather run-down district just east of Canal St-Martin. But today, whether you are looking for a fantastic coffee shop, a quirky bistro or a night out, the east side of Paris is a must-visit location.

You can explore the Bassin de la Villette, go for a walk through Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or have a picnic there on sunnier days. The east area of Paris has plenty on offer, whether you plan on visiting in the daytime or at night.

Explore the modern art scene

Paris might be famous for its classical artworks but what about the modern art scene? Paris actually has a pretty incredible of modern art as well as more classic artworks, so if you’re a fan of this type of art, you want to make sure that you explore the modern art scene while in this amazing city.

The best places to visit to see a wide range of modern art are the Musee d’Art Moderne which is located in the Pompidou Centre. Here you can see works by the likes of Pollock, Picasso, and Matisse. For more challenging exhibitions, the Palais de Tokyo is a great place to visit – the artwork here is extremely unique and insightful.

Discover little-known gems

What’s fantastic about Paris is that it has many little-known gems packed into it. These are the kinds of things that unless you’ve lived in Paris or know someone who has, you wouldn’t know. That’s why, when you’re in Paris, if you can make friends with some of the locals, you will find it far easier to find all of Paris best-kept secrets.

Whether you’re a huge fan of ancient history, are mad about installation art, or have a real passion for cooking, you are guaranteed to find a little gem somewhere in Paris. There’s so much more to Paris than you will find in the travel books, which is why exploring and seeing where the locals recommend is so essential to making the most of your time there.

Be a smart traveller

To save money, be financially savvy and sightsee on a Sunday. Did you know that on Sundays in Paris entry to most big museums is free, or is free every first Sunday of the month? Of course, this will mean rather large queues, but if queueing for free entry allows you to see more of Paris then it is definitely worthwhile doing so.

Paris is one of those cities that can be easily explored in a manner of ways. Travelling on foot is one option, as is travelling by bicycle. However, for longer journeys, public transport can be a useful way to get around. The best way to get around is via the metro or by bus, depending on which mode of transportation you prefer.

Did you know that on Sundays and Mondays many restaurants in Paris are closed? That’s why it’s so important that you take the time to carefully plan your meals and determine where you will eat when so that you aren’t left without anywhere to have dinner.

When it comes to your accommodation, there are various options to consider, from fancy five-star hotels to more budget-friendly options.

For the epitome of luxury, Hotel Plaza Athenee is one of the grandest hotels in Paris, complete with lavish features, Eiffel Tower views, and a Michelin star restaurant.

For a more decadent stay, Le Bristol is the hotel of choice for many celebrities because it’s wonderfully glamorous.

For a beautiful location, the Le Meurice, located next to the Jardin des Tuileries is one of the most beautiful 5-star hotels in the city, with the staff going above and beyond to cater to your every need.

For a more budget-friendly option, camping can be a great choice. Did you know that you can camp in the centre of the city? At Bois de Boulogne there is a campsite with room for around 500 tents, in addition to space for campervans and caravans. You can easily walk into the city from here, and staying here won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Paris is one of the world’s most famous cities. While it’s known as being the city of love, Paris is so much more than a location for a romantic break away. It’s a city with real depth to it – there is so much on offer to see and do here.

Travelling across Europe

Europe is huge, so to travel across it would take you a very long time. So, we’re not suggesting that you attempt to tackle it all, but we do think that you should go for some of the best bits. Europe is truly stunning, and there are some incredible destinations that you could visit along your travels. But, we’re bet you’re wondering how we think you would be able to afford all of this? Well, it’s simple. Pack a bag, take a tent with you, and cut out all of the rubbish of hotels and jumping from flight to flight. Once you’re in Europe, getting on a plane and stopping in fancy hotels isn’t what you have to do. There’s so much freedom to pretty much go wherever you want, however you want. If you love the idea of camping, then see if we can get you to travel across Europe!

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Where To Go

Europe is the perfect mix of city breaks, beach locations, mountainous wonders…and anything else in between. If you’re looking for something that’s super varied, then you’ve pick the right part of the world to travel. If you were looking to explore some incredible mountains, mixed in with beautiful culture and people, then Switzerland is the place to go. It’s arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it’s landscape revolves around white top mountains, and picturesque villages. If you were looking for something a bit more beachy, then Spain is the place for you. All of the coast of Spain is filled with tourist hotspots, beautiful beach locations, and a pretty cheap time. In both of these locations you will be able to find campsites where you can set up shop, and it’ll be pretty easy for you to get around and explore as well!

What To Pack

It all depends on how long you’re going for. If you’re going for a few weeks, then you’re going to have to pack plenty of pants and socks, and enough clothes for around 10 days. Then, you’ll need to sort your camping equipment, and you’ll definitely need to make sure you get absolutely everything. From a floor topper, to the tent itself, it’s all going to have to come with you. You can see more here if you’re looking to find out what is needed for a camping trip. As long as you have the essentials, you can keep picking things up in every country that you go to. Make sure you also take things like suncream, a pack up phone, and a portable charger with you!

The Logistics

You can either get around by train, bus, or plane. If you’re taking flights, make sure you find out whether it would be cheaper to get the Euro train, or a cross country train. If you are getting flights, always shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal!