Cultural – Page 2 – A Plan To Go

🇸🇪 SWEDEN

Stockholm, Sweden - Sweden itinerary 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.
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Here’s your Sweden itinerary:
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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.

🇫🇯🇼🇸 FIJI & SAMOA

Fiji & Samoa itinerary Paradise? Oh yes. Here are those too-good-to-be-true beaches, but here also is a fascinating, welcoming culture and lush island interiors. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget (due to the cost of flights to Samoa the Budget version doesn’t include this option).
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Here’s your Fiji & Samoa itinerary:
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Luxury
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take it easy in your luxurious hotel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚗Nadi to Natadola Bay drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Collect your car then take a short drive to idyllic Natadola Bay.			Make sure your insurance covers you for driving on dirt roads
6-7	Located on Fiji’s Coral Coast, your resort is well-placed for diving and snorkelling, as well as kayaking or, of course, doing nothing on the beach. For something a bit different go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚗Natadola Bay to Pacific Harbour drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Nanuku Resort & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Pacific Harbour has both gorgeous beaches and close proximity to the Pacific Harbour Arts Village and Suva, where you can wander around downtown and visit the Fiji Museum.			Fiji is a very relaxed country where punctuality isn’t particularly important.
9	🚗Pacific Harbour to Nadi drive ✈Nadi to Apia flight (Book >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Seabreeze Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Leave the car at the airport and take the two-hour flight to Samoa, where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset at the beach.			Fiji is GMT +12 and Samoa is GMT +13.
10-14	Over the next few days you can choose to relax on picture-perfect beaches, or hire a car to see Robert Louis Stephenson’s former home at Villa Vailima, the historic Bahai Temple, Upola’s northern coast. You could drive to Mulifanua and take the ferry to Savai’i for the day to enjoy the island’s waterfalls.			Ask permission before taking photos in a village.
15	✈Apia to Nadi flight (Book >) 🚁Nadi to Mamanuca Islands helicopter (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening Arr: 10 mins later	🏨Likuliku Lagoon Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey to your Fiji island resort.			It’s also possible to get to the resort by catamaran, private speedboat or seaplane.
16-18	Time to truly relax on some of the best beaches in the world, set in the volcanic Mamanuca Islands.			Buy an eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate reefs.
19-20	🚁Mamanuca Islands to Nadi helicopter (Book >) ✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10 mins later Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Fiji & Samoa itinerary with the New Zealand North, New Zealand South or Australia itinerary
	Pay to enter the well-rated Fiji Airways Premier Lounge.
Mid-range
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Ramada Suites Wailoaloa Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take it easy in your conveniently-located hotel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚌Nadi to Korotogo bus (Info >)	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:45	🏨Hotel Bedarra Beach Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the bus and then a taxi to the beautiful Coral Coast.			Ask the driver to drop you off at Korotogo roundabout (after Sigatoka)
6-7	Go snorkelling, as well as kayaking or, of course, doing nothing on the beach. For something a bit different take a tour and go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚌Korotogo to Suva bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:45	Arr: 13:00	🏨Grand Pacific (Book >)	All hotels >
	Suva, the capital of Fiji, is a lovely place to wander around. Visit the Fiji Museum and the Municipal Market and Municipal Handicraft Centre.			Fiji is a very relaxed country where punctuality isn’t particularly important.
9	🚌Suva to Nadi bus (Info >) ✈Nadi to Apia flight (Book >)	Dep: 06:45 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:05 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Aga Reef Resort And Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the early bus to get catch the two-hour flight to Samoa, where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset at the beach.			Taxi fares to your beach resort are listed here (the journey from the airport should be around 1.5 hrs).
10-14	Over the next few days you can choose to relax on picture-perfect beaches, or hire a car to see Robert Louis Stephenson’s former home at Villa Vailima, the historic Bahai Temple, Upola’s northern coast. You could drive to Mulifanua and take the ferry to Savai’i for the day to enjoy the island’s waterfalls.			Fiji is GMT +12 and Samoa is GMT +13.
15	✈Apia to Nadi flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Ramada Suites Wailoaloa Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey back to Fiji.			Contact your hotel and take advantage of their airport shuttle.
16	⛴️Nadi to Tokoriki Island ferry (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey to your Fiji island resort.			It’s also possible to get to the resort by catamaran, private speedboat or seaplane.
17-19	Time to truly relax on some of the best beaches in the world, set in the volcanic Mamanuca Islands.			Buy an eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate reefs.
20-21	⛴️Tokoriki Island to Nadi ferry (Book >) ✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: 10:15 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 12:00 Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Fiji & Samoa itinerary with the New Zealand North, New Zealand South or Australia itinerary
	Pay to enter the well-rated Fiji Airways Premier Lounge.
Budget
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Rendezvous surf camp (Book >)	All hostels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take a short taxi ride to the hostel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚌Nadi to Korolevu bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:25	Arr: 13:15	🏨The Beachhouse (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take the bus from Nadi to the beautiful Coral Coast.			Pay for your bus journey with cash on board.
6-7	Go diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or just do nothing on the beach. For something a bit different go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚌Korolevu to Suva bus 🚌Suva to Pacific Harbour bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:05 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 11:20 Arr: 17:50	🏨Uprising Beach Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Pacific Harbour has both gorgeous beaches and close proximity to Suva, where you can spend a few hours wandering around downtown and visit the Fiji Museum.			Fancy an adventure? Goundar Shipping offers overnight passage to Savusavu on the island of Vanua Levu from Suva on Mon, Wed and Fri, returning Tue, Thu and Sun. Email goundarshipping@kidanet.net.fj for details.
9	🚌Pacific Harbour to Nadi bus (Info >)	Dep: 16:05	Arr: 19:15	🏨Rendezvous surf camp (Book >)	All hostels >
	See any sights you missed out on yesterday before returning to Nadi.			Learn a few basic Fijian words and phrases, (especially Bula – pronounced Boo-lah)
10	⛴️Nadi to Waya Island ferry (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:00	🏨Octopus Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Check in for the ferry to the Yasawas Islands and arrive in plenty of time for an afternoon at the beach.			You may want to take motion sickness tablets for the ferry journey.
11-16	Over the next few days you can choose to explore the island on a guided hike, go snorkelling or diving, visit a local village or just do nothing.			Ask permission before taking photos in a village.
17	⛴️Waya Island to Nadi ferry (Book >)	Dep: 15:15	Arr: 17:45	🏨Horizon Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy a your last day of this Fiji & Samoa itinerary on the beach before returning to Nadi.			Take part in a traditional kava ceremony (although the taste of kava isn’t great!)
18-19	✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Fiji & Samoa itinerary with the New Zealand North, New Zealand South or Australia itinerary
	You can also fly low-cost to Australia.

🇨🇭 SWITZERLAND

Lauterbrunnen Valley, 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.
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Here’s your Switzerland itinerary:
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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.

🇳🇿 NEW ZEALAND NORTH

Mount Taranaki, New Zealand - New Zealand North itinerary Picture-perfect volcanoes, boiling geysers, pristine beaches, magical caves and much more awaits you on this awesome New Zealand North itinerary. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here is a highlights video, and here’s your New Zealand North itinerary:
[bws_pdfprint display=’print’]

Luxury
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel DeBrett (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the hotel, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚗Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 12:00	🏨Driving Creek Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Set off after rush hour and, once you arrive in Coromandel, continue on to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Nearby is the picturesque Cathedral Cove. Back at the villa, leave the car and walk up the road to embark on the Driving Creek Railway.			You must park in the direction of the traffic flow in New Zealand, otherwise you’ll get a fine.
5	🚗Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua drive 🚗Rotorua to Taupo drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 19:30	🏨Tauhara Sunrise Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. On the drive down to Taupo, stop off at Kerosene Creek where you can bathe in a naturally-heated stream.			Get changed into swimming things in one of the Rotorua bathrooms – there aren’t any facilities at Kerosene Creek (which is free to enter).
6	🚗Taupo to Napier drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 12:15	🏨Mangapapa (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the morning visit dramatic Huka Falls, then journey to the wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. You’ll arrive in time to enjoy a tour of the vineyards.			Give yourself plenty of time to get between destinations – you’ll want to stop frequently for beautiful views.
7	🚗Napier to Wellington drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Edgewater Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Te Papa is worth the drive to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			Fuel stations are few between towns and cities – fill up before setting off.
8	🚗Wellington to New Plymouth drive	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Ahu Ahu Beach Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	No doubt you ran out of time to see the sights yesterday, so there’s more time to see more of Wellington today before the long drive to the Ahu Ahu Beach Villas near New Plymouth.			The Department of Conversation provides a wealth of info on hiking.
9	🚗New Plymouth to Tongariro drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Chateau Tongariro (Book >)	All hotels >
	Get up early and head for the hiking trails around the breathtaking Mt Taranaki volcano. In the afternoon take Highway 3 to Midhirst, then the Highway 43 through the gorgeous scenery to Tongariro.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
10	Book your shuttle bus from Whakapapa Village to and from the Tongariro Crossing in advance. Considered one of the best hikes in the world, the Tongariro Crossing requires a full day and a decent level of fitness.			Keep an eye on the weather before setting out and time your walk accordingly.
11	🚗Tongariro to Waitomo drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Waitomo Boutique Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms.			Invest in a dry bag or waterproof camera to try and capture images of the incredible glow worm caves.
12	🚗Waitomo to Piha drive 🚗Piha to Paihia drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 18:00	🏨Chalet Romantica (Book >)	All hotels >
	Break up the long drive to Kerikeri with a stop at amazing Piha Beach, setting of the film The Piano and a favourite for surfers.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
13	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Make sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
14	🚗Paihia to Cape Reinga drive 🚗Cape Reinga to Waipoua Lodge drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 18:00	🏨Waipoua Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua is at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and is where Maori spirits begin their final journey. It offers incredible views of the crashing sea from the lighthouse. On your way to/from here you may want to have a go at sandboarding at the Te Paki dunes.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
15	🚗Waipoua Lodge to Auckland drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel DeBrett (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back to where your adventure began and plenty of time today to see anything you missed on days 2-3 of this New Zealand North itinerary.			The red city circuit bus offers a free hop on hop off service around Auckland city centre every 10 minutes.
16-17	✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this New Zealand North itinerary with the New Zealand South, Australia or Fiji & Samoa itinerary
	Book your shuttle to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Haka Hotel Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the hotel, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚗Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula drive (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 12:00	🏨Andrea’s (Book >)	All hotels >
	Set off after rush hour and, once you arrive in Coromandel, continue on to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Nearby is the picturesque Cathedral Cove. Drive on to Driving Creek for the Driving Creek Railway.			You must park in the direction of the traffic flow in New Zealand, otherwise you’ll get a fine.
5	🚗Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua drive 🚗Rotorua to Taupo drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 19:30	🏨The Reef Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. On the drive down to Taupo, stop off at Kerosene Creek where you can bathe in a naturally-heated stream.			Get changed into swimming things in one of the Rotorua bathrooms – there aren’t any facilities at Kerosene Creek (which is free to enter).
6	🚗Taupo to Napier drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 12:15	🏨The Crown Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the morning visit dramatic Huka Falls, then journey to the wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. You’ll arrive in time to enjoy a tour of the vineyards.			Give yourself plenty of time to get between destinations – you’ll want to stop frequently for beautiful views.
7	🚗Napier to Wellington drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨U Residence Hotel Wellington (Book >)	All hotels >
	Te Papa is worth the drive to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			Fuel stations are few between towns and cities – fill up before setting off.
8	🚗Wellington to New Plymouth drive	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨One Burgess Hill (Book >)	All hotels >
	No doubt you ran out of time to see the sights yesterday, so there’s more time to see more of Wellington today before the long drive to the Ahu Ahu Beach Villas near New Plymouth.			The Department of Conversation provides a wealth of info on hiking.
9	🚗New Plymouth to Tongariro drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:30	🏨Chateau Tongariro (Book >)	All hotels >
	Get up early and head for the hiking trails around the breathtaking Mt Taranaki volcano. In the afternoon take Highway 3 to Midhirst, then the Highway 43 through the gorgeous scenery to Tongariro.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
10	Book your shuttle bus from Whakapapa Village to and from the Tongariro Crossing in advance. Considered one of the best hikes in the world, the Tongariro Crossing requires a full day and a decent level of fitness.			Keep an eye on the weather before setting out and time your walk accordingly.
11	🚗Tongariro to Waitomo drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms.			Invest in a dry bag or waterproof camera to try and capture images of the incredible glow worm caves.
12	🚗Waitomo to Piha drive 🚗Piha to Paihia drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 18:00	🏨Abri Apartments (Book >)	All hotels >
	Break up the long drive to Kerikeri with a stop at amazing Piha Beach, setting of the film The Piano and a favourite for surfers.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
13	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Before embarking on this New Zealand North itinerary make sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
14	🚗Paihia to Cape Reinga drive 🚗Cape Reinga to Whangarei drive	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 18:00	🏨Lupton Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua is at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and is where Maori spirits begin their final journey. It offers incredible views of the crashing sea from the lighthouse. On your way to/from here you may want to have a go at sandboarding at the Te Paki dunes.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
15	🚗Waipoua Lodge to Auckland drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Haka Hotel Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back to where your adventure began and plenty of time today to see anything you missed on days 2-3 of this New Zealand North itinerary.			The red city circuit bus offers a free hop on hop off service around Auckland city centre every 10 minutes.
16-17	✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this New Zealand North itinerary with the New Zealand South, Australia or Fiji & Samoa itinerary
	Book your shuttle to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Haka Lodge (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the lodge, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚌Auckland to Thames bus 🚌Thames to Whitianga bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:50 Dep: 09:55	Arr: 09:40 Arr: 12:10	🏨Turtle Cove (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive in Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, take the shuttle to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Continue on to the picturesque Cathedral Cove.			The shuttle service is a small company, so be sure to book in advance (it’s also cheaper when you travel with more people).
5	🚌Whitianga to Thames bus 🚌Thames to Tauranga bus (Book >)	Dep: 12:25 Dep: 14:20	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 16:10	🏨ArtHouse Accommodation (Book >)	All hostels >
	Journey to the lovely seaside town of Tauranga.			There is a bus to Rotorua today at 17:10 if you don’t fancy an early start tomorrow.
6	🚌Tauranga to Rotorua bus (Book >) 🚌Rotorua to Taupo bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:10 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 08:35 Arr: 14:00	🏨Finlay Jacks Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. In the afternoon visit dramatic Huka Falls near Taupo.			If you don’t want to pay to see the Te Puia hot springs and geysers, there are plenty to see around town for free.
7	🚌Taupo to Napier bus (Book >)	Dep: 13:05	Arr: 15:10	🏨Toad Hall Backpackers (Book >)	All hostels >
	On arrival into Napier hire a bicycle and visit some Hawke’s Bay vineyards.			Church Road and Mission Estate wineries are just 16km away.
8	🚌Napier to Wellington bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:45	Arr: 13:30	🏨The Marion (Book >)	All hostels >
	Te Papa is worth the journey to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			If you’re in Wellington at the weekend then the food market off of Cuba Street offers great food on a budget.
9	🚌Wellington to National Park bus (Book >) 🚐National Park to Whakapapa Village transfer (Book >)	Dep: 07:45 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 13:19 Arr: 14:15	🏨Mangatepopo Hut (Book >)
	Once you arrive into National Park leave the bulk of your luggage with your hostel for night 11, then take the shuttle to Whakapapa Village and begin the Tongrariro Crossing, starting with a walk to Mangatepopo.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
11	🚐Ketetahi to National Park transfer (Book >)	Dep: 14:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨Plateau Lodge (Book >)	All hostels >
	Today you’ll continue on the famous Tongariro Crossing. Book your return shuttle in advance.			Wear plenty of sunscreen – the sun is strong in NZ.
12	🚌National Park to Waitomo Township bus (Book >)	Dep: 13:20	Arr: 15:50	🏨YHA Waitomo Juno Hall (Book >)	All hostels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms. The last tour leaves at 16:00.			Consider becoming a YHA member to save 10% on each YHA stay.
13	🚌Waitomo to Auckland bus (Book >) 🚌Auckland to Paihia bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:47 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 21:29	🏨The Pickled Parrot (Book >)	All hostels >
	Leave your luggage at the bus station and take in more of Auckland’s sights before continuing on to Paihia.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
14	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Before embarking on this New Zealand North itinerary sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
15	Book a day trip to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and where Maori spirits begin their final journey. On the way you’ll stop off at Ninety Mile Beach.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
16-17	🚌Paihia to Auckland bus (Book >) ✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: 10:15 Dep: Evening	Arr: 14:40 Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this New Zealand North itinerary with the New Zealand South, Australia or Fiji & Samoa itinerary
	Book your shuttle to the airport.

🇩🇪 GERMANY

Neuschwanstein castle, Germany - Germany itinerary This is the sort of journey where you will sometimes feel as though you’re in a fairytale, with cute towns, waterfall-strewn mountains and beautiful castles everywhere. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your Germany itinerary:
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Luxury
1	To Berlin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel am Steinplatz (Book >)	All hotels >
	Home of the German national parliament, the Reichstag building and its glass dome is a great way to start your Germany itinerary. Just next to this is the iconic Brandenburg Gate, thought-provoking Holocaust memorial and leafy Tiergarten.			A free walking tour is an excellent way in which to get to know Berlin (don’t forget to tip!)
2	A full day in which to finish seeing the sights of Berlin, starting with the buzzing Gendarmenmarkt. Nearby is the Nazi book burning memorial at Bebelplatz and, just along from there, Museum Island. Alexanderplatz is a short walk from there – here you can take a ride to the top of the Television Tower. A 30 min walk or 15 min taxi ride away is the Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Straße.			A public transport day pass is a good value way of getting about if you don’t wish to walk. The WelcomeCard may also save you money if you plan to visit several sights.
3	🚄Berlin to Hamburg train (Book >)	Dep: 09:40	Arr: 11:24	🏨Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten (Book >)	All hotels >
	Oncde you arrive into Hamburg head straight for Miniatur Wanderland and be awed by the world’s largest miniature railway. Pick up a bargain in bustling Flohschanze market or visit the institutions along Museum Mile, including the Kunsthalle and Deichtorhallen. The Speicherstadt area is fun to wonder around in the evening			Planning to visit all of the Museum Mile museums? The Kunstmeile Card is great value for money.
4	🚄Hamburg to Cologne train (Book >)	Dep: 08:49	Arr: 13:16	🏨Excelsior Hotel Ernst (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the mood for more museums? Museum Ludwig is one of the best in Cologne. If you’re feeling energetic then scale the 500 steps up the tower of magnificent Cologne Cathedral. The Belgian District is a great place to find dinner.			Missed the view on the way in? The Hohenzollern Bridge is an excellent place from which to look over Cologne.
5	🚄Cologne Koblenz train 🚄Koblenz to Boppard train (Book >) ⛴️Boppard to Mainz ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:30 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:16 Arr: 12:44 Arr: 20:30	🏨Hyatt Regency (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around Cologne’s Old Town in the morning then take the train to Boppard from where you will embark on a wonderful cruise down the Rhine to Mainz.			You can start your cruise from Cologne, but this would add an extra day to your trip.
6	🚄Mainz to Mannheim train 🚄Mannheim to Baden-Baden train (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Mainz’s Marktplatz is the place to go for history lovers, lovely cafes and views of the cathedral. Baden-Baden is famous for its spas, so spend the rest of today indulging in its healing waters.			Buying an InterRail pass could be a good way to reduce the price of train travel.
7	Hire a car and spend the day exploring the Black Forest, starting out along the Schwarzwald Hochstrasse road to Triberg			Friedrichsbad is the most famous spa in town – but be prepared to get naked.
8	🚄Baden-Baden to Augsburg train 🚄Augsburg to Füssen train (Book >)	Dep: 07:48 Dep: 11:03	Arr: 10:39 Arr: 12:55	🏨Hotel Sonne (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you arrive in Füssen ditch your bags then walk or take a taxi to the spectacular Neuschwanstein castle.			Book your tickets to the castle in advance.
9	🚄Füssen to Kaufbeuren train 🚄Kaufbeuren to Munich train (Book >)	Dep: 09:05 Dep: 10:08	Arr: 10:00 Arr: 11:06	🏨The Charles Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Marienplatz is the heart of Munich – be here at 11am, midday or 5pm to see the Glockenspiel clock and carousel of dancing figures. Nearby is St Peter’s Church from where you can get great views of the city from the tower. Grab some lunch at Viktualienmarkt then visit the ornate Baroque interior of Asam Church. Walk to the historic Hofbräuhaus and sample some local nectar, then take a look inside Frauenkirche.			Let a guide take you to the sights and tell you some fascinating tales of the city on a free walking tour.
10	Visit some must-see Munich museums, including Glyptothek, Museum Brandhorst, the popular Deutsches Museum, the fascinating and emotive NS-Dokumentationszentrum and the huge collection of art in Pinakothek. In need of some air? The Englischer Garten is a lovely park and features the Eisbachwelle – a wave on a swift river that attracts surfers.			Many of Munich’s museums are free or just €1 on Sundays.
11	🚄Munich to Freilassing train 🚄Freilassing to Berchtesgaden train (Book >)	Dep: 09:55 Dep: 11:40	Arr: 11:33 Arr: 12:28	🏨Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Berchtesgaden is a scenic town in the mountains, from where you can hike, take bus #839, 841 or 843 to nearby Lake Königssee, or get to the top of the Eagle’s Nest.			As a visitor to Berchtesgaden you pay visitor tax, but this also gets you a free ‘Kurkarte’ touist card which can be used on most local buses.
12	🚄Berchtesgaden to Freilassing train 🚄Freilassing to Munich train (Book >)	Dep: 15:32 Dep: 16:24	Arr: 16:20 Arr: 18:06	🏨The Charles Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time today to see the Berchtesgaden sights you missed out on yesterday.			Try a delicious local Knödel (dumpling).
13	Munich to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Evening Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Germany itinerary with the France, Belgium, Austria & Munich or Poland & Slovakia itinerary
	Cheapest return trains go via Frankfurt and Brussels.
Mid-range
1	To Berlin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Boutique Hotel i31 (Book >)	All hotels >
	Home of the German national parliament, the Reichstag building and its glass dome is a great way to start your Germany itinerary. Just next to this is the iconic Brandenburg Gate, thought-provoking Holocaust memorial and leafy Tiergarten.			A free walking tour is an excellent way in which to get to know Berlin (don’t forget to tip!)
2	A full day in which to finish seeing the sights of Berlin, starting with the buzzing Gendarmenmarkt. Nearby is the Nazi book burning memorial at Bebelplatz and, just along from there, Museum Island. Alexanderplatz is a short walk from there – here you can take a ride to the top of the Television Tower. A 30 min walk or 15 min taxi ride away is the Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Straße.			A public transport day pass is a good value way of getting about if you don’t wish to walk. The WelcomeCard may also save you money if you plan to visit several sights.
3	🚄Berlin to Hamburg train (Book >)	Dep: 09:40	Arr: 11:24	🏨Hotel Volksschule (Book >)	All hotels >
	Oncde you arrive into Hamburg head straight for Miniatur Wanderland and be awed by the world’s largest miniature railway. Pick up a bargain in bustling Flohschanze market or visit the institutions along Museum Mile, including the Kunsthalle and Deichtorhallen. The Speicherstadt area is fun to wonder around in the evening			Planning to visit all of the Museum Mile museums? The Kunstmeile Card is great value for money.
4	🚄Hamburg to Cologne train (Book >)	Dep: 08:49	Arr: 13:16	🏨Stern am Rathaus (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the mood for more museums? Museum Ludwig is one of the best in Cologne. If you’re feeling energetic then scale the 500 steps up the tower of magnificent Cologne Cathedral. The Belgian District is a great place to find dinner.			Missed the view on the way in? The Hohenzollern Bridge is an excellent place from which to look over Cologne.
5	🚄Cologne Koblenz train 🚄Koblenz to Boppard train (Book >) ⛴️Boppard to Mainz ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:30 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:16 Arr: 12:44 Arr: 20:30	🏨Hotel Hammer (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around Cologne’s Old Town in the morning then take the train to Boppard from where you will embark on a wonderful cruise down the Rhine to Mainz.			You can start your cruise from Cologne, but this would add an extra day to your trip.
6	🚄Mainz to Mannheim train 🚄Mannheim to Baden-Baden train (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨Hotel Rebstock (Book >)	All hotels >
	Mainz’s Marktplatz is the place to go for history lovers, lovely cafes and views of the cathedral. Baden-Baden is famous for its spas, so spend the rest of today indulging in its healing waters.			Buying an InterRail pass could be a good way to reduce the price of train travel.
7	Hire a car and spend the day exploring the Black Forest, starting out along the Schwarzwald Hochstrasse road to Triberg			Friedrichsbad is the most famous spa in town – but be prepared to get naked.
8	🚄Baden-Baden to Augsburg train 🚄Augsburg to Füssen train (Book >)	Dep: 07:48 Dep: 11:03	Arr: 10:39 Arr: 12:55	🏨Hotel Sonne (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you arrive in Füssen ditch your bags then walk or take a taxi to the spectacular Neuschwanstein castle.			Book your tickets to the castle in advance.
9	🚄Füssen to Kaufbeuren train 🚄Kaufbeuren to Munich train (Book >)	Dep: 09:05 Dep: 10:08	Arr: 10:00 Arr: 11:06	🏨Aloft (Book >)	All hotels >
	Marienplatz is the heart of Munich – be here at 11am, midday or 5pm to see the Glockenspiel clock and carousel of dancing figures. Nearby is St Peter’s Church from where you can get great views of the city from the tower. Grab some lunch at Viktualienmarkt then visit the ornate Baroque interior of Asam Church. Walk to the historic Hofbräuhaus and sample some local nectar, then take a look inside Frauenkirche.			Let a guide take you to the sights and tell you some fascinating tales of the city on a free walking tour.
10	Visit some must-see Munich museums, including Glyptothek, Museum Brandhorst, the popular Deutsches Museum, the fascinating and emotive NS-Dokumentationszentrum and the huge collection of art in Pinakothek. In need of some air? The Englischer Garten is a lovely park and features the Eisbachwelle – a wave on a swift river that attracts surfers.			Many of Munich’s museums are free or just €1 on Sundays.
11	🚄Munich to Freilassing train 🚄Freilassing to Berchtesgaden train (Book >)	Dep: 09:55 Dep: 11:40	Arr: 11:33 Arr: 12:28	🏨Alpinhotel Berchtesgaden (Book >)	All hotels >
	Berchtesgaden is a scenic town in the mountains, from where you can hike, take bus #839, 841 or 843 to nearby Lake Königssee, or get to the top of the Eagle’s Nest.			As a visitor to Berchtesgaden you pay visitor tax, but this also gets you a free ‘Kurkarte’ touist card which can be used on most local buses.
12	🚄Berchtesgaden to Freilassing train 🚄Freilassing to Munich train (Book >)	Dep: 15:32 Dep: 16:24	Arr: 16:20 Arr: 18:06	🏨Aloft (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time today to see the Berchtesgaden sights you missed out on yesterday.			Try a delicious local Knödel (dumpling).
13	Munich to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Evening Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Germany itinerary with the France, Belgium, Austria & Munich or Poland & Slovakia itinerary
	Cheapest return trains go via Frankfurt and Brussels.
Budget
1	To Berlin (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨EastSeven Berlin Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Home of the German national parliament, the Reichstag building and its glass dome is a great way to start your Germany itinerary. Just next to this is the iconic Brandenburg Gate, thought-provoking Holocaust memorial and leafy Tiergarten.			A free walking tour is an excellent way in which to get to know Berlin (don’t forget to tip!)
2	A full day in which to finish seeing the sights of Berlin, starting with the buzzing Gendarmenmarkt. Nearby is the Nazi book burning memorial at Bebelplatz and, just along from there, Museum Island. Alexanderplatz is a short walk from there – here you can take a ride to the top of the Television Tower. A 30 min walk or 15 min taxi ride away is the Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Straße.			A public transport day pass is a good value way of getting about if you don’t wish to walk. The WelcomeCard may also save you money if you plan to visit several sights.
3	🚌Berlin to Hamburg bus (Book >)	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 11:45	🏨Jugendherberge Hamburg-Auf Dem Stintfang (Book >)	All hostels >
	Oncde you arrive into Hamburg head straight for Miniatur Wanderland and be awed by the world’s largest miniature railway. Pick up a bargain in bustling Flohschanze market or visit the institutions along Museum Mile, including the Kunsthalle and Deichtorhallen. The Speicherstadt area is fun to wonder around in the evening			Planning to visit all of the Museum Mile museums? The Kunstmeile Card is great value for money.
4	🚄Hamburg to Cologne train (Book >)	Dep: 08:49	Arr: 13:16	🏨Die Wohngemeinschaft (Book >)	All hostels >
	In the mood for more museums? Museum Ludwig is one of the best in Cologne. If you’re feeling energetic then scale the 500 steps up the tower of magnificent Cologne Cathedral. The Belgian District is a great place to find dinner.			Missed the view on the way in? The Hohenzollern Bridge is an excellent place from which to look over Cologne.
5	🚄Cologne to Koblenz train 🚄Koblenz to Boppard train (Book >) ⛴️Boppard to Mainz ferry (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:30 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:16 Arr: 12:44 Arr: 20:30	🏨Moguntia Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around Cologne’s Old Town in the morning then take the bus to Mainz			You can start your cruise from Cologne, but this would add an extra day to your trip.
6	🚄Mainz to Mannheim train 🚄Mannheim to Baden-Baden train (Book >)	Dep: 11:17 Dep: 12:46	Arr: 12:07 Arr: 13:25	🏨Senyu Studio (Book >)	All hostels >
	Mainz’s Marktplatz is the place to go for history lovers, lovely cafes and views of the cathedral. Baden-Baden is famous for its spas, so spend the rest of today indulging in its healing waters.			Buying an InterRail pass could be a good way to reduce the price of train travel (buy before you start this Germany itinerary).
7	🚄Baden-Baden to Triberg train (Book >)	Dep: 13:56	Arr: 15:02	🏨Hotel Garni Central (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy more time in Baden-Baden before travelling to Triberg where you can hike up to a spectacular waterfall and see the world’s largest cuckoo clock.			If you plan to stay here more than one night then an apartment will be better value.
8	🚄Triberg to Ulm train 🚄Ulm to Augsberg train 🚄Augsburg to Füssen train (Book >)	Dep: 06:40 Dep: 10:12 Dep: 11:03	Arr: 09:41 Arr: 10:53 Arr: 12:55	🏨Old Kings Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you arrive in Füssen ditch your bags then walk or take a taxi to the spectacular Neuschwanstein castle.			Book your tickets to the castle in advance.
9	🚄Füssen to Kaufbeuren train 🚄Kaufbeuren to Munich train (Book >)	Dep: 09:05 Dep: 10:08	Arr: 10:00 Arr: 11:06	🏨Wombats City Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Marienplatz is the heart of Munich – be here at 11am, midday or 5pm to see the Glockenspiel clock and carousel of dancing figures. Nearby is St Peter’s Church from where you can get great views of the city from the tower. Grab some lunch at Viktualienmarkt then visit the ornate Baroque interior of Asam Church. Walk to the historic Hofbräuhaus and sample some local nectar, then take a look inside Frauenkirche.			Let a guide take you to the sights and tell you some fascinating tales of the city on a free walking tour.
10	Visit some must-see Munich museums, including Glyptothek, Museum Brandhorst, the popular Deutsches Museum, the fascinating and emotive NS-Dokumentationszentrum and the huge collection of art in Pinakothek. In need of some air? The Englischer Garten is a lovely park and features the Eisbachwelle – a wave on a swift river that attracts surfers.			Many of Munich’s museums are free or just €1 on Sundays.
11	🚌Munich to Berchtesgaden bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 10:20	🏨Jugendherberge Berchtesgaden (Book >)	All hotels >
	Berchtesgaden is a scenic town in the mountains, from where you can hike, take bus #839, 841 or 843 to nearby Lake Königssee, or get to the top of the Eagle’s Nest.			As a visitor to Berchtesgaden you pay visitor tax, but this also gets you a free ‘Kurkarte’ touist card which can be used on most local buses.
12	🚌Berchtesgaden to Munich bus (Book >)	Dep: 17:25	Arr: 20:25	🏨Wombats City Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	More time today to see the Berchtesgaden sights you missed out on yesterday.			Try a delicious local Knödel (dumpling).
13	Munich to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Evening Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Germany itinerary with the France, Belgium, Austria & Munich or Poland & Slovakia itinerary
	Cheapest return trains go via Frankfurt and Brussels.

🇯🇴 JORDAN

Petra, Jordan A Middle Eastern marvel, Jordan offers many rewards for the intrepid traveller, all of which can be enjoyed in just 10 or 11 days. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your Jordan itinerary:
[bws_pdfprint display=’print’]

Luxury
1	✈To Amman (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Fairmont(Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest before starting this Luxury Jordan itinerary.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival.
2	Wander around the cultured streets of Jabal Amman, then see Paris Square, Darat Al Funun and the Khalid Shoman Foundation in Jabal Al Weibdeh. Head to downtown and take a look at the Grand Husseini Mosque and impressive Amman Citadel. Here you’ll also find the famous Roman amphitheatre.			You’ll be visiting a lot of tourist sites – save money by buying a Jordan Pass.
3	🚗Amman to Jerash drive 🚗Jerash to Wadi Musa (Petra) drive (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 13:45	🏨Hotel Mövenpick Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your driver and head north to the see the impressive Roman ruins of Jerash, then begin the journey to Wadi Musa. Relax until the mid-day sun eases off then start to explore the incredible ruins of Petra.			Save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
4	You’ll need a full day to see the rest of Petra’s sights. What not to miss: the water channels of Al-Siq, the Obelisk Tomb and Bab Al-Siq Triclinium, the famous Treasury, the High Palace of Sacrifice, the Urn Tomb and the Al-Deir monastery, at the top of 800 steps.			Avoid riding donkeys in Petra – there are lots of scams and the animal welfare here is questionable.
5	🚗Wadi Musa to Wadi Rum drive	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving after the heat of the day has died down gives you both the opportunity to see more of Petra in the morning as well as to explore the stupendous Wadi Rum in the comfortable heat of late afternoon.			Camping in Wadi Rum can be cold between Nov and Mar – you may want to bring your own sleeping bag.
6	🚗Wadi Rum to Aqaba drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Chill out on Aqaba’s glorious Red Sea beaches.			If taking a taxi make sure the drivers uses the meter.
7-8	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			The Aqaba souk is a good place to get souvenirs, including tea, coffee and spices.
9	🚗Aqaba to Dana Biosphere Reserve drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Feynan Ecolodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Dana Biosphere is the perfect place in which to hike amidst breathtaking landscapes.			You will need a guide to do the White Dome Trail.
10	🚗Dana Biosphere Reserve to Sweimeh (Dead Sea) drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 12:30	🏨Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Float, cover yourself in mud, spend time in the spa…basically, enjoy an indulgent afternoon by the Dead Sea.			Bring something to wear on your feet to and from the water.
11	🚗Sweimeh to Amman airport drive ✈Amman airport to home	Dep: 07:00 Morning	Arr: 08:00 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Jordan itinerary with the Egypt and Western Turkey itinerary
	Flights depart from 10:00.
Mid-range
1	✈To Amman (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Amman International (Book >)	All hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest before starting this action-packed Jordan itinerary.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival.
2	Wander around the cultured streets of Jabal Amman, then see Paris Square, Darat Al Funun and the Khalid Shoman Foundation in Jabal Al Weibdeh. Head to downtown and take a look at the Grand Husseini Mosque and impressive Amman Citadel. Take the bus from North Terminal to Jerash to see the impressive Roman ruins.			You’ll be visiting a lot of tourist sites – save money by buying a Jordan Pass.
3	🚌Amman to Wadi Musa (Petra) bus (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 10:30	🏨B&b Petra Fig Tree Villa (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll need a full day to see the rest of Petra’s sights. What not to miss: the water channels of Al-Siq, the Obelisk Tomb and Bab Al-Siq Triclinium, the famous Treasury, the High Palace of Sacrifice, the Urn Tomb and the Al-Deir monastery, at the top of 800 steps.			Save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
4	🚕Wadi Musa (Petra) to Wadi Rum bus	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨Wadi Rum Beduland (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arriving after the heat of the day has died down gives you both the opportunity to see more of Petra in the morning as well as to then take a taxi to explore the stupendous Wadi Rum in the comfortable heat of late afternoon.			Camping in Wadi Rum can be cold between Nov and Mar – you may want to bring your own sleeping bag.
5	🚕Wadi Rum to Aqaba taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay(Book >)	All hotels >
	Chill out on Aqaba’s glorious Red Sea beaches.			If taking a taxi make sure the drivers uses the meter.
6-7	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			The Aqaba souk is a good place to get souvenirs, including tea, coffee and spices.
8	🚌Aqaba to Qurayqura bus 🚕Qurayqura to Dana Biosphere Reserve transfer	Dep: 12:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Feynan Ecolodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Dana Biosphere is the perfect place in which to hike amidst breathtaking landscapes.			Minibuses to Qurayqura leave from same station as buses to Amman/Petra. Check departure times at the station on the night of day 8. Contact the ecolodge to arrange transport from Qurayqura.
9	🚕Dana Biospehere Reserve to Sweimeh (Dead Sea) transfer	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Holiday Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Float, cover yourself in mud, spend time in the spa…basically, enjoy an indulgent afternoon by the Dead Sea.			Arrange a transfer to the Dead Sea with the Feynan Ecolodge.
10	🚕Sweimeh to Amman airport taxi ✈Amman airport to home	Dep: 07:00 Morning	Arr: 08:00 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Jordan itinerary with the Egypt and Western Turkey itinerary
	Flights depart from 10:00.
Budget
1	✈To Amman (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Nomads Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest before starting this action-packed Jordan itinerary.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival.
2	Wander around the cultured streets of Jabal Amman, then see Paris Square, Darat Al Funun and the Khalid Shoman Foundation in Jabal Al Weibdeh. Take the bus from North Terminal to Jerash to see the impressive Roman ruins.			You’ll be visiting a lot of tourist sites – save money by buying a Jordan Pass.
3	Take a day trip to the Dead Sea by catching a bus from Mujaharin bus station to Rame and then a cheap taxi to Amman Beach.			Bring something to wear on your feet to and from the water.
4	🚌Amman to Wadi Musa (Petra) bus (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 10:30	🏨Petra Gate Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You’ll need a full day to see the rest of Petra’s sights. What not to miss: the water channels of Al-Siq, the Obelisk Tomb and Bab Al-Siq Triclinium, the famous Treasury, the High Palace of Sacrifice, the Urn Tomb and the Al-Deir monastery, at the top of 800 steps.			As soon as you arrive in Petra, ask your hotel to help book the bus tomorrow to Wadi Rum – it’s important to book in advance.
5	🚌Wadi Musa (Petra) to Wadi Rum bus	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 08:30	🏨Wadi Rum Fire Camp (Book >)	All hostels >
	Shelter from the heat at Wadi Rum with a mint teat, then explore the stupendous Wadi Rum in the comfortable heat of late afternoon. Contact Wadi Rum Beduland in advance for advice on where to meet.			Camping in Wadi Rum can be cold between Nov and Mar – you may want to bring your own sleeping bag.
6	🚌Wadi Rum to highway junction bus 🚌Highway to Aqaba bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 11:00	🏨Hakaia Home (Book >)	All hostels >
	Buses to the highway leave between 08:30 and 09:00 and take 30 mins. At the highway you can wait for any bus or minibus to Aqaba, no more than 1 hour away. Chill out on Aqaba’s glorious Red Sea beaches in the afternoon.			Save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
7-8	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			The Aqaba souk is a good place to get souvenirs, including tea, coffee and spices.
9	🚌Aqaba to Al-Qadisiya bus 🚕Al-Qadisiya to Dana Biosphere Reserve taxi	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 12:00	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 12:10	🏨Dana Moon (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a minibus in the direction of Al-Tafilah and ask to get off at Al-Qadisiya, from where it’s a cheap taxi to Dana. Dana Biosphere is the perfect place in which to hike amidst breathtaking landscapes.			Minibuses to Al-Tafileh leave from same station as buses to Amman/Petra. Check departure times at the station on the night of day 8.
10	🚕Dana Biospehere Reserve Al-Qadisiya taxi 🚌Al-Qadisiya to Amman bus	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 12:00	Arr: 11:40 Arr: 15:00	🏨Nomads Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy a short walk in the reserve before journeying to Amman. Once in the city, head to downtown and take a look at the Grand Husseini Mosque and impressive Amman Citadel.			Take whichever form of transport – bus or minibus – comes first otherwise you may wait a long time!
10	✈Amman airport to home	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Jordan itinerary with the Egypt and Western Turkey itinerary
	Airport buses leave from various locations in Amman. More info here.

🇫🇷 FRANCE

Paris, France - France itinerary Few countries offer as much to see as France. This France itinerary captures the highlights, from must-see Paris, to ancient Carcassonne, to the vineyards of Bordeaux, to Côte d’Azur beaches to the snowy French Alps. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your France itinerary:
[bws_pdfprint display=’print’]

Luxury
1	To Paris (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning	🏨Maison Souquet (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’re in one of the most beautiful capitals on Earth, so get started on this France itinerary straight away by visiting as many sights as you can. Despite the devastating fire, Notre Dame cathedral remains an impressive place to see. Just down river is the famous Louvre museum. Wander back through La Marais neighbourhood to the historic Place De La Bastille. Tonight see a show at the Opéra Garnier.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	Take in the views from Sacré-Coeur in the lovely Montmartre area, hop on the Metro to Père Lachaise cemetery then return to the centre for a visit to Musée d’Orsay. Venture into the Paris Catacombs then end your day atop the Eiffel Tower.			Consider buying a Paris Pass.
3	🚄Paris to Versailles train (Book >) 🚄Versailles to Chartres train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 16:40	Arr: Morning Arr: 17:27	🏨Grand Monarque (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend a little more time in Paris then a few hours in Versailles to see the spectacular palace. You’ll arrive into Chartres with plenty of time for an evening visit to the cathedral.			Versailles Chantiers train station is about 18 minutes by foot to the Palace.
4	🚄Chartres to Bordeaux train (Book >)	Dep: 08:05	Arr: 11:56	🏨Yndo Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into beautiful Bordeaux in time for lunch then depart on a full afternoon tour of the nearby vineyards. The Place de la Bourse is the perfect place to round off an evening.			Hold off on buying wnie until you’ve toured the vineyards, where good deals and even better advice can be had.
5	🚄Bordeaux to Toulouse train (Book >)	Dep: 10:30	Arr: 12:43	🏨La Cour des Consuls Hôtel & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the morning go to Places des Quinconces to see Chateau Trompette, then on to the Cours du Chapeau Rouge to admire the Grand Théatre. In Toulouse stroll along the cloisters of Couvent des Jacobins, stop for a drink in the courtyard of the Bemberg Foundation and take a tour of Basilica of Saint Sernin. The Pont Neuf is a memorable sight at night.			Wait until you find yourself alone in the Couvent des Jacobins – the serenity here is wonderful.
6	🚄Toulouse to Carcassonne train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:25	🏨Hôtel de la Cité (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived into Carcassonne and dropped off your bags, head straight for the citadel ramparts and Château Comtal.			Walk across the Via Domitia for excellent views of the citadel.
7	🚄Carcassonne to Montpellier train (Book >)	Dep: 09:39	Arr: 11:11	🏨Domaine de Verchant (Book >)	All hotels >
	Start in Montpellier’s Place de la Comédie and the awe-inspiring Cathedrale St Pierre. Take tram #3 to the beach or just hang out in the characterful Old Town. In the evening walk along the Promenade du Peyrou to the Château d’eau.			Pickpockets are a problem in many French cities (especially Paris) – remain vigilant.
8	🚄Montpellier to Aix-en-Provence train (Book >)	Dep: 10:14	Arr: 12:40	🏨Le Mas d’Entremont (Book >)	All hotels >
	Today and tomorrow you get to relax in the sublime surroundings of Aix-en-Provence. Peek inside the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur d’Aix-en-Provence and be inspired by the art in Atelier Cézanne. In the evenings stroll along Le Cours Mirabeau.			“Bonjour”, “s’il vous plait”, “merci” – three basic words you should have in your vocabulary.
9	People watch in Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and shop at the Le Grand Marché market (open Tue, Thu, Sat). If the weather’s good then take in the views at Le Terrain des Peintres.			Take a look at these useful tips on how to spot a good bakery in France.
10	🚄Aix-en-Provence to Nice train 🚄Nice to Monte-Carlo train (Book >)	Dep: 08:01 Dep: 11:37	Arr: 11:10 Arr: 12:03	🏨Hotel Hermitage (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Monte Carlo hang out on Larvotto Beach the visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo.			Monaco has many steep hills – save your energy by catching the handy buses.
11	Use Monte-Carlo as your base for visiting the beaches and villages of the Côte d’Azur.			Take bus 112 to visit the cliff top village of Eve.
12	🚄Monte-Carlo to Avignon train 🚄Avignon to Lyon train (Book >)	Dep: 09:33 Dep: 14:28	Arr: 13:28 Arr: 15:29	🏨Hôtel Carlton (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Lyon the Roman Theatre of Fourviére is the oldest in France, after you’ve seen that wander around the Presqu’ile District which contains architectural gems such as the opera house and city hall. Don’t miss taking the tram up to Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica.			Les Halles De Lyon is a great place to pick up some delicious food.
13	🚄Lyon to Bellegarde-sur-Valserine train 🚄Bellegarde to St-Gervais-les-Bains train 🚌St-Gervais to Chamonix bus (Book >)	Dep: 10:38 Dep: 12:09 Dep: 14:06	Arr: 11:58 Arr: 13:56 Arr: 14:38	🏨Hôtel Mont-Blanc (Book >)	All hotels >
	After 4 hours of travel you’ll be up in the magnificent French Alps. Chamonix is a bustling, charming town from which to explore the area.			This site has some excellent hiking suggestions.
14	A full day on which to enjoy some hikes, bicycle rides, rafting etc. in the shadow of Mont Blanc.			The Office de la Moyenne et Haute Montagne near the tourist office is a good place to get hiking advice.
15	🚌Chamonix to Geneva bus (Book >) ✈Geneva to Home (Book >)	Dep: 11:15 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 13:05 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this France itinerary with the Switzerland, Southern France & Andorra, Italy, Belgium or Germany itinerary
	Buses leave at any time from 05:45 if you need to get an earlier flight.
Mid-range
1	To Paris (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Design Secret de Paris (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’re in one of the most beautiful capitals on Earth, so get started on this France itinerary straight away by visiting as many sights as you can. Despite the devastating fire, Notre Dame cathedral remains an impressive place to see. Just down river is the famous Louvre museum. Wander back through La Marais neighbourhood to the historic Place De La Bastille. Tonight see a show at the Opéra Garnier.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	Take in the views from Sacré-Coeur in the lovely Montmartre area, hop on the Metro to Père Lachaise cemetery then return to the centre for a visit to Musée d’Orsay. Venture into the Paris Catacombs then end your day atop the Eiffel Tower.			Consider buying a Paris Pass.
3	🚄Paris to Versailles train (Book >) 🚄Versailles to Chartres train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 16:40	Arr: Morning Arr: 17:27	🏨Grand Monarque (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend a little more time in Paris then a few hours in Versailles to see the spectacular palace. You’ll arrive into Chartres with plenty of time for an evening visit to the cathedral.			Versailles Chantiers train station is about 18 minutes by foot to the Palace.
4	🚄Chartres to Bordeaux train (Book >)	Dep: 08:05	Arr: 11:56	🏨L’ Hôtel Particulier (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into beautiful Bordeaux in time for lunch then depart on a full afternoon tour of the nearby vineyards. The Place de la Bourse is the perfect place to round off an evening.			Hold off on buying wnie until you’ve toured the vineyards, where good deals and even better advice can be had.
5	🚄Bordeaux to Toulouse train (Book >)	Dep: 10:30	Arr: 12:43	🏨Mercure Toulouse Sud (Book >)	All hotels >
	In the morning go to Places des Quinconces to see Chateau Trompette, then on to the Cours du Chapeau Rouge to admire the Grand Théatre. In Toulouse stroll along the cloisters of Couvent des Jacobins, stop for a drink in the courtyard of the Bemberg Foundation and take a tour of Basilica of Saint Sernin. The Pont Neuf is a memorable sight at night.			Wait until you find yourself alone in the Couvent des Jacobins – the serenity here is wonderful.
6	🚄Toulouse to Carcassonne train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:25	🏨Hôtel Pont Levis (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived into Carcassonne and dropped off your bags, head straight for the citadel ramparts and Château Comtal.			Walk across the Via Domitia for excellent views of the citadel.
7	🚄Carcassonne to Montpellier train (Book >)	Dep: 09:39	Arr: 11:11	🏨Hôtel Eurociel Centre Comédie (Book >)	All hotels >
	Start in Montpellier’s Place de la Comédie and the awe-inspiring Cathedrale St Pierre. Take tram #3 to the beach or just hang out in the characterful Old Town. In the evening walk along the Promenade du Peyrou to the Château d’eau.			Pickpockets are a problem in many French cities (especially Paris) – remain vigilant.
8	🚄Montpellier to Aix-en-Provence train (Book >)	Dep: 10:14	Arr: 12:40	🏨Renaissance Aix-en-Provence (Book >)	All hotels >
	Today and tomorrow you get to relax in the sublime surroundings of Aix-en-Provence. Peek inside the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur d’Aix-en-Provence and be inspired by the art in Atelier Cézanne. In the evenings stroll along Le Cours Mirabeau.			“Bonjour”, “s’il vous plait”, “merci” – three basic words you should have in your vocabulary.
9	People watch in Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and shop at the Le Grand Marché market (open Tue, Thu, Sat). If the weather’s good then take in the views at Le Terrain des Peintres.			Take a look at these useful tips on how to spot a good bakery in France.
10	🚄Aix-en-Provence to Nice train 🚄Nice to Monte-Carlo train (Book >)	Dep: 08:01 Dep: 11:37	Arr: 11:10 Arr: 12:03	🏨Hotel Colombus (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Monte Carlo hang out on Larvotto Beach the visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo.			Monaco has many steep hills – save your energy by catching the handy buses.
11	Use Monte-Carlo as your base for visiting the beaches and villages of the Côte d’Azur.			Take bus 112 to visit the cliff top village of Eve.
12	🚄Monte-Carlo to Avignon train 🚄Avignon to Lyon train (Book >)	Dep: 09:33 Dep: 14:28	Arr: 13:28 Arr: 15:29	🏨Parksaône (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Lyon the Roman Theatre of Fourviére is the oldest in France, after you’ve seen that wander around the Presqu’ile District which contains architectural gems such as the opera house and city hall. Don’t miss taking the tram up to Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica.			Les Halles De Lyon is a great place to pick up some delicious food.
13	🚄Lyon to Bellegarde-sur-Valserine train 🚄Bellegarde to St-Gervais-les-Bains train 🚌St-Gervais to Chamonix bus (Book >)	Dep: 10:38 Dep: 12:09 Dep: 14:06	Arr: 11:58 Arr: 13:56 Arr: 14:38	🏨Auberge Du Manoire (Book >)	All hotels >
	After 4 hours of travel you’ll be up in the magnificent French Alps. Chamonix is a bustling, charming town from which to explore the area.			This site has some excellent hiking suggestions.
14	A full day on which to enjoy some hikes, bicycle rides, rafting etc. in the shadow of Mont Blanc.			The Office de la Moyenne et Haute Montagne near the tourist office is a good place to get hiking advice.
15	🚌Chamonix to Geneva bus (Book >) ✈Geneva to Home (Book >)	Dep: 11:15 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 13:05 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this France itinerary with the Switzerland, Southern France & Andorra, Italy, Belgium or Germany itinerary
	Buses leave at any time from 05:45 if you need to get an earlier flight.
Budget
1	To Paris (✈ Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning	🏨The People Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You’re in one of the most beautiful capitals on Earth, so get started on this France itinerary straight away by visiting as many sights as you can. Despite the devastating fire, Notre Dame cathedral remains an impressive place to see. Just down river is the famous Louvre museum. Wander back through La Marais neighbourhood to the historic Place De La Bastille. Tonight see a show at the Opéra Garnier.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	Take in the views from Sacré-Coeur in the lovely Montmartre area, hop on the Metro to Père Lachaise cemetery then return to the centre for a visit to Musée d’Orsay. Venture into the Paris Catacombs then end your day atop the Eiffel Tower.			Consider buying a Paris Pass.
3	🚄Paris to Versailles train (Book >) 🚄Versailles to Chartres train (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 16:40	Arr: Morning Arr: 17:27	🏨Première Classe Chartres Barjouville (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend a little more time in Paris then a few hours in Versailles to see the spectacular palace. You’ll arrive into Chartres with plenty of time for an evening visit to the cathedral.			Versailles Chantiers train station is about 18 minutes by foot to the Palace.
4	🚄Chartres to Bordeaux train (Book >)	Dep: 08:05	Arr: 11:56	🏨Cœur de City Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Arrive into beautiful Bordeaux in time for lunch then depart on a full afternoon tour of the nearby vineyards. The Place de la Bourse is the perfect place to round off an evening.			Hold off on buying wnie until you’ve toured the vineyards, where good deals and even better advice can be had.
5	🚄Bordeaux to Toulouse train (Book >)	Dep: 10:30	Arr: 12:43	🏨La Petite Auberge de Saint-Sernin (Book >)	All hostels >
	In the morning go to Places des Quinconces to see Chateau Trompette, then on to the Cours du Chapeau Rouge to admire the Grand Théatre. In Toulouse stroll along the cloisters of Couvent des Jacobins, stop for a drink in the courtyard of the Bemberg Foundation and take a tour of Basilica of Saint Sernin. The Pont Neuf is a memorable sight at night.			Wait until you find yourself alone in the Couvent des Jacobins – the serenity here is wonderful.
6	🚄Toulouse to Carcassonne train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:25	🏨Millett Guesthouse (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve arrived into Carcassonne and dropped off your bags, head straight for the citadel ramparts and Château Comtal.			Walk across the Via Domitia for excellent views of the citadel.
7	🚄Carcassonne to Montpellier train (Book >)	Dep: 09:39	Arr: 11:11	🏨Forme-hotel & Spa (Book >)	All hostels >
	Start in Montpellier’s Place de la Comédie and the awe-inspiring Cathedrale St Pierre. Take tram #3 to the beach or just hang out in the characterful Old Town. In the evening walk along the Promenade du Peyrou to the Château d’eau.			https://creative.prf.hn/creative/camref:1011l45sM/creativeref:1101l51312
8	🚄Montpellier to Aix-en-Provence train (Book >)	Dep: 10:14	Arr: 12:40	🏨Goclands (Book >)	All hostels >
	Today and tomorrow you get to relax in the sublime surroundings of Aix-en-Provence. Peek inside the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur d’Aix-en-Provence and be inspired by the art in Atelier Cézanne. In the evenings stroll along Le Cours Mirabeau.			“Bonjour”, “s’il vous plait”, “merci” – three basic words you should have in your vocabulary.
9	People watch in Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and shop at the Le Grand Marché market (open Tue, Thu, Sat). If the weather’s good then take in the views at Le Terrain des Peintres.			Take a look at these useful tips on how to spot a good bakery in France.
10	🚄Aix-en-Provence to Nice train (Book >)	Dep: 08:01	Arr: 11:10	🏨Hotel Ajoupa (Book >)	All hostels >
	Stroll along the beach and then visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo.			Monaco has many steep hills – save your energy by catching the handy buses.
11	Use Nice as your base for visiting the beaches and villages of the Côte d’Azur.			Take bus 112 to visit Monte Carlo and the cliff top village of Eze.
12	🚌Nice to Lyon bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:30	Arr: 19:35	🏨Hotelo (Book >)	All hostels >
	In Lyon wander around the Presqu’ile District which contains architectural gems such as the opera house and city hall.			Les Halles De Lyon is a great place to pick up some delicious food.
13	🚄Lyon to Bellegarde-sur-Valserine train 🚄Bellegarde to St-Gervais-les-Bains train 🚌St-Gervais to Chamonix bus (Book >)	Dep: 10:38 Dep: 12:09 Dep: 14:06	Arr: 11:58 Arr: 13:56 Arr: 14:38	🏨La Folie Douce (Book >)	All hostels >
	In Lyon get up early and take the tram up to Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica for stupendous views. After 4 hours of travel you’ll be up in the magnificent French Alps. Chamonix is a bustling, charming town from which to explore the area.			This site has some excellent hiking suggestions.
14	A full day on which to enjoy some hikes, bicycle rides, rafting etc. in the shadow of Mont Blanc.			The Office de la Moyenne et Haute Montagne near the tourist office is a good place to get hiking advice.
15	🚌Chamonix to Geneva bus (Book >) ✈Geneva to Home (Book >)	Dep: 11:15 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 13:05 Arr: Afternoon	Connect this France itinerary with the Switzerland, Southern France & Andorra, Italy, Belgium or Germany itinerary
	Buses leave at any time from 05:45 if you need to get an earlier flight.

https://creative.prf.hn/creative/camref:1011l45sM/creativeref:1101l8042

🇨🇳 CHINA

Shanghai, China - China itinerary A massive country with a huge population and millennia of history – there’s a whole lot to see in fascinating and friendly China. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your China itinerary:
[bws_pdfprint display=’print’]

Luxury
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Four Seasons (Book >)	All hotels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight.
3	Your first full day of this China itinerary. Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Commune By The Great Wall (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi to the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨Fairmont Peace (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨W Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Golden Summit Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi from Emeishan station to Baogou Temple and from there a bus to Leidong Ping. Here you can ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit and your hotel for the night.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 16:54	Arr: 18:15	🏨The Ritz Carlton (Book >)	All hotels >
	Explore the Golden Summit and hikes nearby, then return to Leidong Ping via cable car and Baogou on the bus. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Niccolo (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00 (call to book).			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚕Guilin to Yangshuo taxi	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Banyan Tree(Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Ask the taxi driver to take the highway and pay them the additional toll fee.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨The Upper House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			A filter water bottle will come in handy when visiting China and Hong Kong.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Trans-Mongolian, Laos, Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel East (Book >)	All hotels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight.
3	Your first full day of this China itinerary. Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Delight Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi to the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨Le Méridien Minhang (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨Hotel Tang Dynasty West Market (Book >)	All hotels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Baoguo Temple (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take bus 5A to Baogou Temple. You’ll then have the rest of the day to hike in the Emei Shan national park. Tonight you’ll stay in a working monastery which, whilst perhaps not the most comfortable experience, will certainly be memorable.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus to Leidong Ping, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 19:25	Arr: 20:46	🏨Shimao Yuluxe (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a bus to Leidong Ping then ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit Return to Baoguo to collect your bags and head to the station. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00 (call to book).			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚕Guilin to Yangshuo taxi	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Yangshuo Mountain Nest (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Ask the taxi driver to take the highway and pay them the additional toll fee.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨The T (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			A filter water bottle will come in handy when visiting China and Hong Kong.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Laos, Trans-Mongolian, Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Kellys Courtyard (Book >)	All hostels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight in this beautiful hostel located in a traditional Hutong.
3	Your first full day of this China itinerary. Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Great Wall Cao’s Courtyard Hostel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take either metro line 4 to Beigongmen station or 10 to Bagou station and visit the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨The Phoenix (Book >)	All hostels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨Hantang Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Baoguo Temple (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take bus 5A to Baogou Temple. You’ll then have the rest of the day to hike in the Emei Shan national park. Tonight you’ll stay in a working monastery which, whilst perhaps not the most comfortable experience, will certainly be memorable.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus to Leidong Ping, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 19:25	Arr: 20:46	🏨POSHPACKER FlipFlop Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a bus to Leidong Ping then ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit Return to Baoguo to collect your bags and head to the station. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Onboard the ship
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise (book here) along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00.			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚌Guilin to Yangshuo bus	Dep: Morning Dep: 13:30/15:30	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 14:50/16:50	🏨Yangshuo Sudder Street Guesthouse (Book >)	All hostels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Buy shuttle bus tickets from the ticket offices near the airport bus stops.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨Wontonmeen (Book >)	All hostels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			Many Hong Kong museums are free to enter on Wednesdays.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Laos, Trans-Mongolian, Cambodia, Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.

🇵🇹 PORTUGAL

Sintra, Portugal - Portugal itinerary Portugal remains excellent value for money and, with this 8-day Portugal itinerary, you’re sure to come away with some wonderful memories. Read about how this Portugal itinerary was put together in The Plan Workshop. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your Portugal itinerary:
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Luxury
1	✈To Lisbon (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Avenida Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	What to do in Lisbon? Wander around the pretty streets, eat pasteis de nata (I think Manteigaria is the best), taking in Belem and the impressive Padrão dos Descobrimentos sculpture on the waterfront.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	🚄Lisbon to Sintra train (Book >)	Dep: 10:58	Arr: 11:45	🏨Sintra Marmoris Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a tram up to Castelo de Sao Jorge in Lisbon then catch a train to Sintra and visit the spectacular palaces including Pena and the Palace Of Sintra. If you’ve time then walk up to the Castle of the Moors. You may want to stay overnight and visit the beaches of Praia da Ursa and Praia da Adraga.			Bairro Alto in Lisbon is the place to hear Fado music. Tasca do Chico is a great place to go if you don’t want to eat.
3	🚄Sintra to Lisbon Sete Rios train (Book >) 🚄Lisbon Sete Rios to Évora train (Book >)	Dep: 10:56 Dep: 11:45	Arr: 11:32 Arr: 13:35	🏨Convento do Espinheiro (Book >)	All hotels >
	See any sights you missed in Sintra then depart for Évora. Once a Roman trading town, Évora still retains traces of this civilisation, including at the Diana Temple. The Bone Chapel makes for a spooky visit and the aqueduct is also well worth seeing.			Get lost in the Old Quarter – it’s the best way to get to know the city and you only need to head uphill to find yourself back at the Diana Temple.
4	🚄Evora to Lisbon Entrecampos train (Book >) 🚌Lisbon Campo Grande to Obidos bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:06 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 10:27 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real D’Óbidos (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk around Obidos’s town walls making sure not to miss the gorgeous Porta da Vila. Soak up the atmosphere on the town’s cobbled streets.			The Rapida Verde bus for Obidos is on Rua Actor Antonio Silva.
5	🚄Obidos to Coimbra train (More info >)	Dep: 11:03	Arr: 13:12	🏨Sapientia Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	Easily explored on foot, Coimbra’s highlights include the university, Biblioteca Joanina, the old cathedral and the charming medieval downtown. Don’t miss the monasteries of Santa Clara-a-Velha and Santa Cruz.			Tickets between Obidos and Coimbra cannot be booked in advance.
6	🚄Coimbra to Porto train (Book >)	Dep: 09:31	Arr: 10:46	🏨InterContinental Palacio das Cardosas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Browse the books in Porto’s Livraria Lello, take in the view from Dom Luis I Bridge, visit the Palácio da Bolsa and scale the Torre dos Clérigos before visiting a port wine cellar in Gaia.			Porto is famous for its azulejo tiles – keep an eye out for them when exploring the city (especially in the train station’s portico).
7	Today take a cruise down the Douro River which will take in the Carrapatelo and Crestuma-Lever dams and the charming Douro Valley town of Régua from where you’ll return to Porto.			From Porto you can also embark on multi-day cruises down the Douro all the way to Spain.
8	✈Porto to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Portugal itinerary with the France, Andalucia or Southern France & Andorra itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Lisbon (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Britania (Book >)	All hotels >
	What to do in Lisbon? Wander around the pretty streets, eat pasteis de nata (I think Manteigaria is the best), taking in Belem and the impressive Padrão dos Descobrimentos sculpture on the waterfront.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	🚄Lisbon to Sintra train (Book >)	Dep: 10:58	Arr: 11:45	🏨Sintra Bliss House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a tram up to Castelo de Sao Jorge in Lisbon then catch a train to Sintra and visit the spectacular palaces including Pena and the Palace Of Sintra. If you’ve time then walk up to the Castle of the Moors. You may want to stay overnight and visit the beaches of Praia da Ursa and Praia da Adraga.			Bairro Alto in Lisbon is the place to hear Fado music. Tasca do Chico is a great place to go if you don’t want to eat.
3	🚄Sintra Sete Rios train (Book >) 🚄Lisbon Sete Rios to Évora train (Book >)	Dep: 10:56 Dep: 11:45	Arr: 11:32 Arr: 13:35	🏨Évora Olive Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	See any sights you missed in Sintra then depart for Évora. Once a Roman trading town, Évora still retains traces of this civilisation, including at the Diana Temple. The Bone Chapel makes for a spooky visit and the aqueduct is also well worth seeing.			Get lost in the Old Quarter – it’s the best way to get to know the city and you only need to head uphill to find yourself back at the Diana Temple.
4	🚄Evora to Lisbon Entrecampos train (Book >) 🚌Lisbon Campo Grande to Obidos bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:06 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 10:27 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real D’Óbidos (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk around Obidos’s town walls making sure not to miss the gorgeous Porta da Vila. Soak up the atmosphere on the town’s cobbled streets.			The Rapida Verde bus for Obidos is on Rua Actor Antonio Silva.
5	🚄Obidos to Coimbra train (More info >)	Dep: 11:03	Arr: 13:12	🏨Sapientia Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	Easily explored on foot, Coimbra’s highlights include the university, Biblioteca Joanina, the old cathedral and the charming medieval downtown. Don’t miss the monasteries of Santa Clara-a-Velha and Santa Cruz.			Tickets between Obidos and Coimbra cannot be booked in advance.
6	🚄Coimbra to Porto train (Book >)	Dep: 09:31	Arr: 10:46	🏨Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Browse the books in Porto’s Livraria Lello, take in the view from Dom Luis I Bridge, visit the Palácio da Bolsa and scale the Torre dos Clérigos before visiting a port wine cellar in Gaia.			Porto is famous for its azulejo tiles – keep an eye out for them when exploring the city (especially in the train station’s portico).
7	Today take a cruise down the Douro River which will take in the Carrapatelo and Crestuma-Lever dams and the charming Douro Valley town of Régua from where you’ll return to Porto.			From Porto you can also embark on multi-day cruises down the Douro all the way to Spain (if you’ve time to extend your Portugal itinerary).
8	✈Porto to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Portugal itinerary with the France, Andalucia or Southern France & Andorra itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Lisbon (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Home Lisbon Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	What to do in Lisbon? Wander around the pretty streets, eat pasteis de nata (I think Manteigaria is the best), taking in Belem and the impressive Padrão dos Descobrimentos sculpture on the waterfront.			The Metro is the quickest and cheapest way of getting to the centre from the airport.
2	🚄Lisbon to Sintra train (Book >)	Dep: 10:58	Arr: 11:45	🏨Casa Azul Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a tram up to Castelo de Sao Jorge in Lisbon then catch a train to Sintra and visit the spectacular palaces including Pena and the Palace Of Sintra. If you’ve time then walk up to the Castle of the Moors. You may want to stay overnight and visit the beaches of Praia da Ursa and Praia da Adraga.			Lisbon’s Bairro Alto is the place to hear Fado music. Tasca do Chico is a great place to go if you don’t want to eat.
3	🚄Sintra Sete Rios train (Book >) 🚄Lisbon Sete Rios to Évora train (Book >)	Dep: 10:56 Dep: 11:45	Arr: 11:32 Arr: 13:35	🏨Pousada De Juventude (Book >)	All hostels >
	See any sights you missed in Lisbon then depart for Évora. Once a Roman trading town, Évora still retains traces of this civilisation, including at the Diana Temple. The Bone Chapel makes for a spooky visit and the aqueduct is also well worth seeing.			Get lost in the Old Quarter – it’s the best way to get to know the city and you only need to head uphill to find yourself back at the Diana Temple.
4	🚄Evora to Lisbon Entrecampos train (Book >) 🚌Lisbon Campo Grande to Obidos bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:06 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 10:27 Arr: 12:00	🏨Hostel Argonauta (Book >)	All hostels >
	Walk around Obidos’s town walls making sure not to miss the gorgeous Porta da Vila. Soak up the atmosphere on the town’s cobbled streets.			The Rapida Verde bus for Obidos is on Rua Actor Antonio Silva.
5	🚄Obidos to Coimbra train (More info >)	Dep: 11:03	Arr: 13:12	🏨Penedo Da Saudade – Suites & Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Easily explored on foot, Coimbra’s highlights include the university, Biblioteca Joanina, the old cathedral and the charming medieval downtown. Don’t miss the monasteries of Santa Clara-a-Velha and Santa Cruz.			Tickets between Obidos and Coimbra cannot be booked in advance.
6	🚄Coimbra to Porto train (Book >)	Dep: 09:31	Arr: 10:46	🏨PILOT Design Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Browse the books in Porto’s Livraria Lello, take in the view from Dom Luis I Bridge, visit the Palácio da Bolsa and scale the Torre dos Clérigos before visiting a port wine cellar in Gaia.			Porto is famous for its azulejo tiles – keep an eye out for them when exploring the city (especially in the train station’s portico).
7	Today take a cruise down the Douro River which will take in the Carrapatelo and Crestuma-Lever dams and the charming Douro Valley town of Régua from where you’ll return to Porto.			Café Majestic is a bit of a tourist trap, instead wander the side streets and stop in whichever takes your fancy.
8	✈Porto to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Portugal itinerary with the France, Andalucia or Southern France & Andorra itinerary
	Purple Metro Line E runs to the airport.

🇲🇦 MOROCCO

Meknes, Morocco Morocco is one of those countries that frequently found itself at the crossroads of history. This is evident in the many ancient and exotic towns and cities. It’s also a great place from which to dip your toes into the Sahara. It also oozes with culture, amazing food and culture. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.
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Here’s your Morocco itinerary:
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Luxury
1	✈To Casablanca (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Le Doge (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll get to your hotel late in the evening, time to relax after your journey. You can connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary by taking the ferry to Tangiers then train to Casablanca.			Many countries have visa-free access to Morocco.
2	Begin with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest in the world. Stroll along La Corniche then try not to get lost in the Old Medina. Close to the New Medina is the grand King’s Palace (which you can only admire from the outside!)			Dress conservatively, especially if you’re a woman and especially when visiting religious buildings.
3	🚗Casablanca to Rabat drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 10:00	🏨Villa Mandarine (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet with your personal driver who will guide you for the rest of your visit. In Rabat the must-see sights include the medieval city-within-a-city Chellah, the incomplete but intricately beautiful Hassan Tower, the verdant Andalusian gardens, the Old Medina and the amazing views from Kasbah des Oudaias.			Haggling is expected. If you’re willing to dedicate time, you may be able to get up to 50% off asking price but try to go in with a price in mind.
4	🚗Rabat to Meknes drive	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨ChÂteau Roslane Boutique & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a couple more hours in Rabat to see anything you couldn’t get to yesterday. Your driver will then take you to the old imperial city of Meknes where you’ll arrive in time for lunch. Wander around Heri es-Souani and the Borj Belkari Tower, taking in the city walls and monumental gates of the old city.			Many shops in the souks and medinas will only accept cash.
5	🚗Meknes to Fes drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 10:00	🏨Riad Fes Maya Suite & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the library in Fes’s Al Quaraouiyine which, having been built in 859 AD, was considered the oldest university in the world before its conversion to a mosque. Take a look at the oldest tannery in the world at Chouara. Founded in AD 1351-56, the Medersa Bou Inania is an architectural work of art. Pick up some spices in Al-Attarine Madrasa then head up to the Merenid Tombs for sunset.			Take something to cover your nose at the tannery – it’s a very smelly place.
6	🚗Fes to Merzouga drive	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Riad Azawad (Book >)	All hotels >
	Today your driver will take you to the desert village of Merzouga. Here you can visit the gargantuan dunes of Erg Chebbi which are best explored on a camel safari.			Don’t use an ATV to see the dunes – they ruin the tranquility for yourself and others.
7	🚗Merzouga to Tinerhir drive	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Riad Timadrouine (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend the afternoon hiking in the dramatic Todra Gorge and visit the beautiful Todra Oasis.			Lost? Just follow the donkey droppings!
8	🚗Tinerhir to Ouarzazate drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Le Temple Des Arts (Book >)	All hotels >
	Ouarzazate is a spectacular desert town and has featured in many movies. It’s best explored on foot and the main square is a buzzing place to be at sunset.			Taourirt Kasbah is best viewed from the outside – no need to pay the entry fee.
9	🚗Ouarzazate to Ait Ben Haddou drive 🚗Ait Ben Haddou to Marrakech drive	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 19:00	🏨Riad Kheirredine (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your drive to Marrakech will be broken up with a small diversion to the mud brick town of Ait Ben Haddou. Climb up to the Granary for the best views. You’ll then continue on through the High Atlas and arrive in Marrakech in time for dinner.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
10-11	The souks adjacent to Djemaa El-Fna square are an excellent place to get lost and pick up some souvenirs. Admire the magnificent minaret of Koutoubia Mosque and admire the wonderful art and architecture in Ben Youssef Madrassa. Relax in a hammam and escape the bustle in the Majorelle Gardens. Djemaa El-Fna square is the place to be at sunset.			It can get cold here at night, particularly in winter – remember to pack layers.
12	🚗Marrakech to Essaouira drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨L’Heure Bleue Palais (Book >)	All hotels >
	Essaouira is a relaxed seaside city which has impressive ramparts along which you can walk. The strong winds here mean that you can often see kitesurfers and windsurfers.			The Medina is free from most traffic but watch out for mopeds.
13	✈Essaouira to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport. Full-service flights depart from Marrakech and so you may want to return there today.
Mid-range
1	✈To Casablanca (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Odyssee Center (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll get to your hotel late in the evening, time to relax after your journey. You can connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary by taking the ferry to Tangiers then train to Casablanca.			Many countries have visa-free access to Morocco.
2	Begin with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest in the world. Stroll along La Corniche then try not to get lost in the Old Medina. Close to the New Medina is the grand King’s Palace (which you can only admire from the outside!)			Dress conservatively, especially if you’re a woman and especially when visiting religious buildings.
3	🚌Casablanca to Rabat bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 10:15	🏨Riad Kalaa (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Rabat the must-see sights include the medieval city-within-a-city Chellah, the incomplete but intricately beautiful Hassan Tower, the verdant Andalusian gardens, the Old Medina and the amazing views from Kasbah des Oudaias.			Haggling is expected. If you’re willing to dedicate time, you may be able to get up to 50% off asking price but try to go in with a price in mind.
4	🚄Rabat to Meknes train (Book >)	Dep: 11:37	Arr: 13:50	🏨Riad Lahboul (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a couple more hours in Rabat to see anything you couldn’t get to yesterday, then take the train to the old imperial city of Meknes. Wander around Heri es-Souani and the Borj Belkari Tower, taking in the city walls and monumental gates of the old city.			Many shops in the souks and medinas will only accept cash.
5	🚄Meknes to Fes train (Book >)	Dep: 09:54	Arr: 10:35	🏨Riad El Yacout (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the library in Fes’s Al Quaraouiyine which, having been built in 859 AD, was considered the oldest university in the world before its conversion to a mosque. Pick up some spices in Al-Attarine Madrasa then head up to the Merenid Tombs for sunset.			Take something to cover your nose at the tannery – it’s a very smelly place.
6	🚌Fes to Marrakech bus (Book >)	Dep: 22:45		🏨On bus	All hotels >
	Take a look at the oldest tannery in the world at Chouara. Founded in AD 1351-56, the Medersa Bou Inania is an architectural work of art.			Take earplugs and eye shades for the overnight bus.
7	🚌Fes to Marrakech bus		Arr: 06:00	🏨Riad le Clos des Arts (Book >)	All hotels >
	The souks adjacent to Djemaa El-Fna square are an excellent place to get lost and pick up some souvenirs. Take a couple of hours to relax in a hammam.			It can get cold here at night, particularly in winter – remember to pack layers.
8	🚌Marrakech to Zagora bus 🐫Zagora to desert (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: Late afternoon	🏨Desert camp (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your private tour will go via Ouarzazate – a spectacular desert town which has featured in many movies and is best explored on foot. The tour then goes to Zagora where you’ll ride a camel to your desert camp.			Taourirt Kasbah is best viewed from the outside – no need to pay the entry fee.
9	🐫Desert to Zagora 🚌Zagora to Marrakech bus (Book >)	Dep: Sunrise	Arr: Late afternoon	🏨Riad le Clos des Arts (Book >)	All hotels >
	The return to Marrakech will be broken up with another visit to Ouazarzate. You’ll then continue on through the High Atlas and arrive in Marrakech in time for dinner.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
10	Admire the magnificent minaret of Koutoubia Mosque and then take in the wonderful art and architecture in Ben Youssef Madrassa. Relax in a hammam and escape the bustle in the Majorelle Gardens. Djemaa El-Fna square is the place to be at sunset.			The Maison de la Photographie has amazing views from its rooftop café.
11	🚌Marrakech to Essaouira bus (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Villa Quieta (Book >)	All hotels >
	Essaouira is a relaxed seaside city which has impressive ramparts along which you can walk. The strong winds here mean that you can often see kitesurfers and windsurfers.			The Medina is free from most traffic but watch out for mopeds.
12	✈Essaouira to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget		s
1	✈To Casablanca (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Central (Book >)	All hostels >
	You’ll get to your hostel late in the evening, time to relax after your journey. You can connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary by taking the ferry to Tangiers then train to Casablanca.			Many countries have visa-free access to Morocco.
2	Begin with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest in the world. Stroll along La Corniche then try not to get lost in the Old Medina. Close to the New Medina is the grand King’s Palace (which you can only admire from the outside!)			Dress conservatively, especially if you’re a woman and especially when visiting religious buildings.
3	🚌Casablanca to Rabat bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 10:15	🏨Kayezer (Book >)	All hostels >
	In Rabat the must-see sights include the medieval city-within-a-city Chellah, the incomplete but intricately beautiful Hassan Tower, the verdant Andalusian gardens, the Old Medina and the amazing views from Kasbah des Oudaias.			Haggling is expected. If you’re willing to dedicate time, you may be able to get up to 50% off asking price but try to go in with a price in mind.
4	🚄Rabat to Meknes train (Book >)	Dep: 11:37	Arr: 13:50	🏨Dar Meknes Tresor (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a couple more hours in Rabat to see anything you couldn’t get to yesterday, then take the train to the old imperial city of Meknes. Wander around Heri es-Souani and the Borj Belkari Tower, taking in the city walls and monumental gates of the old city.			Many shops in the souks and medinas will only accept cash.
5	🚄Meknes to Fes train (Book >)	Dep: 09:54	Arr: 10:35	🏨Hostel Dar Jannat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the library in Fes’s Al Quaraouiyine which, having been built in 859 AD, was considered the oldest university in the world before its conversion to a mosque. Pick up some spices in Al-Attarine Madrasa then head up to the Merenid Tombs for sunset.			Take something to cover your nose at the tannery – it’s a very smelly place.
6	🚌Fes to Marrakech bus (Book >)	Dep: 22:45		🏨On bus
	Take a look at the oldest tannery in the world at Chouara. Founded in AD 1351-56, the Medersa Bou Inania is an architectural work of art.			Take earplugs and eye shades for the overnight bus.
7	🚌Fes to Marrakech bus		Arr: 06:00	🏨Riad Bianca (Book >)	All hostels >
	The souks adjacent to Djemaa El-Fna square are an excellent place to get lost and pick up some souvenirs. Take a couple of hours to relax in a hammam.			It can get cold here at night, particularly in winter – remember to pack layers.
8	🚌Marrakech to Zagora bus 🐫Zagora to desert (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: Late afternoon	🏨Desert camp (Book >)	All hostels >
	Your private tour will go via Ouarzazate – a spectacular desert town which has featured in many movies and is best explored on foot. The tour then goes to Zagora where you’ll ride a camel to your desert camp.			Taourirt Kasbah is best viewed from the outside – no need to pay the entry fee.
9	🐫Desert to Zagora 🚌Zagora to Marrakech bus (Book >)	Dep: Sunrise	Arr: Late afternoon	🏨Riad Bianca (Book >)	All hotels >
	The return to Marrakech will be broken up with another visit to Ouazarzate. You’ll then continue on through the High Atlas and arrive in Marrakech in time for dinner.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
10	Admire the magnificent minaret of Koutoubia Mosque and then take in the wonderful art and architecture in Ben Youssef Madrassa. Relax in a hammam and escape the bustle in the Majorelle Gardens. Djemaa El-Fna square is the place to be at sunset.			The Maison de la Photographie has amazing views from its rooftop café.
11	🚌Marrakech to Essaouira bus (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Riad Sidi Magdoul (Book >)	All hostels >
	Essaouira is a relaxed seaside city which has impressive ramparts along which you can walk. The strong winds here mean that you can often see kitesurfers and windsurfers.			The Medina is free from most traffic but watch out for mopeds.
12	✈Essaouira to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Morocco itinerary with the Andalucia itinerary
	Lima Bus line 2 runs to the airport every 2 hours. You may find it cheaper to return to Marrakech for the flight home.