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🇷🇺🇲🇳🇨🇳 TRANS-MONGOLIAN

This is one of those journeys-of-a-lifetime, where you get to experience the fascinating history of Moscow, the vast expanses of Siberia, the beauty of Lake Baikal, the Mongolian wilderness and the wonders of Beijing. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Trans-Mongolian itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	To Moscow (✈ Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Four Seasons Moscow (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around Red Square and down Ilinka and the Kitai Gorod lanes where you’ll see ancient churches. Continue on to Lubyanka Square, where you’ll see the KGB base, and down to the Russian parliament			I recommend the agency Svezhy Veter for booking your Trans-Mongolian itinerary train tickets – they can help with visas too
2	Start with a visit to Lenin’s tomb then stroll along Tverskaya to Pushkin Square. Admire the Tsarist-era interiors of Yeliseyevsky Supermarket and the upscale GUM. Experience the regal metro and take the red line to Sportivnaya where you’ll find the Novodevichy Monastery and be able to see the resting places of famous Russians in the cemetery. Go back two stops on the red line to Park Kultury and pay a visit to Gorky Park			Try to get familiar with the Cyrillic alphabet before you visit Russia – it may not be as hard as you think and can help when reading street signs
3-4	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg (Info & Book >)	Dep: 23:55 (Wed)		🏨Train
	On your last day in Moscow visit the Tretyakov galleries and the magnificent Kremlin. Day 4 is your first full day on the train, which you can spend gazing out at the vast landscapes of Russia			Make it clear to your agency that you want a private 1st class cabin
5	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg		Arr: 03:44 (Fri)	🏨Hyatt Regency Ekaterinburg (Book >)	All hotels >
	A horrible time to arrive, and so I recommend getting two nights in your hotel. When you’re ready to emerge from your room it’s a 30-min walk in one direction to Ganina Yama and a 25-min walk in the other direction to the Church On The Blood			Try to learn a few common Russian phrases
6-8	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk	Dep: 12:15 (Sat)		🏨Train
	Onwards along the edge of Siberia. Relax, read a book and watch as you glide by endless silver birch forests and rustic rural villages. You’ll pass through Omsk at 02:31, Novosibirsk at 12:53 (worth getting off the train for a few minutes, but don’t linger long (take your passport in case the train leaves without you!) and Krasnoyarsk at 02:06			The train runs on Moscow time, which can get a little disorienting the further east you go
9	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk		Arr: 21:15 (Tue)	🏨Hotel Sayen (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another day to enjoy the serene life aboard the Trans-Mongolian			The Trans-Siberian Handbook offers a great guide to the kilometre posts you see alongside the track
10-11	Set off on a two-day tour to Olkhon Island on Lake Baikal. It takes about 5 hours to get there but the journey is truly worth it			Bring clothes for all climates – it can be hot during the day and very cold at night
12	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator	Dep: 08:08 (Fri)		🏨Train
	Back on the train and more time to gaze at the endless vistas. The tracks go along the edge of Lake Baikal, a real highlight of this trip			There are hot water samovars in each carriage, very handy if you bring tea or coffee
13	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator		Arr: 06:50 (Sat)	🏨Accom. not included, contact tour company
	Begin your 8-day tour of Mongolia (Book here >). Your guide will collect you from the train station and take you to the stunning natural scenery of Terelj National Park. Horse riding tours and tours to other parts of Mongolia are also available.			Many roads in Mongolia are gravel and very bumpy. This can get uncomfortable so remember to bring travel sickness pills
14-20	Over the next several days you will visit a mini-Gobi desert, 8 Lakes base camp, an overnight horse riding trip by Shireet Lake and the Buureg Valley (staying in a nomadic family’s ger), see the Tsutgalan volcanic waterfall in the Orkhon Valley, relax in Tsenher hot spring and visit fascinating Kharkorin. You’ll return to Ulan Bator at around 16:00 on day 20 (I recommend the Kempinski Khan Palace for the night of day 20)			Being vegan, or even vegetarian, isn’t easy in Mongolia – read this blog for tips
21	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing	Dep: 06:50 (Sun)		🏨Train
	The final leg of this Trans-Mongolian itinerary. From the window you’ll see the edge of the Gobi desert and, when you cross the border to China, you can watch as the wheels are changed for the different gauge of tracks			Don’t miss the opportunity of going to the very back of the train (to the ‘caboose’) and watching the rails unravelling beneath you
22	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing		Arr: 14:35 (Mon)	🏨Four Seasons (Book >)	All hotels >
	After the serenity of the train, the busyness of Beijing may come as a shock. There’s a lot to see here so you may want to extend your trip by a day or two			Beijing can’t easily be seen on foot – buy a smart card (aka Yikatong card) for the metro
23	Beijing to Home (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	Connect this Trans-Mongolian itinerary with the China or Japan itinerary.
	A little more time this morning to see the sights of Beijing before transferring to the airport
Mid-range
1	To Moscow (✈ Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨PR Myasnitsky BoutiqueHotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around Red Square and down Ilinka and the Kitai Gorod lanes where you’ll see ancient churches. Continue on to Lubyanka Square, where you’ll see the KGB base, and down to the Russian parliament			I recommend the agency Svezhy Veter for booking your Trans-Mongolian itinerary train tickets – they can help with visas too
2	Start with a visit to Lenin’s tomb then stroll along Tverskaya to Pushkin Square. Admire the Tsarist-era interiors of Yeliseyevsky Supermarket and the upscale GUM. Experience the regal metro and take the red line to Sportivnaya where you’ll find the Novodevichy Monastery and be able to see the resting places of famous Russians in the cemetery. Go back two stops on the red line to Park Kultury and pay a visit to Gorky Park			Try to get familiar with the Cyrillic alphabet before you visit Russia – it may not be as hard as you think and can help when reading street signs
3-4	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg (Info & Book >)	Dep: 23:55 (Wed)		🏨Train
	On your last day in Moscow visit the Tretyakov galleries and the magnificent Kremlin. Day 4 is your first full day on the train, which you can spend gazing out at the vast landscapes of Russia			I recommend asking for a private 1st class cabin for the longer stretches on the train – you’ll really appreciate having your own space
5	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg		Arr: 03:44 (Fri)	🏨Renomme Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A horrible time to arrive, and so I recommend getting two nights in your hotel. When you’re ready to emerge from your room it’s a 30-min walk in one direction to Ganina Yama and a 25-min walk in the other direction to the Church On The Blood			Try to learn a few common Russian phrases
6-8	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk	Dep: 12:15 (Sat)		🏨Train
	Onwards along the edge of Siberia. Relax, read a book and watch as you glide by endless silver birch forests and rustic rural villages. You’ll pass through Omsk at 02:31, Novosibirsk at 12:53 (worth getting off the train for a few minutes, but don’t linger long (take your passport in case the train leaves without you!) and Krasnoyarsk at 02:06			The train runs on Moscow time, which can get a little disorienting the further east you go
9	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk		Arr: 21:15 (Tue)	🏨Hotel Sayen (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another day to enjoy the serene life aboard the Trans-Mongolian			The Trans-Siberian Handbook offers a great guide to the kilometre posts you see alongside the track
10-11	Set off on a two-day tour to Olkhon Island on Lake Baikal. It takes about 5 hours to get there but the journey is truly worth it			Bring clothes for all climates – it can be hot during the day and very cold at night
12	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator	Dep: 08:08 (Fri)		🏨Train
	Back on the train and more time to gaze at the endless vistas. The tracks go along the edge of Lake Baikal, a real highlight of this trip			There are hot water samovars in each carriage, very handy if you bring tea or coffee
13	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator		Arr: 06:50 (Sat)	🏨Accom. not included, contact tour company
	Begin your 8-day tour of Mongolia (Book here >). Your guide will collect you from the train station and take you to the stunning natural scenery of Terelj National Park. Horse riding tours and tours to other parts of Mongolia are also available.			Many roads in Mongolia are gravel and very bumpy. This can get uncomfortable so remember to bring travel sickness pills
14-20	Over the next several days you will visit a mini-Gobi desert, 8 Lakes base camp, an overnight horse riding trip by Shireet Lake and the Buureg Valley (staying in a nomadic family’s ger), see the Tsutgalan volcanic waterfall in the Orkhon Valley, relax in Tsenher hot spring and visit fascinating Kharkorin. You’ll return to Ulan Bator at around 16:00 on day 20 (I recommend the Kempinski Khan Palace for the night of day 20)			Being vegan, or even vegetarian, isn’t easy in Mongolia – read this blog for tips
21	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing	Dep: 06:50 (Sun)		🏨Train
	The final leg of this Trans-Mongolian itinerary. From the window you’ll see the edge of the Gobi desert and, when you cross the border to China, you can watch as the wheels are changed for the different gauge of tracks			Don’t miss the opportunity of going to the very back of the train (to the ‘caboose’) and watching the rails unravelling beneath you
22	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing		Arr: 14:35 (Mon)	🏨Hunan Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	After the serenity of the train, the busyness of Beijing may come as a shock. There’s a lot to see here so you may want to extend your trip by a day or two			Beijing can’t easily be seen on foot – buy a smart card (aka Yikatong card) for the metro
23-24	Beijing to Home (✈ Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Trans-Mongolian itinerary with the China or Japan itinerary.
	A little more time this morning to see the sights of Beijing before transferring to the airport
Budget
1	To Moscow (✈ Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨ART Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wander around Red Square and down Ilinka and the Kitai Gorod lanes where you’ll see ancient churches. Continue on to Lubyanka Square, where you’ll see the KGB base, and down to the Russian parliament			I recommend the agency Svezhy Veter for booking your Trans-Mongolian itinerary train tickets – they can help with visas too
2	Start with a visit to Lenin’s tomb then stroll along Tverskaya to Pushkin Square. Admire the Tsarist-era interiors of Yeliseyevsky Supermarket and the upscale GUM. Experience the regal metro and take the red line to Sportivnaya where you’ll find the Novodevichy Monastery and be able to see the resting places of famous Russians in the cemetery. Go back two stops on the red line to Park Kultury and pay a visit to Gorky Park			Try to get familiar with the Cyrillic alphabet before you visit Russia – it may not be as hard as you think and can help when reading street signs
3-4	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg (Info & Book >)	Dep: 23:55 (Wed)		🏨Train
	On your last day in Moscow visit the Tretyakov galleries and the magnificent Kremlin. Day 4 is your first full day on the train, which you can spend gazing out at the vast landscapes of Russia			When booking train tickets ask for 4-berth cabins
5	🚄Moscow to Yekaterinburg		Arr: 03:44 (Fri)	🏨RedLine hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	A horrible time to arrive, and so I recommend getting two nights in your hotel. When you’re ready to emerge from your room it’s a 30-min walk in one direction to Ganina Yama and a 25-min walk in the other direction to the Church On The Blood			Try to learn a few common Russian phrases
6-8	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk	Dep: 12:15 (Sat)		🏨Train
	Onwards along the edge of Siberia. Relax, read a book and watch as you glide by endless silver birch forests and rustic rural villages. You’ll pass through Omsk at 02:31, Novosibirsk at 12:53 (worth getting off the train for a few minutes, but don’t linger long (take your passport in case the train leaves without you!) and Krasnoyarsk at 02:06			The train runs on Moscow time, which can get a little disorienting the further east you go
9	🚄Yekaterinburg to Irkutsk		Arr: 21:15 (Tue)	🏨Rolling Stones Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Another day to enjoy the serene life aboard the Trans-Mongolian			The Trans-Siberian Handbook offers a great guide to the kilometre posts you see alongside the track
10	🚐Irkutsk to Olkhon Island (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 14:45	🏨Sunny Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a transfer to Olkhon Island – the perfect place to enjoy stupendous views of Lake Baikal. This afternoon pay a visit to the Khuzhir Museum (usually free)			There are no ATMs on the island, so take out cash in Irkutsk before you depart
11	Contact your hostel for help with arranging tours on the island, but don’t miss out on experiencing the Buryat culture, including the Shaman Rocks			Bring clothes for all climates – it can be hot during the day and very cold at night
12	🚐Olkhon Island to Irkutsk	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Rolling Stones Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Back to Irkutsk where you should have time to squeeze in a visit to the Prince Vladimir Temple			You’ll need tram stop Detskaya St (ул. Детская) for the temple
13	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator	Dep: 08:08 (Sat)		🏨Train
	Back on the train and more time to gaze at the endless vistas. The tracks go along the edge of Lake Baikal, a real highlight of this trip			There are hot water samovars in each carriage, very handy if you bring tea or coffee
14	🚄Irkutsk to Ulan Bator		Arr: 06:50 (Sun)	🏨Accom. included in tour
	Begin your 7-day tour of Mongolia (Book here >). Your guide will collect you from the train station and take you to Genghis Khan’s ancient capital Kharkorin.			Many roads in Mongolia are gravel and very bumpy. This can get uncomfortable so remember to bring travel sickness pills
15-20	Over the next several days you will visit the Tsenkher hot springs, Tuvkhun monastery, Orkhon Waterfall, Naiman Nuur lakes, Shireet Lake and the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes, occasionally staying in traditional gers. You’ll return to Ulan Bator at around 16:00 on day 20 (I recommend the Khuvsgul Lake Hostel for the night of day 20)			Being vegan, or even vegetarian, isn’t easy in Mongolia – read this blog for tips
21	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing	Dep: 06:50 (Sun)		🏨Train
	The final leg of this Trans-Mongolian itinerary. From the window you’ll see the edge of the Gobi desert and, when you cross the border to China, you can watch as the wheels are changed for the different gauge of tracks			Don’t miss the opportunity of going to the very back of the train (to the ‘caboose’) and watching the rails unravelling beneath you
22	🚄Ulan Bator to Beijing		Arr: 14:35 (Mon)	🏨Kellys Courtyard (Book >)	All hostels >
	After the serenity of the train, the busyness of Beijing may come as a shock. There’s a lot to see here so you may want to extend your trip by a day or two			Beijing can’t easily be seen on foot – buy a smart card (aka Yikatong card) for the metro
23	Beijing to Home (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	Connect this Trans-Mongolian itinerary with the China or Japan itinerary.
	A little more time this morning to see the sights of Beijing before transferring to the airport

🇳🇮🇭🇳 NICARAGUA & HONDURAS

Perfect beaches, awesome volcanoes, grand colonial-era cities and fascinating Mayan ruins. Travel in Nicaragua & Honduras may be an adventure, but it is absolutely worth the journey. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨Morgan’s Rock Hacienda (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚕San Juan del Sur to San Jorge taxi ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 09:30	Arr: 09:15 Arr: 10:50	🏨Totoco Eco-Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to San Jose del Sur. Once on Ometepe Island take a taxi to the hotel. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚐San Jorge to Granada minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 08:50 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real La Merced (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The roads in Nicaragua can get a bit bumpy, so keep those motion sickness tablets handy
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada to Leon minibus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Hotel El Convento (Book >)	All hotels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes			Although it looks tempting, street food here should be avoided unless you have a particularly strong stomach
8	🚐Leon to Managua minibus (Book >) ✈Managua to San Pedro Sula flight (Book >) 🚕San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas taxi	Dep: 08:30 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 14:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Marina Copán (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a long day of travel to Honduras, relax in your hotel and soak up the splendid town of Copan Ruinas			Take a look at the Mid-range itinerary for alternative routes to Honduras
9	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. Don’t miss the Sepulturas complex, outside of the main ruins site. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
10	🚕Copan Ruinas to San Pedro Sula taxi ✈San Pedro Sula to Roatan flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon Arr: Afternoon	🏨Xbalanque (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into the exquisite Bay of Islands in time for sunset			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
11-12	Relax on your hotel’s private beach, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do so
13-14	✈Roatan to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨Revata (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚌San Juan del Sur to Rivas bus 🚕Rivas to San Jorge taxi ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 09:00 Dep: 09:30	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 09:15 Arr: 10:50	🏨Totoco Eco-Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to San Jose del Sur. Once on Ometepe Island take a taxi to the hotel. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day			Buses frequently depart San Juan del Sur – ask for Rivas terminal and, when you arrive, don’t accept the first taxi fare you’re offered
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚐San Jorge to Granada minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 08:50 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real La Merced (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada to Leon minibus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Posada Fuente Castalia (Book >)	All hotels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes			Because hotels here are good value it’s worth getting a room to leave your bags in and rest before being picked up at 2AM by your minibus
8	🚐Leon to La Ceiba minibus (Book >) ⛴️La Ceiba to Roatan ferry (Info >)	Dep: 02:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 16:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨Splash Inn Dive Resort & Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	After such a long journey to Honduras you have earned a few days of relaxation in the beautiful Bay of Islands			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
9-10	Relax on the beach of Half Moon Bay, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do
11	✈Roatan to San Pedro Sula flight (Book >) 🚌San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas bus (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 10:45	Arr: Morning Arr: 14:00	🏨La Escalinata (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the town of Copan Ruinas, or pay a visit to the Sepulturas complex			I strongly advise buying bus tickets in advance, where possible
12	🚌Copan Ruinas to Guatemala City bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 20:30	🏨Barceló Guatemala City (Book >)	All hotels >
	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
13-14	✈Guatemala City to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Visit Parque Central and Palacio Nacional in the morning before the flight home
Budget
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨The Beach House (Book >)	All hostels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚌San Juan del Sur to Rivas bus (Info >) 🚌Rivas to San Jorge bus ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 09:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 09:45 Arr: 11:30	🏨Hospedaje Soma (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to Moyagalpa. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day – island bus times here			Buses frequently depart San Juan del Sur – ask for Rivas terminal and, when you arrive, the bus to the port departs every 30 mins from the parallel road to the north
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚌San Jorge to Rivas bus 🚌Rivas to Granada bus (Info >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 10:15 Dep: 11:15	Arr: 10:00 Arr: 10:30 Arr: 13:15	🏨De Boca en Boca (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada Calle Vega to Managua UCA microbus 🚐Managua UCA to Leon microbus (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: 12:00	Arr: 11:30 Arr: 14:00	🏨Poco a Poco Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes. Spend the evening resting before being picked up at 2AM by your minibus			Microbuses only depart when full and so there aren’t any timetables, but they do depart frequently throughout the day
8	🚐Leon to La Ceiba minibus (Book >) ⛴️La Ceiba to Roatan ferry (Info >)	Dep: 02:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 16:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨West End Dive Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	After such a long journey to Honduras you have earned a few days of relaxation in the beautiful Bay of Islands			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
9-10	Relax on the beach of Half Moon Bay, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do
11	⛴️Roatan to La Ceiba ferry (Info >) 🚌La Ceiba to San Pedro Sula bus (Book >) 🚌San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas bus (Info >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:30 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 08:15 Arr: 13:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨Iguana Azul (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy an evening in the pretty town of Copan Ruinas			I strongly advise buying bus tickets in advance, where possible
12	🚌Copan Ruinas to Guatemala City bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 20:30	🏨Central 10 Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. If you have time visit the Sepulturas complex, outside of the main ruins site. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
13-14	✈Guatemala City to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Visit Parque Central and Palacio Nacional in the morning before the flight home

🇮🇪🇬🇧 IRELAND

Magnificent countryside, dramatic scenery, countless historic sights and lively cities reward every visitor to the island of Ireland (or Éire in Irish) This itinerary takes in the best bits of the country of Ireland, as well as Northern Ireland. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Ireland itinerary:

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Luxury
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨The Merrion Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2-3	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
4	🚗Dublin to Killarney (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨The Killarney Park (Book >)	All hotels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You should also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Country roads in Ireland can be narrow – I recommend hiring a smaller car.
5	Spend a day in Killarney National Park and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
6	🚗Killarney to Portmagee 🚗Portmagee to Dingle	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 15:00	🏨Dingle Benners Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	On your way to Dingle stop off at Portmagee and take a ferry tour to Skellig Michael. Start your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive across Conor Pass			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
7	🚗Dingle to Doolin	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:15	🏨Hotel Doolin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Continue your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive to picturesque Annascaul, dramatic Slea Head, the panoramic views from Mount Brandon and the villages of The Gaeltacht – you may need more time. You’ll find plenty of lively pubs in Doolin, famous for its music scene.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
8	🚗Doolin to Galway	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:30	🏨Glenlo Abbey Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today. Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
9	🚗Galway to Belfast	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨The Merchant Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Galway before driving to Belfast, where you can enjoy sights such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland.
10	Take the car north to Dunluce Castle. Next to this is the geologically impressive Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.			The coast around Giant’s Causeway is great for hiking, if you have time in your Ireland itinerary.
11	🚗Belfast to Dublin	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨The Merrion Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	You can either return home from Belfast, or drive back to Dublin via the prehistoric monument of Newgrange.			Be aware that road signs switch from MPH to KPH, travelling from N Ireland to Ireland.
12	Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your car rental location accordingly.
Mid-range
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨Clayton Charlemont (Book >)	All hotels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2-3	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
4	🚗Dublin to Killarney (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You should also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Country roads in Ireland can be narrow – I recommend hiring a smaller car.
5	Spend a day in Killarney National Park and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
6	🚗Killarney to Portmagee 🚗Portmagee to Dingle	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 15:00	🏨Dingle Benners Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	On your way to Dingle stop off at Portmagee and take a ferry tour to Skellig Michael. Start your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive across Conor Pass			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
7	🚗Dingle to Doolin	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:15	🏨Hotel Doolin (Book >)	All hotels >
	Continue your visit to the Dingle Peninsula with a drive to picturesque Annascaul, dramatic Slea Head, the panoramic views from Mount Brandon and the villages of The Gaeltacht – you may need more time. You’ll find plenty of lively pubs in Doolin, famous for its music scene.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
8	🚗Doolin to Galway	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:30	🏨The Twelve Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today. Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
9	🚗Galway to Belfast	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Hampton by Hilton (Book >)	All hotels >
	A little more time to enjoy Galway before driving to Belfast, where you can enjoy sights such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland
10	Take the car north to Dunluce Castle. Next to this is the geologically impressive Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.			The coast around Giant’s Causeway is great for hiking, if you have time in your Ireland itinerary.
11	🚗Belfast to Dublin	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Clayton Charlemont (Book >)	All hotels >
	You can either return home from Belfast, or drive back to Dublin via the prehistoric monument of Newgrange.			Be aware that road signs switch from MPH to KPH, travelling from N Ireland to Ireland.
12	Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your car rental location accordingly.
Budget
1	To Dublin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning Morning	Arr: Morning Afternoon	🏨Jacobs Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	When you arrive you should have time to pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.			If you’re planning to visit several sights then invest in a Dublin Pass.
2	Fans of Guinness will no doubt already know of the Guinness Storehouse, but any visitor will enjoy looking around this impressive brewery. More of a whiskey connoisseur? Then the Old Jameson Distillery is for you. Non-alcohol sights include O’Connell street, Ha’penny Bridge, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College Library and the Flea Market. In the evenings the pubs of Temple Bar is where to be.			Get a Leap Card, which will save you money on public transport in several Irish cities including Dublin.
3	🚌Dublin to Cashel 🚌Cashel to Cork 🚌Cork (South Terrace) to Blarney 🚌Blarney to Cork (City Hall) 🚌Cork to Killarney (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 12:05 Dep: 13:55 Dep: 16:28 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 10:25 Arr: 13:45 Arr: 14:30 Arr: 17:12 Arr: 19:05	🏨Black Sheep Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Driving to Killarney you’ll join the Ring of Kerry drive and enjoy stunning countryside scenery. On the way to Killarney you’ll pass the Rock of Cashel – worth a stop for this historic site. You can also divert to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone.			Missed a bus? They are pretty frequent, so don’t worry.
4	Spend a day in Killarney National Park on a tour or by hiring a bike and be sure to visit Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. The town of Killarney is itself bursting with charm.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
5	🚄Killarney to Tralee (Book >) 🚌Tralee to Dingle (Book >)	Dep: 10:20 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 10:58 Arr: 12:02	🏨Hideout Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive in Dingle head straight out on a hike to Annascaul, taking the bus back.			Come prepared for rain. Lots and lots of rain.
6	🚌Dingle to Tralee (Book >) 🚌Tralee to Limerick (Book >) 🚌Limerick to Ennis (Book >) 🚌Ennis to Doolin (Book >)	Dep: 09:30 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 13:25 Dep: 14:30	Arr: 10:33 Arr: 13:05 Arr: 14:25 Arr: 15:35	🏨Aille River Holiday Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You may want extra time to explore the Dingle Peninsula, but if not then head on to Doolin – famous for its music scene – where you’ll find plenty of lively pubs.			You’re likely to hear a lot of Irish spoken in the Gaeltacht areas – learn a few words and make a good impression.
7	🚌Doolin to Galway (Book >)	Dep: 13:33	Arr: 15:30	🏨Galway City Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Doolin is the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend the first part of today (check bus times here). Unesco-listed Galway offers medieval walls, the fascinating Galway City Museum, cosy pubs, cute streets and the seaside Salthill Promenade.			Seeing the Cliffs of Moher on a boat tour is highly recommended.
8	🚌Galway to Dublin (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 12:40	🏨Jacobs Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	You probably didn’t get to see all of Dublin’s sights on day 2 of this Ireland itinerary, so here’s your chance to make up for what you missed.			Remember to bring both GBP for Northern Ireland and Euros for Ireland.
9	🚌Dublin to Belfast (Book >)	Dep: 08:15	Arr: 10:35	🏨Botanical Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive into Belfast visit sights Belfast such as Titanic Belfast and Crumlin Road Gaol.			Save money by taking a free walking tour (but don’t forget to tip).
10	Take the 09:30 tour to the Giant’s Causeway, on which you’ll also visit Carrickfergus Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Dark Hedges.			A Heritage Card can save you money if you plan to visit several Irish heritage sites.
11	🚌Belfast to Dublin (Book >) Dublin to Home (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: 09:45 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:40 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Ireland itinerary with the Bruges & Ghent or France itinerary.
	The ferry port and airport are far apart – choose your bus route accordingly.

🇮🇳 SOUTHERN INDIA

From the sublime backwaters of Kerala, to wildlife wonderlands, to ancient cities and perfect beaches – this two-week journey will give you memories to last a lifetime. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Southern India itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚕Kochi to Alleppey taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Book a taxi through your hotel and join your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle some insect repellant with you.
4	🚕Alleppey to Mettupalayam drive (Book >)	Dep: 12:30	Arr: 19:00	🏨Kurumba Village Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before meeting your driver and heading to the foothills of Nilgiri hills.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 07:10	Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚕Ooty to Nagarhole National Park drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive through more plantations and spectacular views – asking your driver to stop whenever you wish – on your way to Nagarhole National Park. Settle in to your hotel then join the 15:30 jeep safari into the park.			Visit TripSavvy for a guide on how much to tip your driver.
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 road and river safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚕Nagarhole National Park to Mysore taxi	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Radisson Blu Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your hotel can help arrange your taxi to Mysore. Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction here. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel Taj Exotica Goa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant with you.
4	🚌Alleppey to Coimbatore bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 21:00	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before heading to bustling Coimbatore.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨Dhole’s Den Bandipur (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Lok Sagar Mysore Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Capital O 41723 Shree International(Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨FabExpress Vagator Cottage (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Budget
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Bastian Homestay (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for an 11:30 departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Don’t forget to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant.
4	🚄Alleppey to Coimbatore train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 15:27	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide to the end of your houseboat journey then board the train to Coimbatore. Your hotel is near the Karpagam Cinema – going to see a Bollywood film can be great fun.			This train only departs on Fridays. See here for other train times.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Prabhu’s Place (Book >)	All hostels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			If you use IRCTC links featured in this Southern India itinerary you’ll need to register before buying a ticket on their site. I highly recommend buying train tickets in advance.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨The hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Mansion (Book >)	All hostels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Apartment (Book >)	All hostels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >) 🚌Madgaon to Panjim bus	Dep: 06:20 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 17:00	🏨The White Balcao (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend a night amidst the wonderful old buildings of Panjim, including Singbal’s Book House.			When you arrive in Madgaon take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the KTC Bus terminus from where there are frequent services to Panjim.
12	🚕Panjim to Arpora	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:00	🏨Woke Morjim (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
13-14	Enjoy a couple of days unwinding on the beach before heading home.			Be very wary of strong rip currents when in the sea
15-16	🚕Arpora to airport ✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 1hr later Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.

🇬🇷 GREECE

There’s so much ancient history here that there’s a risk you’ll get blasé about seeing another 3,000 year-old pot. But then you realise walk through an old agora, or stand before a famous acropolis, or follow in the footsteps of knights and you appreciate Greece all over again. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Greece itinerary:

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Luxury
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Excelsior(Book >)	All hotels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Theatro Hotel Odysseon (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Nidimos Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel Grande Bretagne (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book a Lux cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨In camera Art Boutique Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Iapetos Village (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚕Port to hotel	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Aenaon Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			Don’t ride the donkeys in Santorini as they are often mistreated.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Myconian Kyma Design Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Bristol Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Dellas Boutique Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Nidimos Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Rastoni Athens Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book an AA2, AS2 or AB2 cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨Petrino (Book >)	All hotels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Captain’s Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚕Port to hotel	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Horizon Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			Don’t ride the donkeys in Santorini as they are often mistreated.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Mouselis Studios (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Crossroads (Book >)	All hostels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Meteora Central Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Sibylla Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨City Circus Athens (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book a DOR (dormitory) cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨Stay Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Captain’s Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚌Port to Fira (Info >)	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Villa Manos (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			The bus meets every large Blue Star ferry arrival and stops outside the villa.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Morfoulas Studios (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.

🇭🇺🇷🇴🇧🇬 HUNGARY, ROMANIA & BULGARIA

Three countries, 11 unforgettable, action-packed days. Beautiful cities, medieval towns, ancient castles, huge forests and wild mountains – this itinerary has it all. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Budapest (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Aria Hotel Budapest (Book >)	All hotels >
	Upon arrival into Budapest, visit the immense St Stephen’s Basilica.			If you’re not up for much walking, buy a public transport pass at the airport.
2	Walk over the chain bridge and marvel at the views from Fisherman’s Bastion, including over the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building, then continue on to Buda Castle (under which is The Hospital in the Rock) and Heroes’ Square. Try to catch a performance at the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House.			There are many interesting free walking tours in Budapest (don’t forget to tip!)
3	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train (Book >)	Dep: 23:10		🏨Train
	Begin your day with a tour around Vajdahunyad Castle then go for a soak in the healing waters of the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train		Arr: 11:06	🏨DoubleTree by Hilton (Book >)	All hotels >
	Sighișoara’s well-preserved old town walls encircle the 12th century citadel in which you’ll find the clock tower (good views form the top), the Monastery Church, the bust of Vlad Tepes and the Covered Staircase which leads to the Church on the Hill. If you have a little more time then hike or bike into the Transylvanian countryside and up to the Breite plateau.			This is the town in which Vlad Tepes (aka Vlad the Impaler/Dracula) was born – his birth home is now a restaurant (Casa Vlad Dracul).
5	🚄Sighișoara to Braşov train (Book >)	Dep: 11:08	Arr: 13:46	🏨Hotel Kronwell (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve dropped your bags at the hotel walk to the medieval Catherine’s Gate and then along the city wall. Squeeze down String Street (Strada Sforii) – at 4ft wide reputedly the narrowest in Europe. Visit Saint Nicholas Basilica and admire the ornate interior.			Beware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and larger train stations.
6	Take a taxi to Bran Castle – one of several deemed to be the home of Dracula, but certainly the most photogenic. Consider adding a day to explore other castles in the area including Corvin Castle, where Vlad Tepes was allegedly held prisoner for several years.			Learn a few basic Romanian words and phrases.
7	🚄Braşov to Bucharest train (Book >)	Dep: 11:20	Arr: 14:05	🏨Hotel Epoque (Book >)	All hotels >
	The immense Palace of Parliament – one of the world’s largest buildings – is a good place to start in Bucharest. Stroll around Cișmigiu Gardens and the cobbled streets of Old Town (don’t miss Stavropoleos Church).			Although cheaper, Romania’s R-trains are slower – spend just a little more to make the most of your time here.
8	🚄Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo train (Book >)	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 20:41	🏨Agusta Spa Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Bucharest go to Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) – an important place in Romania’s history.			This site has useful Bucharest public transport info.
9	🚌Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia bus (Book >)	Dep: 16:15	Arr: 19:15	🏨Sense Hotel Sofia (Book >)	All hotels >
	Bursting with history, the Bulgarian mountain city of Veliko Tarnovo has a wonderful old town which is best explored on foot. The Tsaravets fortress is a must-see.			Bus travel is faster than train travel in Bulgaria.
10	Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National History Museum, the Sveti Georgi Rotunda are all must-sees. If you’ve some spare time then the National Palace Of Culture often has great events and fascinating exhibitions. Pick up souvenirs at Bitaka Flea Market.			Learning some basic Bulgarian Cyrillic can help you get around, especially if you stay in the country for more than a few days.
11	Sofia to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with the Slovenia & Croatia, Western Turkey or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Not ready to go home? Extend your Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with a visit to Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea beaches.
Mid-range
1	✈To Budapest (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Bo33 Family & Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Upon arrival into Budapest, visit the immense St Stephen’s Basilica.			If you’re not up for much walking, buy a public transport pass at the airport.
2	Walk over the chain bridge and marvel at the views from Fisherman’s Bastion, including over the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building, then continue on to Buda Castle (under which is The Hospital in the Rock) and Heroes’ Square. Try to catch a performance at the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House.			There are many interesting free walking tours in Budapest (don’t forget to tip!)
3	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train (Book >)	Dep: 23:10		🏨Train
	Begin your day with a tour around Vajdahunyad Castle then go for a soak in the healing waters of the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train		Arr: 11:06	🏨Casa Savri (Book >)	All hotels >
	Sighișoara’s well-preserved old town walls encircle the 12th century citadel in which you’ll find the clock tower (good views form the top), the Monastery Church, the bust of Vlad Tepes and the Covered Staircase which leads to the Church on the Hill. If you have a little more time then hike or bike into the Transylvanian countryside and up to the Breite plateau.			This is the town in which Vlad Tepes (aka Vlad the Impaler/Dracula) was born – his birth home is now a restaurant (Casa Vlad Dracul).
5	🚄Sighișoara to Braşov train (Book >)	Dep: 11:08	Arr: 13:46	🏨Casa Veche (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve dropped your bags at the hotel walk to the medieval Catherine’s Gate and then along the city wall. Squeeze down String Street (Strada Sforii) – at 4ft wide reputedly the narrowest in Europe. Visit Saint Nicholas Basilica and admire the ornate interior.			Beware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and larger train stations.
6	Take a 35-minute bus journey from terminal #2 to Bran Castle – one of several deemed to be the home of Dracula, but certainly the most photogenic. Consider adding a day to explore other castles in the area including Corvin Castle, where Vlad Tepes was allegedly held prisoner for several years.			Learn a few basic Romanian words and phrases.
7	🚄Braşov to Bucharest train (Book >)	Dep: 11:20	Arr: 14:05	🏨Hotel Christina (Book >)	All hotels >
	The immense Palace of Parliament – one of the world’s largest buildings – is a good place to start in Bucharest. Stroll around Cișmigiu Gardens and the cobbled streets of Old Town (don’t miss Stavropoleos Church).			Although cheaper, Romania’s R-trains are slower – spend just a little more to make the most of your time here.
8	🚄Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo train (Book >)	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 20:41	🏨Gurko (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Bucharest go to Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) – an important place in Romania’s history.			This site has useful Bucharest public transport info.
9	🚌Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia bus (Book >)	Dep: 16:15	Arr: 19:15	🏨InterContinental Sofia (Book >)	All hotels >
	Bursting with history, the Bulgarian mountain city of Veliko Tarnovo has a wonderful old town which is best explored on foot. The Tsaravets fortress is a must-see.			Bus travel is faster than train travel in Bulgaria.
10	Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National History Museum, the Sveti Georgi Rotunda are all must-sees. If you’ve some spare time then the National Palace Of Culture often has great events and fascinating exhibitions. Pick up souvenirs at Bitaka Flea Market.			Learning some basic Bulgarian Cyrillic can help you get around, especially if you stay in the country for more than a few days.
11	Sofia to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with the Slovenia & Croatia, Western Turkey or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Not ready to go home? Extend your Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with a visit to Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea beaches.
Budget
1	✈To Budapest (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨AVAIL Hostel (Boo k >)	All hostels >
	Upon arrival into Budapest, visit the immense St Stephen’s Basilica.			If you’re not up for much walking, buy a public transport pass at the airport.
2	Walk over the chain bridge and marvel at the views from Fisherman’s Bastion, including over the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building, then continue on to Buda Castle (under which is The Hospital in the Rock) and Heroes’ Square. Try to catch a performance at the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House.			There are many interesting free walking tours in Budapest (don’t forget to tip!)
3	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train (Book >)	Dep: 23:10		🏨Train
	Begin your day with a tour around Vajdahunyad Castle then go for a soak in the healing waters of the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Budapest to Sighișoara train		Arr: 11:06	🏨Burg Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Sighișoara’s well-preserved old town walls encircle the 12th century citadel in which you’ll find the clock tower (good views form the top), the Monastery Church, the bust of Vlad Tepes and the Covered Staircase which leads to the Church on the Hill. If you have a little more time then hike or bike into the Transylvanian countryside and up to the Breite plateau.			This is the town in which Vlad Tepes (aka Vlad the Impaler/Dracula) was born – his birth home is now a restaurant (Casa Vlad Dracul).
5	🚄Sighișoara to Braşov train (Book >)	Dep: 11:08	Arr: 13:46	🏨Hostel Boemia (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve dropped your bags at the hotel walk to the medieval Catherine’s Gate and then along the city wall. Squeeze down String Street (Strada Sforii) – at 4ft wide reputedly the narrowest in Europe. Visit Saint Nicholas Basilica and admire the ornate interior.			Beware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and larger train stations.
6	Take a 35-minute bus journey from terminal #2 to Bran Castle – one of several deemed to be the home of Dracula, but certainly the most photogenic. Consider adding a day to explore other castles in the area including Corvin Castle, where Vlad Tepes was allegedly held prisoner for several years.			Learn a few basic Romanian words and phrases.
7	🚄Braşov to Bucharest train (Book >)	Dep: 11:20	Arr: 14:05	🏨Mil Pasos Penthouse Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	The immense Palace of Parliament – one of the world’s largest buildings – is a good place to start in Bucharest. Stroll around Cișmigiu Gardens and the cobbled streets of Old Town (don’t miss Stavropoleos Church).			Although cheaper, Romania’s R-trains are slower – spend just a little more to make the most of your time here.
8	🚄Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo train (Book >)	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 20:41	🏨Rooster Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	In Bucharest go to Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției) – an important place in Romania’s history.			This site has useful Bucharest public transport info.
9	🚌Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia bus (Book >)	Dep: 16:15	Arr: 19:15	🏨Hostel Mostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Bursting with history, the Bulgarian mountain city of Veliko Tarnovo has a wonderful old town which is best explored on foot. The Tsaravets fortress is a must-see.			Bus travel is faster than train travel in Bulgaria.
10	Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National History Museum, the Sveti Georgi Rotunda are all must-sees. If you’ve some spare time then the National Palace Of Culture often has great events and fascinating exhibitions. Pick up souvenirs at Bitaka Flea Market.			Learning some basic Bulgarian Cyrillic can help you get around, especially if you stay in the country for more than a few days.
11	Sofia to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with the Slovenia & Croatia, Western Turkey or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Not ready to go home? Extend your Hungary, Romania & Bulgaria itinerary with a visit to Bulgaria’s beautiful Black Sea beaches.

🇸🇪 SWEDEN

From the vast, open landscapes of Lapland, to the sunny beaches of Gotland, this Sweden itinerary offers many amazing sights for visitors. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Sweden itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Luleå (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Treehotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi for the 1 hr 15 mins drive to your hotel from the airport.			The fastest flight times involve leaving in the afternoon and arriving into Luleå in the evening.
2	Go hiking in Lapland, get some white water rafting thrills, glide along calm waters in a canoe, go on a moose safari and, at the end of the day, relax in the tree sauna. You may want to add on some extra days…			Book activities well in advance.
3	🚄Boden to Orebro train (Book >)	Dep: 17:49		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Arrange a transfer to the train station (which should take about 35 mins) then relax in a comfy couchette for the overnight journey to Orebro.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Boden to Orebro train		Arr: 07:31	🏨Clarion Hotel Örebro (Book >)	All hotels >
	A day on which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Tap water is good and tasty in Sweden – remember to bring a refillable bottle.
5	🚄Örebro to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 09:12	Arr: 12:10	🏨Upper House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga.			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
6	Slottsskogen is a free-to-enter park and mini-zoo in the city centre. If you’re in need of some culture, the Gothenburg Museum of Art comes highly recommended. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Got some spare time? The four-day cycle ride from Helsingborg to Båstad comes highly recommended.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Mariestad train (Book >) ⛴️Mariestad to Vassbacken cruise (Book >)	Dep: 08:25 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:08 Arr: 22:15	🏨M/S Wilhelm Tham	All hotels >
	Transfer to Mariestad where you’ll join the M/S Wilhelm Tham and cruise along the Göta Canal over Lake Vänern to the locks at Sjötorp and Hajstorp.			Apart from the two honeymoon suites, most cabins on the historic M/S Wilhelm Tham have bunk beds.
8	⛴️Vassbacken to Ljung cruise	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨M/S Wilhelm Tham	All hotels >
	Continuing along the Göta Canal you’ll reach the highest point at the obelisk, pass through the Tåtorp locks and along beautiful Lake Viken. Next comes Forsvik Lock and the historic Forsviks Bruk village. Lake Vättern is Sweden’s second largest in Sweden, beyond which is the lock staircase at Borenshul, beautiful Borensburg village and the berth at Ljung.			You can also hire your own boat to cruise along the Göta Canal.
9	⛴️Borensberg to Norsholm cruise (Book >) 🚄Norsholm to Stockholm (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨Grand Hôtel Stockholm (Book >)	All hotels >
	Into the longest lock staircase on the canal at Berg, then Lake Roxen and ending at Norsholm Lock. In Stockholm take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum.			The Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
9-10	Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
11	Stockholm to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	Want to extend your Sweden Itinerary? Take a look at the Gotland journey at the end of the Mid-range itinerary.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kiruna (Book >) 🚄Kiruna to Abisko Östra train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 14:49	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 15:54	🏨Hotel Abisko Mountain Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving late Oct to mid-March? You’ll get here after sunset and in time to hopefully see the Northern Lights.			To make this journey in one day you’ll need to catch a very early flight.
2	There are a number of excellent hiking trails in Abisko National Park, you can also visit the Sámi village of Rávttas. If you’re here outside of warmer months then skiing, dog sledding, Arctic reindeer sledding and chasing the Northern Lights are all popular things to do.			If you’re really into hiking then Abisko is the start of the famous 400km King’s Trail, or Kungsleden.
3	🚄Abisko Östra – Gävle C train (Book >)	Dep: 16:44		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Relax in a comfy couchette for the overnight journey to Gävle C.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Abisko Östra to Gävle C train 🚄Gävle C to Orebro train (Book >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 10:55	🏨Clarion Hotel Örebro (Book >)	All hotels >
	A day on which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Tap water is good and tasty in Sweden – remember to bring a refillable bottle.
5	🚄Örebro to Motala train (Book >) 🚄Motala to Hallsberg train 🚄Hallsberg to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 09:12 Dep: 17:43	Arr: 09:26 Arr: 17:06 Arr: 20:05	🏨Hotel Pigalle (Book >)	All hotels >
	Divert your journey to Gothenburg with a stop at Motala and a boat trip along the Göta Canal, departing at 10:30 and returning at 15:30 (May to Sep only).			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
6	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Got some spare time? The four-day cycle ride from Helsingborg to Båstad comes highly recommended.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Stockholm train (Book >)	Dep: 16:19	Arr: 19:43	🏨Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gothenburg’s Slottsskogen is a free-to-enter park and mini-zoo in the city centre. If you’re in need of some culture, the Gothenburg Museum of Art comes highly recommended.			Stockholm’s Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
8-9	Take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum. Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
10	🚌Stockholm to Nynäshamn bus ⛴️Nynäshamn to Visby ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 13:15	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Clarion Hotel Visby (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gaze out to sea as you glide over the Baltic Sea to the island of Gotland			The ferry journey is usually smooth, but you may wish to take motion sickness tablets just in case.
11-12	Over the next couple of days be sure to take in Visby’s Burmeister House, walk along the city wall and the views from Klinten. Visby is full of church ruins – see if you can get to all 15 within the city walls. The Gotlands Museum makes for a fascinating visit. Hire a bicycle and explore the coast in either direction from Visby.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
13	Visby to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	If you’re doing this Sweden itinerary in the summer take Flygbussarna coach to the airport, at other times of year you can take bus route 61 or a short taxi ride.
Budget
1	✈To Kiruna (Book >) 🚄Kiruna to Abisko Östra train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 14:49	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 15:59	🏨Abisko Turiststation (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving late Oct to mid-March? You’ll get here after sunset and in time to hopefully see the Northern Lights.			To make this journey in one day you’ll need to catch a very early flight.
2	There are a number of excellent hiking trails in Abisko National Park, you can also visit a Sámi camp, take the chair lift to Nuolja and go in search of the Northern Lights,			If you’re really into hiking then Abisko is the start of the famous 400km King’s Trail, or Kungsleden.
3	🚄Abisko Östra – Gävle C train (Book >)	Dep: 16:38		🏨Train
	You’ll have most of today to enjoy more of this beautiful part of Sweden. Settle into your seat for the overnight journey to Gävle C.			Buying an Interrail pass (Eurail pass if you don’t live in Europe) can save you money.
4	🚄Abisko Östra to Gävle C train 🚄Gävle C to Orebro train (Book >) 🚄Örebro to Gothenburg train (Book >)	Dep: 08:24 Dep: 17:19	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 10:55 Arr: 19:55	🏨Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	A day in which to soak in the sights of ancient Örebro, the most impressive which is the immense Örebro castle. The city park is one of the most beautiful in Sweden and the Wadköping open-air museum is also well worth a visit.			Örebro station has a left luggage facility.
5-6	Head up Gothenburg’s 17th century Skansen Kronan, then take a look at the picturesque wooden houses in nearby Haga. Like fish? Then a visit to the Fish Market Feskekörka is a must, or go to the trendy shopping district of Magasinsgatan instead. The well-preserved Älvsborg Fortress is a fun excursion.			Buy a travel card for Gothenburg, which will save you hassle and money – it also includes ferry journeys.
7	🚄Gothenburg to Hallsberg train 🚄Hallsberg to Motala train (Book >) 🚄Motala to Linköping train 🚄Linköping to Stockholm train (Book >)	Dep: 06:04 Dep: 08:46 Dep: 16:05 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 08:25 Arr: 09:26 Arr: 16:44 Arr: 18:41	🏨Red Boat Mälaren (Book >)	All hostels >
	Divert your journey to Stockholm with a stop at Motala and a boat trip along the Göta Canal, departing at 10:30 and returning at 15:30 (May to Sep only).			Stockholm’s Downtown Camper hotel has great views from its rooftop bar.
8-9	Take in the magnificent sight of an almost fully intact 17th century war ship at the Vasa Museum. Nearby is the equally…impressive ABBA Museum. Visit the royal family’s palace, head out to the open-air museum of Skansen, wander around the streets of Gamla Stan, look at the amazing photography at Fotografiska Museet, learn about the Nobel Price at the Nobelmuseet.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
10	🚌Stockholm to Nynäshamn bus ⛴️Nynäshamn to Visby ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 13:15	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Visby home rental (Book >)	All hotels >
	Gaze out to sea as you glide over the Baltic Sea to the island of Gotland			The ferry journey is usually smooth, but you may wish to take motion sickness tablets just in case.
11-12	Over the next couple of days be sure to take in Visby’s Burmeister House, walk along the city wall and the views from Klinten. Visby is full of church ruins – see if you can get to all 15 within the city walls. The Gotlands Museum makes for a fascinating visit. Hire a bicycle and explore the coast in either direction from Visby.			Stockholm is quickly becoming a cash-free city and so you may not want to bring too much.
13	Visby to Home (✈Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Sweden itinerary with the Germany or Estonia itinerary
	If you’re doing this Sweden itinerary in the summer take Flygbussarna coach to the airport, at other times of year you can take bus route 61 or a short taxi ride.

🇨🇭 SWITZERLAND

If you like mountains, picturesque valleys, cute Alpine scenes, beautiful lakes and excellent public transport, you’re going to love this Switzerland itinerary. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Switzerland itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Widder Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance of your Switzerland itinerary as this will include the train journey from the airport.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚄Zurich to Lucerne train (Book >)	Dep: 10:04	Arr: 10:49	🏨Hotel des Balances (Book >)	All hotels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Consider downloading the SBB rail app, for quick and easy reference to the rail system timetable.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald train (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the afternoon visit the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen train 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen (Book >) train 🚡Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp cablecar 🚄Grütschalp to Mürren train (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16 Dep: 10:38 Dep: 10:44	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25 Arr: 10:42 Arr: 10:58	🏨Hotel Eiger (Book >)	All hotels >
	A true test of the perfectly punctual Swiss transport system, this is a journey which you’ll be glued to the window throughout. When you arrive you can enjoy the peaceful alpine village of Mürren before heading on up the remarkable Schilthorn.			The Schilthorn restaurant may not have the most refined cuisine, but it does revolve and is the best place to see the views.
7	🚄Mürren to Grütschalp train 🚡Grütschalp to Lauterbrunnen cablecar (Book >) 🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez train 🚄Spiez to Visp train 🚄Visp to Zermatt train (Book >)	Dep: 09:58 Dep: 10:13 Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:11 Arr: 10:17 Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Hotel The Omnia (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			Miss a connection? Not a problem. Trains in Switzerland are frequent.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp train 🚄Visp to Montreux train (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Hotel Victoria (Book >)	All hotels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva train (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨Hotel D’Angleterre (Book >)	All hotels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Switzerland itinerary with the France, Italy, Germany or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.
Mid-range
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Plattenhof (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance of your Switzerland itinerary as this will include the train journey from the airport.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚄Zurich to Lucerne train (Book >)	Dep: 10:04	Arr: 10:49	🏨Keyforge City Apartments Waldstätter 8 (Book >)	All hotels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Consider downloading the SBB rail app, for quick and easy reference to the rail system timetable.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald train (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Hotel Alpina (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the afternoon visit the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen train 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen train (Book >) 🚡Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp cablecar 🚄Grütschalp to Mürren train (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16 Dep: 10:38 Dep: 10:44	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25 Arr: 10:42 Arr: 10:58	🏨Eiger Guesthouse (Book >)	All hotels >
	A true test of the perfectly punctual Swiss transport system, this is a journey which you’ll be glued to the window throughout. When you arrive you can enjoy the peaceful alpine village of Mürren before heading on up the remarkable Schilthorn.			The Schilthorn restaurant may not have the most refined cuisine, but it does revolve and is the best place to see the views.
7	🚄Mürren to Grütschalp train 🚡Grütschalp to Lauterbrunnen cablecar (Book >) 🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez train 🚄Spiez to Visp train 🚄Visp to Zermatt train (Book >)	Dep: 09:58 Dep: 10:13 Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:11 Arr: 10:17 Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Hotel Bella Vista (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			Miss a connection? Not a problem. Trains in Switzerland are frequent.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp train 🚄Visp to Montreux train (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Golf Hotel René Capt (Book >)	All hotels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva train (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨Starling Residence Genève (Book >)	All hotels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Switzerland itinerary with the France, Italy, Germany or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.
Budget
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Youthhostel Zurich (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Using buses for some of your Switzerland itinerary journeys means you can get a Swiss Travel Pass for 4 days of train travel and then a single additional train ticket to Geneva on day 9.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚌Zurich to Lucerne bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:40	Arr: 10:40	🏨Barabas Luzern (Book >)	All hostels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Äss-Bar is a new concept in Switzerland and is a chain of stores that collects bread and pastries just at the end of their sell-buy dates and sells on at low prices.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald train (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Mountain Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the take the 122 bus to the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen train 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen train (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25	🏨Valley Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	After a beautiful journey hike to Trümmelbach Falls. If you can afford the fare, take the cable car to the lovely village of Mürren and on to the remarkable Schilthorn.			Your hostel has a kitchen – save money by buying food in the Coop supermarket in town.
7	🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost train 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez train 🚄Spiez to Visp train 🚄Visp to Zermatt train (Book >)	Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Youthhostel Zermatt (Book >)	All hostels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			If you’re staying a few nights with Swiss Youth Hostels then consider membership which can save you money.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp train 🚄Visp to Montreux train (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Youthhostel Montreux (Book >)	All hostels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva train (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨City Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Switzerland itinerary with the France, Italy, Germany or Austria & Munich itinerary
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.

🇰🇪 KENYA

Kenya is a classic safari destination. This Kenya itinerary takes in two of the best national parks, and ends in idyllic Diani Beach on the Indian Ocean. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Kenya itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Villa Rosa Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	Enjoy a relaxing day in Nairobi, visiting the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Don’t haggle too much when buying souvenirs – it can be seen as rude if you’re too persistent.
3	Take a day trip to Lake Nakuru, located in Africa’s immense Rift Valley.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
4	🚁Nairobi to Masai Mara helicopter (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 13:45	🏨Mara Explorer Tented Camp (Book >)	All hotels >
	Transfer to Nairobi airport from where you’ll be flown by helicopter over the savannah to the luxurious Mara Explorer camp. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara.			Single-use plastic bottles are banned in Kenyan parks from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
5-6	Two more days in which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya. Your accommodation includes three free guided drives a day.			Take a look at these wildlife photography tips.
7	🚁Masai Mara to Nairobi helicopter (Book >) ✈Nairobi to Amboseli flight (Book >)	Dep: 10:30 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Ol Tukai Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy another helicopter safari back to Nairobi, then fly on to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			Helicopter safaris can be bumpy – you may want to take motion sickness tablets.
8	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
9	✈Amboseli to Mombasa flight (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach taxi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: 17:00	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 19:00	🏨The Maji Beach Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	Chill out in your beautiful hotel and on the stunning Diani Beach.			Learn some basic Swahili.
10-13	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
14-15	🚕Diani Beach to Mombasa taxi (Book >) ✈Mombasa to Nairobi flight (Book >) ✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 13:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Kenya itinerary with the Tanzania or Ethiopia itinerary
	You can also fly low cost, direct to Zanzibar from Mombasa.
Mid-range
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Acacia Tree Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	Enjoy a relaxing day in Nairobi, visiting the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
3	🚐Nairobi to Lake Nakuru safari (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 10:30	🏨Ziwa Bush Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and start your safari with a trip to Lake Nakuru in the Rift Valley.			Ask your safari operator to provide transport and guide only – it’s cheaper to book your own accommodation.
4	🚐Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara safari	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Keekorok Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	A long drive (with some wildlife spotting along the way) to Keekorok Lodge. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara			Single-use plastic bottles are banned in Kenyan parks from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
5	Another day on which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya.			Take a look at these wildlife photography tips.
6	🚐Masai Mara to Amboseli safari	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Kibo Safari Camp (Book >)	All hotels >
	A long drive (and some safari time) back to Nairobi and on to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			Roads here can be bumpy – you may want to take motion sickness tablets.
7	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
8	✈Amboseli to Mombasa flight (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach taxi (Info >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: 17:00	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 19:00	🏨Hotel The Sands at Chale Island (Book >)	All hotels >
	Chill out in your beautiful hotel and on the stunning Diani Beach.			Learn some basic Swahili.
9-12	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
13-14	🚕Diani Beach to Mombasa taxi (Book >) ✈Mombasa to Nairobi flight (Book >) ✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 13:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Kenya itinerary with the Tanzania or Ethiopia itinerary
	You can also fly low cost, direct to Zanzibar from Mombasa.
Budget
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Decasa Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	🚐Nairobi to Masai Mara safari (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Mara Explorers Camp
	Meet your guide and drive to the camp. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara (this safari company has scheduled departures and can arrange cheap accommodation for you – request Mara Explorers Camp).			Single-use plastic bottles are banned in Kenyan parks from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
3-4	Two more days in which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
5	🚐Masai Mara to Nairobi safari	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 15:30	🏨Decasa Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy your last safari in Masai Mara on the way back to Nairobi.			You can take a mutatu to and from Nairobi city centre – take a look at the route map here.
6	🚐Nairobi to Amboseli safari (Book >)	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Amboseli Eco Camp (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and relax on the drive through the Athi Plains to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			When booking your safari, ask to be dropped off at Emali train station at the end.
7	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
8	🚐Amboseli to Emali safari 🚄Emali to Mombasa train (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach transfer (Book >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 09:51 Dep: 14:30	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 14:18 Arr: 15:50	🏨Diani Backpackers (Book >)	All hotels >
	Chill out on the stunning Diani Beach.			Book your transfer to and from Diani Beach directly with the hostel.
9-12	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
13	🚕Diani Beach to Mombasa transfer (Book >) 🚄Mombasa to Nairobi train (Book >)	Dep: 06:15 Dep: 08:00	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 13:42	🏨Decasa Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the afternoon visit the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Tempted by Tanzania? Catch the bus from Mombasa to Dar-es-Salaam.
14-15	✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Kenya itinerary with the Tanzania or Ethiopia itinerary
	You can also travel on to Kampala in Uganda, book the bus here.

🇵🇪 PERU

Yes, Machu Picchu is incredible. Yes, Lake Titicaca is breathtaking. Yes, you absolutely should visit Peru. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Peru itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Swissôtel Lima (Book >)	All hotels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco flight (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚄Cusco to Aguas Calientes train (Book >)	Dep: 08:25	Arr: 12:11	🏨Hotel Sumaq Machu Picchu (Book >)	All hotels >
	The train journey to Aguas Calientes is spectacular – you’ll travel along the Sacred Valley, besides the mighty Urubamba river. Arrive in time for a first visit to the famous Machu Picchu.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6	🚄Aguas Calientes Ollantaytambo train 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time today to see Machu Picchu, making sure you walk beyond the site to the Sun Gate and, in the other direction, to the Inca Bridge.			Try to get a seat on the left-hand side of the train from Cusco (and on the right back to Cusco).
7	🚄Cusco to Puno train (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 23:30	🏨On train (Book >)
	Your luxury Peru Rail train (which only departs on Thursdays) will whisk you to ruins and high passes on the way to Puno.			The train package includes meals and drinks.
8	🚄Puno to Sarachocha train	Dep: 06:00	Arr: 19:30	🏨On train (Book >)
	Today you’ll visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands.			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
9	🚄Sarachocha to KM93 train 🚕KM93 to Colca Canyon transfer	Dep: 06:45 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:30 Arr:	🏨Hotel Belmond Las Casitas (Book >)	All hotels >
	On the way south you’ll stop off at the prehistoric Sumbay Caves. Your hotel can help arrange a transfer to Colca Canyon where you can take a trip to see the condor soaring over this impressive landscape.			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
10	🚕Colca Canyon to Arequipa (Book >) taxi ✈Arequipa to Lima flight (Book >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 19:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 21:30	🏨Swissôtel Lima (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy an afternoon in the lovely city of Arequipa. The Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
11-12	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Peru itinerary with the Northern Chile, Bolivia or Ecuador & Galapagos itinerary
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (consider adding an extra day)
Mid-range
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Tierra Viva Miraflores Mendiburu (Book >)	All hotels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco flight (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚐Cusco to KM 82 bus	Dep: 05:30	Arr: 08:30	🏨Camping
	Book your Inca Trail hike a long time in advance (I recommend Inca Trail Reservations). An early start to commence your walk on which, before long, you’ll be passing breathtaking views of incredible Incan ruins.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6-7	Day two of the hike begins with the arduous climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass. The campsite on the other side is both remote and spectacular. Day three starts with another short climb, but then passes ruins and has incredible views across to mountains and forested valleys. The highlight of today is the Wiñay Wayna ruin.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here (day two of the Inca Trail is particularly challenging) – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
8	🚄Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco bus	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Awake before sunrise and finish the Inca Trail hike at the Sun Gate. Summon a but more energy to continue on to the Inca Bridge and then enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The train journey to Ollantaytambo is a highlight and will be included in your tour.			Try to get a seat on the right-hand side of the train from Cusco for the best views.
9	🚄Cusco to Puno train (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 17:50	🏨Hotel Tierra Vivo Puno Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your luxury Peru Rail train (which only departs on three times a week) will whisk you through captivating landscapes on the way to Puno.			The train price includes meals and drinks.
10	Today visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands (arrange your tour in advance).			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
11	🚌Puno to Chivay bus (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 12:15	🏨Casa Andina Standard Colca (Book >)	All hotels >
	Today’s journey stops at the lakes of Lagunillas, the national reserve of Aguada Blanca and the 4,900 metre-high Andes Viewpoint. Chivay is in Colca Canyon and when you arrive you can go and look for condor or relax in the La Calera hot springs			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
12	🚌Chivay to Arequipa bus (Book >)	Dep: 13:15	Arr: 16:30	🏨Hotel Katari At Plaza De Armas (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time to spot condor, go horse riding or enjoy a hike in Colca Canyon before driving on to Arequipa.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
13	🚌Arequipa to Nazca bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:30	Arr: 23:30	🏨Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
14	🚌Nazca to Lima bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:40	Arr: 22:21	🏨Tierra Viva Miraflores Mendiburu (Book >)	All hotels >
	There’s one main reason you’re here: to see the mysterious Nazca Lines. Reserve your flight here.			The flights can cause upset stomachs – take motion sickness tablets if you need.
15-16	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Peru itinerary with the Northern Chile, Bolivia or Ecuador & Galapagos itinerary
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (consider adding an extra day)
Budget
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨1900 Backpackers Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco flight (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Kokopelli Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚐Cusco to KM 82 bus	Dep: 05:30	Arr: 08:30	🏨Camping
	Book your Inca Trail hike a long time in advance (I recommend Inca Trail Reservations). An early start to commence your walk on which, before long, you’ll be passing breathtaking views of incredible Incan ruins.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6-7	Day two of the hike begins with the arduous climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass. The campsite on the other side is both remote and spectacular. Day three starts with another short climb, but then passes ruins and has incredible views across to mountains and forested valleys. The highlight of today is the Wiñay Wayna ruin.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here (day two of the Inca Trail is particularly challenging) – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
8	🚄Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco bus	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Kokopelli Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Awake before sunrise and finish the Inca Trail hike at the Sun Gate. Summon a but more energy to continue on to the Inca Bridge and then enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The train journey to Ollantaytambo is a highlight and will be included in your tour.			Try to get a seat on the right-hand side of the train from Cusco for the best views.
9	🚌Cusco to Puno bus (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 15:30	🏨Iguana Hostel Puno (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy the captivating landscapes on the way to Puno. If you want to experience something different then you can stay on a floating island.			Take a look at these useful Peru bus travel tips.
10	Today visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands (arrange your tour in advance).			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
11	🚌Puno to Chivay bus (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 12:15	🏨Colca Andina Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Today’s journey stops at the lakes of Lagunillas, the national reserve of Aguada Blanca and the 4,900 metre-high Andes Viewpoint. Chivay is in Colca Canyon and when you arrive you can go and look for condor or relax in the La Calera hot springs			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
12	🚌Chivay to Arequipa bus (Book >)	Dep: 13:15	Arr: 16:30	🏨Way Kap Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	More time to spot condor, go horse riding or enjoy a hike in Colca Canyon before driving on to Arequipa.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
13	🚌Arequipa to Nazca bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:30	Arr: 23:30	🏨Nasca Lodge (Book >)	All hostels >
	Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
14	🚌Nazca to Lima bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:40	Arr: 22:21	🏨Pariwana Hostel Lima (Book >)	All hostels >
	There’s one main reason you’re here: to see the mysterious Nazca Lines. Reserve your flight here.			The flights can cause upset stomachs – take motion sickness tablets if you need.
15-16	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	Connect this Peru itinerary with the Northern Chile, Bolivia or Ecuador & Galapagos itinerary
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (your hostel is located in a different area to day 1).