The Czech Republic’s former industrial powerhouse city of Ostrava may not be the first place that comes to mind when considering music festivals, but it will be the most memorable since it is not set in your typical festival field. Every July, the ensemble of red brick structures and the steelworks skeleton of Dolní Vítkovice, located on the outskirts of this gritty Moravian city, rumble differently with the four-day Colours of Ostrava music festival.

It’s quite a revival from when it was a coal mine and iron forging works between 1828 and 1998, and then abandoned. Between rotund gasometers and soaring furnaces, protruding smokestacks and jumbo pipelines are a mesh of 18 performance stages, lawn lounges and beach bars, food stalls and wine halls, creative makers and local crafters. The old roar and rattle of metallurgy is replaced with over 350 performances in a melody of folk and jazz, Balkan beats and blues, pop, indie rock, electronica, world music acts, and global megastar headliners.

The unique post-industrial setting of the Colours of Ostrava festival.

I attended the Colours of Ostrava festival in 2024 as a press representative, by invitation of Moravian-Silesian Tourism. 

The Origins of Colours of Ostrava

Colours of Ostrava was born from the vision of director Zlata Holušová. What began in 2002 as a small niche gig along the boisterous bar-lined Stodolní Street and in the city’s central Černá louka park quickly grew, selling out by 2009 with 25,000 attendees. By 2012, the festival had outgrown its roots and relocated to the industrial Dolní Vítkovice venue – a striking, post-apocalyptic complex that accommodates over 40,000 people.

It’s put the Czech Republic’s third-largest city on the map, morphing into one of Central Europe’s largest multi-genre music festivals. However, it goes beyond just music, incorporating art installations, theatre shows, discussions, and workshops.

The festival fills the grounds of the former coal mine and iron forging works that shut down in 1998.

Stalls and stages line the laneways of the Dolní Vítkovice site.

One of the green lounge lawns at the Colours of Ostrava festival ground.

More than Headliners: Discovering New Music

Naturally, a festival is judged according to its roster of big-hitter artists. Since its debut in Dolní Vítkovice, Colours of Ostrava has featured the likes of Macklemore, Interpol, The Killers, The Cure, Florence + The Machine, Imagine Dragons, Jamiroquai, Björk, Kasabian, and Alanis Morissette on its big stages. In 2024, I saw Lenny Kravitz, Sam Smith, and Tom Morello headline, while on an afternoon set, Sean Paul led a sunshine-fuelled nostalgic crowd through his decades of mega hits. 2025’s big names include Sting, The Chainsmokers and Iggy Pop. 

Festivalgoers are primarily from the Czech Republic, and the festival remains relatively under the radar to international audiences. The bonus is that the crowds at Colours of Ostrava are not as jam-packed as those at UK festivals, so I got front-of-stage (or close enough) for a couple of headliners, including Tom Morello. I couldn’t have gotten that close to Lenny Kravitz at another festival unless I stood waiting for hours pre-gig. 

Getting up close to Lenny Kravitz at Colours.

View from the VIP area of Sam Smith’s headline performance.

Front of stage for Tom Morello.

Sean Paul’s nostalgic afternoon set.

Yet, Colours of Ostrava is more than its headliners; many emerging artists from local Czech regions, neighbouring countries, and worldwide are given a platform to perform. I found myself spending much of each day roaming freely without too much of a rigid plan to stumble upon musical acts I’d never heard of. I saw American punk rock band Gogol Bordello, bluesy American guitarist Gary Clark Jr, German Elektropop band ClockClock, and the West African Burkinabe griot music of Avalanche Kaito. At festivals, some of the best sets are the ones you didn’t plan on seeing.

Watching Gary Clark Jr. Finding new-to-me musicians on smaller stages.

Sundown sounds of Avalanche Kaito.

Elektropop ClockClock and a fun crowd.

As the sun sets on the headliner stages, the electronic music scene ups the ante, especially from the Luxor Stage, where you’ll find some of the best DJs and live electronic acts from around the world spinning the decks from 9 pm until the early hours.

Beyond the Music: Art and Culture Programme

Colours of Ostrava prides itself on being a cultural festival packed with theatre shows and dance workshops, film screenings and panel discussions on global issues.

The Meltingpot Forum

The Meltingpot Forum is the collective name given to the 12 stages scattered throughout the festival grounds. The festival labels its programme, which featured over 150 speakers in 2024, as the largest inspirational forum in Europe. There are underground comedy shows, such as Siegfried & Joy’s hilarious and joyful magic performance, avant-garde productions, traditional theatre performances, a film and documentary programme, and lectures on a wide range of topics, including politics, poetry, storytelling, science, media, and innovation. Art projects include sculptures standing throughout the site and interactive pieces you can touch or clamber through. 

See the Meltingpot 2025 speaker list here.

There’s no festival setting quite like Colours of Ostrava.

Watching the theatre-set magic of Siegfried & Joy.

Touring the Bolt Tower

You can’t miss the shimmering blue heights of the Bolt Tower – it’s a Dolní Vítkovice symbol. Built upon the former iron blast furnace site, the spiking glass layers were designed to resemble fire. The tours of the sites continue during the festival, or you can head up the skip lift to the top of Furnace No. 1 for the café and the winding viewing platforms, which offer the best panoramic view over the entire festival site. It’s popular for sunset, so book ahead to get a spot.

The 40,000-strong festival crowd fills Dolní Vítkovice every July.

The best view of the festival site is from the Bolt Tower’s viewing platforms.

Elevated views over to the main stage, from the heights of the Bolt Tower.

A host of stages surround the skeleton of ironworks.

Food and Drink: Local Staples and Global Tastes

Local food stalls serve up hearty Czech classic snacks, but there’s also a selection of vegan and vegetarian options, as well as international flavours including Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean.

Czech beer dominates the menu for drinks – and rightly so, given the country’s reputation for the most perfectly poured Pilsner. There is also a craft beer bar and a wine tunnel featuring a selection of  wines that have been ranked among the top 100 best wines in the Czech Republic, as showcased in the renowned wine cellar at Valtice Castle. But you’ll also stumble upon impromptu stations with cocktails, fresh juices and water stalls.

Food and drink stalls fill all corners of the Dolní Vítkovice site.

Can’t get to the renowned cellar at Valtice Castle? Come and sample some of the Czech Republic’s top 100 wines here.

Shop Local: Art and Craft Stalls

In the labyrinthine alleys and spare spaces between the behemoth stacks and pipelines, you’ll find lines of Czech artisans showcasing their craft from bespoke festival fashion wares and handcrafted jewellery, accessories, trinkets and take-home local snacks. It’s the perfect opportunity to take home a unique festival souvenir while supporting emerging homespun creatives. The tune-pumping Doktor Vinyl bus is also a quirky hideaway.

Shopping festival fashion.

A showcase of local artisans. 

The narrow alleys and corners.

The tune-pumping vinyl van.

Colours of Ostrava Tickets

While you can purchase a selected single-day ticket, getting a four-day ticket is better value for money. All tickets include entry to the festival and all listings at the Meltingpot forum, and are exchanged on arrival for a chip wristband, which you’ll need to show and tap on the reader for entry and exit to the festival grounds.

• 4-Day Ticket (Adult) – €183
• 1-Day Ticket (Adult) – €125
• 4-Day Ticket (Age 15-21) – €125
• 4-Day Tickets (Children up to the age of 15) – €50
• Ages 65 and over – Free admission to the festival on Saturday. 

Is the VIP upgrade worth it?

It’s a very pricey add-on – a 4-Day VIP Ticket (Adult) is €460, and you are paying for comfort and accessibility. The ticket includes separate and faster accreditation at the special festival entrance at Ruská Street, access to the VIP zone with its own toilets and cloakroom alongside a bar, and a huge seated gallery vista space overlooking the main headliner stage. Unless comfort tops crowd energy for you, it will be mostly wasted.

Buy tickets here on the official Colours site.

Where to Stay in Ostrava during the Festival

Ostrava is the Czech Republic’s third-largest city, but it doesn’t command the crowds or the steep prices of Prague and Brno. During the festival, you can either pitch a tent and camp or return to the comfort of a city-based hotel every evening.

Colours of Ostrava Camping Sites

The festival offers official camping grounds close to the site, which is the cheapest and most convenient option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Colours experience, especially as many Czechs choose this option.

The camping area is more comfortable than pure roughing it, equipped with a 24/7 reception, showers and toilets, food, grocery, and coffee stalls, as well as a free-to-use kitchen area. New for 2025 are washing machines and dryers.

Slezskoostravský Hrad Camp / Camp Silesian (Silesian Ostrava Castle area)

Basic camping here is cheap. It’s €29 to pitch a tent here on top of the €25 camp ticket. Caravan spots get pricier, starting from €208.

Tent Inn Camp (Silesian Ostrava Castle area)

Located on the same site as the basic grounds, this camp is the ideal option if you prefer to leave the equipment behind and hire a pre-pitched tent. Prices start from €125, which includes sleeping mats for 2 people. Airbeds and safety lock-ups can be booked as extras.

Chill Village Camp

This is the more luxurious and spacious glamping area, with fully equipped tent set-ups starting from €604 for up to five people.

Book camping spots and tent pitches here.

Ostrava Hotels in the City

If you prefer more homely comforts after the end of the festival day, there’s a host of decent hotels in the city. It’s well worth booking at least three months in advance; prices rise, and hotels fill up during the festival, so early booking is essential.

Mercure Ostrava Centre is one of the city centre’s newest hotels, located in a revived historic building. The Imperial Hotel is Ostrava’s first hotel, which opened in 1904 and is a legendary city-centre heirloom. Both are less than 10 minutes by tram to Dolní Vítkovice, south of the city centre.

Hotel city.city is a no-thrills, minimalist accommodation a few minutes from the main train station in an edgy local neighbourhood. Due to its northern city setting, the journey to Dolní Vítkovice is an additional 10 minutes by tram.

How to Get to the Colours of Ostrava Festival

Whether you stay in the city or at one of the east-bound campsites, you’ll likely use trams and buses to get to and from the festival. It’s worth purchasing the discounted festival transport ticket for city travel.

Post revelry, the best place to pick up a Bolt taxi when leaving from the festival site late is in the parking area behind the underpass in front of the festival site, or follow the crowds towards the Orlen petrol station, about a 10-minute walk away, where cars can stop for pick-up. The cost to return to the city is approximately €8-€12.

Dolní Vítkovice and Ostrava city.

Getting to Ostrava

Ostrava is a little off the beaten track, snug in the far northeast of the Czech Republic and close to the border with Poland. With numerous public transportation connections, travelling to Ostrava from neighbouring Czech cities and other European capitals is easy.

By Plane: Ostrava’s International Airport is Leoš Janáček Airport, some 25km from the centre, though easily reachable by the S4 train line. Ryanair flies to Ostrava from London Stansted Airport. Many international visitors also fly into the Czech capital, Prague, or Poland’s air hub, Katowice, and then take a train or bus to Ostrava within three hours.

By Train: If you plan to arrive by train, it’s essential to note that Ostrava has two train stations. The main Hlavní nádraží station is in the city, around 20-30 minutes on foot north of the centre, and ideally, the station you want to arrive at. Ostrava-Svinov is west of Ostrava, a 15-minute drive to the centre.

By Bus: FlixBus and RegioJet services connect Ostrava to Prague and Vienna, passing through Brno and Olomouc. Coming from Poland? Take a bus from Kraków and Warsaw to Ostrava.

Essential Colours of Ostrava Festival Tips for First-Timers

Bring comfortable shoes: Sturdy footwear is a must – the industrial site is vast, and you’ll be clocking up the steps on the dirt paths and gravel tracks leading the way.

Download the festival app: You’ll mainly want this for its line-up planner and maps, which are handy for highlighting what acts and shows you want to see.

Prepare for mixed weather: July in Ostrava can be unpredictable, and in one day you could experience baking hot afternoons, light drizzling rain and chilly evenings. Pack light and easy-to-carry layers.

Dress-up and dress code: Czechs here are hip-cool and understated in fashion, so you won’t see an abundance of glitz and glitter. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go all out in your sparkle and steampunk festival attire, which you’ll see more of over the festival’s weekend days.

See something new: Even if you’re there for the music, take a break to catch one of the talks, scramble through an art installation, or marvel at a theatre show. With fewer crowds, it’s also a great time to take the chance to get in front of the stage or up close to a big-name artist.

It’s accessible: Dolní Vítkovice is a barrier-free area, and in line with the Colours Without Barriers ethos, the festival features special viewing and relaxation areas for individuals with disabilities, sign language interpretation at select concerts and talks, and the option to request a trained assistant or a complimentary ticket for an accompanying person.

Explore Ostrava city: I’m a passionate advocate of Ostrava, having visited it a few times, and parts of the city are criminally underrated. Find historic city remnants in Masaryk Square, browse the art-packed halls of the Ostrava’s Gallery of Fine Arts and the Plato Gallery of Contemporary Art, and see the city’s former mining sites from the hiking heights of the still-smouldering Ema slag heap to the underground shaft of Landek Park Mine Museum.

READ MORE: Uncommon Things to Do in Ostrava to See it Differently.

Colours of Ostrava is a multi-sensory cultural experience set in one of the most striking venues you’ll ever visit. Even the most seasoned festival-goers will find something new, and to those new to the outdoor performing arts scene, Colours of Ostrava is a unique place to start. It’s certainly a place you won’t forget – you’ll come for the music and leave with a different perception.

Ready for Colours of Ostrava?

The post Colours of Ostrava Guide – Europe’s Most Unique Festival in a Post-Industrial Landscape appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

Ireland. Its heart beats to an optimistic rhythm and one that is distinctively unique; a culture steeped in long tradition mixed with long adversity, where happiness dominates in spite of hardship. Pride in a land so beautiful, you can’t help but instantly love it. And so beautiful it may be that all are welcome to share in her glory, and no one is considered a stranger.

But where do you start in your exploration of this culturally rich land? Not far from Dublin, ancient history lives in stone. Ireland’s centuries-old stories whisper from the rocks atop hills and within grand castles or remain alive in bustling old city walls. I went on a short journey through the southeast to uncover the Viking, Norman, and medieval foundations of today’s Emerald Isle, steeped in the relics, ruins, and foundations of Ireland’s first capitals and old strongholds.

I took a road trip around parts of what is dubbed Ireland’s Ancient East, which was as much of a homecoming for me as it was a fascinating trip into 5,000 years of history of the country. Here’s where to go in Ireland’s Ancient East to find the region’s top attractions. 

Start in Dublin

Whether you are a culture vulture or pub-crawler, or there for a long weekend or a whole week, there’s plenty to give you a taste of the capital, but here’s the top pick of things to do in one day in Dublin, before moving on to the Isle’s eastern swathe of sites. 

The Guinness Storehouse

Pour over the city’s legacy at the Guinness Storehouse at St.James’ Gate Brewery. Hop several interactive exhibit floors detailing the history of Guinness and its founder, Arthur Guinness, the ingredients and brewing process, how to replicate great recipes and examples of the fun advertising through the ages, ending with the chance to pull your own pint and later sip away on an expertly poured one on the seventh-floor gravity bar (the celbratory pint is included in the cost of the admission).

Cobblestone Crawl the Pubs of Temple Bar

The Temple Bar area is as much of an institution as some of the city’s major monuments. In fact, it’s a culturally preserved part of Dublin, whose cobblestoned streets and traditional architecture were saved from ruin during the modernisation of the city in the 1960s. Not only is it home to old traditional pubs, restaurants and banging nightclubs when the sun goes down, but it also hosts some of Dublin’s top cultural haunts including The Irish Film Institute, the Irish Stock Exchange and the Central Bank of Ireland. 

Back to University at Trinity College

Architecture enthusiasts should trip to Trinity College – Ireland’s oldest University, founded in 1592 and one of Britain and Ireland’s seven listed ancient universities. It’s a stunning ground in the central city, with old gates, fine buildings, classic statues, and immaculate green landscaping. There’s also a contemporary art gallery and the Samuel Beckett Theatre on-site, so be sure to keep an eye out for forthcoming exhibitions and shows around the time of your visit – especially the annual Dublin Fringe Festival, part of which is hosted here.

Take a Dublin City Walking Tour

Dublin’s walking tours at the helm of locals are the greatest way to get acquainted with the hidden sides of the city that you may either walk past or not be able to find very easily. Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours depart every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and start on Dublin’s main street, O’Connell Street, and for 45 minutes will take you on a stroll through the city’s iconic extras including the General Post Office, the Henry Street shopping district, St Mary’s Church, the Ha’Penny Bridge and the former Houses of Parliament.

Find the Famed Statues of Dublin City

Dublin’s stack of statues spans the historical, the iconic (Oscar Wilde, looking at you) and the controversial. So much so that it’s been said that over the years, a few have been removed. They are a quirky addition to the cityscape, and many have humorous, tongue-in-cheek nicknames. Take the well-known fishmonger, Molly Malone, whose cart-wheeling statue in Grafton Street has been named “The Tart with the Cart” or “The Trollop with the Scallop”. Look out for the two ladies sitting on a bench on the Ha’penny Bridge, known as “The Hags with the Bags” and the James Joyce statue, yielding a walking cane and thus given the title “The Prick with the Stick.” You’ve got to love the Irish sense of humour and it’s a great conversation starter with the locals. Who knows what other hilarious names you might learn!

Stroll the Landscaped St.Stephen’s Green

For a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the sunshine (depending on what time of year you go), head to St Stephen’s Green – a swathe of green public park near the well-known Grafton Street and St Stephen’s shopping centre. It’s the largest park in the city, perfectly landscaped and full of flowery colour and twinkling lakes. If you look at an aerial view image, it almost looks like a mini Central Park – perfect for escaping the city’s crowds.

Regally Visit Dublin Castle

While the east of Ireland is scattered with castle ruins, history buffs can get a taste of the majestic cityside at Dublin Castle, which was the seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922 and was then used as a royal residence, a meeting place for parliament and law courts, and a military station. It’s now used for official State visits, official government meetings, and international engagements. Expect opulent drawing rooms, throne rooms, and grand corridors.  Or schedule your visit to coincide with a music or theatre event taking place here.

Day One Touring Ireland’s Ancient East

Visiting Tullamore D.E.W

Starting in County Offaly, it was only right to taste the most famous export of the town of Tullamore – its fine Irish Whiskey called Tullamore D.E.W, where a tasting to sniff out your favourite age-old blend is a rite of passage. It’s the town’s most famous export from the Tullamore Distillery that rests beside the Grand Canal and dates back to 1829. I’m not a whiskey fan, but the blend with a hint of apple may have swayed me a little towards this Irish staple.

Yet Tullamore’s foundations go further than distilling, with an ancient ruin concealing stories of invasion and conquest before whiskey made Ireland famous.

The Ruins of The Rock of Dunamase

The Rock of Dunamase is a castle ruin that dates back over 2000 years, perched within the layers of uneven hillsides, surrounded by farmland and encased in crumbling stonewall boundaries. It started life in the 6th Century and after the Normans invaded in the 12th Century, was built over and used as a fort. I climbed its walls and stood within the frameworks of its old windows, looking out onto a new and prosperous Ireland.

A small group of us stood on its edges and pondered Ireland that once was, in a fort we had to ourselves – we, the curious type of invader, there to tell its story.

Step Inside Ireland’s Oldest Pub in Abbeyleix

No trip in Ireland is complete without an Irish pub or two, so it was only fitting on this trip to the southeast that the first pub stop was to Ireland’s oldest pub called Morrissey’s in the heritage town of Abbeyleix.

Back in the day, the pub wasn’t just where you downed a pint of your favourite ale or stout, but an all-stop-shop where you could pick up your groceries and hardware goods. The Irish pub was the centre of everyday life. Very much how it remains now.

Stay in Castle Durrow

From rock ruin to pub, the next stage of understanding old Ireland is from its days of barons and viscounts and generations-long lineage of title and splendour. An overnight stay in the 18^th Century Castle Durrow country home was a chance to experience the noble way and dine and sleep within high-stature, classic interior design rooms.

Day Two in Ireland’s Ancient East

Tipperary and the Rock of Cashel

Starting for Tipperary and singing the famous “It’s a long way to Tipperary” song on the way (which we learnt isn’t actually about the County in Ireland), we headed straight for the area’s hilltop beacon, The Rock of Cashel.

Cashel’s countryside is dominated by this mighty rock set atop a mound of limestone in an area known as the Golden Vale.

A collection of early Christian and medieval buildings, including a 12^th Century Round Tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13^th Century Gothic cathedral and a 15^th Century Castle, this complex of ruins is one of Ireland’s most well-known relics, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock. It was once a fort of the Kings of Munster for several hundred years and later given as a gift to the church in 1101.

Hore Abbey Ruins

Intrigued by the structure below, we visited the crumbling Hore Abbey that sits wearily in the grounds below the Rock. History lingers here in isolation and eerie calm, but from the Abbey’s spooky, unkempt windows frames, you’ll find an incredible view up to The Rock of Cashel from a distance.

Visit Waterford – Ireland’s Oldest City

The second half of the day was spent exploring Ireland’s oldest city of Waterford, where a Viking moored his ship over 1,100 years, giving Waterford the title of ‘where Ireland began’.

A city captured by the Normans in 1170, who set in stone the first layers of what we see today, The Old Town has become the site of the ‘Viking Triangle’ – a walkable historical trail that includes the colourful, artefact-filled Medieval Museum, the 18^th century Bishop’s Palace (recording Waterford’s history from 1700-1970), Christ Church Cathedral and Reginald’s Tower (housing a Viking exhibition) that stands next to a replica 40-foot Viking longboat. 

READ MORE: On the Waterford Viking Triangle – Visiting The Oldest City of Ireland

Day Three in Ireland’s Ancient East

The Lost City of Jerpoint Park

The final day of historical digging began in the County of Kilkenny, with the fascinating story of a former pig farmer, Joe, who unearthed an ancient kingdom when buying a plot of land in retirement. Instantly, Joe became the appointed caretaker of Jerpoint Park – the 12^th Century lost, medieval town.

The town was established over 800 years ago before vanishing from all records in the 1600s, and the raised mounds of earth and curves in the grassland are said to conceal what was once a prosperous town including 27 houses and 14 Taverns. It’s the focal point though, is the uncovered Church of Saint Nicholas, which contains the very tomb of the famous saint.

READ MORE: Jerpoint Park, Ireland: The Farmer Who Unearthed a Lost 800-Year-Old Town

The stone tomb of St. Nicholas in St. Nicholas church.

See Kilkenny – Ireland’s First Medieval Capital

From Ireland’s deserted medieval borough to the country’s first medieval stronghold, Kilkenny was one of my favourite spots on this trip. Once the great medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny’s 1,500 years of heritage runs through its laneways, famous old slip lanes, stairwells, walled-city gates, towers and stone-clad landmarks.

It’s a colourful and vibrant city to wander in with seven gates, a castle, nine churches, two cathedrals, and an impressive selection of around 70 pubs! The merriment that is known of this culture goes back to the ancient days of brewing and enjoying the ‘liquid sunshine’. But should you find yourself in a situation where it’s difficult to decide where to go, then head to the street where six of them are lined up in a row, or to the famed Kytelers Inn – the oldest of all in Kilkenny and at the centre of Ireland’s (and it is said Europe’s) only witch trials took place here in 1324.

READ MORE: The Kilkenny Medieval Mile Trail – The First Medieval Capital of Ireland

The historical trail of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile.

When I returned home, my DNA test results came through, placing a genome linage of around 4,000 years in this very country more so than I thought.

I’m a very small part of the 5,000 years of history I retraced in rocks and ruins and old towns filled with the sounds of old stories and song.

But for a short while, I went home.

Things to Know About Travel to Ireland’s Ancient East

• In European history, the Middle Ages or medieval period lasted from the 5th to the 15th century. The Norman invasion of Ireland took place during the latter half of the 12th century.
• Wander through 5,000 years of history in Ireland’s Ancient East on Ireland’s Ancient East website. I explored the southeast region in conjunction with Ireland Tourism and iAmbassador as part of a campaign to bring the country’s centuries-old history to life. 
• Combine the east of Ireland with a trip with the Causeway Coast, with the easy connection from Dublin to belfast. Get started with these things to do in Northern Ireland to see it differently.
• If Ireland’s Ancient East is just the start of your plans, and you want further inspiration, the Irish insurance company Chill.ie surveyed 1,000 Irish men and women and pulled together a handy e-book on some of Ireland’s best cultural drives. It even includes one of my top hotspots listed, the Rock of Cashel, and other famous attractions like the Blarney Stone, alongside themed art and musical spots.

The post Taking a Cultural Road Trip Around Ireland’s Ancient East appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

How Much Does It Cost To Travel In Japan? Save with these budget trip tips.

Plan How Many Days to Spend in Japan

Of course, the length of your Japan itinerary determines your budget. Typically, visitors spend two weeks in Japan on their first visit, hopping between the major cities and associated landmarks and sites.

I spent four weeks in Japan on my first visit and three weeks on my second, travelling entirely via overland transportation. I wanted to see a range of different places and spend a quality amount of time in areas that are both key highlights and some of the biggest areas to explore – Tokyo (one week), Kyoto (five days) and Osaka (at least three days), time to climb Mount Fuji and to cross the country and get down to Hiroshima, and over to Kanazawa for a taster of the Japanese Alps.

Not even one month is enough – Japan is much bigger than you think, and seeing it all on a single visit is impossible. I still have not visited the far northern regions of Japan, dug deeper into the towns and cities of the Alps, or gone anywhere further south than Hiroshima or the outlying islands, which would mean having to budget for an internal flight. So the key is to pick your main town and city bases and get booking. 

If you are planning a trip to Japan and don’t know where to start on what destination to visit, check out my other Japan travel tips and city overviews for inspiration. 

When is the Cheapest Time to Travel to Japan?

The most expensive times to visit Japan: The designated high seasons of March to May (spring season) and September to November (autumn) see the most visitors. 

The most cost-effective time to visit: It’s a good idea to look for flights to Japan and accommodation deals during the off-season between November and March. However, since Japan was one of the last countries to open following intense pandemic measures, exponential visitor numbers continue, so it remains busy throughout the year. 

The summer months: From June to September (especially July and August), travel in Japan can be unbearably hot and uncomfortable for travel and sightseeing, putting some people off. But it is doable – my first visit was during the height of summer, and I still enjoyed it.

Mount Fuji’s official climbing season: The trails on Japan’s sacred peak are only open between July and September, a big factor for the thousands taking the pilgrimage. 

A Japan Trip Cost in Comparison to the Rest of Asia

Japan is one of the most expensive countries to travel to in the Asia region.

On my most recent trip in November 2024, I spent around €2000 in three weeks. 

Backpackers and hardcore travellers used to be a minority here, instead opting for the budget Southeast Asia trails. Now, Japan attracts a mix of backpackers to business travellers, with accommodations to cater to all. Japan’s tourism industry has one of the fastest growth rates annually. 

In reality, Japan isn’t going to get any cheaper; in fact, it’s getting even more expensive – Japan Rail Pass costs have increased, and despite a weak Yen, accommodation prices per night are still hefty. The one place you can save money on is food, local Ramen outlets especially. 

But avoiding Japan for cost reasons alone means missing out on what is rated as an absolute must-see destination. 

In the Southeast Asian countries of Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, you can expect to spend an average of €700-£1000 / $740-$1050 + a month on a budget. China, Taiwan, and Nepal cost approximately the same. Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea are slightly higher, depending on transport options or where activities and attractions are harder to reach or organise independently.

Japan is, therefore, almost double the cost of a typical trip in Southeast Asia or its neighbouring countries. 

Japan is expensive when it comes to travelling in Asia. But it’s worth the cost.

Trip Cost by Length of Visit

In Japan, independent travel is easy. Hostel options are plentiful, local food outlets and street food snacks are cheaper than larger restaurants, the local transport network, including metros, is cost-effective, and long-distance rail travel can be cheaper if you buy regional rail passes.

Estimated calculations are from a 2024/2025 trip based on transport, accommodation, and food expenses. All variations include the cost of a 7-day and 21-day Japan Rail Pass (following its recently hiked prices).

• Japan trip cost for one month
• • £2,250 / $2,800
• Japan trip cost for one week
  • £550 / $700
• Japan trip cost per day
  • £80-£100 / $100-$125

Cost of a Two-Week Japan Vacation

Based on the average vacation time of two weeks, you need to budget at least £1100/$1,400.

Around one-third of that will be spent on a 14-day Japan Rail Pass (80,000 YEN), though I saved money on my second visit by purchasing a 7-day JR West All Area Pass (26,000 YEN), allowing unlimited travel between Hiroshima and Kyoto and around, and booking a couple of extra trains on top, such as Kyoto to Tokyo.

How Much Money Do You Need Per Day in Japan?

, with some even visiting as a layover in Tokyo, it can be easier to calculate a daily budget in Japan.

Japan on a budget – 15,000 Yen per day (£80 / $100)

Those looking to stay in hostels, eat cheaper meals, and not frequently indulge in nightlife.

Japan on a mid-budget – 20,000 Yen per day (£100 / $130)

For those wanting to stay in low-cost hotels, enjoy the restaurant scene and nights on the town, and the odd activity/experience splurge.

Japan on a high-end budget – 25,000 – 40,000 Yen per day (£130-£200 / $165-$250)

For those wanting more luxury, the best cuisine in town and first-class train tickets.

You’ll need to budget around $1,200 for a two-week backpacking trip around Japan.

Cost of Travelling in Japan for One Month 

Japan Rail pass

• 21-day pass, ordinary car – 100,000 YEN = £420 / $530

Accommodation for 30 nights

• 2 adults: budget private room, on average £80/$100 per night = £2400 / $3040
• Single: private bed or dorm, on average £40/$50 = £1200 / $1520

Food, drink, tourism site entry fees, other transport, and day-to-day living

• Based on an average of £30/$38 per day = £900 / $1140

Is it Worth Getting a Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass might be one of the biggest initial costs. Suppose you plan to visit more than three or four long-distance destinations in Japan. Buying one is highly advised in that case. It gives you unlimited journeys on all Japan Rail, Japan Ferry, and Japan Buses throughout the country.

Many people are put off by the high cost of the rail pass, but individual rail journeys are expensive and, when added together, can cost more than the unlimited rail pass. Since the Japan Rail Pass price hikes in October 2023, it is worth working out planned train journeys and seeing if you can save by having the pass. 

Standard Train Prices in Japan

Are you thinking of paying as you go? Here are some average one-way train ticket costs in Japan without using a Japan Rail Pass.

• Tokyo – Kyoto: £94 / $118
• Tokyo – Osaka: £97 / $122
• Tokyo – Hiroshima: £128 / $161
• Kyoto – Osaka: £20 / $25
• Kyoto – Hiroshima: £77 / $97
• Osaka  – Hiroshima: £70 / $88

The average cost for a Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka – Hiroshima – Tokyo round-trip (without using a Japan Rail Pass) = £348 / $440.

For one week of travel, individual train tickets may be the more cost-effective option. That’s if you can find good fares at the time of travelling.

How Much is a Japan Rail Pass?

If you cover this basic route of city highlights, buying a Japan Rail Pass for two or three weeks of unlimited travel in Japan can save you a lot of money and avoid the hassle of searching for the lowest-cost ticket. 

You should invest in a Japan Rail Pass only to make the cost of multiple and long-distance travel worthwhile.

The following are prices for the standard/ordinary class tickets.

7-day Japan Rail Pass

£261 / $330

14-day Japan Rail Pass

£418 / $528

21-day Japan Rail Pass

£523 / $661

Buying a Japan Rail Pass 

The Japan Rail Pass must be booked before you arrive in Japan.

Local travel agents can book this for you, and you will be given a receipt to be presented at the main stations in Tokyo in exchange for your pass. However, it’s quick and easy to purchase a Japan Rail Pass online, as shown below.

Japan Rail Pass

From £261/$330/50,000 Yen/Multiple Currencies
You can purchase a rail pass from Japan travel experts, J Rail Pass. Multiple-day and regional passes can be ordered with free delivery in various countries. The website is easy to use, with quick and secure payment and with other Japan travel services to hand.
Buy a Japan Rail Pass Now

Buying a Japan Rail West Pass

On my second trip to Japan, it made more sense to purchase a 7-day JR West pass that covers a huge swathe of Kansai. I flew into Osaka and stayed for three days, activating my 7-day pass on the date I planned to leave the city. I then used the pass to travel down to Hiroshima via Shinkansen bullet train, up to Kyoto, and have free reign to travel to surrounding areas like Kobe and Nara. The pass covers the southern Kyushu prefecture and reaches the Hokuriku area, home to Kanazawa and Toyama mountain towns. 

It then made sense to purchase a standalone Shinkansen train ticket from Kyoto up to Tokyo, where I typically spend at least five days and don’t require a travel pass. 

7-day JR West pass 

£138/$175 /26,000 Yen/Multiple Currencies

Buy a Regional Rail Pass

Other Transportation Costs in Japan

Local trains in Japan

Local trains outside the JR Rail pass inclusion can cost anywhere from £3-£10 / $4-$13 for a short half-hour journey up to £15 / $20 for a destination an hour or more away.

Ticket prices vary according to which of the five different types of train you take:

• Local trains stop at every station on the route.
• Rapid trains skip some stations
• Express trains skip even more stations
• Limited Express stop only at major designated stations
• Super Express (shinkansen ‘bullet trains’) operate separately on different lines and with their own stations

Be aware of extra costs when using Japanese trains and booking tickets. An extra fee is applied on top of the train ticket base fee for the faster trains.This applies to the Express trains upwards (in terms of speed)

What seat class do you choose? While most local trains have a standard class across all carriages, there are two classes of seats on long-distance trains, which also affects your overall costs – Ordinary (Second Class) and Green (First Class)

• Green/first-class seats can sometimes be double the price of the standard fare.
• Shinkansen (bullet) trains have reserved and non-reserved seating options, where a reservation can cost within the region of $5.
• Shinkansen (bullet) train seat reservations are free with the Japan Rail Pass.

Check here for routes and timetables for trains in Japan.

Japan Metro and Bus System

Japan has metro lines in nine cities, although you are likely to mainly use those in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Tokyo’s subway is the largest and most tricky to navigate, although I always find myself being helped out by locals who came to my aid in helping me purchase the right ticket or even ride the line with me until my correct stop.

A single trip on a Metro and average bus journeys in all cities varies but is usually from 180 – 400 Yen – around £1 -£4 / $1.25 – $5 for a single journey.

You can purchase an unlimited Tokyo Metro Pass: 24 hours (800 Yen/€4/$5), 48 hours (1,200 Yen/£6/$8), or 72-hours (1,500/£8/$10).

A comprehensive breakdown of all metro lines, ticket prices, and tips on navigating each system can be found here.

The Japan Metro is an overwhelming but cheap means of transport around the major cities.

Taxis in Japan

Taxis, especially in Tokyo, are ridiculously expensive and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary or if you have no choice. As an example, a 20-minute journey home after a night out in Tokyo cost nearly £38 / $48, and that was even on the meter. Taking an Uber was a similar cost. 

Japan black and yellow taxis are an expensive option.

Bike Hire in Japan

Like most destinations, bike hire is common and one of the most budget-friendly ways to get around and explore an area.

Many guesthouses in Japan offer this facility for free, and if not included, the average cost I found for a one-day bike hire was £5/$6.

Make use of free or inexpensive bike hire from Japanese accommodations.

Cost of Food in Japan

Food prices (and drinks) vary dramatically depending on location. You may be eating a cheap bowl of ramen noodles for a full meal at a standard restaurant or trying the delectable beef that Kobe is famous for, with a hefty price tag! Chain restaurants like the CoCo Ichibanya curry house do great deals alongside local establishments, which might throw in a free beer if you stick to a certain menu. Sushi doesn’t have to be an expensive option, as does tempura.

One budget food tip for Japan is to get breakfast, snacks, and sushi sets at a local supermarket. You can even stay within a 1,000 Yen budget (£6 / $8) for a meal.

• A meal in a local restaurant: £5-£10 / $6-$13.
• Ramen or curry: £6 / $8 (can be sought for less than 1,000 Yen).
• Kobe beef (special, must-do treat!): £17 / $22+.
• Budget sushi: £0.75 / $1 (Around 100 Yen per item on the menu)
• Sushi at Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market: £13-£20 / $17-$26 (2,000 – 3,000 Yen for sushi sets of around seven pieces or more).
• Cover charge at themed bar or restaurant: £6 / $8 on average.
• Bottle of beer: £3 / $4.
• Cup of coffee: £3 / $4.

Plastic food on display at Japanese restaurants makes choosing and knowing the price easy.

Accommodation Costs in Japan

In Japan, accommodation will be your biggest cost, alongside transportation.

Hostels are prevalent in big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, as well as smaller cities like Kobe and Kanazawa. In many areas, old houses and factories have been turned into homely hostels and guesthouses, and traditional Ryokan are being preserved, meaning you can experience Japanese tradition and local living at a relatively good price outside of large hotels. 

Factor in a traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn) into your accommodation budget.

I stayed at the range of accommodations in Japan listed below to pull together a comprehensive list of options that cover all manner of budgets, from no-frills to luxury hostels, to traditional homestays and Ryokans, on a journey that started in Tokyo and which took me through various key hotspots in the country, all the way down to Hiroshima.

Below is an outline of where I stayed and the costs per night for a dorm or a single room.

Tokyo Accommodation Costs

Homeikan – A traditional Ryokan, said to be Tokyo’s oldest, with an onsen bath.

From £41 / $51 for a private room

Mount Fuji Area Accommodation Costs

K’s House Traveller’s Hostel in Kawaguchiko – In the heart of the Fuji area, with free bus transfers to the main train station.

From £58 / $73 for a dorm room

K’s House MtFuji

Private rooms from £140 /$176

Standard mountain house on Mount Fuji

From £38 / $48 for a sleeping space, sleeping bag provided

Ito Accommodation Costs

K’s House Ito Onsen  – Shared and private rooms within a 100-year-old Ryokan, with an onsen bath.

From £20 / $25 for dorm room

From £58 / $73 for a private room

Kyoto Accommodation Costs

Santiago Guesthouse – A new hostel with its very own luxury café.

From £11 / $13 for a dorm room

Kyoto Piece Hostel – A luxury hostel with a swanky hotel vibe.

From £42 / $53 for a private

From £15 / $19 for a dorm room

Haruya Hostel – An old Japanese house converted into a homely guesthouse.

From £16 / $20 for a dorm room

Utano Youth Hostel – A traditional ‘youth hostel’ outside of the central city.

From £21 / $27 for a dorm room

Nara Accommodations Costs

Nara Backpackers – A traditional Japanese house turned into a cosy guesthouse.

From £16 / $20 for a dorm room

Osaka Accommodation Costs

J-Hoppers Osaka – Based slightly out-of-town in nearby Konohana ward (where Universal Studios is based) and main transport links.

From £17 / $22 for a dorm room

Kobe Accommodation Costs

Yume Nomad – A huge local house turned guesthouse with its own in-house café.

From £17 / $22 for a dorm room

Hiroshima Accommodation Costs

Hostel Mallika – budget hostel with capsule-style beds and basic private rooms. 

From £13 / $17 for a capsule 

Nest Hotel Hiroshima Hatchobori

From £49 / $62 for a economy double

Living locally in Japan. Many traditional houses have been converted into small hostels and guesthouses. 

Book a Hotel in Japan

Cost of Tours in Japan

For some, independent travel in Japan might seem overwhelming. If you embark on solo travel in Asia for the first time, Japan can feel more isolated and less trodden than the Southeast Asia hotspots. Would you rather a travel trip to Japan be taken care of and travel in a small group with other adventurers? I recommend these tours of Japan with G Adventures, which takes in many of the country’s key cities and highlights, getting you from Tokyo to Hiroshima and back again.

With a variety of trip options from five days to two weeks, including visiting the iconic Japanese sights on a National Geographic Journey trip, seeing Japan’s highlights on a budget, or travelling the backroads of Japan, you could even mix and match a small group tour with independent travel.

How Much Do Attractions Cost in Japan?

Eccentric shows, walking tours, cultural tours, and ceremonies also factor into your exploration budget when travelling in Japan.

Temples, castles, and palaces are mostly free to enter, although some historical monuments may have an admission fee, which contributes to the site’s protection. 

For example, Tokyo is a dream on a sightseeing budget, with core sites such as the Buddist Sensoji Temple and the Imperial Palace grounds having no admission fee. However, the Kinkaku-Ji Temple of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto is ¥400 – $2/€3. 

Sensoji Temple in Tokyo is free to enter. Sightseeing in Japan isn’t expensive.

Is Japan Expensive? 

Yes, but the cost of travelling within Japan is relative. Before getting there, you must decide where you will go, whether to purchase a rail pass, and what kind of accommodation you want to stay in, whether its budget hostels, boutique hotels or traditional Japanese experiences.

Everything else along the way falls into place, and if you look hard enough when it comes to food and other everyday costs, your overall Japan vacation cost might not be as overwhelming as you expect.

Japan may be more expensive than her Asian neighbours, but the incredible time you will have here will leave you saying the same thing long after you have left: “It was completely worth it”. I promise you that. 

Planning a Trip to Japan and Want to Budget? Pin It!

 

Any plagiarism of this Japan cost travel blog, or any of its calculations and descriptions used on other sites and blogs without attribution is not information authorised by myself for use. 

The post How Much Does It Cost To Travel In Japan? Budget Trip Tips and Worthwhile Expenses appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

Typically, on the first visit to Peru, travellers will visit the ‘southern loop’ between Lima and Cusco. But whether you start in the sprawling capital city of Lima, which mixes ancient ruins with urban neighbourhoods, or the Sacred Valley with its Machu Picchu gateway of Cusco, there are colossal sand dunes and reed island lakes, ancient land markings, mountain valley cities and mighty canyons in between. Those with more time also venture north for the famed Laguna 69 trekking route or do so on a second visit.

Capital City, Lima

Your Peru trip will most likely start in the capital, Lima, because of the regular flight routes. This journey maps out the ‘southern loop’ must-see places via an overland bus towards Cusco. 

READ MORE: Travel to Peru – All You Need to Know Guide

READ MORE: Getting Around by Peru Hop Bus

Lima is a sprawling coastline metropolis, with much of its outer residential areas completely off-limits. Most visitors stay in the safer touristic neighbourhood of Miraflores, from which you can mix modern city hangouts with Inca ruins and beaches. Others stay in the bohemian area of Barranco, known for its alternative scene in street art, craft stalls and hippy-vibe hangouts. 

Downtown Lima is accessible from both and is usually visited during a day trip. It’s largely sketchy beyond the small cluster of squares and streets where you’ll find grand buildings from cathedrals to Palaces around Plaza de Armas and colourful streets peppered with ornate wooden balconies as you wander between local cafes, restaurants and stores.

Where to Stay in Lima

• Casa Andina Premium – Beautiful boutique-style hotel on a quiet street just a few blocks from Parque Kennedy.
• Pariwana Hostel – One of the hostels you hear about on the grapevine. Close to the beach and complete with terrace and bar, table tennis table and continental breakfast.
• Alpes Lima – I stayed in both their dorm room property (home to the rooftop bar) and their second property two blocks away that has private rooms and a quieter environment.
• Pool Paradise Lima – The only hostel in Miraflores with an outdoor pool.
• The Point – For those wanting to hang out in the arty, hip neighbourhood of Barranco.

Huaca Pucllana Inca Ruins in Lima.

Paracas National Reserve

Coastal Paracas may not have much going on apart from its super chill vibes, but people come here to head out on a speedboat to visit the protected Ballestas Islands. Dubbed the “Poor Man´s Galapagos”, this is a chance to spend two hours spotting wildlife, including pelicans, penguins, birds and sleepy sea lions in the Paracas National Reserve. 

The contrasting sweeping desert plains of Paracas National Park, marked by cliff drops and jagged rock formations, are also another highlight. However, there are plenty of nature-focused things to do if you decide to stay for a few lazy days.

Where to Stay in Paracas

• Paracas Backpackers House – More chilled, family-run hostel just a five-minute walk to the coastline.
• Kokopelli Backpackers – More of a party hostel, with its own pool and lively bar.

The coastline of Paracas National Reserve, Ballestas Islands, Peru.

The famed Paracas Candelabra geoglyph rock carving.

Huacachina Sand Dune Oasis

Huacachina is all about the mighty sand dunes. As soon as you arrive in this desert oasis town, you’ll realise it’s surrounded by a ring of golden mounds.

The best way to experience them is by strapping yourself into a sand buggy and enjoying a fast and bumpy nature coaster ride to some of the highest points and stomach-churning ploughs down. Alternatively, you can also learn how to Sandboard down, which is an alternative thrill (beginner tips here). Travellers also come here to indulge at the nearby Pisco vineyards.

Where to Stay in Huacachina / Ica

• Banana’s Adventure Hostel – New, funky, modern touches and great atmosphere. The place I wish I had stayed after finding it.
• Casa de Arenas – The biggest hostel in this tiny town, complete with a bar and pool, but it is a little outdated and the atmosphere not so warming unless you get lucky with the traveller set in town at the time. 
• Le Casa de Bamboo – The quiet traveller’s option, complete with a small bar.

The sand buggy ride to the Huacachina sand dunes in Peru.

To the Famous Nazca Lines

The 2,000-year-old geometric Nazca Lines are a world-famous site, despite the fact we still do not know exactly why these markings in the desert were created. This UNESCO world heritage site remains a mystery, and you can’t pass through without taking a look for yourself.

Three of the Nazca Lines can be viewed for free from a tower that is perched along the Trans American Highway. Still, the best way to see all the mysterious shapes and symbols is via a dizzying plane flight as you curve around the desert basin trying to spot the spider, condor, monkey, whale and astronaut.

Where to Stay in Nazca / Nasca

Not many people stay overnight in Nazca. Instead, they pass through on the way to Arequipa. For those wanting to chill here and break up the journey, the following places were recommended.

• Nazca Travel One – Central, family-run establishment.
• Hotel Alegria – Considered one of the best hotels in this area, and the bonus is it has a pool.

View from the plane shows a road cutting through some geoglyphs carved into the Nazca Desert. A viewing tower has been set up for those who do not want to fly over. 

Can you spot the astronaut? It’s one of the famed desert soil-carved Nazca Lines in Peru.

Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Mountain-backed, colonial architecture decked Arequipa is a beautiful city to spend some days in. From its candy-colour pop streets, you’ll find a panorama of peaks, including the dominant Misti volcano. Take the daily free walking tour for a historical introduction to some local neighbourhoods and hidden viewpoints. A full day alone can be granted to the Santa Catalina Convent (Monasterio D Santa Catalina), dubbed “a city within a city.”

Where to Stay in Arequipa

• Casa de Avila – I adored this cosy, quiet 3-star hotel and treated myself to four nights here (at only $40 a night) to get some proper rest pre and post-Colca Canyon trek. It’s less than a 10-minute walk to the very centre and the Plaza de Armas. You can also take a Peruvian cooking class here.
• Wild Rover – The party hostel with a pool. Part of the Irish hostel chain in Peru.
• Flying Dog – The quieter, chilled out hostel with lounge areas and easy access to the centre of the city.

The Misti Volcano seen from the streets of Arequipa, Peru.

The Santa Catalina Convent in Arequipa.

Four hours from Arequipa is Colca Canyon – the second deepest canyon in the world that is said to be twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. It attracts day-trippers and hardened trekkers, but the core view is of the Andean Condor birds in flight from above, to majestic viewpoint backdrops of the surrounding volcanoes. You can hike down into the Canyon, stay overnight in the oasis below, and hike out at sunrise – a painful, but unforgettable landscape to experience.

Join the locals visiting Colca Canyon on a day trip from Arequipa, Peru.

A condor in flight in the Colca Canyon – a highlight of a visit here.

Puno and Lake Titicaca

Puno is famous for Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake on Earth at over 3,800 meters above sea level.

It’s here that people visit the man-made floating reed islands, with the chance to stay overnight with a local family on one of the remote islands a bit further out. I recommend this option if you have time, as I found the half-day and day tour trips set up only for tourists. Not to mention it has induced a culture of begging, even amongst the local children.

Others come to Puno, extending their lake visit as a means to also connect into Bolivia via Copacabana.

Where to Stay in Puno

• Suites Independencia – We left our bags here as we explored on day trips before catching the night bus, but a friend stayed overnight so I got to see the rooms. Basic, spacious room right in the very centre of town.
• Pacha Suites is also a centrally based accommodation and was a mid-range option that was recommended.
• Staying with a local family found on Airbnb was an option fellow travellers recommended me for those wanting a proper homestay experience on Lake Titicaca. 

Visit Puno to see Lake Titicaca.

Travel to Peru and visit the unique reed houses on the floating islands on Lake Titicaca, Peru.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is, of course, the starting point for those on their way to the famed Machu Picchu – the grand highlight of any Peru trip.

However, there’s more to Cusco than a gateway for those making the pilgrimage to the ancient Inca Site. The centre of Cusco itself is full of sites, including Colonial architecture and stone walls and ruins of Inca days that line the steep cobble-stoned streets.

Fun tours in Cusco can be found in abundance if you want deeper historical and cultural insights. Hip coffee shops, vegan cafes and restaurants, independent design stores and funky hangouts define the city, especially in the bohemian San Blas neighbourhood.

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Casa del Carmen – A family-run, quiet, cosy residence located in the cool arty district of San Blas. Carmen is very motherly and always on hand to help, although the only downside is you may be asked to move around if you are there for many days as there doesn’t seem to be a set system in place for the rooms. But for $25 for a private room in central Cusco, I wasn’t going to complain too much.
• Wild Rover – The party hostel option in Cusco for revelling travellers.
• The popular Kokopelli Backpackers chain in Peru also has a base in Cusco. It’s right on the main square, although it can be pricey.

The high altitude cobbled streets of Cusco valley.

Inca Site Trips from Cusco

There are also a few key sites and treks that make for great day trips from Cusco, including.

The Salinas Salt Ponds are a terrace system of evaporated salt ponds a short drive from the town of Maras, located around one hour outside of Cusco. A man-made layered landscape in the Sacred Valley, these salt basins have been in use since the days of the Incas, with a section now open to the public to marvel at.

One of Peru’s best places to visit is the Salinas Salt Ponds in the Sacred Valley, Cusco.

Moray is an archaeological site of ringed Inca ruins in a remote area near Maras (and easily combined with Salinas). Defined by its circular terraces at a plateau of 3,500 metres, it is believed this was used for agricultural research, with the different terrace levels having unique microclimates.

Sacsayhuaman is a hilltop Inca citadel that sits on the northern fringes of Cusco and is said to be a fortress overlooking the city. It is known for its huge dry stones that fit together in the same way as those on the old Inca walls in Cusco – without any mortar or filling such as soil or clay.

The post All the Places to Visit in Peru on Your First Visit appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

If you are thinking of going to Peru, you are likely stepping foot on the South American continent for the first time since the country serves as an easy gateway to wider adventure.

Peru is a diverse spectrum of landscapes beyond its famed jungle and highlands and the stretch of desert on the west coast. It strikes with its Colonial-era architecture, marvels with mystery as people seek out its ancient Inca sites and the pilgrimage to Machu Picchu, and tempts people into its untouched nature from deep canyon to high mountain peak as travellers seek out adrenalin fuel with a view.

Despite being more on the trodden path (with a chance to get off it), and because it is one of the cheapest of the 12 countries that make up the continent, travelling to Peru can still seem overwhelming for the first-time visitor.

Peru also marked my first time in South America. I searched high and low to gather all the information I needed to capture the scenic and historical highlights, make the most of my budget and time, and stay safe when South America still has a less-than-desirable reputation in parts.

Here, I’ve pulled everything you need to know as a comprehensive one-stop Peru travel guide, from what to see and how much you spend, to safety and the most responsible, ethical travel choices you can make here.

All You Need to Know Peru Travel Guide – It’s right here

When is the Best Time to Visit Peru?

Wet vs. Dry Seasons in Peru

The easiest way to determine when is the best time to travel to Peru is by breaking it down into the country’s wet and dry seasons:

• May to October / November is the dry season in Peru
• December to March / April is the rainy season in Peru
• April and November are typically considered the shoulder seasons in Peru, where anything goes as the seasons pass over
• February is the hottest month in Peru, and August is the coldest.

Wet vs. Dry Landscape in Peru

Peru is an adventure holiday capital. Therefore, considering the country’s diverse topography from desert to jungle, the weather outcome also depends on where you plan to visit in Peru and what activities you will be doing.

For example, it’s not a good idea to visit the jungle highland and mountain areas to the north and those around Cusco and the Sacred Valley during the rainy season, where there is a high possibility of trails and pathways even to Machu Picchu being closed. Lima, conversely, would be more accessible since it is situated on the desert coastline.

Do you need a Visa for Peru?

As the Tourism website states, Peru is “a country of open doors,” and for American and Western European countries, no visa is required for travel.

The citizens of the following countries do not require a Peru visa:

• North America: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
• South America: All South American countries.
• Central America: All Central American countries except Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
• Europe: All countries within the European Union (EU) and Switzerland.
• Africa: South Africa.
• Middle East: Israel.
• Asia: Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
• Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.

However, check your country’s consulate for up-to-date information and any changes before you embark on your Peru holidays.

You can check if you need a visa and how many days you get upon entry here.

Tourist entry to Peru is a single entry stamp at the airport or land border that grants you a maximum stay of 183 days. You need a passport valid for at least six months and with at least two free pages. The entry stamp cannot be extended once you are inside the country, and any overstay time can be met with a fine.

Travelling to Peru from Neighbouring Countries Overland

A Peru trip is surrounded by travel temptation, with borders to Ecuador and Colombia in the north, Bolivia and Brazil in the east, and Chile to the South. That makes Peru a perfect starting point for onward travel or the ideal country to travel to, paired with a neighbour.

Entering Peru from neighbouring countries overland requires you to do some immigration legwork afterwards. Immigration authorities may not allow you to leave Peru without proof of a valid exit stamp from the last country you visited, and it is required by law to apply for an entry stamp once you are in Peru. That is if you didn’t get an entry stamp at the land border. You will need to show authorities various documentation of your travel journey.

Ecuador to Peru

Via Huaquillas (the most popular), Macará or La Balsa at Zumba. If you enter Peru overland from Ecuador, you will need to get your passport stamped with a Peruvian entry stamp at the local immigration office where you are staying.

Bolivia to Peru

If you enter Peru from Bolivia via Copacabana, make sure your passport is stamped with a Peruvian entry stamp at the immigration office in Desaguadero or Copacabana (near Puno, which is a known traveller hub).

What is the Best Way to Get Around Peru?

A large country with a lot of ground to cover, it’s important for this Peru travel guide to cover the best, safest and most cost-effective way to get around. Through means I’ve tried and tested. 

Use the Peru Hop Bus – The Best Bus Travel in Peru

Furiously researching how I would travel from Lima to Cusco and see everything from the sand dunes, colonial cities and the manmade habitable lake islands in between, I mostly came across stories of dodgy local bus rides and rip-off taxi drivers.

Travelling within Peru is no longer difficult. In this research, I came across a great and relatively new bus service in Peru called Peru Hop, which gave me a pass to try out during my two-week journey from Lima to Cusco.

Peru Hop offers a multi-stop Flexi ticket in either direction between Lima and Cusco (and one that also takes you to La Paz, Bolivia), stopping at Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa and Puno in between. More than just a transport service, it acts as a flexible experience where you can tour Peru independently, adapting to your interests and itinerary. There are even extra, exclusive stops and Peru tours along the way.

It means having one ticket, one easy-to-use online booking system, maximum flexibility, and not dealing with rogue travel agents or the hassle of local bus stations. You can see the major cities and hotspots easily and safely (everyone who boards the bus has to have a valid seat booking, from which their passport details are logged), be picked up and dropped off at your hostel, and have the help of an onboard local guide who speaks English and Spanish.

Tickets start from $159 (valid for one year); you can read my full Peru Hop review here.

Buses are the easiest means of getting around Peru, with the Peru Hop service being great for accessible travel on the southern loop through major sites.

Flights to Peru and Travelling to and From Lima Airport

The best-priced flights to Peru usually get you to Lima, which becomes the main starting hub for the majority of travellers. The company behind Peru Hop also operates the Airport Express Lima bus that has multiple stops in the city centre.

You can book online or show up and hope for space. This is a cheaper option than the taxi pick-ups organised by many hostels, although I much preferred the organised taxi option late at night.

Travelling in the North of Peru

Peru Hop currently doesn’t offer any bus service in the north of the country, which is a shame and is a service I hope comes in time. Many travellers I met making their way to northern Peru for grand treks such as Laguna 69 used local buses (with many citing there were enough gringos riding them not to feel too sketchy and isolated).

You can book buses here via the Cruz Del Sur website.

Flights in Peru – Travelling from Lima to Cusco / Cusco to Lima

If you want to travel from Lima to Cusco (or vice versa) without any stops in between, the easiest way is via an internal flight. Many use Lima as a cheap flight route from their home city to then fly to Machu Picchu, making it a more popular direction.

While you might find a good deal with Peruvian Airlines, I recommend Latam, which has a good safety record, is more of an established pan South American airline, has regular routes between cities, and isn’t too expensive. You can land a flight for around $60 if you get lucky.

Sightseeing in Peru – Where to Visit

Typically, on the first visit to Peru, travellers will visit Lima and Cusco, not knowing how many places with historical interest or famed natural landscapes are dotted along the ‘southern loop’. Those with more time typically venture north for the famed Laguna 69 trekking route or do so on a second visit.

Southern Loop Highlights

Lima is a sprawling coastline metropolis peppered with ancient ruins. Downtown Lima is the historical area, though largely sketchy beyond Plaza de Armas and its side streets. 

Head to the coastal Paracas National Reserve to speedboat around the protected, wildlife-bound rock cliffs of the Ballestas Islands. For the desert oasis, head to the golden sand heaps of Huacachina, best explored by sand buggy and sandboard. 

The world-famous 2,000-year-old geometric Nazca Lines are one of Peru’s biggest mysteries, whose shapes and symbols can be dizzyingly marvelled on a plane flight that swoops you around the desert basin. 

Arequipa is a former colonial city set to mountain peaks, the Misti volcano rising behind it. It’s beautiful to stroll around, but spare some time for the “city within a city” Santa Catalina Convent. Four hours away is Colca Canyon – the second deepest canyon in the world where the famed Andean Condor birds are in flight. 

Puno is flanked by Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake on Earth at over 3,800 meters above sea level and known for its man-made floating reed islands. 

The former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco packs Inca foundations and colonial architecture with emerging bohemian neighbourhoods like San Blas in its mountainous valley sprawl of stone streets. Give yourself time to explore the city and its Inca ruins, like Moray, Salinas Salt Ponds and Sacsayhuaman beyond, before making the Inca Trail pilgrimage to the mighty Machu Picchu. 

READ MORE: Places to Visit in Peru on Your First Visit (& Where to Stay)

The coastline of Paracas National Reserve, Ballestas Islands, Peru.

Plane view of the geoglyphs carved into the Nazca Desert. 

Misti Volcano, seen from the streets of Arequipa, Peru. Trips and Tours in Peru

Free Walking Tours in Peru

In Lima, Cusco and Arequipa, I used free walking tours (payment based only on tips). I used the company Free Walking Tour Peru in both Lima (for Downtown Lima and Barranco walking tours) and Cusco (for an orientation and history walk) and highly recommend them both for cultural and historical insights, as well as a good balance of fun.

Go on a free walking tour in Cusco for orientation and an introduction to Inca history and culture.

Booking Day Trips and Experiences

Most hotels and hostels offer ideas and services for excursions and experiences. Many are packed full of maps and leaflets detailing local companies. Others offer their own, like cooking classes and Spanish lessons. When booking day trips or short excursions, I used Find Local Trips, one of South America’s largest and most trusted tour booking platforms and GetYourGuide.

The Best Way to Visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

Getting to Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the highlight of Peru, and figuring out the best treks and Machu Picchu tours and days trips is the eternal question in planning.

Trek through the mountains of the Sacred Valley to reach Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu Treks

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The most popular of all, this four-day trek takes you through various communities and the ancient Incan ruins of the Sacred Valley, set within stunning Andean scenery. The final day marks the start of a pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise as you enter the magnificent Machu Picchu.

A lifeline of Peru tourism, it is important to visit Machu Picchu as responsibly and ethically as possible.

G Adventures Inca Trail Tours – Awarded the best operator for the Inca Trail route. 

Inca Trail 4-Day Trek – A highly rated trek on GetYourGuide with a local operator.

Huayna Picchu Hike — This entry ticket grants access to the 2,693 m peak, which offers elevated views over Machu Picchu’s Inca citadel. Only 400 people per day are allowed to visit Huayna Picchu, so book ahead. 

The Salkantay Trek

Dubbed an alternative trek to the Inca Trail, this route crosses the Salkantay Pass at 4600m, following a trail descending into cloud forest. The final point of the hike is to the Inca site of Llactapata, where you get the first look at Machu Picchu from a distance.

See Salkantay trek dates and book here. 

The Lares Trek 

This three-day hike through the mountains of the Sacred Valley is more about the untouched natural scenery than Inca ruins, reaching highs of 4800m. The scenic train journey from Ollayntambo to Aguas Calientes completes your trip to Machu Picchu.

See Lares trek dates and book here.

Choquequirao Trek 

The off-track, more challenging dense forest trek route is an alternative to Machu Picchu, although many often book this trip as an add on to the Inca Trail. 

See Choquequirao trek dates and book here. 

There are plenty of ways to get to Machu Picchu – which will you choose?

Taking the Train to Machu Picchu

For those who do not embark on the Machu Picchu trek that leads you directly to the site by foot, the train is part of the final journey to this ancient Inca citadel, 2430m above sea level.

A train is also a great option for those who do not wish to trek or who cannot fit time for a trek into their Peru itinerary. It means everyone gets a chance to view Peru’s most renowned pilgrimage site, which remains a mystery as to why it was built.

The Peru Rail train to Machu Picchu.

The Peru Rail trains depart from either Porary or Ollantaytambo station, located in the Sacred Valley. It’s an incredibly scenic three-hour and 50-minute or one-hour and 50-minute journey to the station of Aguas Calientes.

From here, you catch a bus up the winding valley to the entrance to the Machu Picchu site. It is advised to book your bus ticket in advance to avoid the long queues.

Permits are only needed for the Inca Trail and not for entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. However, your entrance tickets need to be booked in advance, alongside your train ticket. You must bring your passport – it is checked both at the Machu Picchu entrance and when you board the train.

Tours of Machu Picchu with a registered guide are highly recommended for those who want detailed insight into each aspect of its design and the history of the Inca people.

One of the most beautiful train journeys you can take.

Peru Rail Ticket to Aguas Calientes (one way): $50 – $70+

Book Here direct at Peru Rail

Bus Ticket: $12 one way / $24 return

Book Here via the Machu Picchu ticket service or order a pre-booked round-trip bus ticket here.

Machu Picchu entrance ticket: €38 / $46 (152 Peruvian Soles)

Book Here

Trekking in Peru

Aside from the Machu Picchu treks, Peru has a variety of stunning trekking options tempting the explorer, whether that’s day trips from Cusco, canyons in the south or more technical lagoon hikes in the north.

Laguna 69 Trek

This super scenic trek is located in Huascaran National Park – a two-hour bus journey from Huaraz (nine hours northeast of Lima), which travellers use as a base for this expedition. Forest tracks, snow-capped mountains and steep rocky pathways lead to the magnificent turquoise mountain lagoon at 4500m. This can be completed in one day, but more adventurous souls choose multi-day trekking routes to cover more ground in the region.

Trekking to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

Rainbow Mountain has become a very popular trek in recent years after the site was discovered when snow on the mountains melted to reveal the incredible lines of colour, giving the Vinicunca mountain (also called Montaña de Siete Colores – Mountain of seven colours) its name.

A hard day trek, which peaks at 5,000 metres above sea level, the struggle of the altitude is worth it for the unique view at the end. Get yourself on a Rainbow Mountain trek with a very early start to avoid the crowds (we left Cusco at 3 am), and look for a trek that takes in the Red Valley on the way back. *Article coming soon*

The views you reach when trekking Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

Trekking in the Red Valley on the way back from Rainbow Mountain.

And don’t believe those who say it’s a secret they wish they had kept. Over 1,000 people from the local community are employed, including over 200 people renting the horses. That’s a lot of community regeneration and a community thanking us over and over for sharing this wonderful site.

Trek in Colca Canyon

Trekking in Colca Canyon is no easy feat, yet it is just as much an accolade as it is a chance to be embedded in some of the most incredible scenery in Peru. Why? It’s the second biggest and second deepest canyon in the world.

I chose the two-day trekking option to get more immersed in the canyon landscape and national park, located four hours drive from Arequipa.

The start of the two-day Colca Canyon trek.

This trekking route also included short stops at the best scenic viewpoints throughout the canyon, before and after the trek, which included long winds down and a VERY steep (and relatively painful) three-hour climb out on the last morning starting at 5 am.

Solo or Group Travel Tours in Peru?

Not everyone wants to travel solo; others may be limited on time and want the ease of having everything organised with a local guide. In Peru, I mixed small group trips with solo travelling.

Peru tours are also a great starting point to cut your teeth on the South America travel circuit, where a tour might be just the familiarity and confidence you need to get started. Here’s a taster of some small adventure group tour options and itineraries, including those that mix Peru with neighbouring countries.

Browse and book 50+ Peru tour options here.

Responsible Travel in Peru – Social Impact

In Peru, where differing levels of poverty and corruption still exist, it’s important to travel as ethically minded as possible, where local communities and social enterprises can benefit from your visit

One of the main reasons I was in Peru was to visit a collection of incredible projects of positive social impact in Lima and Cusco; projects where tourism footfall and the money we spend benefit local communities when travelling through. It can also serve as a means of empowerment, helping preserve culture and allowing for the continuation of micro-enterprise within communities as one person’s success can fund another business idea.

Travellers pass through these projects on G Adventures’ small adventure tours in Peru or on their way to Machu Picchu on the renowned Inca Trail trek, or you can also visit these sites independently with a bit more planning. 

Positive Social Impact Projects in Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Co-op

Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Co-op was G Adventures’ first social enterprise project. While men in the Sacred Valley are often employed in agriculture or as porters for treks, women now have the opportunity to work and continue a beautiful tradition.

Here, travellers have the chance to not only visit the community and see how the weaving co-op is set up but also have a chance to buy a range of handmade souvenirs from jumpers, scarves and items for the home.

Buy handmade souvenirs from the Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Co-op in the Sacred Valley.

The group learns about how the women of this area continue the beautiful tradition of weaving. 

Parwa Community Restaurant

50km from Cusco, in the village of Huchuy Qosqo in the Sacred Valley, a community struggled due to limited access to economic opportunities. Yet travellers were passing nearby, and so an idea was set in place for the construction of the Parwa Community Restaurant.

Over 1,500 G Adventures travellers pass through each month, eating meals using ingredients sourced from local farmers, served by those who are given hospitality training and employment benefits. All income earned by the restaurant is reinvested back into community social projects, including separate micro-enterprises, like Warmicha, which sells various locally made snacks to travellers hiking their way to Machu Picchu.

The Parwa Community Restaurant in the Sacred Valley near Cusco.

Meeting the indigenous Parwa Community in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

Parque de la Papa

Parque de la Papa (Potato Farm) is a conservation project dedicated to potato seeds. Over 6,000 indigenous community members work together to preserve the 3,000 species of potato in this area. This provides not only economic opportunities and the preservation of indigenous culture but also preserves agricultural biodiversity unique to this region of Peru.

Learning about the 3,000 varieties of potato in Peru at the Parque de la Papa conservation project.

Nunay Reimy restaurant in Cusco

A former G Adventure Chief Experience Officer (CEO) set up Nunay Reimy restaurant in Cusco. Travellers on G Adventures trips visit this restaurant, where a portion of the establishment’s profits is returned to the community.

Cuisine insights at Nunay Reimy restaurant in Cusco.

The Inti Runakunaq Wasin youth drop-in centre in Cusco

One of the first big Planeterra projects for G Adventures, money to build the centre was raised by a huge five-year-long international fundraiser by G travellers. Children who live in extreme poverty in Cusco are usually forced to drop out of school and beg on the street to help their families.

You will be contributing to a project that provides children from poor families with a place to get guidance and support. You can support the centre in your visit by buying handicrafts produced by the children who have the opportunity to train in various workshops such as leatherworking and jewellery-making.

Positive Social Impact Projects in Lima

Bite Peru was the first project to come out of the ‘G Values Fund’ where former CEOs looking to move on from their role are given the opportunity to submit a business plan for an idea they can set up at home, with the best and most socially viable being granted the funds for it to start.

What was initially set up to provide culinary journeys in Lima and its thriving food scene soon turned into other offerings which help change the perception of the city. It was with these guys that I visited the San Juan barrio, as well as the street art project emerging in the socially displaced neighbourhood of Callao. I can also recommend ceviche making classes and market tours with a special focus on fruit tasting.

A perception changing tour of the San Juan de Miraflores barrio in Lima, Peru.

Art is transforming the run-down, dangerous and forgotten neighbourhood of Callao in Lima.

Money in Peru

Using the Peruvian Soles

The currency in Peru is the Sol. It doesn’t take long to get used to it. There are just over three Soles to the US Dollar (USD), around three and a half Soles to a Euro (EUR) and just over four Soles to the Pound (GBP). Rounding up helps you make quick conversions when deliberating prices and making payments.

While some businesses accept US dollars and some ATMs allow you to withdraw it even, it is much easier to pay for day-to-day things with Soles, including food and drink, shopping at local markets and entry to local attractions.

We found that Dollar payments were applied for bigger things and where it was easier to pay by debit or credit card like booking the Rainbow Mountain and Colca Canyon treks and hostel and hotel stays.

I also kept 200 Dollars hidden away in case of emergencies.

ATMs in Peru

There are ATMs in every major city in Peru, typically found near each city’s Plaza de Armas (the main square). It’s highly unlikely that you will find any ATMs in more rural areas, including villages and small towns.

Like most ATMs in South America, it is wise to use those inside a bank or to avoid using any located on the street at night. I always withdrew money in the middle of the day when plenty of people were around.

I was able to use my Mastercard and Visa debit cards. Despite having a pre-loaded travel card that limits being charged extra ATM fees, I was charged a small fee at every ATM transaction in Peru, no matter what card I used.

The fee for withdrawing money at the Peru ATM was always around $5-$7 per transaction, so I soon learnt to take out hearty amounts each time to cover me for a while. The maximum withdrawal was around $200 – $250 per transaction.

How much does it Cost to Travel in Peru?

Peru is significantly cheaper than the other countries in South America, which adds to its popularity. Like anywhere, your daily budget depends on your style of travel and whether you want to live like a local or live it up in comfort.

The biggest cost for a traveller in Peru is normally a trek, connected to visiting Machu Picchu. My other biggest costs were accommodation, since I always took a private room (average prices for a dorm room in Peru are also listed), alongside more convenient means of transport such as a flexible bus pass and an internal flight.

Costs of Travel in Peru (Average Prices in US Dollars)

Cost of Transport in Peru

• Local, long-distance bus rides: $5-$15
• Intercity El Metropolitano bus in Lima: Under $1 (S/. 2.50)
• Peru Hop ticket: $159 for a ‘Get Quick’ pass / $199 for a ‘Full South’ Pass
• An internal flight between Lima and Cusco: $60-$70
• A taxi between Lima airport and a hostel: $20
• A taxi between Cusco airport and a hostel: $5

Cost of Treks in Peru

• Big Treks like Inca Trail or Salkantay – $600 – $1,000+
• Small two-day treks like Colca Canyon – $50
• Day treks from Cusco like Rainbow Mountain – $50 – $100

Cost of Accommodation in Peru

• Dorm in a hostel – $10-$15
• Private room in a hostel – $25
• Room in a mid-range hotel – $35-$50

Cost of Trips and Tours in Peru

• Two-hour speedboat tour from Paracas to Ballestas Islands: $15
• Two-hour sand buggy tour in Huacachina: $15
• Nazca Lines flight: $80 + 30 Soles ($9) airport tax
• Day trip to Colca Canyon: $25-$30 + 70 Soles ($20) tourist entry ticket fee
• Half-day tour to Lake Titicaca, Puno: $10-$15
• Full-day tour to Lake Titicaca, Puno: $20-$25

Cost of Food and Drink in Peru

• Food in a local restaurant (two courses) –$2-$5
• Food in a gringo restaurant – $10-$20
• Food at a local market – $1- $2
• Coffee: $2-$4
• Local beer: $2

Is Peru Safe to Travel to?

While I have never encountered any major problems in Peru, like anywhere in South America, you need to exercise more caution following the region’s turbulent history, which has largely dissipated and hasn’t affected major tourist areas for over a decade. However, it is good to be aware of petty crimes and scams that can still occur and to keep up to date with any Peru travel alerts from your home country.

Safety Tips for Peru and Scams to Avoid

‘Express Kidnappings’ – This is where travellers are taken to an ATM and forced to withdraw money, normally as much as they can get and effectively held against their will until they can extract the money. This is said to be a common occurrence, particularly at Lima airport.

Muggings – This form of petty crime in Peru usually occurs in more dark and isolated areas. There have been some cases at major monuments such as Sacsayhuaman in Cusco, the hilltop monument in Arequipa at sunrise and sunset when the crowds disperse. I also never walked alone in Lima at night, even in Miraflores, away from the busy areas like Parque Kennedy.

Something-On-Your-Shoe Distraction – There have been a few stories of someone spilling something on your shoe or dropping money in front of you where you feel inclined to help and pick it up. Distraction is the greatest tool for those wanting to commit petty crimes. Don’t fall for it.

Short-changing – I encountered this on many occasions in both shops and hostels. Always, always check your change. I’ve had everything from being given four 10-cent coins when my change should have been four Sole coins to a hostel receptionist giving me change in coins and conveniently leaving out the 10 Soles note that should have come with it. Refuse to leave until you get your right change. I never gave in.

Always carry a photocopy of your passport and not the real thing! I used a Pacsafe Portable Safe the entire time I was in Peru and locked it to the bathroom sink pipes and/or furniture attached to the wall. I also had photocopies of my travel insurance, vaccinations and relevant trip documents.

Only carry enough cash that you need for the day. I only took my credit or debit cards when I knew I had to withdraw cash. I didn’t carry them around daily and kept them stored with my passport in the safe mentioned above.

Keep your bag with you and in sight at all times. I always had my daypack/handbag slung over my shoulder or on my lap, especially in crowded places.

Avoid travelling at night in Peru. Travelling by night is still not considered the best option, as armed holdups on buses and other transport routes still occur, more so in the far northern reaches of the country and on the Peru-Bolivia border at Lake Titicaca. I only travelled overnight on the Peru Hop tourist bus.

Be aware of what border crossings are accessible or not. For example, many official websites mention that the border to Colombia is best avoided due to narcotics (drug) trafficking.

Don’t withdraw money from ATMs at night, and don’t withdraw money from an ATM in an unpopulated or dodgy-feeling area. Withdraw enough money from an ATM in the centre of major cities so that you have enough with you to last through less busy and remote areas.

Don’t flash your valuables. This might sound obvious, but the number of travellers I saw with a camera hanging off their neck or dripping in expensive jewellery and clothing was abundant. Don’t be an obvious target when you already look ‘gringo’ enough. And especially hide your stuff in less affluent and less touristic areas.

Use Uber, especially at night. As a solo female traveller in Peru, there were times I met friends in town for drinks but didn’t want to walk back through quiet, narrow streets at night, especially in Cusco. Uber was a great choice, and I never had any issues. My Peruvian friends always recommended it.

Hold onto your bag when riding local buses, and don’t put it in the overhead compartment. There are countless stories of theft on buses, as well as a classic tale of someone telling you that you have to move seats when you don’t (this is a strategic move to be able to rob you more easily).

Is Lima Safe?

The smaller cities in Peru, as in South America generally, are no more of a major threat than other large cities worldwide. However, the Capitals have a lot of major no-go areas. Therefore in Lima, you absolutely need to know where you can and can’t go and what areas are absolutely and completely off-limits.

It’s wise to do some digging on Lima before you arrive. A handful of neighbourhoods in Lima, in particular, should be avoided – like the Callao district next to the airport and Rimac just across the bridge from Downtown Lima and the Presidential Palace.

Miraflores is the safest neighbourhood in Lima and where you should, ideally, stay. It is the more affluent one where locals can afford security guards at both their homes and to sit guard outside of their business premised all night. Miraflores is, therefore, fine to roam by day, yet I would still exercise caution at night when the residential streets are quiet and there is not a security guard on every corner like those roaming at Parque Kennedy.

Barranco, the more artsy and bohemian neighbourhood south of Miraflores, is also a good choice to either visit or stay when in Lima.

When a new district turns into another, it is not marked, and it is easy for your curiosity to get the better of you. A friend and I accidentally wandered into the neighbourhood of Rimac during our day exploring Lima Downtown. If it wasn’t for a local woman on a balcony furiously waving for us to get the hell out, who knows what might have happened? A Peruvian friend later told me we would have 100% been robbed if we were just one more block east.

Impoverished neighbourhoods back onto the affluent ones like Miraflores, and the city widely sprawls to include some VERY dangerous places. For example, next to the Mercado on the fringes of Miraflores is the neighbourhood of Surquillo. Wander too far in, and you may stand out too much. One traveller’s curiosity saw him robbed and beaten, as was his wife, who was wearing a camera around her neck.

Lima is not the place to show your riches. You can feel the atmosphere drop to another level. Don’t take the risk if you haven’t done your research.

On the other hand, Lima is developing with social enterprise schemes and local tours booming. These are helping the areas to regenerate and educating visitors about Peruvian politics, society, culture and what is happening today. I visited an art project in Callao and the San Juan favela/barrio in the east, guided by locals and with genuine insight into how things work and the changes taking place that could turn things around for those less prosperous here.

Lima is so complex, and it is all too easy to dismiss by spending two days in Miraflores before leaving altogether.

The Miraflores neighbourhood of Lima.

The Best Food in Peru

Ceviche is Peru’s classic dish, and Lima is the heart of the dish’s origination. A melody of fresh fish, lime juice and the rich flavours of pepper, onion and chilli combined, it has to be tried at least once as a rite of passage to Peru. You’ll find everyone from local markets to high-end restaurants serving it with their own little twist.

A Ceviche stall in a market in Lima, Peru. 

Lomas Saltado is ‘salted beef’; marinated strips of beef are combined with a stir fry mix of pepper, onion and tomato and served with rice. It’s often also served with fries or a mix of both.

Aji de Gallina is well worth a try, especially since it’s always on the menu when you eat in a local establishment. It’s a yellow cream sauce made from yellow Aji peppers, usually served with meat such as chicken, hard-boiled eggs, potatoes and rice. The best ones normally have a light spicy flavour for an extra kick.

Locals dining at the San Blas market in Cusco.

Pisco Sour. Ok, this is not food, but it’s technically a staple part of the culinary menu. Lemon juice, egg white and Peru’s Pisco (a fermented wine) on ice, topped with bitters, make up this famous and timeless classic cocktail. Of course, in Peru, it’s cheaper and made to perfection.

Internet in Peru

The Internet in Peru can be patchy and not always fast or reliable, which makes travel in Peru and planning a little frustrating. Get yourself a local SIM card, which saves you from relying on the patchy hostel and guesthouse Wi-Fi. A SIM card in Peru costs about 15 Soles (about $5 USD), and I got a starter package with a local carrier, Claro, for 30 Soles (about $5 USD), which gave me 3MB of data.

Remember to take a copy of your passport to purchase the SIM. The main two carriers are Claro and Movistar, and you will find many convenience stores, supermarkets and other outlets where you can top up. Just look for the flag signs and shop window stickers for Claro and Movistar.

Drugs in Peru

Peru is the largest exporter of cocaine to the western world, with this trading belt up into Colombia enticing ‘Narco Tourism’. While offers of cocaine and cannabis frequently occur on the street, especially in Cusco, don’t be that tourist whose curiosity gets the better of them.

Punishment for drugs in Peru is severe, especially if you try to take drugs out of the country (Google ‘Peru Two’ for an example).

Planning a Peru Trip? Is there anything else you would add to this list?

 – Pin and Plan! 

The post This Is How to Travel to Peru – All You Need to Know Guide appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

Places to Visit in Taiwan – The Little Known Island with Big Attraction.

Travel to Taiwan

Getting around Taipei is easy thanks to its extensive rail network, especially its high-speed lines. The Taiwan High Speed Rail runs along the west coast, connecting Taipei to major cities like Taichung and Tainan. Taiwan Rail loops the entire country’s coastline, taking in more towns and cities, so you can continue your journey from the west to the east coast from Tainan down to the more southern Kaohsiung and beyond or take a clockwise route from Taipai in the north to Yulin and Hualien.  

I booked high-speed rail tickets online and picked them up at Taipei Main Station before onward travel – you typically have to pick them up in person and provide the confirmation code and proof of ID. The Taiwan rail website is a little more tricky to navigate, although booking directly at the station in the city you are in can be more helpful. Or you can use a booking platform like 12GoAsia for ease of use.  

Start in Taipei

While there’s more to Taiwan than just its capital city, many only give the spreading metropolis a couple of days of exploration, and it needs more. 

Taipei Heritage Sites

Much of the main heritage sites are clustered in the west of Taipei, spreading around and from the busy entertainment district of Ximen.

Step inside one of the city’s oldest sacred Buddhist spaces at the Longshan Temple, or walk through the vast space of the white-marble monument Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and its public-square entrance piece Liberty Square Arch. The nearby 2-28 Peace commemorates the political protesters killed on 28th February 1947. The two heritage red brick structures are the ancient Qing Dynasty-era street-set Bopiliao Historic Block, a former commercial space turned arts and culture, and the octagonal Red Brick House from 1908, reviving its former market life with two floors of artisan design stalls.  

The heritage area of the Datong District is north of Taipei’s Main train station, with an avenue of old brick trading houses, Chinese tea and herbal shops, and a cluster of revered temples like the Taoist Xia Hai City God Temple. A little further beyond is the National Taiwan Museum with artefacts detailing the country’s colonial-built layers. 

In the eastern swathe of the capital you’ll find the soaring bamboo shoot designed 508m high Taipei 101 observation tower and the cable car to the neighbouring heights of Elephant Mountain. 

Every evening, it’s worth navigating a new night market to taste the local staples, including braised pork with rice, scallion pancakes, Xiao Long Bao soup dumplings, Taiwanese fried chicken, and stinky tofu (if you dare). There are dozens, although the biggest and most well-known are Shilin, Ningxia and Raohe. 

Book: Taipei 101 Priority Pass tickets | Historical City Tour with National Palace Museum Ticket | Vintage Taiepi Walking Tour in Datong District | Taipei Lunch and Dinner Food Tours | Taipei Sightseeing Cycling Tour

Taiwan National Palace Museum, Taipei.

Taipei’s Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

Liberty Square Arch.

Taipei 101 Building.

City views from the Taipei 101 Building.

Ningxia Night Market, Taipei.

Shilin Night Market, Taipei.

Tamsui District – New Taipei

For those wanting to explore further, my two favourite places in the city exist right at both ends of the Metro line. I stayed in the northernmost area of Taipei, on the red metro line, 45 minutes from the centre in an area called Tamsui (formally Tamshui /Danshui) – a once-bustling port town occupied at various times by the Spanish, Dutch, Japanese and Han Chinese.

It’s a hilly town full of renovated colonial buildings and former residences, the site of the Spanish Fort San Domingo, beautifully landscaped Alethia University and narrow streets brimming with street food and market stalls. I grabbed a map that outlined all the historical buildings, hired a bike for the day, leisurely perused the town, and then hopped on a ferry over to the seacoast town of Bali.

Tamsui Old Street, Taipei.

Stilt houses along the Tamsui River in New Taipei.

Former Oxford College of Alethia University in Tamsui.

Grand Chapel Aletheia University, Tamsui.

Ferry from Tamsui to Bali.

View from the seacoast town of Bali to Tamsui.

Bali Park New in New Taipei.

Sundown in Bali district, Taipei.

Xindian District – South If you have time to get to further reaches of the outer city, take the last stop on the metro line, south of the city, to Xindian station. Here, you’ll find Bitan Park, another walking and cycling route that lines the Xindian River, flanked by green encased mountains and a huge cable suspension bridge. 

Taipei Pingxi District for the Railway Towns

You might notice while in Taipei that the city sits in a green bowl wrapped by mountainous, otherwise known as the Taipei Basin. It means nature is either at the end of a metro line in the denser woodland or waterside outer districts, and it all makes for an easy day trip to see another side of the metropolis. The most classic of these trips is to the elevated towns of Ruifang, Jiufen, Shifen and Pingxi – former Japanese colonial-era mining towns now known for their connecting railways and picturesque timewarp Old Streets.  

The easiest route is from Ruifang Station, which is around one hour by rail from Taipei. Ride the historical rail to Jiufen in the west, whose stone alleyways, step-back-to-tradition teahouses and old-time character will keep you strolling for hours. Head back to Ruifang and take the track south on the Pinxi Line to the petite Shifen, where old wooden houses line the rails. The best lookout, though, is from its 128-meter-long Jingan suspension bridge, combined with a light nature trail to the forest-tucked Shifen Falls. On the way, you can stop at Houtong for its Cat Village, though my tip is to make time after Shifen and get to the last stations, Pingxi and Jingtong, for more Old Street wanders. 

The Taiwan Lantern Festival occurs in this district in early February and gets crowded. It’s a beautiful ceremony of people making wishes and letting their lanterns fly off into the sky into the evening. Over the years, it became a ticketed event, requiring a bit of pre-planning if you wish to take part; however, spectating is free. 

BOOK: Pingxi, Jiufen, and Yehliu rock formations guided tour (day trip from Taipei).

Jiufen Old Street

Shifen Suspension Bridge

Pingxi Old Street

Heritage Jingtong Train Station

Tainan – Taiwan’s Oldest City

If you have limited time in Taiwan and want to combine another city with Taipei, then the southwestern coastal city of Tainan is where you should head. The oldest city and the first capital of Taiwan melds a 400-year-old historical timeline from Dutch colony to Imperial Chinese rule, found amongst its cluster of shrines, temples and colonial-era buildings in Tainan city and with the beautiful, cobbled stone district of Anping with its harbour front, old set-stone streets and banyan tree root ‘Tree House’. 

READ MORE: Things to Do in Tainan – See Taiwan’s Oldest City Differently

The Luermen Matsu Temple in Tainan’s Annan District.

Fort Zeelandia Museum, Anping.

Visiting the Anping Tree House.

Taichung – For the Iconic Sun Moon Lake

North of Tainan is the huge yet nondescript industrial city of Taichung. With little to do here aside from the science museum, many bypass the city, using it only as a stopping point to reach Sun Moon Lake without rushing or leaving on early transport links.  

The misty sky-lined Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of fresh water in the whole of Taiwan and a government-controlled National Scenic Area. Spend a full day here a nature-bound trip filled with scenic boat trips, mini-hikes, long walks and cycle routes encased by more mountains. When you see past the crowds, the views from up high are incredible. This i

READ MORE: Visiting Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan

The gondola view over Sun Moon Lake.

Hualien – The Gateway to Taroko Gorge

Hualien is think with vegetation and low-lying mountains, a teaser gateway to the famed Taroko National Park. One of the most popular and scenic treks is the Shakadong Trail—a rock-cut path that follows a bubbling blue river dotted with smooth boulders in a spectrum of grey and silver, flowing alongside marbled canyons that mirror the trail route. 

Hualien city coastline.

Lush landscapes of Hualien.

Shakadong Trail, Taroko Gorge.

Visiting Taiwan’s famed Taroko National Park.

Gorge valley landscapes of Taroko National Park.

Is Taiwan Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, but while two weeks in Taiwan is ample time to see the major cities and natural attractions, to get a wider sense of the country’s offering, I don’t think it’s long enough. Especially if you want to spend more than two days in Taipei (I could easily spend a week in the capital). With a central island route that takes you through mountainous hikes, historical trails, Recreation Areas and winding highways, in addition to other coastal towns calling for exploration, including Lukang, Kaohsiung, Sanyi, Mataian and Yulin, this is a small country with a lot of highlights. It warrants more than a quick visit, and you’ll want to be prepared. 

Where To Stay in Taiwan 

My top picks for budget to mid-range stays and local experiences in Taiwan.

Taipei – Ximen Area

Meander Taipei Hostel – A low-sky, modern hostel on the fringes of the Ximen district, with a rooftop hangout and kitchen lounge area. Double rooms are not spacious, but when you are mostly out and about, does that matter? Prices per night are cheaper during the week. 

Amba Taipei Ximending – A mid-range hotel with colour-popping room accessories and furniture. Has a homely library-vinyl cafe, bar and restaurant area. 

Triple Tiger Inn – Triple Tiger is uber-budget compared to other properties in the Ximen area, but its family-run atmosphere, plus its being tucked away in a local grid-street neighbourhood, altogether reminded me of my backpacking days.

Taipei- Datong Heritage Area

Star Hostel Taipei Main Station – A modern, minimalist, white and wood panel decked, plant-filled hostel with dorms and privates in the lower area of the historic Datong District. 

We Come Hostel – Another top Datong location with soft industrial-style common rooms, monochrome dorms and colour-drenched private rooms.

OrigInn Space – This vintage-retro-styled hotel in a historic building is next to Dihua Street. The only downside is that some rooms have shared bathrooms. 

Tainan – West Central District

IsShoNi House – A beautiful, contemporary homestay in Tainan where every design detail has been added with thought. It is a homely space with a lovely private host owner, friendly staff and a cool cafe and coffee hangout.

Taichung 

Norden Ruder Hostel Taichung – A sleek, contemporary, rustic-nordic hostel with private rooms and dorms in the centre of Taichung. A perfect base for a trip to Sun Moon Lake. 

Hualien

You Worth Inn – Small, industrial-style hotel with exposed walls, monochrome hues, vintage furniture, and potted plants. It’s close to the train station for easy access to the Taroko Gorge area. 

Sleeping Boot Hostel – A small, no-thrills but homely and locally-run hostel with dorms and privates. In the middle of town near key transport links.

Stay in locally run guesthouses and meet Taiwanese locals.

The post Places to Visit in Taiwan – The Little Known Island with Big Attraction appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

As modern and creative as it is old and traditional, Graz is a city of arts and contemporary culture. Its history spans 900 years, from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. Graz emits a strong Mediterranean vibe, making you feel more south of Austria than you are.

It’s found in the preserved UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site with old-world charms and deep-rooted history where Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque structures intertwine. But that’s just one half of its cultural story. The modern persona of Graz, which helped give it the coveted titles of UNESCO City of Design, European Cultural Capital, and Austria’s Culinary Capital, is just as worthy of your attention to understand it as a whole.

While there is a mesh to the old and new parts of Graz, the River Mur neatly cuts the more prominent aspects of old and new Graz in two, which makes for more straightforward navigation for visitors wanting to delve deeper into its two distinct personalities. Locals see this ‘south’ side of the city as more ‘playful’, and the contrast between the two is welcomed and celebrated.

Graz, the second-largest city in Austria and the state capital of Styria is rather proud of its distinction. However, it has always remained off the radar compared to other Austrian cities. If you want to explore a lesser-known destination in Austria, this is your city, and this is how to uncover it all. 

 What to Do in Graz – The Mediterranean City of Austria.

Historic Things to See in Graz

Graz UNESCO World Heritage Historic Centre

The City of Graz Historic Centre, including Schloss Eggenberg on its fringes, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its harmonious blend of architectural styles through the ages. The mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architecture gave Graz “the best-preserved city centre of Central Europe” title. It’s a city with abundant detail, from the rooftops and delicate balconies to the old establishments that line the pavements and the wall-bound figurine details and frescos.

The compact Historic Centre is easy to navigate, where this integration of varying designs and structures is melded together in a small space by a hill and a park. It is a living history walking tour with green spaces and sweeping viewpoints, and in between, townhouses painted with old murals to romantic courtyards, open baroque squares and winding cobblestoned streets.

Walking amongst the history, you can trace Graz’s story from its early days as an old town with a fortress through to the Imperial years of the late 1400s and beyond and to the modern cultural, art and design foundations that have been added to the mix in recent years. 

The best views over Graz are from the Schlossberg.

Graz Historic Centre Attractions

Herrengasse, which is the main thoroughfare of the city, and the adjacent main square, Graz Hauptplatz are at the very heart of the city and central to navigation. Herrengasse is lined with modern stores and bars, yet also with palaces, alleyways to grand squares and preserved historic buildings.

Graz Hauptplatz (Town Square) is marked by a statue of Archduke Johann of Austria (the “Styrian Prince”), who helped develop Graz with various initiatives and grand visions over 50 years. It was the city’s very first marketplace during the medieval era, now dominated by the magnificent 19^th century Rathaus, which was built around the houses people refused to sell to make way for it.

Graz buildings of significance include the Painted House at number 7, adorned with Baroque frescos in 1742, the Luegghaus façade on the bottom corner of Sporgasse, now home to the Swarovski store, and the Glockenspielhaus at Glockenspielplatz 4. Catch the performance when the Glockenspiel strikes at 11 am, 3 pm and 6 pm.

Statues, red roofs and pastel building hues of Graz Hauptplatz.

Historic Herrengasse, Graz.

Graz Walking Tours

There is a historic centre walking tour run by Graz Tourist Information, which starts at its location on Herrengasse 16. A Graz tour is one way to have an introduction to the history of the city while viewing the most revered facades, courtyards and romantic squares. Alternatively, pick up a map from the Tourist Office and follow the marked route.

Private walking tours are more expensive, on average €150 for two hours of guidance with a local. This top-rated Graz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour includes visits to Graz Cathedral, skip-the-line tickets to Landeszeughaus (Styrian Armoury), the Graz Museum Schlossberg and Burggarten, alongside architectural and old town sites of significance. 

Graz Italian Renaissance Architecture

What you immediately notice about Graz is the centuries-old streets awash with an air of Italian charm that passes from the alfresco dining streets to avenues that lead you to the squares, archways and townhouse facades in earthly shades.

Mediterranean vibes in Graz old town.

Al fresco dining and opulent buildings in the centre of Graz.

Architectual highlights of Graz include the impressive Italian Renaissance arcades of the Landhaus Courtyard, where today the Styrian regional parliament meets, the stonemasonry masterpiece that is the dizzying double spiral staircase at the entrance to the Burg, and the cluster of magnificent buildings that are the Cathedral and Mausoleum commissioned by Kaiser Ferdinand III and Kaiser Ferdinand II in Italian style.

Italian Renaissance arcades of the Landhaus Courtyard in Graz.

Entrance to the Burg.

Enjoying the dizzying double spiral staircase in Graz.

Graz’s spiral staircase in the Burg is a feat of architecture.

The Italian architectural style Cathedral and Mausoleum in Graz.

The Most Romantic Street in Graz Old Town

Sporgasse is one of my favourite streets that I walked the length of repeatedly. It’s considered one of the most romantic streets in the city, and here you’ll find the oldest parish church, the oldest courtyard in the city, some of the more exquisite building facades and the quirky with their legends (check out the Turk statue on Palais Saurau at number 25).

Stunning, cobblestones Sporgasse in Graz.

The oldest courtyard in Graz city, located off Sporgasse.

Climb the Graz Schlossberg for Clocktower Views

The 473-metre high Graz Schlossberg mound is a centrepiece of the city and the platform for the best view over the city to take in the famous sweep of orange rooftops where the creative blue bulbous ‘Friendly Alien’ Kunsthaus modern art museum has comfortably wedged within.

This green platform of trees and gardens was once the site of a small fort, giving Graz its name, meaning “little castle”, before it was extended to an enormous Renaissance fortress later destroyed by Napoleon. Bastions and an old gate remain, although people flock up here to stand next to the 28-metre-high Clock Tower, the traditional and most beloved symbol of Graz.

Connecting ground to fortress high is the 260 steps of the Schlossbergstiege for those wanting to tred more of the timeline. However, you can take a funicular up and walk down or enjoy The Slide Graz – the highest underground slide in the world that’s 64 meters tall and 175 meters long. It’s a heart-thumping 40 seconds, but a ride I would happily repeat on every visit. 

The stairs up the 473-metre high Graz Schlossberg.

The famous Clocktower on the Schlossberg, Graz.

Get a better view of old and new Graz mixed when you climb the Schlossberg.

Historical and Traditional Eats in Graz

Want to try an old traditional hangout in the city to wrap up your historical wander?

Head to Frankowitsch, framed over the years for its open-faced sandwiches that you order with a “Pfiff” (tiny glass) of beer.

Time capsule Café König is small and a popular place for the old traditional coffee-house vibes. This café, in particular, dates back to 1918 and is decked out in dark wood, with coffee pastries and a warm, family business atmosphere.

For a panoramic city view, the rooftop of the Kastner Und Öhler department store is a favourite terrace hotspot. It is well worth a look inside for the ornate golden pillars that decorate the store itself.

Indulge at the former Habsburg bakery (the Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax) whose wooden façade topped with a double-gilded eagle retains the same imperial decadence and offers some of the traditional sweet offerings as they were back then.

The former Habsburg bakery, Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax.

The Creative Things to Do in Graz 

Graz UNESCO City of Design

In 2011, in recognition of its creative city scene and internationally renowned educational and research institutions, Graz was designated a UNESCO City of Design.

Graz’s modern history defines it just as much as its 900 years past, but that’s not to say that this ultra-hip Graz separates itself from the old – it complements it. However, the repurposing of urban design and the burgeoning urban culture creatively and artistically makes this alternative side to Graz a destination in its own right.

Start at Grieskai street, adjacent to the Mur River. It is the road that virtually splits Graz in two with the historical old town on one side and trendy new on the other. Crossing the River Mur and exploring a whole new side of Graz that lies right behind the ‘Friendly Alien’ landmark completes the picture as to the city’s origins, cultural diversity and artistic heart.

Visit the Friendly Alien Modern Art Museum

Graz’s loved and revered modern landmark is the Kunsthouse (modern art museum), built in 2003. It’s otherworldly, spaceship-like features have come to make it affectionately known by locals as the “Friendly Alien”. You can’t miss it, and I was obsessed with this architectural bubble before I even arrived. 

The “Friendly Alien” Kunsthouse modern art museum.

While the ledges of the Schlossberg look down over this area, this side of the river looks up. Inside the Kunsthaus is an artistic window viewpoint. One of its ‘nozzle’ windows points in a different direction to all of the others – for an old to the modern facing view of the famous Bell Tower on the Schlossberg.

It’s a nod to the city’s history from the perspective of the new design. Return to the Friendly Alien at night, when it becomes an interactive light and art installation that’s always changing, much like the enclosed exhibits. 

The seemingly floating Friendly Alien of Graz.

Inside the Kunsthaus modern art musuem in Graz.

View of the Graz clocktower from inside the Kunsthaus.

Immerse Yourself in the Lend Neighbourhood

This side of the river meshes with the ultra-cool vibes of the Lend neighbourhood. The area of Lend starts in the area around Mariahilferplatz, whose history dates back to the 19^th century when immigrants from Yugoslavia and Turkey settled here, bringing together multiple cultures, cuisines, communities and commerce.

It’s a natural trend for the creative-minded to be attracted to the underdog areas; the gritty and unknown. It’s an area granted a new lease of life from what was once a place seen as discarded and unkempt; the regeneration of the old red-light district area into a new form of an entertainment district. 

Lend is the kind of alternative locale. With enough boutique and eco initiative stores, new-gen coffee shops, bohemian and swank restaurants side-by-side, a weekly farmers market in Lendplatz on Monday-Saturday until 1 pm and edgy, casual bars that you could easily spend a day in without stepping foot in Graz’s old town. 

Relaxed eatery at Lendplatz in the trendy Graz neighbourhood of Lend.

In the evening small clusters of casual pubs and urbanite bars, and late-night foodie spots like ‘Brot und Spiele’, give it a homely and ‘in the know’ neighbourhood feel. The hipster bar, Kabuff is a play on the area’s past, meaning ‘no brothel’ in Styrian dialect. Lendplatz hums with people coming together at the hole-in-the-wall bars where the atmosphere is more energetic.

Restaurant with quirky artistic decor in Lend neighbourhood in Graz.

Trendy hangouts in Lend.

Street art on the edgier side of Graz city.

Miles Jazz bar in the urbanised area of Graz.

A 60s style hair saloon in Lend.

The social-impact led, charity design shops are at the very heart of this creative side of Graz, selling all kinds of upcycled items from fashion, jewellery and homeware. Yet the focus on the design projects is that they focus on youth employment and the involvement of young locals, which means when you shop here, you are a part of a full-circle initiative.

One of a cluster of design charity shops in Graz.

Find plenty of upcycled stores on this side of town. 

In Lend, there are pockets of street art, buildings painted in a myriad of colours and patterns, the church of St.Andrä that combines religion with contemporary art, and repurposed old spaces that make for bohemian hangouts, expanding and adding colour and life to an area once on the sidelines of old, historical Graz.

An area built on multi-culturalism, Lend thrives on community spirit. The annual Grieskram food and performance festival brings everyone together, and the socio-cultural project, Annenviertal, encourages Graz locals to take part in community activities to drive interest and awareness in new business and neighbourhood initiatives to keep the area on the map.

As a visitor, you are just as much a part of keeping this side of the Mur River alive.

Life in Lend on the street behind the Kunsthaus modern art museum in Graz.

Design on the Mur River

The river itself, a vein of the old city, is connected with modern structures. The Murinsel is a café and exhibition space that sits in the water with footbridges that link to both sides of the bank, and the Mur Promenade, which you can access via stairs leading down from the main Erzherzog Johann Brücke, with a waterside bar and spot for relaxation.

The brave attempt river surfing in the strong currents, which you might be lucky to spot on a good day.

The Murinsel café and exhibition space sitting in the middle of the Mur River in Graz.

A bar under the bridge on the Mur River.

Creativity and Art in Graz Old Town

That’s not to say all of artistically urban Graz is contained solely on one side of the Mur. Artworks have made their way across the river, blending with the historic old streets in a homogenous mix of centuries-old and contemporary design. 

Like the ARGOS building by Zara Hadid in Graz Centre, completed in 2020. These self-serviced apartment buildings replace an old “commodity house” building, and some dub its bulging eye-like structure as the ‘new friendly alien’. 

ARGOS building by Zara Hadid.

On one of my trips to Graz, there was a blue halo ring in Schlossbergplatz and a Red Bull racing car attached to the rocky Schlossberg wall. You’ll also come across sporadic structures on other squares, like the lampshade metalwork and the Joanneumsviertal Cultural Centre’s funky glass structure within old town streets.

The Parish Church on Herrengasse, while known for its Baroque Tower, includes a reminder to the cities darker days, featuring modern art stained glass windows, one which consists of a portrait of Hitler and Mussolini watching the crown of thorns coronation of Jesus.

Public artwork in Graz Centre.

The Parish Church stained glass windows with some unlikely figures.

Graz also hosts plenty of cultural festivals throughout the year too, including the Austrian Film Festival in March, the electronic music Springfestival in May, and the Steirischer Herbst contemporary art festival in October takes over the city with everything from visual art, theatre and political debates.

Graz Trendy Eats and Hangouts

The hip Tribeka coffee shop is next to the Friendly Alien and where Graz’s younger generation hang out. Ducks Coffee Shop on Rabergasse is a central city favourite. For a taste of the Styrian craft beer scene, head to café bar Vintage. The city’s first package-free organic grocery store, Das Gramm sits next door to the old chocolate making shop.

Arnold Schwarzenegger fans can sip a coffee in a room dedicated to him in Andy Warhol style at the Grand Café Kaiserfeld. The ‘Governor’s Room’ is filled with portraits of the Hollywood star and Graz’s famous son. Nearby Thal is his homeplace where you can visit his birth house with is now a museum, where you can pose with a giant statue.

Local top picks for the Lend neighbourhood hangouts include brunch favourite Blendend, Rangoon for cocktails and Lotte (a smokers bar). We enjoyed taking random strolls and testing all manner of hideouts. For the best Backhendl indulgence (half Styrian chicken in crispy breadcrumbs) head to The Steirer, on Belgiergasse pictured below. The restaurant also has the largest selection of regional wines.

When the sun goes down, the old Graz hums with heavy metal and Indie music bars like Tick Tack and Guest Room, DJ spots like Café Mitte and underground clubs like Club Q.

Read More: Graz City Wine – The Revival of Urban Viniculture 

Backhendl salad served at The Steirer restaurant.

Extra Time for a Graz Day Trip?

‘Fat House’ artwork at the Austrian Sculpture Park near Graz.

Travel Tips for When You Visit Graz 

• Graz is close to Vienna and is well-connected to the capital (and all other major Austrian cities) via the ÖBB rail network. From Vienna, the train journey is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Graz is also seen as a ‘sister city’ with Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, which has surprising similarities.
• Graz is an effortless city to explore on foot, which is why an all-encompassing city card isn’t necessarily needed.
• Grab a copy of the “Graz Made by locals for Young Travellers” map. It’s detailed without being boring, and full of insider hints and tips, alongside the very best hangouts, from coffee to quirky themed bars.

• Should you wish to take public transport, a 1-hour ticket (valid from the tram and bus) is €2.20 and a 24 hours ticket is €5, which is much better value.
• The ‘Altstadt Tram’ is a free tram that runs through the city centre, between Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz, although walking is a better option to dig out all the small details.
• If you are a museum fan, the Joanneum 24 hours ticket grants admission to all exhibitions under the ‘Universalmusuem Joanneum’, which includes the Kunsthaus and Schloss Eggenberg (just outside of the city centre).

Where to Stay in Graz

The Wiesler Hotel

I’ve always stayed in the trendy part of Graz, first checking into the Wiesler Hotel on the other side of the River Mur from the historical old town. The lobby bears an artwork of jagged wood – a beam puzzle art installation by Austrian artist, Clemens Hollerer and is the first thing you will notice as you enter the reception, alongside the murals and design of the restaurant lounge.

Attention to artistic detail is what marks this hotel out on the ‘other side’ of the River Mur from the old town and is next to the ‘Friendly Alien’ Kunsthaus museum. It is a sister brand to the minimalist, smart Hotel Daniel. Rooms are light and focus on smart, minimal design, with some rooms overlooking the river.

Art installation by Austrian artist, Clemens Hollerer at the Weisler Hotel in Graz.

Restaurant inside the Weisler Hotel.

The Lend Hotel

More recently, I finally got to check out the Lend Hotel – a stylish art hotel that’s as hip as the neighbourhood, only minutes away from the main square. Rooms are smart and minimal, while every hallway wall has artworks from paintings to sculptures and furniture.

Breakfast is an extensive menu beyond standard buffet fare, and the lounge and restaurant area is a hangout in its own right rather than just an extension to the lobby. If you are staying there, head to the Lend Hotel rooftop for an alternative view of the fringes of the historical city centre.

Arty Lend hotel in Graz.

The Parkhotel

I’ve also stayed at the family-run Parkhotel. A hyper-local 69-room hotel with a bar, spa and a fine-dining restaurant, Zur Goldenen Birn. It’s classically furnished with a homely lux feel, and there’s enough to keep you onsite, yet right in the heart of the student-led Geidorf neighbourhood filled with local enterprise. 

Further Information on Graz

• The Graz Tourism Information website details further aspects of the city and its outer fringes. 
• This guide to what to do in Graz was researched over four visits – a combination of personal trips and tourism projects to highlight the best of the city. 

Planning to Visit Graz? Pin It!

The post What to Do in Graz – The Mediterranean City of Austria appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

From a city established on a hill by two monks in the year 757 to its rise as the capital of the first Christian Kingdom of Asturias, founded in the middle of the Reconquista in 810, Oviedo was built to be symbolic in a time of conflict when the Muslims occupied most of the Iberian peninsula. Under King Alfonso II, Oviedo became a centre of the royal court and a sacred place for pilgrims who walk The Original Way of St James – the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago.

Wander the historic city and get lost in this architectural wonderland of those who conquered, ruled, and left their legacy. Get lost in the beauty of the Old Quarter with its pretty plazas and heritage museums. Trace ancient times on its stately streets, churches and palaces and UNESCO sites, including the gothic Cathedral and pre-Romanesque treasures on the city’s fringe – the artistic mark of the monarchy at the time. Spot the statues that honour people who shaped the city.

And if you don’t accompany such exploration with sidra (cider) or sample the award-winning flavours of the region’s protected gastronomic produce, did you even visit? Here’s where to go in Oviedo to find it all.

Oviedo, Spain – The Monumental Capital of Asturias

Oviedo Guide – Things to Know

Here are the things to know from when to go, where to stay and what to see before planning a trip to Oviedo (pronounced Ov-ee-ay-doh). 

Is Oviedo Worth Visiting?

Oviedo combines natural landscapes with a millennium of historical and cultural heritage and renowned gastronomy, from stews to sidra (cider). While the regional capital is a natural starting point, the Asturian cities of Avilés and Gijón are also easily reachable within one hour, and the mountainous Picos de Europa National Park in two.

Other points of interest in Northern Spain include the neighbouring province of Castilla y León, whose capital, León is an ideal city to culturally twin with Oviedo. 

Best Time to Go to Oviedo

Situated between oceanic and mountainous terrain, the temperature in Oviedo is comfortable year-round. 

It means summers are not overbearingly hot (20-30 degrees), and winters are not blisteringly cold (5-10 degrees). Spring and Autumn average 15 degrees, with Autumn the time for the highest rainfall. With coastal cities, village valleys and forested peaks nearby, there are areas of activity in all seasons.

Plaza de la Escandalera in Oviedo, with the ‘Asturcones’ horse sculptures.

How Many Days to Spend in Oviedo City

While many an Oviedo travel guide would tell you this is a day-trip city, I say to grant it more time. Give yourself at least two days to comfortably explore the city and plan for what Oviedo is famous for besides its statues – gastronomic indulgences. For example, you might not want to cram a big lunch and a cider house feast on the same day.

One day in Oviedo isn’t enough. Especially if you spend longer in museums, you’ll want that extra day. 

Street life in the classic and colourful Oviedo city.

How to Get to Oviedo

By air

The cities of Asturias in northern Spain – Avilés, Gijón, and Oviedo – can be easily reached from Asturias Airport (OVD), the only international airport in the province with regular Iberia and Vueling flights. 

It takes 45 minutes – 1 hour to reach Oviedo from the airport. Despite the airport code, Oviedo is the furthest city away and Avilés the closest. However, regular buses run between the airport and all three cities. You can check departures on the Alsa bus website.

By rail and bus

The extensive Renfe rail service connects Spain, making travel between Asturias quick and easy and connecting to neighbouring provinces and Madrid. The train from Madrid to Oviedo takes around four hours and 30 minutes. 

The train from Gijón to Oviedo takes around 25 minutes. There is no direct railway connection between Avilés and Oviedo – you’ll have to take an Alsa bus for the 45-minute journey.

Check out my Renfe AVE guide to train travel in Spain, with information on how and where to book tickets and route tips for city hopping adventures.

Where to Stay in Oviedo

There are dozens of hotels in Oviedo, encouraging longer stays in the city and making a convenient base to explore the nature surrounding it.

My accommodation was Gran Hotel España – a centrally located, modern, mid-budget hotel in Oviedo city close to the Cathedral, Archaeological museum and Cider Boulevard, and a short walk to San Francisco Park. From €60 a night for a double room, including breakfast. Soho Boutique Oviedo has a similar offering, located 300 m from Plaza de la Constitución. Prices start from €80. 

A budget option with style is Green Hostel – a modern and minimalist space right in the city, with six-bed dorm rooms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Some rooms have a city view, so it’s worth asking which are available, although you may pay a small premium. Dorm room bed from €20 per night, and a private double from €60. Breakfast is also included. 

Oviedo – Origen of the Camino.

Things to Do in Oviedo

A monumental medieval town. Tiled streets with chromatic charm. Treasuries of art and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Oviedo is an urban wonderland for the curious. One of the first cities in Spain to be mostly pedestrianised, it’s a city best explored on foot, and the Old Quarter is where you’ll find most Oviedo attractions.

This stone archway leads to Oviedo’s Plaza de Feijoo.

Find the Prettiest Plazas

Plaza Daoiz y Velarde

This rectangular enclosure next to Plaza del Fontán and its covered market, El Fontán, is known for its outdoor market. Still, one of the most photogenic features of Plaza Daoiz y Velarde is the building arcades and, most notably, the bright blue and yellow painted building of the Casa Ramón restaurant – a striking picture next to the pastel hues of its neighbours. 

The most beautiful building on Plaza Daoiz y Velarde.

Plaza de la Constitución

The official and most important square in the city, Plaza de la Constitución is where you’ll also find Ayuntamiento de Oviedo (Oviedo’s Town Hall) and the Iglesia de San Isidoro el Real (Church of San Isidoro El Real). The central arch of the Town Hall building – built in 1622 using parts of the old medieval wall – marks the boundary between the old and new sectors of the city. Walk through the arch on the Calle Cimadevilla, and you’ll enter the Old Quarter.

Ayuntamiento de Oviedo (Oviedo’s Town Hall), incorporates parts of the old Roman wall.

Iglesia de San Isidoro el Real stands out amongst more modern buildings in Plaza de la Constitución.

Plaza de la Catedral

Plaza de la Catedral is where you’ll find the city’s architectural masterpiece. The square’s original name, Plaza Alfonso II el Casto, is named after the King who ordered the construction of the San Salvador Cathedral in 812. It’s a symbolic square at the heart of the Original Way of St. James pilgrim route as people continue to pass through today on their journey. It’s also where you’ll find the “La Regenta” statue and Museum of Fine Arts.

The city’s masterpiece is the Basilica del Salvador of Oviedo.

Plaza Trascorrales

Hidden behind a cluster of buildings, you’ll know when you’ve stumbled upon Plaza Trascorrales when you enter this compact square filled with colour and al fresco café culture. Here you’ll find one of Oviedo’s best statues of a milkmaid and her donkey. 

The pantones of Plaza Trascorrales.

Plaza del Paraguas

In a more edgy, bohemian corner of Oviedo, I was drawn to Plaza del Paraguas for the giant metal umbrella – a popular meeting spot in the city lined with bars. In the morning, it’s a blissfully quiet corner of the city, bathed in a golden glow. 

Finding the giant umbrella structure in Plaza del Paraguas.

The umbrella is a popular meeting spot in Oviedo.

See Why Oviedo is the City of Statues

Oviedo is full of statues and sculptures, turning the city into an open-air museum with over 100 works of art in its streets, squares, and parks. Here’s a pick of 10 well-known statues to seek out on your city walk.

El Regreso de Williams B. Arrensberg (The Return of Williams B. Arrensberg) is also known as ‘The Traveller’ – a man in a long coat leaning against his suitcase and looking toward the Cathedral. By Eduardo Úrcula, Plaza de Porlier.

El Regreso de Williams B. Arrensberg.

La Regenta is a tribute to the heroine of an Oviedo based novel by writer Leopoldo Alas-Clarin. By Mauro Álvarez Fernández, Plaza de la Catedral.

La Regenta.

Culis Monumentalibus is a 4-metre high, black tarnished bronze disproportioned pair of buttocks. You can’t miss it. By Eduardo Úrcula, Calle Alonso de Quintanilla outside Teatro Campoamor.

Culis Monumentalibus.

La Lechera shows a milkmaid with her donkey honours the women who would come to Oviedo to sell milk. By Manuel García Linares, Plaza Trascorrales.

La Lechera.

Las Vendedoras del Fontán (the sellers of Fontán) represents the market history of this square. By Amado González Hevia, Plaza Daoiz y Velarde.

Las Vendedoras del Fontán.

La Bella Lola (the beautiful sorrow) shows a lady on the bench looking towards the sea, watching loved ones leave after saying goodbye. By Carmen Fraile, Plaza del Fontán.

La Bella Lola.

El Vendedor de Pescado (the fish seller) shows a squatting man with his catch as he awaits a sale. By José Antonio García Prieto, Plaza Trascorrales.

El Vendedor de Pescado.

Mafalda is an Argentine satirical cartoon character popular in Spain, and this statue on a bench in San Francisco Park honours the creator, Quino, for his contribution to the arts.

Mafalda sitting on the bench in San Francisco Park.

La Maternidad (Maternity), also known as ‘La Gorda’, represents motherhood and shows an oversized and disproportionately shaped woman and her child. By Fernando Botero, Plaza de la Escandalera.

La Maternidad.

Casal is life sized statue of Asturian singer and 80s pop icon, Tino Casal. By Anselmo Iglesias Poli, Calle Palacio Valdés.

Casal.

Admire the UNESCO Pilgrim Cathedral – Basilica del Salvador

The 13th-century single-towered Gothic structure of the Basilica del Salvador took 300 years to perfect and is one of the foundational Oviedo and Asturias tourist attractions. The original cathedral site was founded by King Fruela I of Asturias in 781, and his son, Alfonso II of Asturias, enlarged it in tribute to his pilgrimage. Legend has it that the tomb of St. James was found in Iria Flavia (Padrón, Galicia) in 813, and King Alfonso II travelled from Oviedo to see it for himself – making him the first-ever pilgrim.

It was the start of a journey that came to be known as The Original Way of St James (The Primitive Way) that today begins in Oviedo – a 320km journey considered the oldest pilgrimage route. Following a similar trail, the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago passes through Oviedo – an 800km journey through the Basque region, Asturias and Galicia. 

Visit Oviedo Cathedral, with its gothic altarpiece, vaulted ceilings and intricate carvings – it’s considered the third most beautiful cathedral in Spain. The pre-Romanesque structure was the Chapel of King Alfonso II, known as the Holy Chamber – home to the King’s collection of prized Christian relics, including the Holy Shroud of Jesus Christ. 

The magnificent entrance of the Basilica del Salvador.

Listen to Traditional Gaita Asturiana Bands

If you visit on the weekend, you might hear the skirl of bagpipes reverberating throughout Oviedo’s old town. Follow the sound, and you’ll be lucky to stumble upon a unique tradition. During a visit to the Plaza de la Catedral, we came across a band in folk dress performing with drums and Gaita Asturiana. This type of bagpipe is native to Asturias, and its pitch is a little different to what you might know from Scotland since it only has two pipes instead of five.

Hear the sounds of Gaita Asturiana on the weekends in Oviedo.

Relax in the Urban Park, Campo de San Francisco

The former 13th century San Francisco Convent garden, Campo de San Francisco (San Francisco Park), is a botanical hideaway just outside of the old town in Calle Uría – the commercial area of Oviedo. It’s filled with pathways, ponds and peaceful corners, statues, and the Romanesque stone archway ruins of the old San Isidoro Church. I enjoyed my 8 AM morning walk through this shaded haven just as much as I enjoyed visiting during the day when people queue to get their nostalgic photos with Mafalda and fill the park with childlike happiness.

The foliage of Campo de San Francisco grows around the Romanesque stone archway of the old San Isidoro Church.

The La Torera statue in San Francisco Park of photographer, Josefa Carril, who lived in Oviedo.

Visit Oviedo’s Renowned Museums

Oviedo’s rich heritage is curated within its archaeological and art museums – the Archaeological Museum and Fine Arts Museum are considered the most renowned. Not only are the collections contained within of significance, but the structures themselves are of historical value.

Museo Arqueológico de Asturias. The archaeological museum of Asturias houses collections that take you through the timeline of Asturian heritage and Oviedo’s history from the prehistoric to the Roman and Middle Ages eras. Even if you don’t spend long browsing the exhibitions, walk through the impressive Renaissance cloister – this structure was once the original Benedictine convent of Saint Vincente from the 8^th century.

The stone-walled, vaulted ceilings of the cloister inside the Museo Arqueológico de Asturias.

Museo de Bellas Artes de Austurias. Oviedo’s Museum of Fine Art is one of the leading art galleries in Spain, housing an extensive collection of around 10,000 works of art from the past 700 years that include Asturian artists alongside priceless Goyas, Picassos and Dalis. The building has great architectural value, comprised of the 17th-century Portal House, 18th-century Velarde Palace and a 2015 extension that granted it the ‘RIBA Award for International Excellence’.

Marvel Medieval UNESCO Pre-Romanesque Monuments

While there are 15 preserved Pre-Romanesque structures in Asturias, only six make up a collection given UNESCO World Heritage Site distinction in 1985. You can find five in Oviedo. A medieval design style influenced by the detailed frescos and sculpture styles of Christianity, these buildings are seen as the rare art of the Asturian monarchy – an architectural characteristic that flourished during the 200 years of the monarchy (722-910). 

Inside the city is The Holy Chamber de Oviedo and the Fuente de Foncalada (Foncalada Fountain). Just 3 kilometres on foot from the centre of the city, on the gentle slopes of Mount Naranco, you can visit three other significant 9th-century monuments.

Iglesia de Santa Maria del Naranco is a palace, on southern slope of Naranco, built 842. 

See Iglesia de Santa Maria del Naranco, three kilometres form the centre of Oviedo.

San Julián de los Prados is the oldest and largest of the churches, but San Miguel de Lillo was part of the palace complex. New features of its construction in the 11th century were made by incorporating old elements, which you can spot on the exterior walls. The Frescos inside of acrobats symbolise those not conforming and therefore being sinful. 

Visit San Miguel de Lillo, once part of the palace complex on the hill.

Gastronomy in Oviedo – Where to Eat and Drink

Gastronomy is a big deal in Asturias. So much so that its regional food and drink produce is as revered, celebrated, awarded, and protected as its historical landmarks and environmental spaces. The latter provides the perfect terrain and fertile lands between the Cantabrian sea and the mountainous meadows to farm and cultivate such delicacies.

Six products of the Principality have received the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) stamp: Asturian cider, Cangas wine and the four kinds of cheese: Cabrales, Gamonéu, Casín and Afeuga’l pitu. Asturian beef, Chosco de Tineo (smoked preserved sausage) and the Faba de Asturias (white fava bean) have Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).

Ready to work up an appetite on your Oviedo visit? Here’s where to try the famed foods of Asturias. 

Shop Local at Mercado El Fontán

The medieval market morphed into a covered food market over the centuries, remaining a fixture of the city. Mercado El Fontán is where the locals stock up on cured meats (like Jamon), dairy (especially cheese), fresh fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables. Browse 2,000 square metres of stalls showcasing local delicacies – it’s hard to leave empty-handed. The busiest days are Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, when the region’s farmers come to sell the latest products.

Mercado El Fontán is where you can shop for fresh Asturian food products.

Mercado El Fontán is full of regional cheese and cured meats.

Try Asturian Dishes at Oviedo’s Top Restaurants

The holy trinity of Asturian dishes is Fabada Asturiana (fava bean and pork stew), Cachopo (layered veal, cheese, and ham in breadcrumbs), and Arroz con Leche (creamy rice pudding).

We sampled these in a three-course indulgence at one of the best restaurants in Oviedo, La Corte De Pelayo restaurant – champions of the Cachopo using a 1947 recipe. Gloria is another popular choice, run by Asturian chef, Nacho Manzano.

The famed Asturian dishes of Fabada Asturiana, Cachopo and Arroz con Leche.

Taste Artisan Asturian Cheese 

Asturias is an artisan cheese paradise, with its prime mountain pastures and long-standing production traditions like cave maturation. So much so that Asturias is known as ‘El Pais de Los 40 Quesos’ (the land of 40 cheeses) and the most prominent cheese area in the European Union.

The strong, blue Cabrales cheese develops its intense taste during the cave maturation process (in the region of the same name). Gamonéu (made in Onís and Cangas de Oni) is like a softer, slightly saltier parmesan. Los Beyos is like a strong, creamy cheddar, and the orange Afuega’ l Pitu is close to feta, with a subtle tinge of spice.

Asturias is known as ‘El Pais de Los 40 Quesos’ (the land of 40 cheeses).

Find the Master Confectioners

Head to Rialto for the best handmade confectionery in the city. The Carbayones (éclair-like pastries filled with almond and egg yolk and glazed with sugar) and Moscovitas (thin chocolate and almond biscuits) fill the window display to lure you in. Both have secret recipes, and they cite their products as having “a taste of happiness”, which I can confirm after devouring an entire box.  

Inside Rialto, the best handmade confectionery in the city.

Visit a Sidrería and Enjoy Asturian Cider Culture

It’s near impossible to come to Oviedo and not visit a Sidrería (cider bar). Cider is a symbol of the region and is uniquely poured with pride. And while there’s a lot to choose from with the “Sidrerías de Asturias” quality seal, Cascona Street is where you’ll find around a dozen of them – its nicknamed “Cider Boulevard” for that reason.

One of the best is Tierra Astur, a funky space with wooden seating in the shape of barrels and fresh bottles of cider submerged in cool water pools. 

One of the tastiest things to do in Oviedo is to visit the Tierra Astur Sidrería.

Thousands of green glass coder bottles hang from the interior of the Tierra Astur cider bar in Oviedo.

When at a Sidrería, you typically enjoy cheese tasting and tapas alongside small fresh pours of chilled cider. An Escanciador (cider pourer) will demonstrate the perfect Culete (small pour), which flows from a height to create bubbles for a hint of fizz, best enjoyed immediately in a single gulp. 

The unique demonstration of the perfect small pour of Asturian cider.

Visit the Wine Route – ‘Ruta de Los Vinos’

Asturias isn’t known as a prominent wine-producing region, but it does have Cangas – the only wine appellation in the area, from its terraced mountain vineyards.

Campoamor, Manuel Pedregal, Frey Ceferino, and Avenue de Santander form a block of streets known as ‘Ruta de Los Vinos’ (Route of the wines). It showcases over ten wine and tapas bars, where you can sample Asturian vino and varieties from neighbouring regions.

Trips From Oviedo

Is Oviedo your starting point? Here are some ideas on what else to see in Asturias if you have some extra days.

What is Asturias Known For?

Oviedo, Avilés and Gijón are the largest urban areas in a region blanketed by green pastures and verdant valleys and cradled by the Picos de Europa mountains and the Cantabrian sea. 

More than a third of Asturias’ landmass is declared protected areas, which is why the region labels itself a Natural Paradise. A city with access to nature, Oviedo – the most southern of the Asturian cities – is a good starting point from which to access some of the UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserves, nature reserves, national monuments, and protected landscapes. Most notably, the Picos de Europa National Park to the west that’s famed for its high peaks, glacial lakes, and accessible hiking trails. 

Mountain backed Oviedo – a city surrounded by nature.

Day Trip to Gijón for Coastal Time

Gijón is a charming city by the Cantabrian sea. Walk along Muro de San Lorenzo for sandy coastline and artistic sculptures on the western peninsula split by the Río Piles (River Piles), including the Monumento a la Madre del Emigrante.

The coastline and old town of Gijón.

The centre is in two parts. First, check out Centro – with its Modernist (Art Nouveau) style architecture when the city grew as a commercial centre in the late 19th century. Some of the best examples are along the main street of Calle Corrida, such as Jovellanos Theatre and connecting café Dindurra. The other area is Cimadevilla – the oldest area of the city – where you can wander amongst the remains of the Roman settlement of Gigia and see the ruins of the Roman Baths and step through the colourful historic neighbourhoods that have been home to fishermen, craftsmen, and the military.

Don’t miss the view from Santa Catalina Hill on the old town’s peninsula tip. Its landmark is the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture perched on the highest point. It was designed by Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida to amplify the sounds of the sea (it’s also affectionately known as King Kong’s Toilet).

Day Trip to Avilés

Complete your trip around all three Asturian cities with a trip to Avilés – a city that blends its medieval past and modern industrial heritage. Wander through the winding streets that take you past dozens of preserved medieval monuments, including churches, palaces, and merchant homes. Cross the Ría de Avilés (Aviles River) to the Modernist and futuristic structure of the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre – a juxtaposition to the old stone urban centre.

Go Hiking in the Picos de Europa National Park

There’s plenty of nature to be found in Asturian villages and small towns, but the region is also home to a vast chunk of Spain’s first national park – Picos de Europa National Park. Alfonso XII declared the then named Montaña de Covadonga a national Park in 1918.

The mountainous terrain of Picos de Europa National Park in Asturias.

If you want to visit and pick up a hiking trail, the Asturian entrance to the park is in Cangas de Onís, not far from the two glacial Lakes of Covadonga. Venture further for access to the hiking trail of the Ruta del Cares (a 12-km gorge route) and the Ruta del Alba (a 7-km trail on a former shepherd’s path that runs parallel to the Alba river).

You can also hike to the base of Picu Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes) – the highest peak in the Asturian section of the park, at 2,519 metres. The highest peak in Picos de Europa is Torre de Cerredo – but its 2,650-metre summit is technically in the neighbouring province of Castilla y León.

My deep dive into the Asturias capital was part of a trip exploring all the places to visit and things to do in Northern Spain by train, in partnership with Spanish Tourism. Thoughts, insights and opinions remain my own. 

The post Things to Do in Oviedo, Spain – The Monumental Capital of Asturias appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

Weimar, Germany, is instantly captivating. A pop-up picture book of classicism and grandeur seeping from every one of its pastel-hued buildings, quaint open squares and magnificent surrounding green parks, this 1000-year-old city certainly holds true to its significance as an artistic and cultural hotspot of the country. 

Referenced mostly in relation to its artistic residents, who have bestowed upon it an array of cultural glory, Weimar is known as the home of literary dramatists and poets Goethe and Schiller, composers such as Bach and Liszt, and the founders of the Bauhaus art and architecture movement of progressive design, Van de Velde and Gropius – names immortalised by statues, restored houses, and museums.

Goethe and Schiller Statue in Weimar centre.

Weimar Bauhaus Museum.

Weimar History – War and Politics

Such cultural acclaim was both Weimar’s downfall, as well as its saving grace after its entanglement in war and politics.

It was in Weimar that Germany’s first democratic constitution was drafted after the First World War – the period between 1918 and 1933 referred to as the Weimar Republic. A favourite of Adolf Hitler because of its large cultural heritage and atmosphere, it later became an early centre of Nazism and a place idolized in Nazi propaganda and caught up in its devastation – the Buchenwald Concentration camp being minutes away from the city.

Then came heavy damage to historical buildings during bombing raids in 1945, before becoming the capital of the Thuringia state by the East German government in 1948. Its cultural persona was lost; it became nothing more than a well-positioned East German city and the site of one of the Soviet army’s main headquarters.

Importance of Weimar Heritage

However, Weimar’s long-established heritage sealed its future rebuild and saved it from the full destruction that could have wiped its heritage off the map for good.

Not only was more money invested in the city’s upkeep during the Soviet-occupied years (it remained in better condition than most of its East German neighbours), but after German Reunification in 1990, Weimar was lucky enough to receive significant funding to restore it to its former brilliance.

Today, the preserved city has 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites relating primarily to its classical and more contemporary (Bauhaus) architecture. Luckily, only one Soviet apartment block remains. Weimar is, quite simply, a picture-perfect city. It’s best seen on a walking tour of the old town highlights with a local, who can point out the smaller details you might otherwise miss and put context to the timeline. 

The baroque Gelbes Schloss (Yellow Castle) – part of the historic castle complex in Weimar.

Weimar Stadtschloss (City Castle).

Rotes Schloss, part of the Weimar city palace.

The historic Dower Palace in Weimar city. 

Rathaus Markt (Town Hall Market) in Weimar.

Marktplatz, Weimar Market Square.

Visit the Goethe National Museum Weimar for a display of the life and work of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

University of Music Franz Liszt, Weimar.

Weimar historic centre.

Geleitschenke – Weimar’s traditional Thuringian restaurant.

The Nationaltheater Staatskapelle in Weimar, opened in 1906.

The former Gauforum in Weimar is the remaining example of National Socialist architecture.

Goethes Gartenhaus in Weimar.

Nature in Weimar in Park an der Ilm.

The ruins of the former venue space, Tempelherrenhaus in Weimar.

The vast greens pace of Park an der Ilm.

Top Tips for Visiting Weimar

Getting there: Weimar is a 15-minute bus or train journey from Erfurt, the capital of the green state of Thuringia, an easily accessible and budget day trip. A single ticket costs approximately €6. Check dates and prices with Omio. 

Getting around: Weimar’s old town is accessible on foot, though nine city bus links cover the city. 

Where to stay: If you plan to overnight, opt for a classic stay in a historic building, like the rooms in Altstadt Palais, which mix contemporary trims with antique furniture.

Places to Visit in Former East Germany

Weimar was the last stop on my ‘Fall of the Wall’ trip to former East German towns and cities, which examined modern Germany and how it’s changed since reunification. Why not combine your trip to Weimar with one of these destinations and see how the towns and cities are today?

• Trip to Potsdam – The reinvented city after Cold War closure.
• Things to Do in Erfurt – Stunning restoration after Socialist rule.
• What to Do in Leipzig – Urban reinvention in the stylish city.
• What to do in Dresden – The trendy, historical city.

The post What to See in Weimar, Germany – Complex History and Cultural Acclaim appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.

When you visit Malta, you’ll find a tiny landmass big on nature, centuries-old culture, and fascinating history. Wedged between southern Italy and the coast of North Africa, Malta is easily overlooked in favour of its popular neighbours, except you’ll find more to see, do and experience here than you first thought.

You can flit between beaches, adventure nature havens, historical landmarks, and cultural relics in a single day via a comprehensive public transport system on land and water, but where do you begin?

This Malta guide navigates you around the island, taking in the top attractions, viewpoints, walled cities, and culinary highlights across this 316-square-metre landmass, split into north and south for easy planning. 

The Best Places to Visit in Malta – 20 Island Hotspots to See

A Brief History of Malta

The Arabs once occupied Malta for over 200 years before it became a part of the Roman Empire. It was later ceded to the Knights of St John for protection, who transformed it over 268 years with baroque architecture, palaces, churches, fortifications and aqueducts.

The Knights protected the island from the Ottoman Turks before it fell briefly to French rule with the arrival of Napoleon in 1798. Malta then called upon the British for assistance, becoming a part of the British Empire. However, its strategic location and alliance meant Malta suffered heavily during World War II – making it one of Europe’s most heavily bombed areas. 

Malta gained independence in 1964 and later joined the EU in 2004.

In short, Malta once adopted a Semitic language (which is still prevalent today), has elements of Italian culture and cuisine due to its proximity to Sicily, saw the birth of Christianity with the arrival of the Romans (the island has over 360 churches), changes to legal and education systems with the arrival of the French and vast changes in the way it was administered because of the British, alongside adopting English as the second official language.

Malta’s history and occupation have resulted in a mix of cultures that coexist today. 

Visiting Malta – Itinerary and Planning

Malta today is an island for those looking for a cultural trip. One that draws you into days of exploration and in a very accessible country to travel around and take in the major highlights, as you can see from the answers to some common questions about Malta below.

At the heart of tourism in Malta is the sheer variety of things to see, places to go, historical points of interest, attractions and viewpoints. The lesser-known corners of Malta can only be reached via a willingness for explorative travel. 

Where is Malta located?

The country of Malta is an archipelago of three islands in Europe, located in the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, Italy, and north of the African countries of Libya and Tunisia. The three islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino are all open for exploration. Locals live on Malta (the biggest island) and Gozo, with Comino, with just two residents, being a nature reserve known for its bird population. 

Tal Mixta Cave on the less developed and pristine Gozo Island in Malta. 

How big is the island of Malta?

Luckily Malta’s small size of around 316 square kilometres makes it all the more accessible to explore. Such a size is perfect for long coastal walks or a leisurely road trip.

How many days do I need for Malta sightseeing?

With neighbouring Gozo and Comino islands also topping the list of places in Malta to visit, you might need more than a long weekend for your trip to Malta. It deserves a lot more of your time, although a four-day trip will enable you to cover a lot of ground.

How long does it take to get from one side of Malta to the other?

In around one hour, you can cross the island of Malta in one direction by bus or car, covering a distance of around 27km long and 14.5km wide. As there is a lack of vast open spaces, the special thing is the changes in landscapes in that short time, where you will likely move from quiet communities and little bays to beaches and bustling small cities.

Getting Around Malta

Best Transportation in the Maltese Islands?

The Malta bus network is a prime option for most visitors, and there’s a great hop-on-hop-off tourist bus system where you can reach all the island’s main points.

However, with a car, the more avid island explorers can uncover more of magnificent Malta.

Ferries and Water Taxis in Malta

There’s a ferry system in Malta that connect Silema with Valletta and Valletta with the Three Cities of Malta. It costs €1.50 for a one-way journey and €2.80 for a return.

Motorised boat, Water Taxi services are also available, costing €2 for a single crossing to up to €10 for a Grand Harbour Tour or similar. 

Ferries to Gozo island leave from the northernmost point of Malta island, in the area of Cirkewwa. 

Journey to Valletta. Taking a Water Taxi in Malta.

Malta Sightseeing Bus

Not everyone enjoys the hop-on hop-off bus services, but for some, it’s a more convenient means of getting around a destination at your own pace. Malta’s sightseeing buses are split into two routes – South Malta Route (which includes Valletta, The Three Cities,  Marsaxlokk Fishing Village, Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples and more) and the North Malta Route (including Mdina and Rabat, Mosta Church and Golden Bay, among other sites). You’ll need to start early to cover both as the buses don’t run into the evening. 

There is a similar sightseeing bus in Gozo, with 15 sightseeing stops. 

Malta Day Tours

Short on time and want to see the highlights with a local? Take a full-day tour of Malta and be guided around the must-see spots of the island, from villages and fortified cities to catacombs and clifftops. Tours run in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. 

Driving in Malta

To embark on a Malta road trip, you must be a great driver since Maltese roads can be tricky to navigate. Luckily for me, my chauffeur was a friend from the island, so I had my own local tour guide to show me around, get my bearings and understand the workings of the road (and Maltese drivers) better.

If you don’t want to drive, Bolt is the go-to ride order app on the island – I used it frequently on my recent visit. Drivers arrived quickly, and journeys were not overpriced. 

Driving in Malta.

Is Malta Safe?

It is considered safe to travel in Malta, having had no known conflict activities or history of terrorist attacks. I felt safe and at ease in the secluded and hidden parts of Malta and the more bustling areas like St. Julian’s, where the worst thing you might see is a typical drunken outburst.

Where to Stay in Malta

Malta City Living

Valletta will likely be your main base or the first area you explore on Malta Island. One of the most wonderful things about Valletta is that you can experience the one dominant noble excellence of living by staying in a ‘Palazzo’ such as the Palazzo Prince d’Orange – a beautiful 17th-century apartment hotel where I stayed that’s right near to the harbour.

READ MORE: About Palazzo in Malta for further information.

Malta Beach Side

If you want to spend some days beachside, the Mellieha Bay and Sliema resort areas are considered top choices to find a base.

In the village of Mellieha, the Pergola Hotel & Spa is good value for money, just 15 minutes walk to the beach and with views to the islands of Gozo and Comino, as well as the surrounding bay.

In Sliema, check out the D Townhouse Boutique suites – a modern furnished less than 10 minutes from the beach and ferry terminal and a popular choice that quickly sells out.

Best Places to Visit in Malta  – In the South of the Island

My road trip expedition allowed me to pull together this Malta attractions guide with 20 of the best places to visit around the island, including some of Malta’s hidden places.

The Fortified City of Valletta

Between Europe and Africa, Malta’s strategic position made it a target for invaders over the centuries, and it’s why you’ll find walled citadels on the island – Valletta being the grandest of all.

Opulent Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and missing this magnificent walled city built by the Knights of St John is impossible. A true cultural and historical hub, Malta’s capital city of Valletta is exquisite in design, and it’s no wonder it was the European Capital of Culture 2018 and remains top of all the Malta sights.

Its navigable streets are lined with markets and complemented by manicured gardens. All around you are beautiful balconies and grand noble houses. The old city retains its fort, harbour, and historical structures like churches, theatres and the Grandmaster’s Palace.

A bustling café culture, al fresco dining options and reinvented boutique bars fill the gaps in between. This guide to Valletta goes into more detail about what to see and do there.

Valletta Tours

Take a three-hour walking tour of Valletta’s highlights with a local guide, or solve riddles in your own time while learning the history of the sites you uncover on this self-guided scavenger hunt city tour of Valletta. 

This three-hour walking tour includes a guided visit to St. John’s Cathedral – one of the greatest landmarks of the city. Adventure buffs can tour Valletta’s streets by segway, stopping at some of the city’s magnificent viewpoints. 

Get to know Valletta’s history while sampling Maltese cuisine on this street food and culture walking tour. 

The old town of Valetta on the island of Malta.

The streets of Valletta during the Feast of St Joseph on March 19th.

Life in old Valletta, Malta.

The Golden, balconied streets of Valletta.

Inside the gilded, muralled St John’s Cathedral in Valletta.

The Three Cities of Malta

From Valletta, take a short and scenic ferry journey to the Three Cities of Malta – Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Malta’s fortified trio of cities south of the Grand Harbour were used as a base for the Knights of St. John (between 1530 and 1798) before Valletta was built as the main stronghold. 

Limited on time? The ‘Happy Train’ trundles around the highlights with historical commentary. It starts and ends at the Vittoriosa waterfront and costs €6. 

Vittoriosa

Vittoriosa, also known as Birgu, is the oldest of the three cities and where the Knights of St. John’s held their first commanding position. It holds historical significance as a place of refuge (alongside Mdina) during the Ottoman invasion of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. You’ll notice it from afar by the grand Fort Sant Angelo. Wander the winding streets that cradle opulent architecture like the Maritime Museum and Inquisitor’s Palace, encased by the remains of defensive walls. 

The opulent waterside of Vittoriosa.

Senglea

Senglea, also known as Isla, is located on the peninsula opposite Vittoriosa and was also built by the Knights, who named it after their Grand Master, Claude de la Sengle. See the fortifications of Senglea near the bottom of the peninsula and head to the Gardjola at the tip of the inlet to get to a gorgeous viewpoint of Valletta and the port.

View of Senglea across the Grand Harbour from Valletta.

Find the beautiful viewpoint of Valetta from Gardjola, Senglea. 

Cospicua

Cospicua, also known as Bormla, is the largest of the Three Cities of Malta but is more of a residential area pocketed with important historic buildings, including St. Helen’s Gate, the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the fortifications known as The Cottonera Lines. 

Cospicua – one of the Three Cities of Malta.

The Three Villages of Malta

Balzan, Attard, and Lija form “The Three Villages” of Malta, which sit within the centre of the island. While not overly abundant on sites, this is a quiet and picturesque area to drive through, lined with classical structures and the San Anton Palace and Gardens, which accommodates the Presidential Palace to this day.

Medieval Mdina – “The Silent City”

The oldest and first capital of Malta, Mdina’s tiny space is chock full of architectural splendour, which begins at the grandiose Mdina Gate. Its silent city namesake comes from the period of the arrival of the Knights of St John when its inhabitants deserted it for the newly instated capital of Vittoriosa.

The nickname doesn’t refer to it being quiet today. It’s crowded – not just for those coming to admire its beauty but also because it was a filming location for Game of Thrones.

You can take a horse-drawn carriage through Mdina, but it’s wholly navigable by walking. Venture into the warren of side streets filled with courtyard restaurants, shops, and museums surrounding squares filled with exquisitely detailed Palazzos and landmarks like the St. Paul’s Cathedral from 1702, or take a walking tour of Mdina and Rabat with a local guide for deeper historical context. 

Mdina is also home to the best chocolate cake on the island, which can be found at the Fontanella Tea Gardens – be sure to get a good seat to secure a sweeping view of the island.

The fortified city of Mdina, Malta.

The magnificent architecture in medieval Mdina.

Arab Rabat for the Best Pastizzi in Malta

Another architecturally rich town that was once a suburb of old Mdina is Rabat. It’s also where you can find the Catacombs of St Paul – a slightly spooky but fascinating underground explorer’s haven.

Wander the architecturally rich Rabat.

St Paul’s Church in Malta and the entrance to the Catacombs.

The narrow stone underground tunnels of the Catacombs of St Paul in Malta.

Rabat is also home to the best pastizzi in Malta. Pastizzi are delicious cheese and pea-filled pastries and cost as little as 50 cents apiece. Look out for ‘Crystal Palace’ next to the car park between Mdina and Rabat, just across from the Roman Villa – it used to be a local secret, but not anymore. 

Where can you find the best pastizzi in Malta? Right here.

When in Malta, try the local delicacy, Pastizzi – flaky cheese and pea-filled pastries.

The Brewhouse – The Farson’s Brewery Experience

Malta’s latest experience is The Brewhouse. The former Farson’s landmark brewery site has been recently transformed into a cultural space and state-of-the-art museum detailing the history of Malta’s Cisk (pronounced ‘chisk’) beer brand and the island’s industrial heritage. End your exhibition immersion on the rooftop – it’s home to Malta’s very first Cisk-themed bar, where you can order a fresh pint on tap and enjoy it with a panoramic backdrop of the island. A multi-venue space, there’s also a bistro and gastropub onsite.

The Brewhouse – historic industrial landmark turned brewery museum experience.

Dingli Cliffs Hiking Hotspot

One of the best viewpoints on Malta is from the Dingli Cliffs. The best way to experience the panorama is on wheels, so hire a Segway and roll along the stunning coastline. This is also a top hiking spot for the ramblers on the island.

The winding, rocky Dingli Cliffs of Malta are perfect for hiking.

A segway trip in Malta is one way to cover some sightseeing grounds.

Girgenti Olive Groves and Vineyards

Between the coastline and the city of Siggiewi is an unspoiled patch of countryside called Girgenti, where palatial limestone structures and streets are swapped for farmhouses and valley-like roads. Its landmark is the historical Girgenti Palace, built in 1625 as the summer residence of the Catholic Malta Inquisitors and, later, the British Lieutenant Governors.

A blanket of soft rolling wild green resembling Gozo’s landscape, visit the olive groves, where you book an experience with Karlito’s Way to taste the local olive oil batch and learn how to make a Maltese Ftira – a sourdough bread layered with tasty toppings and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Just don’t call it pizza! Combine your time here with a wine tasting at nearby Ta’ Betta Wine Estates – a four-hectare vineyard specialising in fine wines.

Making Maltese Ftira in the Girgenti Olive Groves.

Ta’ Betta Wine Estates in Girganti, Malta.

Ghar Lapsi for Maltese Nature

You’ll soon find the spot on your journey along the Dingli Cliffs where you can capture the view of Filfa Island in the distance, tour the temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, take a boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, or, if you are lucky, find the local hideaway and hidden beauty of Ghar Lapsi.

Quiet, hidden coves in Ghar Lapsi.

Ghar Lapsi is full of stunning, secluded bays.

Zebbug Local Maltese Village

If you are keen to see Malta’s local life at its best, Zebbug is a good insight into a secluded area of Malta that visitors never frequent.  For a real village atmosphere, visit the town in the first week of June when the feast dedicated to St. Philip is underway and traditional music, food and fireworks are in full swing.

Maltese village vibes.

Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

This pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk is great just to come and look at the traditional boats that fill the water. And the coffee is VERY cheap. Overall, a peaceful hangout with a colourful view of the island’s south.

The picture-perfect fishing village of Marsaxlokk, Malta.

Sliema, But Only for the View

I wasn’t a fan of Sliema – Malta’s modern island addition that somewhat ruins its classic skyline. However, staying away completely means missing out on Tignepoint – a breathtaking view of Valletta which glistens at sunset.

Sliema also has a convenient ferry port for full-day sailing trips to Camino Island and the Blue Lagoon.

 A view of the golden structures, spires and domes of Valletta, Malta, from Silema. 

Mosta Dome – The Beloved Landmark

Mosta Dome is the fourth-largest unsupported dome in the World, known for surviving an air raid in 1942 where two bombs bounced off the dome, and another went through, hit the statue of Jesus, landed amongst the congregation and did not explode. A local miracle and a much-loved landmark.

Mosta Dome in Malta has an interesting history.

What to See in Malta – On the North of the Island

Thought southern Mata was packing with sights? It’s time to head to the North to see even more. 

Paceville

Pumping Paceville, with its bars, nightclubs and restaurants, marks the St Julian’s Bay area as the place to be when your day of sightseeing ends. It’s young, fun, and verging on the side of tacky (in parts), but consider a pub crawl and join a group to visit a few bars and nightclubs. 

Those who spend their holidays in St Julian’s Bay may not necessarily be here for the Malta culture. Still, you too might have to admit liking it just a little, especially if you score a restaurant balcony with a harbour view.

Bugibba and Qawra Village

Once farmer towns and fisherman’s villages, Bugibba and Qawra are now busy tourist hotspots on the island. However, the promenade offers a lovely walk during the summer evenings, where you can capture some beautiful shots of the surrounding vista.

Mistra Bay

You need to detour off the main road to reach Mistra bay; once you pass Xemxija and enter the valley, be sure to follow the small signs signalling the winding roads to Mistra Bay, where you will gain access to what is more of a local hangout.

For the more adventurous out there, following the coastline northbound by foot allows you to peer into a once-fortified turret, capture close-up shots of St. Paul’s Island and follow one of the many hiking trails in the area.

Sailing on the shores of Malta.

Gnejna Bay Local Beach

Gnejna Bay is small, cosy and out of the way, although when I arrived here, it was very windy, and the waves were choppy. However, catch this area on a good day, and you’ll soon see it’s a secluded spot to escape the crowds and hang out with the locals.

Joe, the resident car park attendant, has been working at the beach for roughly 20 years and is a great source of insider information about the area.

Gnejna Bay – one of Malta’s best local beaches.

Ghajn Tuffieha Natural Beauty – Riviera Bay

Also known as Riviera Bay, the sandy cove at Ghajn Tuffieha will lure you in as soon as you see it from up high. Don’t be put off by the many steps leading down to its sandy shores because this area is just too gorgeous to miss and has one of the best beaches in Malta. Singita Miracle Beach bar offers music and cultural arts entertainment here. 

Climb down into the sandy shores of Ghajn Tuffieha beach.

Golden Bay Viewpoint

Head to one of the viewpoint restaurants and enjoy the view. It’s that simple in Malta. Golden Bay attracts the younger crowd during the summer months, and it tends to be the busiest of the four mentioned beaches.

Mellieha Bay Beach Time

Add Mellieha Bay to your list if you are not bored with beaches and bays.  Perfect to try out water sports and work on the tan, there are half a dozen amazing ice cream vendors here too.

The long coastline and yellow sand beach of Mellieha Bay, Malta.

The Red Tower Area Secluded Viewpoint

Looking over the entire north end of Malta, the Red Tower provides 360 views across both land and sea. Set up as part of the defence strategy of the islands, it is open on certain days of the year (check the Heritage Malta website regularly), and access to the Red Tower is as simple as the rest of Malta – once you see it, you can drive straight to it.

Check out the clifftop panorama views from Malta’s Red Tower.

A Little Chapel With a Difference

Find the Little Chapel of Malta in L-Ahrax.

Situated on the opposite side of the Red Tower, this area known as L-Ahrax is commonly used for cliff camping since the area provides a stunning view over Mellieha Bay to one side and Comino on the other. Following the road to the tip, you’ll come across a little chapel – this mix of culture and scenic beauty gives Malta its unique persona.

Is Malta Worth Visiting?

Before my Malta trip was planned, I didn’t know much about it beyond the British connections. I soon saw that Malta travel is more than its main draw, Valletta (which is incredible), but about a small island of sizable variety – in landscape, architecture, history, culture, and cuisine.

One end of the island differs from the next, and you can switch from a walled city to a tiny village and from a bustling beach to a secluded cove within minutes. It doesn’t get more diverse than that, and that’s not even considering Malta’s sister islands of Gozo and Comino.

I may have been invited by Malta Tourism and the main Maltese airline, Air Malta, but all opinions remain my own. I spent extra time living with a local friend and exploring the island in order to gather further information for this article. 

The post The Best Places to Visit in Malta – Island Hotspots to See appeared first on Borders Of Adventure.