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You have to blink a few times fast to make sure you are seeing what you are seeing when you visit Bryce Canyon National Park. That’s because the combination of fairy chimneys, amphitheaters, and beautiful pink and orange rock will make you feel like you’ve traveled to another planet. Bryce Canyon National Park sits on Utah Scenic Byway 12 and is part of Utah’s Might 5 National Parks.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a hiker’s paradise, teeming with awe-inspiring trails that offer varied landscapes and difficulty levels. The Fairyland Loop is one of our favorites, winding through the mystical Fairyland amphitheater and showcasing remarkable rock formations. Another trail worth exploring is the Mossy Cave Trail, a less strenuous route leading to a unique water-formed cave. For a captivating journey into Bryce Canyon’s heart, the Navajo Loop Trail is a must, offering dramatic views of the park’s famous hoodoos. Each trail at Bryce Canyon provides a unique experience, promising unforgettable adventures and these are just some of our favorites.

Beautiful Hikes in Bryce Canyon

You can explore Bryce Canyon by visiting an overlook or hiking for the day. The US is full of national parks, but Bryce Canyon National Park has likely got to be one of the most unique. That’s because of the rock formations that sit in the park and these types of formations are found in few other places around the world.

Just the drive alone along Utah Scenic Byway 12 will give you some of the most stunning landscapes you will see in your life. The 2.5-hour drive between Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most gorgeous drives on this scenic highway. Bryce Canyon is also right next to the larger Zion National Park, which means you can combine a visit to Zion, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon national parks for your holiday.

As with many other national parks, you can stay overnight but you will have to get a permit. You can get a permit from the park’s visitors center. There are many short and easy hikes in the part that you can do so you don’t need to stay overnight if you don’t want to.

Up next we’re going to tell you all about the 11 best Bryce Canyon Hikes You Have to Do. Visit the Bryce Canyon National Park Website for conditions, closures, and permit information.

1. Navajo Loop Trail

The Navajo Loop Trail is also its own loop and you can do it without including the Queens Garden Trail. If you want to get down to business and go from the canyon rim to the valley floor then the Navajo Loop Trail is one of the best out of all of Bryce Canyon’s hiking trails for you.

You can get to this spectacular hike from Sunset Point and then go down through the slot canyon of Wall Street and down to the Bryce Amphitheater floor.

As you climb down you’ll see Thor’s Hammer and the Two Bridge’s rock formations. The trail meanders through the natural amphitheater, a spectacle so grand it feels like a different planet. Each step brings with it a new perspective on this alien landscape.

As you crest the rim of the canyon, completing the loop, you are greeted by the sight of the expansive Bryce Amphitheater stretching out beneath you. It is quite the sight. The trail is a 1.4-mile loop but it’s a steep trail back which is why it is often called a more difficult hike than other trails.

• Trail Length: 1.5 Miles (2.4 km) Loop
• Trailhead: Sunset Campground / Sunset Point
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Duration: 1-2 Hours

2. Rim Trail

This is one of the best Bryce Canyon hikes for landscape views of the whole park. The Rim Trail can be a steep climb in sections with an elevation gain of 1754 feet and looking over the rim isn’t for the faint of heart.  The steep descent takes some energy and patience as well.

Setting out from Fairyland Point in the north, the trail starts with a moderate climb. Despite the challenge, the sight of the Bryce Amphitheater in the distance will keep you motivated.

The trail gently undulates, weaving between clusters of ponderosa pine and ancient Douglas firs. Various viewpoints appear along the trail, and each one offers a new perspective of the amphitheater and the labyrinth of red-orange hoodoos below.

The trail then winds towards Sunrise Point, and from here, the Bryce Amphitheater spreads out in all its majesty, a spectacle of natural architecture that’s truly humbling. The trail leading to Sunset Point gets more challenging but not too bad. As you continue on you pass Inspiration Point and Bryce Point until you descend towards Rainbow Point, which is the highest point in the park.

The Rim Trail can be accessed from Fairyland Point or from Bryce Point, which can be accessed on the park’s shuttle. The Rim Trail probably gives you the best views of the spires and hoodoos of the whole amphitheater. You can take the Navajo Loop Trail, the Queen’s Garden Trail, or the Fairyland Loop Trail down into the amphitheater if you want to. 

• Trail Length: 5.5 Miles (9.16 km) – One way Bryce Point to Fairyland Point
• Elevation: 1,754 feet
• Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Notes: You can do this as a round-trip hike or you can park at the shuttle Station and take the shuttle to Bryce Point to hike the trail one way. When returning, flag the shuttle down for a ride back.

3. Sunrise Point – Sunset Point Trail

For an easy hike and a flat one too, this one-mile hike with stunning views of Bryce Canyon National Park is perfect. The trail begins at Sunset Point and goes to Sunrise Point. You walk along the rim of the garden and the walk from one point to the other is just 0.5 a mile.

Along the way, you get expansive views of the canyon and thousands of hoodoos. You can also time it so that you start your walk at sunrise or end it at sunset. Also, know that this trail is paved and wheelchair accessible in the winter months. It’s also the only trail in the park that you can take your pets on. This is a great option if you don’t have the time to do the full Rim Trail.

• Trail Length: .5 Miles (.8 km) – 1-mile return hike. (1.6 km)
• Hiking Time: 30 minutes
• Trailhead: Sunset Point Parking Lot
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Notes: This is the only trail in the park where you can bring your pets.

4. Tower Bridge Trail

The Tower Bridge trail is one of the most popular for people hiking in Bryce Canyon. That’s because it gives you a taste of the different terrain of Bryce Park and it is a relatively easy hike.

The trailhead sits at Sunset Point and from there you can hike out to Tower Bridge. It’s a somewhat moderate 3-mile round trip hike, but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in the spectacle of the landscape.

Named for its resemblance to its namesake in London, the Tower Bridge is a stunning natural rock formation that stands proudly against the skyline. Two huge rock towers, connected by a seemingly precarious arch, make up this natural monument. The size and intricate nature of this structure is a testament to the power of geological forces.

You’ll be dropping down 950 feet and get that elevation gain back as you hike up in a clockwise direction. There are chances of seeing snakes and other wildlife when you hike on the trail. To make it easier on your feet, wear good hiking boots.

• Trail Length 3.0 miles
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Elevation: 802 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Sunrise Point

5. Bryce Point to Sunrise Point

Think of this hiking trail as the buffet of all trails in Bryce Canyon National Park. This hike is 5.4 miles long and will give you a taste of a lot. You can get dropped off at Bryce Point and from there take the pretty hike to Sunset Point and on to the Navajo Loop Trail which will take you below the rim. 

Then you get to drop down into Wall Street, where you will finally understand what an ant feels like in that space between the two pieces of a sidewalk. From there you’ll head to the Queen’s Garden hoodoo and after that, you’ll trek along to Sunrise Point. 

The Queen’s Garden Navajo Loop is considered a moderate hike. It can get slippery so if you have balance issues it would be a good idea to have sticks and hiking boots. 

• Trail Length: 5.4 Miles (8.7km)
• Hiking Time: 2 hours 30 Minutes
• Trailhead: Bryce Point
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

6. Queen’s Garden Trail and Navajo Combination Loop

The Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Trail come together to make a 2.9-mile loop. It has a 629-foot elevation change and gives you views of some of the most iconic points in Bryce Canyon National Park. To do the Queen’s Garden Navajo Loop, you can park your vehicle at the Sunset Point Parking Lot and head onto the Navajo Trail. 

If you come here early enough, it is the perfect spot to see one of the most magical views in the park as the sun rises and lights up all the hoodoos. From the parking lot, you’ll head towards Wall Street, which is essentially a narrow point in the canyon.

From the rim of the canyon, you’ll be able to see Thor’s Hammer, which is one of the famous hoodoos in the park because it looks like the hammer is about to drop any minute. From here you’re going to get on the Queens Garden Trail portion of the loop and there you will see the Queen Victoria hoodoo. The Two Bridges hoodoo will also be along here too.

• Trail Length: 3 Miles (4.7 km)
• Hiking Time: 3 Hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Notes: Start at the Sunrise Trailhead to Queens Garden Trail and hike counter-clockwise to join the Navajo Trail Loop

7. Mossy Cave Trail

This is one of the prettiest trails in Bryce Canyon National Park and it’s one of the easiest. The Mossy Cave trail distance is 1 mile long and you can reach it from the Mossy Cave Trailhead. The trail takes you along a stream and to a grotto. At one point along your path, you have the choice of continuing along the stream.

If you continue with the stream, you will end up at a waterfall and if you go left you, will head into the natural grotto. Although the Mossy Cave Trail is a short hike, you do get a chance to get up close and personal with the hoodoos without actually having to climb down into the Bryce Canyon National Park amphitheater.

• Trail Length: 1 Mile (1.6 km) return
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Notes: This is one of the busier trails in Bryce Canyon NP so arrive early to beat the crowds and to find a parking space.

8. Bryce Point to Bryce Canyon Lodge

If you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park with family members of varying ages, taking the Bryce Point to Bryce Canyon Lodge trail along the canyon rim is a good idea. It is a 2.5-mile hike of a portion of the Rim Trail with a descent of 300 feet.

You can get everyone on the park shuttle and get dropped off at Bryce Point. From here you can walk along and take in the hoodoos and spires of the Bryce Canyon National Park amphitheater. You will pass Inspiration Point on your hike before you end up at Bryce Canyon Lodge. Despite the jaw-dropping views, this is one of the easiest hikes in Bryce Canyon.

• Trail Length: 2.5 Miles (4.02 km) one-way hike
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Notes: Take the shuttle to Bryce Point and end at the lodge

9. The Bristlecone Loop

Bristlecone Point is certainly not one of the crowded trails in Bryce Canyon National Park. That might have to do with the fact that it’s very high up and you’ve got to drive to the trailhead at Rainbow Point. However, the views from Rainbow Point are just spectacular and the views of Bristlecone pine trees are beautiful.

When you get to Rainbow Point, you’ll be climbing up to the highest point in Bryce Canyon National Park at 9100 feet when you get into the thick of the Bristlecone pines. Some people come to the area just to see the Bristlecone pines. Do you know that the oldest ones in the park are 1500 years old?

Bristlecones look unique and can hold onto their pine needles for almost half a century. You can see them during your hike. In fact, hiking in this part of Bryce Canyon National Park can be as difficult or as easy as you want.

The entire park can be seen from lookouts, but hikes like the Bristlecone Loop give you a chance to experience the elevation gain and bring you from the heat of Utah up into the cool temperatures. It’s a good idea to get some hiking boots for the Bristlecone Loop to make it more comfortable for you.

• Trail Length: 1 Mile (1.6 km)
• Trailhead: Rainbow Point
• Difficulty Level: Easy

10. Sheep Creek and Swamp Canyon Trail Loop

This loop trail is 4.1 miles long and is considered a moderate to difficult hike in Bryce Canyon because of the steep climbs at the higher points on the trail. There is an elevation change of 650 feet. The Swamp Canyon Trail is a 1.3-mile trail that has an elevation change of 650 feet.  The trailhead is located at Swamp Canyon Overlook. From here you’re going to be heading out on the rim of the Sheep Creek Canyon.

You’ll be wandering across forest and valley and return along the Swamp Canyon Trail. Although you don’t see much of the hoodoos until the ends of the trail. The wildflowers and meadows in the canyons provide a whole different experience. You can also get a good view of the Bruce Canyon Amphitheatre.

• Trail Length: 4.1 Miles (7.2 km)
• Trailhead: Swamp Canyon Overlook
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

11. Fairyland Loop Trail

The Fairyland Loop Trail is a day hike as it is 8 miles long but it is well worth it as you are walking up close and personal among the hoodoos. The trailhead sits at Fairyland Point which you can reach via shuttle, alternatively, you can also get on the trail from the north campground.

But if you’re not actually staying at the campground then Fairyland Point would be your best bet. The road to the trailhead however is closed in the winter so then you’ll have to get to the trail from Sunrise Point.  You will experience an elevation change of more than 2000 feet. 

The Fairyland Loop hike will take you between Fairy Point and Sunset Point. Sunset Point can also be reached via shuttle. It will take around 5 hours and because of that is one of the more difficult hikes in Bryce Canyon.

• Trail Length: 8 Miles (12.6km)
• Trailhead: Fairland Point
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular hike in Bryce Canyon?

The most popular hike in Bryce Canyon is the Navajo Loop Trail. This trail offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to experience the iconic hoodoos up close and explore the stunning natural amphitheaters of the park. The Navajo Loop Trail is known for its unique rock formations, beautiful vistas, and a relatively moderate level of difficulty.

Where is the best hike to see the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon?

To witness the breathtaking hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, one of the best hikes is the Queen’s Garden Trail. This trail showcases a variety of stunning rock formations, including numerous hoodoos, spires, and colorful cliffs, offering a remarkable and up-close view of Bryce Canyon’s unique landscape.

What is the hardest hike in Bryce Canyon?

One of the most challenging hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park is known as the “Under the Rim Trail.” This extensive trail stretches for approximately 23 miles (37 kilometers) from Rainbow Point to Bryce Point, following the park’s eastern edge.

Which is better for hiking Zion or Bryce?

If you prefer dramatic canyons, river hikes, and a variety of trail options, Zion National Park might be the better choice for you. If you are fascinated by hoodoos and want to explore otherworldly rock formations, Bryce Canyon National Park would be a great fit. Both parks offer remarkable experiences, so if possible, consider visiting both to fully appreciate their unique features and enjoy a diverse range of hiking opportunities.

How to Get to Bryce Canyon National Park

The closest airport to Bryce Canyon is the Cedar City Regional Airport. You can fly from Las Vegas or Salt Lake City to this airport. There is a closer and smaller airport Bryce Canyon Airport that is for charter planes.

We visited Bryce Canyon on a road trip through the American Southwest. Check out CarRentals.com for price comparisons from the city you are leaving from.

The drive to Bryce Canyon is 4 hours from Las Vegas and 4 hours from Salt Lake City. Car rentals can be picked up at Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. Check price comparisons here.

Why not combine a road trip to Bryce Canyon National Park with the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park to see some of the most amazing scenery in the United States?

Best Time to visit Bryce Canyon

Spring is the best time to visit Bryce Canyon as the weather starts to warm up. The snow begins to melt, and wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The trails may still have some patches of snow early in the season, but as spring progresses, the conditions get better. Keep in mind that spring can be unpredictable, and occasional rain showers are possible.

Fall is another beautiful season to visit Bryce Canyon. The temperatures start to cool down, and the park’s foliage turns into stunning shades of red, orange, and gold. The trails are less crowded compared to the summer months, and the weather is generally pleasant for hiking.

Where to Stay near Bryce Canyon

If you’re looking to stay in the park, your best option is The Lodge at Bryce Canyon. If you’re looking to stay outside the park, I highly recommend the ones listed below.

• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn – the closest accommodations to Bryce Canyon National Park. Plus it has  Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools and Spas.
• Bryce View Lodge – Just 3 miles (5.8 km) from Bryce Canyon this is an ideal location at an affordable price.
• Bryce Pioneer Village – 4.7 miles (7km) from Bryce Canyon National Park and offers cabins or hotel rooms.

How to Get Around

The easiest and most flexible way to get around Bryce Canyon is by renting a car or RV. The park has a well-developed road system that provides access to major viewpoints and trailheads. You can drive to various parking areas throughout the park and then hike or walk to the desired destinations.

They also offer a free shuttle service during the peak season (usually from late May to early September). The shuttle runs along the main road, making stops at various points of interest, viewpoints, and trailheads. Utilizing the shuttle allows you to leave your vehicle parked and enjoy the convenience of hop-on, hop-off transportation within the park.

Best Bryce Canyon Tours

If you want to get the most out of visiting the park and don’t really know where to start, these tours can really help. These are the ones we recommend for first-time visitors and hikers.

In conclusion

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a ton of incredible hiking experiences, each one immersing you in its unique and awe-inspiring landscape. Whether you are wanting to get up close with the Hoodoos or just take in the beautiful vistas, there is definitely something for everyone. Take our word for it, once you go hiking in Utah you will want to return again and again. I know we do.

Planning a trip to Sin City is beyond exciting. Everyone can agree that Las Vegas is one of the best places to visit in the US. So the real question is where to stay in Las Vegas. Which neighborhoods should you choose, and what are the best hotels in Las Vegas? There are so many options it can be really overwhelming. So we put together this guide to help you choose the best areas and neighborhoods in Las Vegas to base yourself.

Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas

Whether you want cheap hotels or luxury hotels, a spot on the central strip, or out in the more peaceful Boulder City, we’ve got lots lined up for you. We’ll break down where you stay in Las Vegas by each neighborhood – giving you the pros and cons for each one, plus a handful of top recommendations for hotels. Let’s get started.

1. Las Vegas Strip

Many liken the Las Vegas Strip to a giant theme park. The Main Strip stretches across 6 lanes as a seemingly never-ending avenue. As you’ve seen in the movies, it is all neon lights, grandeur, and casinos. There are famous strip landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains and Eiffel Tower to see. Plus, 24-hour entertainment with clubs by night and pool parties by day.

The Main Strip is an ideally central location within walking distance of nightlife and significant landmarks. If you want the ‘ultimate’ Las Vegas experience, choosing this central strip is an easy call. It feels constantly electric – ideally suited to party animals and enthusiastic Vegas visitors.

Luxury: Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn Las Vegas is a luxe 5-star hotel with a definite dramatic flair. The hotel rooms each have Vegas views; some come with discounted resort fees – like a $50 breakfast credit. While downstairs, scratch the idea of a standard outdoor pool and instead envision a multi-pool oasis connected by lazy rivers.

Of course, there is a full-service spa and shopping onsite (including Chanel and Louis Vuitton stores). And if you want a flutter at the casino, over 1,800 slots and 26 poker tables. Wynn Las Vegas is one of the best hotels for luxury amongst the Main Strip hotels. We love that it is so dramatically luxurious that it has onsite designer stores and oasis-style pools.

Mid-Range: Park MGM Las Vegas

Park MGM Las Vegas is a strong runner-up after Wynn Las Vegas and a fabulous mid-range property. Situated right on Las Vegas Boulevard, it is one of the most centrally located hotels in Vegas – fantastic when considering that you want to be within walking distance of most things on your Las Vegas vacation. The hotel has three swimming pools and a casino, and you can book a hotel room with a Las Vegas Strip view.

Its highlight is its concierge service, with a 24-hour reception to help you book everything – from live entertainment to tickets to the latest parties. And speaking of live entertainment, Park MGM has its own theater onsite, Dolby Live at Park MGM, where you can catch performances and shows. It is one of the few Las Vegas hotels with its own theaters.

Budget: Bungalows Hostel

It is a classic piece of knowledge that the best cheap hotels are actually hostels, and when in Vegas, Bungalows Hostel is the best choice on the central Las Vegas Strip. While admittedly further towards the North Strip, it is worth the extra walk for the budget-friendly prices Bungalows Hostel offers.

With single-sex and mixed-gender dorms available, it is a flexible base for budget travelers. You get all the basics – free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and locker storage facilities. Bungalows Hostel is a fantastic deal and a great bang for your buck.

Pros of Staying on the Las Vegas Strip

• Paris Eiffel Tower
• Classic Las Vegas experience
• Nightlife
• 24-hour entertainment

Cons on the Las Vegas Strip

• Touristy
• Rowdiness at night with lots of partiers
• Crowds
• Expensive

2. South Strip

South Strip is subtly different when choosing where to stay in Las Vegas. Self-explanatorily, it is located south of the Main Strip, closer to McCarran International Airport. And while still heaving with visitors and activity, it isn’t quite as buzzy as the Main Strip. The South Strip leaves a little more breathing room, which is probably preferable if you don’t want to submerge yourself in Las Vegas’s antics. Instead, you’ll find a beautiful selection of iconic resorts and a neater setup of attractions.

Luxury: Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay is situated on its own 11-acre beach. So while you aren’t staying along any coastline when visiting Vegas, you can still enjoy swimming on a ‘real’ sand beach. What is more luxurious than that? Mandalay Bay is one of the best luxury hotels on the South Strip.

It has that real sense of extravagant luxury well suited to Las Vegas’ outlandish atmosphere. Mandalay Bay has some more practical luxuries, like a business conference center and onsite restaurants. Mandalay Bay is a fantastic luxury hotel if you want to base yourself on South Strip and have an experience just by staying in the hotel itself.

Mid-Range: MGM Grand

The light-up exterior of MGM Grand is impossible to miss – as are the giant golden lions. Out of all these Las Vegas hotels, MGM Grand is one of the most striking. The hotel also features many nightclubs and hosts some great pool parties on the pool deck.

And while there is a resort fee to use the facilities, it is worthwhile, especially since the outdoor pools have a lazy river. MGM Grand is outgoing and entertaining; we recommend this hotel if you like partying and want a Vegas experience. As if it couldn’t get any better, it is located right next to T-Mobile Arena – the home ground of the Vegas Golden Knights.

Budget: Luxor Hotel Las Vegas

Luxor Las Vegas is full of character and, in a fun twist, completely Egypt-themed. From the pyramid to mock pharaoh statues, Luxor Hotel provides a Vegas-style take on some of the most iconic scenery in the world. The pyramid rises a staggering 30 stories.

As an even more bizarre addition, guests can also visit a replica of the Titanic. However, most importantly, Luxor Hotel is not just bringing novelty to the table but also budget-friendly prices. It is one of the most reasonable places to book a hotel room on the South Strip.

Pros of Staying on the South Strip

• Close to McCarran International Airport
• Slightly fewer crowds
• Iconic resorts
• Neat layout

Cons Staying on the South Strip

• Further from the attractions on the Main Strip
• Still quite touristy
• Still lots of casinos
• Expensive

3. Downtown Las Vegas/Fremont Street

This Vegas region is where to relax without missing out on attractions. It is pretty on-brand for Vegas to have an area packed with activities and constant entertainment yet still be described as relaxed. So, without further ado, let’s introduce you to the Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street neighborhoods.

We’ve paired Downtown Vegas and Fremont Street together for this guide. Both neighborhoods offer a similar atmosphere and are so close together that their boundaries blur into one area. The atmosphere is historical – like a vintage version of the hectic Main Strip. Fremont was the first paved road in Vegas and dates back to the city’s founding in 1905. So while you can walk under some of the largest collections of neon signs and casinos, there is a historical element to staying in this region.

Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are full of museum-style attractions, not just casinos and partying. You can check out the Fremont Street Experience and Neon Museum, amongst many other bucket-list-worthy things to do. For those deciding where to stay in Las Vegas if they want a cultural experience and a party holiday, Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are perfect.

Luxury: Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is iconic; seriously, where else can you find a waterslide through a shark tank? Golden Nugget is plush and elegant at every corner, with a few novelty quirks like its shark tank for extra allure. Few hotels tread the line so well, even in Vegas.

Regarding facilities and modern amenities, nine onsite restaurants and two Starbucks are on the hotel’s grounds. While for those who want to relax and let their hair down, there is a casino and spa – whichever most take your fancy. Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is a luxurious hotel in Sin City and a brilliant base in Downtown Las Vegas.

Mid-Range: Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

Don’t be fooled; this 3-star hotel is far from a humble place to stay in Downtown Las Vegas. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is home to the Citrus Grand Pool Deck, the largest pool deck in all of Downtown Vegas. It is ideally located just 450 yards from the Fremont Street Experience. It is renowned for its facilities and location and is a fabulous mid-range choice.

Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino has all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of its caliber. You’ll find a casino with slot machines, three onsite restaurants, and a fitness center for health-conscious guests. Comfortable and entertaining, Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is perfect for a Downtown Vegas vacation.

Budget: El Cortez Hotel & Casino

El Cortez Hotel & Casino has been running since 1941 and was a magnet for some of the most famous gamblers visiting Vegas. It has a more impressive historical element than most standard, modern strip hotels. Rather than staying in a glitzy hotel with resort-style pools and over-the-top furnishings, you can opt for a more authentic experience at El Cortez Hotel & Casino.

As a massive plus, the property is also budget-friendly. Surprisingly, it is one of the cheapest properties in Downtown Las Vegas.

Pros of Staying Downtown Las Vegas

• Fremont Street Experience and other museums
• Vintage experience of Las Vegas
• Neon lights and old-style casinos
• More relaxing than the Main Strip

Cons of Staying Downtown Las Vegas

• Touristy
• Busy with crowds
• Expensive
• Gambling heavy

4. Symphony Park

Symphony Park is a brand-new area in Las Vegas. And the so-called ‘Symphony Park neighborhood’ is centered around a 61-acre development full of retail, art, science, and culture venues. Symphony Park development was an investment in Las Vegas as a cultural destination – offering things to do off the strip yet still providing proximity to all the classic landmarks.

Think of Symphony Park as a compromise. The up-and-coming neighborhood is popular amongst those visiting for conferences and meetings (adjacent to the World Market Center Las Vegas and Molasky Corporate Center). However, it is also worth considering amongst regular visitors to Las Vegas who are open to staying somewhere new.

Luxury: Circa Resort & Casino

Is there anything more ‘Vegas’ than an adults-only resort? Circa Resort & Casino is right next to Symphony Park and all its new developments. So if you fancy an adults-only base where you can experience one of Vegas’ latest neighborhoods, you are on to a winner.

The 4-star property has a massive outdoor pool, plus all your expected luxuries like room service and a 24-hour reception. There’s even a hot tub for guest enjoyment. Circa Resort & Casino is the ideal candidate for a luxury stay in Symphony Park and is reasonably priced compared to competitors.

Mid-Range: California Hotel & Casino

California Hotel & Casino is a fabulous mid-range property on the outskirts of Symphony Park with a striking Hawaiian theme. The hotel even serves a traditional ox-tail soup at its onsite restaurant. Apart from the Hawaiian theme, though, California Hotel & Casino has a beautiful rooftop pool with views over Vegas. And, of course, it boasts its own casino – so no commuting to the central strip unless you really want to.

We like the strong sense of character at California Hotel & Casino, and its location is another big tick if you are tempted by the freshness of Symphony Park. This hotel does a brilliant job at ticking off those ‘basic luxuries’ while putting just enough of a stamp of individuality on itself to help it stand out from the crowd.

Budget: Plaza Hotel & Casino

Plaza Hotel & Casino is a budget-friendly option with a short walk from Symphony Park. While the hotel is 4-star, it has some reasonably priced rooms and is one of the best cheaper hotels in this neighborhood. You get free Wi-Fi and brilliant facilities, our favorite of which is a rooftop pool. Its food court is the real winner, providing various meal choices for different budget levels.

Pros of Staying in Symphony Park

• Up and coming
• Off-the-strip entertainment like retail venues
• Close to World Market Center Las Vegas
• Offers new insight into Las Vegas

Cons of Staying in Symphony Park

• Not a traditional area of Las Vegas
• Not on the Las Vegas Strip
• Can be busy
• Not fully established as a neighborhood in its own right yet

5. Boulder City

Boulder City is where to stay in Las Vegas if you want somewhere where the lights and music finish at a reasonable hour. Las Vegas is iconic, but its energy isn’t for everyone. Staying in Boulder City means taking day trips into Las Vegas and returning to serenity and a more peaceful base.

Boulder City is situated past Lake Las Vegas and is famously home to the Hoover Dam and an art deco collection of cafes and hospitality venues. The city has a residential but trendy atmosphere. And Boulder City is just a 30-minute drive from Vegas or around 2 hours by bus if you prefer public transport.

Luxury: Best Western Hoover Dam Hotel

This non-gaming hotel is located right in the middle of Boulder City. The Best Western Hoover Dam Hotel might not seem like the ultimate candidate for a top luxury hotel. Still, it has the best reviews by far in its price bracket. And it absolutely epitomizes that relaxed luxury that Boulder City is all about. You’ve come to Boulder City to escape the flashy hospitality – so kick back with this hotel’s heated indoor pool, spa, and gym facilities.

Mid-Range: Boulder Dam Hotel

Boulder Dam Hotel is a classic hotel with modern amenities. Basically, it’s the ideal mid-range property in Boulder City; moderately priced with comfortable luxuries like an onsite restaurant. Certain rooms offer kitchenettes, or you can stick to the more classic hotel experience by picking a standard room. There is a 24-hour reception too, where you can collect concierge-style advice and top tips for sightseeing in the area.

Budget: Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino

What the Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino lacks in elegance and refinery, it makes up tenfold in value for money. The loveably clunky-looking building is located just outside Boulder City in the nearby town of Railroad Pass. The hotel has a generously sizeable outdoor pool, plus a casino if you fancy a night of gambling without a Las Vegas commute.

True to its budget-friendly title, Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino offers complimentary toiletries and a buffet full of delicious food for a bargain price. And at just a 15-minute drive from Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Park, you are spoiled for choice regarding daytime adventures not involving a trip into Vegas.

Pros of Staying in Boulder City

• Quieter than staying on the central strip
• Near the Hoover Dam
• Art deco style
• Residential atmosphere

Cons of Staying in Boulder City

• A 30 minute drive away from the central strip (or 2 hours on the bus)
• A more residential atmosphere which some may find underwhelming
• Fewer high-status hotels and resorts
• Not as tailored toward tourists

6. Arts District

The Arts District is an absolute cultural hub – and we don’t use that phrase lightly. Think indie. The Arts District is where you should stay in Las Vegas if you want vibrancy and creativity spilling out at every street corner. It is home to some of the city’s leading artistic attractions, including the Arts Factory and Art Square.

This neighborhood is also fabulous for theater shows and boho bars with ridiculously named cocktails and craft beers you definitely won’t recognize. Walking through the district is memorable, with brightly painted buildings and street art galore. In short, to embrace the art culture in Vegas, the Arts District is your best pick.

Luxury: The ENGLiSH Hotel Las Vegas, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The ENGLiSH Hotel Las Vegas is one of our favorite Las Vegas hotels. The property is squeezed into the edges of the incredible Arts District. It is an absolute gem when it comes to visiting nearby galleries and admiring Vegas views. This luxury property has a massive outdoor pool and a range of rooms – from king to deluxe queens. While it is still relatively up and coming (yet to fully break into the list of Vegas’ best luxury hotels), it is beginning to attract traction with glowing reviews. Creatives will appreciate its new contribution to Vegas’ luxury hotel scene.

Aside from the outdoor pool, the ENGLiSH Hotel Las Vegas has a terrace and a bar as communal areas for guests. You can treat yourself to a cocktail with a view. Or alternatively, head to the onsite Japanese restaurant for some delicious cuisine. The ENGLiSH Hotel Las Vegas is an attractive luxury choice for accommodation hunting in the Arts District.

Mid-Range: Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino is beautiful – one of the best hotels in Las Vegas if you are searching for off-strip hotels. You are set back off the major strip yet directly linked to the action by the Mono Rail if you want to dabble in some occasional nightlife.

With a stupendously large casino and 13 different restaurants onsite, we don’t think you’ll need to make a habit of commuting to the strip. And while you can enjoy room service, we suggest heading to one of the hotel’s venues for fantastic ambiance. The solar-heated rooftop pool is a real highlight.

Budget: Bposhtels Las Vegas

We can confidently say that you should look no further if you want a budget-friendly accommodation choice in the Arts District. Bposhtels Las Vegas is a sneaky hostel in a hotel body. You’d never guess that this property only offers dormitory-style accommodation from the outside and facilities. It has a vast outdoor swimming pool with more than enough loungers to cater to all the guests. While there is also a comfortable lounge – perfect for socializing – and a beautiful garden for unwinding in after a hectic day on the Main Strip or browsing street art locally.

The dormitory options are simple; a 6-bed female-only dorm and a 6-bed mixed-gender dorm. For those wanting a hostel experience in Vegas, Bposhtels Las Vegas is a dream come true. It has a sociable setup and unrivaled prices. There is even evening entertainment to tempt the most shy solo travelers out of their shells.

Pros of Staying in the Arts District

• Craft beer and Boho bars
• Street art and a creative vibe
• Arts Factory and Art Square
• Near Las Vegas Convention Center

Cons of Staying in the Arts District

• Different sorts of nightlife to nightlife on the Main Strip
• Better suited to creatives
• Can be busy
• Requires a commute to reach the Main Strip

Best Areas to Stay in Las Vegas: FAQs

A stay in Las Vegas is something you want to get right – after all, a visit is a lifetime trip for many. So it makes sense that you still have some burning questions. We’ll answer these and alleviate the most pressing of questions.

What is the best part of the Las Vegas Strip?

Central Strip (e.g., the main Las Vegas Strip) is the best part of the Vegas Strip. It has the most classic landmarks and is full of action and non-stop partying. It is also within walking distance of most of the highlights like the Bellagio Fountains and the most famous hotels.

Where do most people stay in Vegas?

If it is your first time in Las Vegas, stay on the main part of The Strip. With constant lights and partying, you’ll get the ‘real’ Vegas experience. It is also close to the main attractions and hotels.

Is it worth staying off the Strip in Las Vegas?

It is definitely worth staying off the Strip in Las Vegas if you want a quieter atmosphere. If you want to balance your time between partying and sightseeing, staying off the strip is actually a brilliant idea.

How many days is enough to stay in Vegas?

4 days is the perfect amount of time to stay in Las Vegas. With 4 days, you can enjoy the nightlife, sightsee, and take at least one day trip.

About Resort Fees in Las Vegas

Resort fees are common in many Las Vegas hotels, particularly those on the Strip. It’s important to note that not all hotels charge resort fees, but the majority do. So when booking your hotel, have the extra charges in mind when creating your budget. We use Booking.com to book hotels in Vegas and around the world and they include all upfront costs so there are no surprises.

To Conclude

A stay in Las Vegas is one of the most thrilling trips you’ll ever plan. So don’t take shortcuts when booking accommodation or finding the right neighborhood. Choose from these top places to stay in Las Vegas carefully, and your Las Vegas trip will be memorable for all the right reasons.

Of course, visiting Las Vegas doesn’t mean staying in Las Vegas the whole time. Book day trips to Red Rock Canyon, Grand Canyon, and the Hoover Dam. The Valley of Fire is a popular day trip almost right on Las Vegas’ doorstep if you don’t fancy endless hours of driving. North Las Vegas is worth mentioning, too – especially the north strip; Vegas has tons to do.

I spent many a summer in Lake Placid during my childhood when I was a competitive figure skater and it has always had a magical place in my heart as The Olympic City. There are plenty of things to do in Lake Placid NY be it summer or winter making for a wonderful weekend getaway.

Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains of New York State, Lake Placid is the perfect year-round mountain getaway – and these are the best things to do in Lake Placid to make the most of your stay.

Top Things to Do in Lake Placid NY

Recently Dave and I watched the documentary The Making of a Miracle on Ice about the American hockey team that faced off with Russia in the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid to win gold. This was such an amazing moment in American history and a trip to Lake Placid is a must for anyone road-tripping through Up State New York.

Lake was America’s first winter vacation destination and is known for hosting two Winter Olympic Games in 1932 and 1980. Besides being known as a winter resort, there are many things to do in Lake Placid in the summer too. Let’s check out all the reasons you should add Lake Placid to your places to visit in America’s bucket list.

Lake Placid Attractions

Lake Placid is a village in New York State located in the Adirondack Mountains. It is located in what is called the Tri-Lake Region which includes Lake Placid and two other lakes – Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake.

Funny enough, the town of Lake Placid isn’t located on Lake Placid proper, its main street is actually on Mirror Lake. Lake Placid is 5 hours from New York City and Boston and it is 2 1/2 hours from Montreal and five hours from Toronto, Canada. So, are you ready to explore Lake Placid NY with us? Let’s go!

1. Live Out Your Olympic Dreams

Lake Placid was home to not one, but two Winter Olympics, the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, and it has preserved that history with the excellent Lake Placid Olympic Museum and tours of the Olympic facilities. When you visit Lake Placid, you must not miss spending some time immersed in Olympic history.

Dave and I have gone back to Lake Placid in recent years for both summer and winter activities and I was reminded of that Olympic magic while walking through town and exploring the Olympic Sites.

We love the Winter Olympics and one of our favorite things to do in Lake Placid is live out our Olympic dreams by exploring the sites. There are plenty of Olympic sites to explore in Lake Placid, so let’s check them out.

2. Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex

Until you’ve been to the top of an Olympic ski jump, you’ll never truly appreciate how terrifying it is. I cannot fathom standing on two tiny pieces of wood only to slide down a near-vertical ramp that flings me off the end into the air.

Lake Placid’s Ski jumps are still used for training, but even non-jumpers can get a little taste of what it’s like to experience the need for speed at the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex.

Try your hand at zip-lining right beside the 90-meter jump that emulates the feeling of ski jumping at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. Check out the Olympic Sky Flyer Jumper Zipline for details.

3. Olympic Skyride

If you are not quite up for the heart-racing adventure, you can still explore the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumps by taking the gondola up to the glass elevator 120-meter high ski jumping tower where you’ll ride a glass elevator up to the viewing platform for panoramic views of the mountains.

It is a gorgeous scene. (if you aren’t a skier or snowboarder chances are you don’t ride gondolas a lot, so this is a fun thing to do.) See the Olympic Jumping website for details.

4. Stroll the Alpine Village

Lake Placid feels like a little Swiss Village with ski chalets, shops, and picturesque scenery. Located on Mirror Lake, Lake Placid lives up to its name with its placid waters reflecting the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, trees, and swiss-style chalets.

Make sure you have a drink at the Big Slide Brewery (Home of the Giant IPA) to enjoy a local brew on the terrace with views of the Olympic Ski Jump. There are many local craft beers to taste, and another recommendation is a visit Lake Placid Pub & Brewery for a tasting flight or a pint of their locally brewed beer

Many Olympic sites are located in downtown Lake Placid including the Olympic Center, and the speed skating oval. The Lake Placid Historical Society is a great place to pop in to learn about the rich history of the area, from its Olympic heritage to its Adirondack roots.

At night, head over to The Palace Theatre and catch a movie at this vintage cinema right on Main Street. I don’t know why, but Dave and I love going to the movies when we travel. There’s something about it that makes you feel like a local.

5. Lake Placid Olympic Center

The Lake Placid Olympic Center and Museum is one of the best things to do in Lake Placid for sports lovers. When you visit Lake Placid, make sure to go inside the Lake Placid Olympic Center and witness the arenas where history was made.

The rinks and museum are located right in the center of downtown Lake Placid and are easily one of the top Lake Placid attractions. The museum showcases memorabilia from the past Olympics including highlights from Miracle on Ice. Canadians love arenas, so we felt right at home here.

6. Herb Brooks Arena

I have had the privilege of ice skating in all of the historic arenas at the historic Olympic Center in Lake Placid. Herb Brooks Arena is the most famous and was built for the 1980 Olympics.

It’s historic because it was on this ice that The US Team took gold in the 1980 Olympics. They became known as Miracle on Ice. The Lake Placid Olympic Center is located at 2634 Main Street, Lake Placid and visitors can skate on the ice to experience the historic destinations.

In the winter, you can even experience skating at the Lake Placid Olympic Oval. Lake Placid is one of the few places on earth that lets you feel what it’s like to skate on an outdoor oval. 

7. Paddle On Mirror Lake

I’ll never forget seeing Mirror Lake for the first time, its still waters reflect the surrounding scenery. Mirror Lake is located in the heart of Lake Placid Village but feels a world away.

This is a beautiful lake to explore by paddle boats, kayaks, or canoes or simply taking a leisurely hike around its shore. (no motorized vehicles are allowed on the water). It was our favorite thing to do in Lake Placid. To sit on the still waters taking in the views is a serene experience where you’ll feel at one with nature.

In the winter it comes alive with skaters and you can even take dogsled rides. Plus, one of the coolest things to do in Lake Placid in winter is to slide down the Toboggan Chute that empties onto the frozen lake.

Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa

When you visit Lake Placid, we highly suggest staying on the lake. The Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa is located directly on the lake. Spend an afternoon at the spa followed by a stroll on the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, and fine dining at night at The View Restaurant. All rooms have a private balcony with mountain and lake views. 

8. Hike The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails

One of the most popular things to do in Lake Placid is to head out to the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails. It’s a set of four trails that are popular for hiking and mountain biking in the summer and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails are just a short drive from downtown, this beautiful spot offers easy walking trails perfect for bird watching and appreciating nature. Located on the Brewster Peninsula on the eastern shore of Mirror Lake, this is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, walking, and birdwatching.

The trail system on the Peninsula features a network of paths that wind through the wooded area, providing visitors with a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. The trails are generally well-maintained and offer various loops of different lengths and difficulty levels, accommodating both casual walkers and more avid hikers.

The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails

The Lake Shore Trail is a lovely scenic walk around the lake while The Ridge Trail takes you up to a scenic ridge.

The Boundary Trail is the longest and The Corridor Trail is a downhill walk that takes you to the Lakeshore.

As you explore the Peninsula Nature Trails, you can expect to encounter picturesque views of the lake, its surrounding mountains, and the lush forests of the Adirondacks. The trails take you through a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, providing opportunities to appreciate the region’s natural diversity.

9. Ski Whiteface Mountain

We have been snowboarding on Whiteface Mountain and let me tell you it is always a thrill to follow the footsteps of Olympians. This mountain was used in the 1934 and 1980 downhill skiing events and is one of the top Lake Placid attractions in winter drawing snow lovers from around the world.

At 1.483m (4,865ft) high, it has the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies, this is the premier place to hit the slopes in the U.S. East Coast. Whiteface Mountain has 90 trails for all levels of skiing spanning 22 miles of terrain.

If you are planning on hitting the slopes, you may want to stay closer to Whiteface Mountain. Check out this Apartment Stay just two minutes from the mountain. Sleeps 8 and has a 6-person hot tub!

Stay in Whiteface

Whiteface Mountain is located 30 minutes from Lake Placid. If you are planning on doing a lot of outdoor adventures here, you may want to stay closer to Whiteface Mountain for a night or two. Check out the Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort Website for Details.

Not visiting in winter? No problem. Whiteface Mountain doesn’t shut down once the snow melts. Take the Gondola up to Little Whiteface Mountain and take part in the Adventure Zone. In the summer months, it opens up offering disco golf, downhill mountain biking, and plenty of hiking. There is even a zip line here and like most ski hills around the world.

10. Little Whiteface Mountain – Cloudsplitter Gondola

Not to be confused with Whiteface Mountain, Little Whiteface Mountain is its own attraction in the summertime. In the winter, the Cloudsplitter Gondola is the way to get up to the ski hills of Whiteface Mountain.

If you are not skiing, you can simply enjoy the ride on the Cloudsplitter Gondola, which takes you from the base lodge to the summit of Little Whiteface. From there, you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains and Lake Placid and on a clear day you can see as far as Vermont and Canada!

In the summertime, there are hiking trails and downhill mountain biking. The Cloudsplitter Gondola up Little Whiteface Mountain for panoramic views of its big sister, Whiteface Mountain, and the Adirondacks in the summertime and to enjoy some hiking.

11. Take a Drive up Veterans’ Memorial Parkway

Chances are you’ll be on a road trip when visiting Lake Placid, so make sure to take a scenic drive up the Veteran’s Memorial Parkway starting in Wilmington at Adirondacks Spruce Lodge.

This paved road winds its way all the way along Highway 431 up to the summit.

The scenic 7.96 mi (12.81 km) long drive is a must when visiting Lake Placid. It’s a steep 8% grade which is impressive considering it was built in 1932. This isn’t a free drive-through, on your way up, you’ll have to pay a toll at an alpine-style gatehouse built in 1934. But the drive is worth it will pull-offs and scenic views. Cost: $20 per vehicle plus $20 per passenger. (Kids 6 and under are free)

Once you reach the parking lot, you have a few choices of things to do like have a bite at the Castle Cafe, you can ride the elevator up 27 stories, or hike the beautiful beautiful trail to the summit. It’s just a short 15-minute hike (.2 miles) to the summit but it is worth it for the view. Plus, you get to see gorgeous views of Lake Placid.

12. Visit High Falls Gorge

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Lake Placid is High Falls Gorge. Take a walk along the hiking trails, glass floor walkways, and bridges through this 22-acre nature park to see its beautiful waterfalls along the Ausable River.

High Falls Gorge has it’s name for good reason. There are four falls cascading down the mountain, the Main Falls, Mini Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Climax Falls which you can hike out to. It’s just a half-mile round-trip walk (that is accessible) and it takes about 45 minutes to an hour. (it can be done shorter, but Dave and I love to take photos.

Spend an afternoon here hiking to its spectacular waterfalls like Main Falls with a cascade of 60 feet. There is Climax Falls and Mini Falls as well. To ensure the best views, there are steel bridges with glass floors positioned at key points. This allows visitors to get a fantastic view of the waterfalls and the gorge below.

You can visit in the winter as well as High Falls Gorge transforms into a winter wonderland. Marvel at frozen waterfalls that freeze into beautiful ice formations. Snowshoeing is also available on the nature trail. There’s a gift shop that sells local arts and crafts, a café serving snacks and warm beverages, and picnic areas for those who’d like to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors.

Since it is privately run, there is an admission fee to access High Falls Gorge

13. Adirondack Experience

Lake Placid is in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains and has capitalized on that location. ADKX is an activity center dedicated to the outdoors. With 120 acres sprawling along Blue Mountain Lake, there are plenty of things to do for outdoor lovers.

Take a hike out to the Whiteface Mountain fire tower, rent a canoe to explore the shore, or go on a guided nature walk. There are artists in residence and lots of activities. This is a great weekend escape for the whole family.

14. Olympic Bobsleigh Experience

If there is one way to really feel like an olympian it is to get on the Olympic Bobsleigh track. The Lake Placid Olympic Bobsleigh experience at Mt. Van Hoevenberg lets you cruise down the Olympic track with a professional driver.

The sliding center track was updated in 1999 from the original but I see that it is undergoing reconstruction again, so I would check to see if tours are open. You can visit the Website here.

15. Cliffside Coaster

If the bobsled feels like a little too much (or if it is closed), a great option is to hop on the Cliffside Coaster instead. You have control over your own speed on this slide ride down the mountain alongside the 1980 bobsled track. We’ve done a few of these slide rides and they are a blast for the whole family. Cool fact, it’s the longest mountain coaster in the United States. Check for details and availability at the Cliffside Coaster at Mt. Voevenberg.

16. Go Cross Country Skiing

If cross-country skiing is more of your thing, make your way to the Cascade Cross Country Center. With 14 miles of groomed trails, it has something for everyone.

Cascade Cross Country Center also offers cross-country ski rentals and what’s really cool is that you can try your hand on the Lake Placid Olympic cross-country ski trails at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. If you visit Lake Placid in winter this is a really fun thing to do. Get more details at the Cascade Ski Center.

17. John Brown Farm State Historic Site

For history buffs, a visit to the John Brown Farm State Historic Site is a must. He was a part of the underground railroad and moved to the Adirondacks to establish a community where slaves could live freely.

Unfortunately, he was captured and hanged in 1859. He was buried at his home and it has now been turned into a museum that has been preserved in time displaying the personal belongings of the Brown family. See more at the New York State Park website.

18. Mount Jo

Being situated in the Adirondacks, one of the top things to do in Lake Placid is to get outdoors to enjoy its many hiking trails. Mount Jo is located just outside of Lake Placid and has some easy hikes to the 2,876-foot-high summit.

The trails are only 1.1 miles and 1.3 miles long but offer beautiful views of the high peaks of the Adirondacks and they overlook Heart Lake.

19. Saranac Lake

Though Lake Placid offers plenty to do within its borders, a short drive away lies another gem in the heart of the Adirondacks – Saranac Lake.

By venturing out a bit further to Saranac Lake during your stay in Lake Placid, you’ll be able to experience even more of the stunning beauty, rich history, and cultural charm that the Adirondacks have to offer.”

Located Just 20 minutes from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake is a vibrant community known for its cultural and artistic scene. Pop into the Adirondack Artists Guild which is a Co-op art gallery representing the artists residing and working in the area. It’s a perfect place to find a locally made souvenir.

In the winter, it hosts the annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival famed for its Ice Palace, a massive structure built from blocks of ice harvested from Lake Flower.

Saranac Laboratory Museum was the first lab built for the research of tuberculosis. Today, it serves as a museum educating visitors about the history of the disease and the village’s role in its treatment.

Wild Center: Although it’s a bit further away, located in Tupper Lake, the Wild Center is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This natural history center includes a museum, a planetarium, and the Wild Walk—an elevated trail among the treetops.

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa – Located directly on the lake with a full-service spa, dining, and balconies with lake and mountain views.

Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Placid – We stayed at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Lake Placid located on Mirror Lake. It is just a short walk to the main street and the Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum. We stayed here during our first visit to Lake Placid and loved it.

Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel – located just outside of Lake Placid, this boutique hotel is located directly on Lake Placid. It offers free private parking.

Whiteface Lodge – One of the grandest properties in the Adirondacks evokes a feeling of the decadence of the 19th century. Boasting a movie theater, bowling, canoeing, and ice skating in the winter. There is a spa, several dining options, and an indoor-outdoor pool.

Where to Eat in Lake Placid

Lake Placid Pub & Brewery: A go-to for craft beer lovers, offering a wide range of beers brewed on-site and a delicious food menu to accompany them.

Artisans at the Lake Placid Lodge: Upscale dining with stunning lake views, offering a menu inspired by local and seasonal ingredients.

The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn: As the name suggests, this place is known for both its high-quality food and its fantastic views of the lake.

Lisa G’s: A local favorite for wings, burgers, and other classic American comfort foods.

Top of the Park: This tapas and wine bar is known for its great selection of small plates and its stunning rooftop views.

Smoke Signals: If you’re in the mood for hearty BBQ and comfort food, this restaurant should be on your list.

How to Get to Lake Placid

Lake Placid is located in the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York. However, your exact route will depend on where you’re coming from. Here are a few general directions:

From New York City: Lake Placid is about a 5-hour drive north from New York City. You can take the I-87 N (Northway) towards Albany and continue on I-87 N to Exit 30. From there, take Route 73 toward Lake Placid.

From Toronto: If you are driving from Toronto it is 500 kilometers (or 310 miles) and usually takes between 6 to 7 hours. you’ll take the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), heading to Niagara and the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge border crossing. After crossing the border, take Interstate 190 South and then merge onto Interstate 290 East to Tonawanda and merge onto Interstate 90 East then north on Interstate 81. Follow NY-342 East, and turn right onto US-11 North. In Malone, turn right onto NY-30 South. At Paul Smiths, take NY-86 East to Lake Placid.

From Boston: If you’re driving from Boston, you can take I-90 W. Continue on I-90 W to Schroon. Take exit 30 from I-87 N. Follow U.S. 9 N and NY-73 W to Lake Placid.

From Montreal: If you’re driving from Montreal, you can take Autoroute 15 S. Continue onto I-87 S (signs for Albany) entering the United States (New York). Take exit 34 for U.S. 9 toward Keeseville/Au Sable Chasm/Port Kent. Follow U.S. 9 S and NY-73 W to Lake Placid.

By Plane: The closest airports to Lake Placid are Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) in Saranac Lake, Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont, and Albany International Airport (ALB). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Lake Placid.

By Train: Amtrak offers service from NYC’s Penn Station to Westport, NY, on the Adirondack Line. Upon arrival in Westport, a shuttle service can be arranged to Lake Placid.

About Lake Placid

Lake Placid is a charming village located in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. Known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history, let’s take a look at some key facts about Lake Placid: You may also like 15 Fun Facts about New York City

• Winter Olympics: Lake Placid is notably one of only three places in the world that have hosted the Winter Olympics twice, first in 1932 and then again in 1980.
• Miracle on Ice: The 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid is most famous for the “Miracle on Ice” where the U.S. hockey team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union team during the Cold War era.
• Ironman Triathlon: Lake Placid is home to an annual Ironman Triathlon, which is a major event drawing competitors and spectators from around the world.
• High Peaks Region: Lake Placid is situated in the High Peaks region of the Adirondack Mountains, with 46 peaks over 4,000 feet, making it a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and camping.
• Whiteface Mountain: Nearby Whiteface Mountain is the fifth-highest mountain in New York, and its ski area has the greatest vertical drop in the eastern United States.
• Water Bodies: The village of Lake Placid is located near two major bodies of water, Mirror Lake and Lake Placid, providing plenty of opportunities for water sports, fishing, and scenic enjoyment.
• Population: As of the last census data before my training cut-off in 2021, the population of Lake Placid was around 2,500 residents, but it can swell with visitors during peak tourist seasons.
• Wildlife: The region around Lake Placid is rich in wildlife, with possibilities to spot animals like black bears, deer, bobcats, and a wide variety of birds.
• John Brown Farm State Historic Site: This is the home and gravesite of abolitionist John Brown. The site is now a New York State Historic Site.
• Seasonal Activities: Lake Placid offers a wide range of outdoor activities year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter, to hiking, biking, and water activities in the summer.

Photo credit: John Brown Mwanner at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

And now you have the information you need to take a road trip to Lake Placid, NY Have you been to Olympic City? What are your favorite things to do in Lake Placid?

Visiting London is incredibly exciting. As you will already know, the city is packed with amazing things to do. Whether you want to embrace quintessential British culture with afternoon tea, visit Buckingham Palace, or explore one of the many museums, London keeps you on your toes. It is impossible not to love such a diverse and action-packed city.

The Ultimate 3-Day London Itinerary

Planning your trip to London can be overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time visitor. But don’t worry, we have you covered. We know you are excited but are probably asking yourself how do you condense this excitement into a ‘3 days in London’ itinerary. This guide will cover exactly that, providing you with the ultimate London itinerary to follow step-by-step. Plus, we have some extra-special tips at the end for you. Let’s get started.

Day 1: Central London

Day 1 of your 3 days in London itinerary is full of monarchs, MPs, and West End stars. Today will be dedicated to Central London. Specifically, we’ll keep to Westminster, Mayfair, Covent Garden, and Soho neighborhoods.

This region is best known for its two large parks – St James Park and Hyde Park – and the two palaces of Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace. Of course, you also have the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey closer to the River Thames. For your first day in London, there seems no better place to start than British politics and ruling history. After all, the British Royal Family is famed worldwide and offers one of the biggest draws to visit the UK.

Think of today as a self-guided walking tour around the inner city center. For many of these attractions, you can’t officially enter inside. Still, you can admire it from the outside and take as many pictures as you wish. It will be mostly a day of bucket list ticking and spotting iconic landmarks. But when there is an option to enter one of these important buildings, we’ll be sure to let you know.

Ready for your first day in London? We bet. Grab your most comfortable walking shoes, and let’s go. This is day 1 of your 3-day London itinerary.

Visit Hyde Park and have breakfast in St James’s Park

• Opening times: 5 am-midnight
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

Hyde Park and St James Park are just minutes apart. The two parks sit centrally in this area of London, and both feature a royal palace. Hyde Park is the largest and has a massive lake in the middle, with Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens at the far end. You can grab a takeout coffee and take a leisurely stroll through the park, often spotting the Household Cavalry training en route. A walk through London’s most famous parks is a great way to wake up slowly and is beautiful all year round.

Head through Green Park and into St James Park for breakfast at St James’s Cafe. While these parks are free, you can purchase a coffee and breakfast for around $15 with stunning, leafy views. This is a pleasant way to start your morning, and aim to get there after 8 am. This way, you’ll visit after the manic rush hour and before the rest of the tourists descend.

Buckingham Palace

• A 3-minute walk from St James’s Cafe
• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: The State Rooms ticket

This royal palace is one of London’s famous attractions. Buckingham Palace is massively associated with the late Queen and has been immortalized by international films, including Paddington Bear and the Bond films. Most people visit Buckingham Palace to stand at the black, wrought iron gates. You can peer through the bars and watch the guards, and at 11:30 am every day, the Changing of the Guard is a brilliant free activity in London.

You can book one of the walking tours of the Buckingham Palace State Rooms to get a closer look. These tickets cost around $35 and give you access to the rooms that His Majesty the King receives members of the public in. These rooms are adorned by private collections of art and finery. If you’d like an insight into the world of the Royal Family, this tour of Buckingham Palace is a must. If you time it right, you might finish the Buckingham Palace State Rooms tour just in time to watch the Changing of the Guard.

10 Downing Street

• 18-minute walk from Buckingham Palace
• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

10 Downing Street is one of those quick stop-and-look places. The address is marked in the brains of everyone in England and lots of people across the globe. The home is gifted to every Prime Minister and acts as a private residence. For obvious reasons, the house is closed to public visitors as a relatively small property. Unlike Buckingham Palace, the Prime Minister can hardly shift to a different wing to avoid guests. Besides, security is so strict that Downing Street is gated off and guarded 24 hours a day.

Despite this, you can visit and peer at the Prime Minister’s house through the gates. The gates of Downing Street are also a hot spot for protests. If you have political interests, it is a fascinating place to visit and witness firsthand. Reading the protest signs and speaking to people protesting is a great way to catch up on current affairs. Since it is heavily guarded, the protests tend to stay very peaceful.

Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are one of London’s most thought-provoking and inspiring attractions. The headquarters are underground, not far from Buckingham Palace, and marked where Winston Churchill lived and worked throughout World War II. The PM is hailed as a hero for how he maneuvered Britain toward victory in the war. Since today is dedicated towards monarchs and MPs, it is only fitting to add an attraction relating to Churchill – one of the most famous British PMs of all time. His story is told through interactive exhibits and animated stories.

You can book numerous tours, like the one linked above lasts for 1.5 hours. For those wanting to save money, consider the London GoCity Pass, which grants you access to a selection of London attractions for a lower price.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous churches in London. The protestant church is next to the Houses of Parliament and has a dramatic Gothic appearance. It’s stunning to visit and admire from the outside. This is best if you are pushed for time or on a budget. But otherwise, carve out half an hour or so to explore inside. Inside, you’ll find that the grandeur continues, with beautiful architecture and decorations. There are also exhibits of wax effigies.

Westminster Abbey is such an icon in London. It is the home of British coronations, dating back to William the Conqueror. It is also popular for royal weddings, including Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011. It is a convenient, impressive addition to your itinerary. And for just upwards of $13, it is one of the more budget-friendly attractions to visit in your 3 days in London.

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The Gothic structure of the Houses of Parliament is another iconic London landmark. The parliament building houses the debating chambers and is the heart and soul of England’s political scene. Many people see the Houses of Parliament as a symbol of democracy. The parliament is famed for its adjoining clock tower, often falsely nicknamed Big Ben. True London enthusiasts will know that the name refers to the famous Big Ben bell – right at the top of the tower.

Visitors can tour the Houses of Parliament, learning more about how the parliament functions and the roles of its different chambers. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a lot of history and depth. It makes the perfect addition to your itinerary. You can read all about the Houses of Parliament in our detailed guide here. As a quick side note, when you exit the parliament, make sure to appreciate the view of Westminster Bridge. It is one of the most famous bridges in London.

Trafalgar Square

• 13-minute walk from Big Ben
• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

Trafalgar Square is another incredible landmark. The 19th-century square is characterized by the statue of Admiral Nelson. Admiral Nelson led his troops to victory in the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars. Since it was built, the square has seen many protests and a lot of political action. Nowadays, it features fountains and lion statues, and even London’s Smallest Police Station.

You only need ten minutes or so to appreciate Trafalgar Square in full. It is an easy attraction to slot into a busy itinerary yet has a lot of oomph and history to it as well.

Optional detour: Charing Cross Road

• 3-minute walk from Trafalgar Square
• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you will love London. Many of its streets were used as film locations, and Charing Cross Road was used throughout all eight films. True Harry Potter fans might already recognize the street from the films, but if not, take a few pictures and re-watch the snippets on YouTube. There are loads of Harry Potter-related things to do around London, so keep your eyes peeled.

This Harry Potter Tour is one of the most popular in the city and takes you to the Studios where it was filmed!

National Gallery

• 1-minute walk from Trafalgar Square
• Opening times: 10 am to 6 pm (9 pm on Fridays)
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

While you are in Trafalgar Square, pop into the National Gallery. The National Gallery traces the history of Western European painting. It features some of the most beautiful paintings you’ll ever see. The gallery has everything from colorful and chunky abstract art to classic garden landscape scenes. The National Gallery has some big names, too, including Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner.

Specific exhibits cost to visit, but entering the gallery itself is free. It also has air conditioning – a win, win in summer. On Fridays, it makes a great evening attraction too. A late-night visit to the National Gallery followed by a glass of wine at one of the cocktail bars is a romantic way to spend an evening.

Evening: Watch a West End Show at Leicester Square

• 3-minute walk from the National Gallery
• Opening times: Shows tend to start at 7:30 pm, but this varies per performance
• Cost: $140 average

West End shows are one of the most popular evening entertainment choices. While there are no official dress codes, it is customary to get dressed up, and the performances are associated with being a bit of a splurge and treat. You can buy tickets at the box office or online. Sometimes, you can snag cheap tickets by visiting the box office on the day and asking what tickets are left over.

The shows last for around two hours and 30 minutes, usually with a break in the middle for refreshments. Most performances finish by around 10 pm, so plan to go for a drink or two at Covent Garden after.

Day 2: London Neighborhoods and Culture

Welcome to day 2 of our 3 days in London itinerary. Today will be dedicated to London’s most distinct neighborhoods and culture. One of the best things about London is its different boroughs and diversity. There are so many to explore, and each offers a different experience and cultural atmosphere. Selecting just a few is really tricky. You could spend months in London and not even scratch the surface.

Today, you’ll explore the classic neighborhoods of Piccadilly Circus, Brixton, and Camden. This selection should give you a good taste of alternative things to do in London and give you a sense of community feel. Today is more than just a whistle-stop tour of the most touristy museums and landmarks. We’ll take today slower and offer a less rigid structure so you can get lost a little, especially in Brixton and Camden markets.

While yesterday was spent walking around, we will also use the tube more today. This is an experience in itself. The colored tangle of tube lines and dotted tube stations is like a giant puzzle. The constant screeching of tubes and the patter of business shoes are definitely sensory overloads. Download an offline map of London using Google Maps as the signal cuts off underground and just embrace the craziness. Using the London Underground is lots of fun, and even if you get lost, any staff member will be happy to help.

Sound exciting? We told you that today would be an insight into local London living. You’ll finish today with a deeper understanding of London’s most diverse neighborhoods and how to navigate the city like a local.

Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, and Regent Street

• Opening times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, and Regent Street are some of the most classic streets in London. The roads are lined with elegant buildings of Portland Stone and feature those photogenic curved side streets. Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, and Regent Street are best known for being great shopping streets.

We recommend spending just half an hour or so wandering these areas, snapping photos of the architecture, and lapping up the atmosphere. For that classy London aesthetic, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, and Regent Street are all fantastic spots.

Appreciate music and art culture in Brixton

Brixton is a diverse neighborhood in south London. The area is known for its Caribbean influence and has countless street food stalls and vintage clothes shops. It is somewhere to escape the occasionally stuffy atmosphere of central London and more western neighborhoods like Chelsea. Brixton has a real salt-of-the-earth vibe.

You can check out the David Bowie Memorial Mural, Brixton Market, and the impressive range of live music venues. To appreciate art, food, and music, Brixton is the place for you.

Head to Camden Market

• 16 minutes on the Victoria and Northern tubes, then a 4-minute walk
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Camden with a local

Camden Market is north London’s answer to Brixton. This part hippie, punk, and goth area is full of character. You’ll be walking down the street with fancy dress costumes in one shop, CBD cookies in another, tattoo deals over the road, and knock-off designer shoes in front of you. Camden attracts a range of people too. You’ll get a leaflet from a lady preaching about Jesus and a man with face piercings handing out vegan awareness flyers.

Camden is a good choice for anyone wanting to experience a different side of London. Head straight to the market by the canal and treat yourself to some delicious food – they have everything from Pad Thai to Pho and burrito bowls.

Evening: Sunset at Primrose Hill

• 8-minute walk from Camden Market
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

Finish your day in style at no extra cost by catching the sunset at Primrose Hill. The 213-foot hill treats you to stunning views over London’s skyline. The combination of good views and a safe neighborhood is fantastic at sunset. Bring a picnic blanket, snacks, and vino, and settle in for the evening.

Day 3: Museums

Day 3 is the final day in our 3 days in London itinerary. We couldn’t miss a day dedicated to London’s world-class museums, so here it is. From the Natural History Museum to the Tate Modern – these museums are the absolute creme de la creme. Today you’ll be utilizing the tube skills you picked up yesterday to hop across London to its most exciting museums. Hopefully, tube navigation is now just a breeze. Still, we’ll add some additional instructions to help with navigation.

We didn’t want you to be too rushed off your feet (although everyone else in London seems to be, so you’ll blend in fine if you are). If you want some extra museum suggestions, visit the British Library, the London Transport Museum, the Vktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, the Foundling Museum, and the Charles Dickens Museum. You can also check out our top five museum guides here.

For now, though, you’ve definitely got enough on your plate. Your last day in London will be exciting, and remember to bring a camera to freeze the memories.

Breakfast in Sky Garden

• Opening times: 8 am to midnight
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

The Sky Garden is a beautiful spot for breakfast. Set at the top of the ‘walkie-talkie’ building, the glass conservatory-style property is full of tropical plants and garden walkways. It feels like a bit of a glass jungle, with the benefit of having sweeping views of London. Spot everything from Big Ben to the London Eye; the Sky Garden is a killer vantage point.

At the front of the space, there’s a small cafe where you can treat yourself to a coffee and breakfast snack. Since it is free to enter, this will be your only cost this morning. Just note that you must make reservations and aim to do so at least a week before visiting.

Optional detour: St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most beloved landmarks. Not only a religious symbol and architectural beauty, the cathedral was also used in notable historical events. These events include Princess Diana Spencer’s marriage and Winston Churchill’s funeral.

Admire from the outside or take a peek inside for a relatively modest fee. You’ll have mosaics and beautiful decorations to revel at, plus the option to climb to the Golden Gallery for views over London.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a medium length walk from St Paul’s Cathedral and passes the iconic Tower Bridge. The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a bloody and brutal history. The tower was where prisoners (usually political prisoners) were held before execution and was built within an old medieval castle. There is even an ancient torture chamber on display and, of course, the beloved crown jewels.

The Tower of London is where to visit for an insight into London’s darker history. Allow at least an hour to visit if you get access to the crown jewels exhibition, and make sure to stop by Tower Bridge on your way. The tower is a must when visiting for 3 days in London.

British Museum

• 13-minute walk and 18 minutes on the District and Elizabeth tube lines from the Tower of London
• Opening times: 10 am to 5 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: British Museum Guided Tour

The British Museum is out of your way, but it is definitely worth it. And while you are on a mission to see London’s museums, it is best to detour early when you still have plenty of energy. The museum showcases thousands of global exhibits, from Egyptian mummies to Greek sculptures. It is free to enter, but you can choose to treat yourself to a guided tour for $35 upwards. You’ll get plenty out of the experience either way, as the exhibits have plenty of information and insightful details. If you are interested in international history and ancient history, the British Museum is a must.

Victoria and Albert Museum

• 58-minute walk and 25 minutes on the Piccadilly tube from the British Museum
• Opening times: 10 am to 5:45 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the best in London. It has everything from classic sculptures to obscure and rather eclectic modern exhibits. It covers themes from textiles and fashion to ancient artwork. After the informative, intense experience at the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum is diverse enough to keep your attention. Not many museums can pull off being the third in a row, but this one does fantastically.

Natural History Museum

Another celebrity addition to our ‘3 days in London’ itinerary, the Natural History Museum needs no introduction. The beast of a museum offers hours’ worth of natural history exhibits, including animatronic dinosaurs and a giant whale skeleton.

Totally free to enter; you can splash out on a paid guided walking tour if you wish. We recommend just visiting independently, as it is an excellent museum to explore at your leisure, with cafes and marbled benches dotted all over.

Tate Modern

• 1 hour walk or 28 minutes on the District tube from the Natural History Museum
• Opening times: 10 am to 6 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested tour: Visit independently

We are heading to London’s South Bank, a famed district known for its street art and modern culture. You’ll cross the River Thames – putting those tube navigating skills to the test again and visit the Tate Modern, home to London’s modern art.

Not only does it have works from across the globe. It also has a cafe with gorgeous views of the River Thames, perfect for a late-afternoon caffeine fix. If you are an art enthusiast, you could spend hours at the gallery, but keep it to around an hour. You’ve got a schedule to keep, after all.

London Eye

• 20-minute walk from the Tate Modern
• Opening times: 11 am until 6 pm
• Cost: $39
• Suggested tour: London Eye Fast-track

Get ready to finish your day with another beautiful London skyline view. The London Eye is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, and from it, you can spot landmarks like the London Bridge and Shard. One rotation takes around 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing out of the pod windows.

You’ll walk to the London Eye along the Queen’s Way, a beautiful cemented walkway along the River Thames. The walkway is always alive with street performers and is one of the most scenic walks in all of London – so enjoy the journey.

Evening: Shakespeare’s Globe

Shakespeare’s Globe is an old-fashioned open-air theatre right opposite Millennium Bridge. The Globe is a traditional theater, and because of that, you can purchase standing tickets for just $6. Actual seats (covered by a thin roof) can rise to $70, with hard and soft seat options. All the performances are classic Shakespeare plays, and the Globe keeps the experience as authentic as possible. Embracing iconic English literature and watching a play at the Globe is how to finish your trip to London with a bang.

We recommend snagging tickets for an evening performance at 7:30 pm, giving yourself time to get dinner beforehand. Make sure to wrap up warm and bring a blanket for your legs, as it gets cold and exposed to all the elements.

FAQs: 3 days in London

Now that we’ve covered the ultimate 3 days in London itinerary, what about all the other essential details you should know? This section is dedicated to common FAQs and absolute must-know snippets of insider information.

Is 3 days enough to visit London?

3 days is just enough time to visit London. You have enough time to visit a selection of the best things to do and one or two off-the-beaten-track attractions.

What would you do if you spend three days in London?

In 3 days in London, you can visit tourist spots like Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and Covent Garden. You can visit museums, galleries, palaces, and community spots like markets.

How many days is ideal in London?

4 days is the perfect amount of time to visit London. In 4 days, you’ll balance the expense of visiting the city, tick off a lot of attractions, and have a day spare if you want to take a day trip.

Is 4 days enough time in London?

Yes, 4 days is enough time in London. You have enough time to see significant sights and take a day trip, which you don’t have time for with 3 days in London.

Quick Tips

These are some quickfire tips to get the most out of your trip to London. From the London Pass to outfit choices, pay attention to these insider tips.

The London Pass gives you access to over 90 different attractions in London, and you can purchase a pass for a single day or multiple days in London. Single-day prices start at around $110 per person, and two-day prices at about $140. However, considering that many attractions are over $30 each, it is more economical to pay a single upfront fee. Considering the London Pass for this itinerary is a good idea, especially for day 3.

Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare Globe, Houses of Parliament, and even certain cinemas are included in the London Pass. Get Your Pass here.

• Walk or take the tube – never a taxi

It might go without saying, but in London, public transport and good old walking reign supreme. It might be a little strong to say if you can’t walk there or get the tube there, it isn’t worth going to, but in your 3 days, you really have no need for taxis. All the areas you visit are easily accessed on foot or the tube. A taxi can be more expensive and time-consuming when you hit a London traffic jam. Grab an Oyster Card to get around on public transport.

Off the back of that, comfy shoes are a must when visiting London. You will walk a lot, whether around a vast museum or between attractions. Comfortable shoes are the best way to make walking enjoyable. The last thing you want are blisters to contend with, and the wet ground can also get slippery.

• Download offline Google Maps

As we mentioned, having offline directions is essential if you want to use Google Maps to navigate the underground (which is recommended). Luckily, downloading maps to use offline is really easy.

Just open the Google Maps app on your phone, and click on the letter of your first name in the bubble at the top right corner of your screen. Select ‘offline maps’ from the list of options, then click ‘select your own map’, zoom in on London, and click ‘download’. Voila, you now have Google Maps whether you have a signal or not.

It’s no secret that it rains a lot in England. When visiting London, the best idea is to carry an umbrella. This way, a little shower won’t ruin your day or outfit. The last thing you want is to be cold, wet, and miserable. You could bring an umbrella with you or even treat yourself to one when you arrive.

• Check whether your accommodation has AC

In summer, London tends to have at least one heatwave. Since the city is built to deal with the cold rather than the heat, only a few accommodation options have AC. If you are visiting when a heatwave is predicted or don’t want to risk it, try to book accommodation with an AC option.

When to visit London

The best time to avoid crowds in London is between October and March. These months are shoulder months and avoid major holidays (Halloween aside). October and March also tend to have decent weather – not the minus temperatures and non-stop rain you get across winter. October is perfect if you want to experience London in autumn, too, when areas like Hyde Park are extra pretty.

That being said, though, London is beautiful all year round. The fun atmosphere is contagious in summer when people flock to picnic and party in parks, and the long nights are packed with football and barbeques. If you are okay with booking skip-the-queue tickets for attractions and coping with extra crowds, summer is an excellent time to get a fun vibe from London and spend time outside.

Winter, mostly December, has a similar fun vibe when all the Christmas decorations go up and festivities begin. In December, people visit Harrods just to admire the decorations, never mind what’s actually for sale. And you have events like Winter Wonderland, a vast alpine Christmas festival that opens up in Hyde Park. You may even get snow if you are lucky.

How to get around

Of course, walking is the ideal way to get around London. In our 3 days in London itinerary, the first day doesn’t require public transport as the attractions are just a short walk apart. Depending on what you want to visit and if you stay centrally, you can walk everywhere.

To visit different areas of London though, you will need public transport. The most well-connected form of public transportation is the London Underground. Most neighborhoods have tube stations, and districts are marked as zones, with Zone 1 being the immediate central circle. You tap on and off, usually entering and exiting through ticket barriers. You can use either your card or an Oyster Card, so don’t worry about buying an Oyster.

London has a train service, most commonly used to travel to destinations on the outskirts of London without underground connections. Many people use the London rail system to travel on long-distance trains to and from other cities in the UK. The city also has a ferry network, with a fleet of Uber boats shuttling passengers up and down the Thames. An Uber boat is an excellent option if you fancy an alternative to a pricey Thames River cruise.

To get tactical, you could book a hop-on hop-off bus. A hop-on hop-off bus ticket lets you jump on a specific bus that runs you around a designated tourist circuit, letting you take advantage of door-to-door transportation. And lastly, there are more Ubers and taxis that you could count, so there is always that option. Don’t bother renting a car, as it is more of a hindrance than helpful.

Luggage Storage

Storing luggage is a great idea. It’s worth mentioning that some attractions will only let you bring oversized bags inside and often don’t offer storage rooms either. Luggage storage is a fantastic choice. Always check with your hotel first, as they usually store luggage for free or for a meager fee.

Otherwise, head to one of the main stations to store luggage there (Victoria Station offers storage). You can also use websites like Bounce, Stasher, and Radical Storage to find secure places that provide storage for low prices all over London.

How to get to London from the Airport

We have a complete guide on how to get to London from its many different airports, but we’ll provide a quick summary here.

The best airport to fly into London from is London Heathrow. An airport train runs from London Heathrow to Paddington Station in just fifteen minutes. London Heathrow makes the airport the quickest to reach, apart from London City Airport in central London. Your other options are as follows:

• Stansted Airport
• Gatwick Airport
• Luton Airport
• London City Airport
• London Southend Airport

Gatwick Airport is located south of London and has a similar train service that takes a little longer, with a 30-minute journey to Victoria Station. Luton Airport is located north of London and requires you to take a shuttle bus and then a direct train from Luton Airport Parkway to central London in around 25 minutes. London Stansted Airport takes 50 minutes to reach London Liverpool Street Station by train. London City Airport is connected to central London by a 10-minute tube ride on the DLR line. However, it has limited flights and destinations. Finally, London Southend Airport is located in the southeast and takes around 50 minutes to reach London Liverpool Street Station.

As you can see, you have plenty of options. The good news generally is that all the airports are very well-connected to the city center.

Where to stay in London for 3 days

Finding a London hotel to fit your budget is really straightforward. London has a fantastic selection of accommodation, and you can read our detailed guide here. However, these are our top favorites.

• Budget: Wombat’s City Hostel

Wombat’s City Hostel is easily one of the best hostels in the city. It is well known for its safe and friendly atmosphere and is decorated tastefully in light, airy colors. The hostel has free wifi, a communal terrace, and a bar – perfect for making new friends. It’s also located in Tower Hamlets, ideal for walking to attractions like the Tower of London.

• Mid-Range: The Resident Kensington

The Resident Kensington is the best mid-range option in London if you want good value for money in the Kensington and Chelsea area. Each room is laid out apartment-style, with kitchens that guests can use to cook up their own culinary masterpieces.

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square

Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square is the epitome of luxury in London. From the elegant columned entrance to the in-house spa and restaurant with Michelin-starred chef, guests have all the precious luxuries. Plus, you are just 550 meters from Tower Bridge.

Where to eat in London

There are so many great places to eat in London we could do just a post on that. These are some of our recommendations for where to eat after a few trips to London. If you want to get more familiar with the food here check out our post dedicated to the Best British Foods.

To Conclude

Feeling inspired by our 3 days in London itinerary? Great news. 3 days in London might seem short, but as you can see, there’s plenty that you can fit in during that time. You have seen a minimum of 24 different bucket list attractions, all conveniently linked together to save you the most time and energy for the most enjoyable experience. How many spots do you recognize in these photographs of classic London landmarks?

If you have 4 days in London, you can consider extra activities like taking a day trip out to Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace, or Richmond Park. In 3 days, it is best to only venture as far as 30 minutes or so out of the city center. With 4 days, you can easily dedicate one day to heading further afield. These are some great day trips from London that you can check out. If you are really ambitious, you could even add a day trip to somewhere like Stonehenge or the White Cliffs of Dover to your list. Should you still be choosing how long to visit London for, that is something to consider.

Either way, have a wonderful time in London. We hope you have a fantastic stay and tick off as many of your dream attractions as possible.

San Francisco is gorgeous. The city has famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco City Hall, and the cable car system – all nothing short of iconic. Artistic souls are drawn to its pretty streets and Hollywood-style viewpoints. With hiking trails, watersports, and plenty of cycling, San Francisco is as much an outdoor lover’s paradise as it is for foodies and museum buffs. And when it comes to accommodation, the San Francisco hotels are just as art-focused and impressive. There is a fantastic selection of boutique hotels in San Francisco.

The Best San Francisco Boutique Hotels

This guide will cover the 14 best boutique hotels in San Francisco. Whether you have 72 hours or two weeks in San Francisco, the following boutique hotels will provide a tasteful base to maximize your stay. If you are looking for an eco-friendly hotel using recycled materials or a luxury hotel with a playful vibe and plenty of craft cocktails – we’ve got a fantastic selection lined up for you.

1. Staypineapple San Francisco

You might not expect elegance from such a funkily-named hotel. However, Staypineapple is elegant in every sense of the word. The hotel has golden features and furnishings, with polished surfaces everywhere that meet the eye.

While it is in a 1913-built building (with plenty of history if you are interested), Staypineapple San Francisco is a modern hotel. In fact, it is easily one of the sleekest boutique hotels in San Francisco. Its modern, elegant aesthetic drew us to add it to this guide.

Staypineapple San Francisco is located five minutes away from Union Square on foot. The hotel is ideal for art gallery hopping and enjoying all SoMa has going for it. Some guest rooms have beautiful city views – especially the superior queen corner room. A good view is perfect for your morning cup of coffee from the complimentary machine. Check Rates and Availability here.

2. Phoenix Hotel

From the outside, you could easily mistake Phoenix Hotel for motel-type accommodation. Don’t be fooled; this rock n’ roll hotel is one of the best boutique hotels in San Francisco if you want to kick back in style. Phoenix Hotel features its outdoor pool, a dream in summer and brilliant for socializing with other travelers. The outdoor space is dotted with art and sculptures too. Phoenix Hotel’s winning factors are its groovy sense of style and its swimming pool.

Phoenix Hotel is located on the outskirts of Union Square, in San Fran’s nearby Tenderloin District. We didn’t mention this neighborhood previously, but it’s a fantastic, lesser-tourist-focused area to base yourself in San Francisco. Plus, it is within walking distance of many other popular neighborhoods. The rooms at Phoenix Hotel range from standard kings to kings with pool views. There are rooms with disability access as well, so you may want to note that. Check Reviews and Rates here.

3. Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf’s location is what seals the deal. Hotel Zoe is the closest of all our boutique hotels to the waterfront. Just two blocks from Fisherman’s Wharf, Hotel Zoe has an entirely different vibe to staying in and around Union Square. The hotel embraces the waterfront locale, with a seafood restaurant named Pescadores onsite if you fancy some fresh catch.

The hotel has an Italian influence, too, perhaps explaining why coffee is offered in the lobby from 6 am and food is taken extremely seriously. We love the foodie and waterfront focus at Hotel Zoe. It is one of the best San Francisco boutique hotels for good food and a Fisherman’s Wharf location. Check Rates and Reviews here.

4. Hotel Drisco

Hotel Drisco is an Edwardian hotel and a perfect getaway in the Pacific Heights neighborhood. The hotel was built in 1903 and has a real stately appeal. It is a vast pale yellow building sitting along the busy Pacific Avenue. Inside, it still has original features and antique furnishings.

The hotel staircase is like a time machine in itself. Hotel Drisco is one of the best San Francisco boutique hotels for embracing its Edwardian history. For us, its old-school aesthetic and Pacific location earned it its stripes.

Hotel Drisco’s services and facilities are nothing short of wholesome. Guests get a complimentary wine and cheese reception, plus a gourmet continental breakfast each morning. And on the weekdays, there’s a car service to Union Square, which is a nice touch and overrides the only negative about staying at this property – the commute into the city center. With a business center and a gym, you have everything at Hotel Drisco. Check Rates and Reviews here.

5. Omni San Francisco

Omni San Francisco is one of the most classic boutique hotels in San Francisco. The elegant all-stone exterior immediately screams luxury hotel, and the 1920s decor inside only adds to this old-world elegance. Everything is plush and draped with finery. The chandeliers are the fanciest touch.

Better still, Omni San Francisco is set right in the middle of Downtown San Francisco. It is one of the best San Francisco boutique hotels for fancy Downtown accommodation. And you’ll be steps away from the historic cable cars and most famous street scenes.

We chose Omni San Francisco for its location and luxury style. The rooms are spacious, with dark wood furnishings, thick curtains, and carpets. The picture of luxe comfort in a time capsule of the 1920s. Out of all our boutique hotels in this guide, Omni San Francisco is amongst those that best fit the luxury boutique category. The onsite gym and meeting facilities are extra strong points too. Check Reviews and Rates here.

6. Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco

Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco is an imposing-looking boutique hotel just off Union Square in SoMa. The four-star property has a dark allure, shadowy design scheme, and plenty of black furnishings – including a black-painted staircase. Considering its proximity to the Theater District, it is no surprise really that its aesthetic borders on melodrama. We like its strong sense of character, though. And its facilities are an extra special touch.

Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco has an air-conditioned fitness center, a basement games room, 24-hour reception, and same-day laundry service. It has so much to offer that it quickly falls into that home away from home category that so many hotels attempt to promise.

Hotel Zeppelin also has spacious rooms, especially if you opt for one of the suites. If you want a San Francisco base with facilities to keep you comfortable and entertained for extended stays, Hotel Zeppelin is a wise choice. Check Reviews and Rates here.

7. Hotel Zetta San Francisco

Another SoMa-based property, Hotel Zetta San Francisco, is one of San Francisco’s most conveniently located boutique hotels. Hotel Zetta sits right opposite Westfield Shopping Center, around a ten-minute walk from Union Square. Its location and facilities most caught our eye. Aside from being well-located, Hotel Zetta has a games room, fitness center, bar and lounge, and brassiere restaurant. It is the sort of hotel you would be okay with being locked in if San Francisco wasn’t so exciting to explore.

Each room comes with a portable Bluetooth speaker and an iPod docking station. And with all your favorite music to help you wake up in the morning, the Illy coffee machine might not be necessary. Hotel Zetta San Francisco has a fun sense of hospitality. Check Reviews and Rates here.

8. Hotel G San Francisco

Hotel G San Francisco is smart and contemporary. If Hotel G was a person, it would be a straight-laced, smart shirt type. The sort of person with a 5 pm dinner-then-news routine. Hotel G San Francisco gets the job done – providing comfortable accommodation just two minutes from Union Square. The real deal here is its location; creatives will adore its proximity to multiple theaters, art galleries, and San Francisco’s other inspiring attractions. You can walk almost everywhere from Hotel G San Francisco.

Inside is a 24-hour reception and a top-of-the-range gym. Hotel G San Francisco’s rooms each have black-out curtains for optimal sleep and a coffee machine for optimal waking up. Room options range from queen rooms to king suites. And the decor is light and airy, with plenty of natural lighting. Check Reviews and Rates here.

9. San Francisco Proper Hotel

San Francisco Proper Hotel is probably in the most bizarre-shaped building you’ll ever see. Flatiron buildings are notoriously wacky to look at – extremely narrow and postmodernist-looking. San Francisco Proper Hotel is your best shot if you want a boutique hotel with a novelty element.

Apart from its shape, though, San Francisco Proper Hotel has one of the best customer experiences. Each guest gets an app that connects them to all the hotel concierge services. Plus, there is Chromecast streaming, cotton kimono robes, and Bluetooth speakers. You get the feeling that San Francisco Proper Hotel has thought of everything. The guest rooms are uniquely decorated with striking features like purple floral wallpaper. You can reserve anything from standard rooms to premier suites.

This boutique hotel is located in SoMa’s Market Street region. You are just a short walk from Union Square, dozens of museums, and many urban parks. We recommend getting a gist of your surroundings from the hotel’s rooftop terrace before you head out. Check Reviews and Rates here.

10. Hotel Emblem San Francisco

Hotel Emblem San Francisco is an absolute work of art. This boutique hotel is inspired by the Beat-era generation and is full of nods to the literary world. Hotel Emblem has weekly poetry events, original artwork, and live music. Not to mention a ton of books stashed around the hotel. Even the rooms have artwork hanging stylishly on all the guest room walls. Hotel Emblem is flawless for the creative traveler wanting an inspiring boutique hotel with plenty of luxury amenities. The literary theme is so impressive that we included Hotel Emblem in this guide.

Apart from its creative sense of style, Hotel Emblem is centrally located in the Theater District – roughly between Nob Hill and Union Square. It is perfect for exploring San Francisco’s best areas on foot and making the most of creative attractions like theater shows and galleries. And the Obscenity Bar & Lounge is onsite with plenty of cocktails after a long day of sightseeing and theater shows. Check Reviews and Rates here.

11. Galleria Park Hotel

Galleria Park Hotel is another one of San Francisco’s Union Square hotels. However, this San Francisco boutique hotel has a distinguishing feature – its rooftop terrace with a walking track. Many San Francisco hotels deserve a spot on this guide, but do they have a walking path on their roof? It is impossible not to love the infectious novelty of this feature. Besides, why stay in one of the most beautiful areas of San Francisco and not find a boutique hotel with good rooftop views.

Inside Galleria Park Hotel is just as beautiful. Each room has marble-topped desks and bold, colorful paintings adorning walls throughout the hotel. The interior design is unfussy and has a laidback, livable style. Galleria Park Hotel has the least try-hard interior design style of all our boutique hotels in San Francisco. Facilities and services are a whole other story, though. Guests access events like nightly wine tasting (you are in wine country, after all), morning coffee service, and room service dinner menus. The hotel has a real around-the-clock hospitality vibe.

The rooms at Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf are equally impressive. The design scheme features red accents throughout the guest rooms. Some rooms feature city views, and others feature views of the outdoor courtyard hidden in the center of the property as a private outdoor communal space. Check Reviews and Rates here.

12. Hotel Kabuki Hyatt

Hotel Kabuki is a blend of modern touches, Japanese influence, and a rather industrial boutique style. It has a really trendy atmosphere, which is hard not to love. It is best described as one of those boutique hotels with a real sense of class. Hotel Kabuki has high ceilings, dark wooden furnishings, and plenty of dark grey walls. And in fact, true to its Japanese influence, it also has an indoor garden and fishpond. For an aesthetic that immediately makes you want to relax, Hotel Kabuki is one of the best San Francisco boutique hotels.

Facility and amenity-wise, there is an onsite bar called The Bar at Hotel Kabuki. This bar specializes in Japanese whiskey, beer, and sake – a fantastic insight into international alcoholic beverages. There is a 24-hour gym as well, plus complimentary newspapers. Hotel Kabuki is in San Francisco’s Japantown, right between Nob Hill and Pacific Heights. It is full of fantastic restaurants and centrally located to some of San Francisco’s leading attractions. Check Reviews and Rates here.

13. The LINE San Francisco

Flatiron buildings are some of the most popular destinations in San Francisco. And The LINE San Francisco is one of the best out of the bunch. The four-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and novelty stay in San Francisco. A ridiculously thin building, it still shockingly manages to create spacious rooms. Even more impressive are the views you get out of its rooms. The more luxurious the room type, the higher up the building you go and the better the views of the city below. The king suite’s views are stunning – even from your freestanding bathtub. We saw the pictures of the king suite views and were won over immediately.

The hotel has some brilliant facilities and amenities as well. A gym, business center, bar, restaurant, and even a complimentary bike hire service exist. Of course, just 750 yards from Union Square, you can quickly get around on foot. Check Reviews and Rates here.

14. Argonaut Hotel

Argonaut Hotel is one of only two hotels in Fisherman’s Wharf that made our guide. So what won us over about the Argonaut Hotel? In a word, aesthetic. The entire hotel abides by a nautical theme (which you’ll probably agree is fitting given its locale). It also has that classic boutique vibe, with exposed red brick walls and cream-painted wooden shutters in each room. This hotel is also eco-friendly. A massive win in our books.

Argonaut Hotel serves homemade food, including freshly caught seafood. There are ocean-themed cocktails, too, as an extra nautical touch. Fitness-wise, the hotel has a gym onsite, plus in-room yoga channels if you want a yoga session within the privacy of your guest room. It isn’t all just the fitness and waterfront lifestyle at Argonaut Hotel. If you have business to deal with while in San Francisco, there’s a 24-hour business center as well. Check Reviews and Rates here.

FAQs: Boutique Hotels in San Francisco

San Francisco’s boutique hotel scene is an exciting place to get to grips with – it makes sense that you still have some burning questions left over. We’ve got just enough time to run over the essential FAQs, so let’s dive straight in. Check out these top San Fran queries.

What hotel in San Francisco has the best amenities?

San Francisco Proper Hotel has the best amenities. Guests can access the latest tech industry products, like Chromecast streaming and top-of-the-range Bluetooth speakers. The hotel even has an app connecting you to concierge services. The rooftop terrace is stunning as well.

What hotel in San Francisco offers the best views?

The LINE San Francisco has stunning views of San Francisco. The flatiron building maximizes views with uniquely shaped rooms. It has a beautiful suite with city views from a freestanding bathtub.

What hotel in San Francisco has the best location?

Hotel G San Francisco is just two minutes’ walking distance from Union Square – one of the most centrally located hotels in San Fran. If you want to be central, it is the best-located hotel in the city.

Where To Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco has a lot of popular neighborhoods – there’s no denying that. So before we rush into the best boutique hotels in San Francisco, let’s look into its best neighborhoods. We’ve got an in-depth guide that you can check out here. But for a quick overview, we’ll cover the basics now. Do you want to be surrounded by local artists? Natural beauty? Or spectacular views of the city skyline? Check out these top favorites.

Union Square is a specific area in the neighborhood of SoMa – basically, the place where you’ll find all of the skyscrapers. SoMa’s atmosphere can be a little more inner-city, so keep your wits about you and stick to the nicest areas like Union Square. Union Square is a hotspot for art galleries and stunning city skyline views.

North Beach is a nod to San Fran’s Italian influence. Think of it as San Francisco’s ‘Little Italy’; the neighborhood has many culinary ventures, including the famous Vesuvio Cafe. If you haven’t heard of North Beach and its Vesuvio Cafe, look them up now. North Beach is full of character and delicious food.

Pacific Heights is primarily residential, with peaceful streets and a select handful of local-loved shops and eateries. With families, or even just for a quieter experience of San Francisco, Pacific Heights is a well-located neighborhood with a fantastically calming atmosphere.

Downtown San Francisco is the iconic district, best for first-timers and those wanting that photogenic San Fran experience. There are cable cars and historic architecture, bars, and restaurants – everything you need for a solid introduction to San Francisco.

Nob Hill is a little more exclusive and full of massive mansions with plenty of history behind them. It reigns supreme when it comes to viewpoints and is located strategically just outside of Downtown San Francisco.

Fisherman’s Wharf is easily the most exciting place for kids to stay in San Francisco. The waterfront is cramped with attractions like the famed wax museum. Families can dash in and out of cutesy souvenir shops and cafes.

To Conclude

There are so many stunning boutique hotels in San Francisco. You can find the best boutique hotels scattered throughout San Fran’s most popular neighborhoods – from the Financial District to Downtown San Francisco and Pacific Heights. As such an artistic and inspiring city, it’s no wonder that its boutique hotels are so creatively decorated and run. And it makes sense to book somewhere to stay that inspires you when visiting such an iconic destination.

Ready for some more San Francisco inspiration? We have a guide on the best things to do to help you plan your trip even better. Enjoy your stay in one of the city’s best boutique hotels with a San Fran itinerary of your ultimate dreams.

Are you looking for an authentic and beautiful Italian holiday destination away from the masses? Piedmont, one of the most beautiful and culturally richest regions, is a true and quite unknown jewel in northwest Italy. The second largest region of the country, there are so many things to do in Piedmont, you’ll be surprised you didn’t think of it sooner. Piedmont has an alpine border to the north with Switzerland and to the west with France.

Top Things to Do in Piedmont, Italy

In the middle of the region lies the flat Po plain housing Piedmont’s biggest cities. The capital Turin, and Novara the region’s second-largest city, are both located here. Novara is just 100km northeast of Turin and is surrounded by large rice fields which is no surprise as Piedmont is the largest rice supplier in Europe.

Translated from Latin, Piedmont means “at the foot of the mountains”. With its rolling hills, majestic Alps, and a multitude of charming towns and villages, its name suits its beautiful setting.

From vineyards and truffle plantations (for gourmets and slow food movement lovers) to historically significant castles and fortresses for culture lovers, to breathtaking natural beauty for outdoor enthusiasts, Piedmont has something for everyone.

In the hill country, southeast of the region, there is mainly agriculture and viticulture. Among others, the world-famous Barolo wine is produced in this UNESCO-recognized cultural region. The river Po, Italy’s longest river, rises beneath the Monviso mountain (3841m) and flows 652km until reaching the Adriatic Sea. It is no wonder this region is known for its wine culture and delicious food.

Being still a hidden gem as a holiday destination, you can expect to enjoy lots of beauty and sights without the typical tourist masses, known from other Italian places. Here are just some of the best things to do and see in the unknown region of Piedmont.

1. Turin

Turin is the largest city and capital of Piedmont. In 1861, when the Republic of Italy was founded, Turin was even the capital of the entire country. Today, with a population of nearly one million people, it is the fourth largest city in Italy and the most important economic and cultural hub in Italy’s northwest. 

A landmark of the city and one of the most famous buildings of Turin is the Mole Antonelliana. Originally built as a synagogue, the interesting monument now houses the National Museum of Cinema and offers a breathtaking view of the city from the observation deck at the top. 

Another important sight is the cathedral, the Duomo of Turin. It was built in the 15th century and is mostly known for conserving the controversial Shroud of Jesus.  

Around the beautiful Piazza Castello, one of the central squares of the city, there are magnificent baroque buildings and palaces. For example, the royal palace, Palazzo Reale, the former residence of the kings of Savoy. Visitors can stroll through the magnificent rooms, furnished with beautiful paintings, furniture, and works of art, and get a glimpse into the life of the royal family. The adjacent Palazzo Madama now houses an art museum. 

The famous Egyptian Museum is one of the world’s largest museums of Egyptian art and history with over 32000 artifacts. In the national car museum, you can admire over 200 vehicles from 85 manufacturers from 13 countries.

Every Saturday, Turin’s Piazza della Repubblica hosts the largest open-air market in Europe. There really is everything in a sales area of over 50,000 m², from household goods and local fruit and vegetables to watches and jewelry.

2. Residences of the Savoy Family

The House of Savoy is a dynasty from the French high nobility that ruled over the territories of Savoy and Piedmont from the 14th century and provided the kings of Italy from 1861 to 1946. At times, the ruling dynasty also ruled over parts of western Switzerland, the county of Nice, and Sardinia.

Since 1997, 22 castles and palazzi of the House of Savoy have been recognized as “Residences of the Royal House of Savoy” UNESCO World Heritage Site. 14 buildings are located within the city of Turin, including the Palazzo Reale, and 9 others are strategically positioned around the capital.  

The most famous Savoy residence in Piedmont is the Reggia di Venaria Reale, just 5km northwest of Turin.  

Italy’s second largest castle includes the magnificent 17th-century palace, a 60-hectare castle park, the historic village (borgo) formerly laid out for the castle’s servants, and the 3000-hectare Parco della Mandria, once the royal hunting grounds, now a fenced-in nature and wildlife park.  

Another jewel of Savoy residences is the Castello di Rivoli, perched on a hill overlooking the town of Rivoli. The palace was built in the 17th century and now houses a museum of contemporary art.  

The Palazzina di Stupinigi is another example of the impressive architecture of Savoy residences. The palace was built in the 18th century and was once the favorite castle of King Victor Amadeus II. Visitors here can tour the magnificent interiors of the palace and stroll through the beautiful gardens and parks.

3. Lago Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is one of the largest lakes in Italy. It stretches across the regions of Piedmont in the west, Lombardy in the east, and neighboring Switzerland, to which the northern shore belongs. The Piedmont side of the lake has many charming places and landscapes to discover. 

One of the most beautiful villages is undoubtedly Stresa, known for its breathtaking gardens and architectural treasures. The offshore Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore are a truly magical place. Visitors can tour the impressive Borromeo Palace and beautiful gardens on Isola Bella, admire an impressive collection of exotic plants on Isola Madre, or enjoy local specialties, mainly fish, on Isola dei Pescatori. 

On Lake Maggiore, there is also Cannobio, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and a weekly market on Sundays.

The Rocca di Angera is another famous landmark on the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore. This medieval castle sits majestically on a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Just behind the picturesque coastal villages begins the nature reserve of Val Grande. It is one of the largest untouched forest areas in Europe and offers a lot of unspoiled nature.

Lake Maggiore offers many opportunities for activities such as boating, hiking, or cycling along the lakefront. The view of the Alps rising majestically above the lake is also particularly impressive.

4. Langhe, Monferrato, Roero

The rolling hills of Piedmont are known not only for their breathtaking scenery but also for their culinary specialties. Here you will find some of Italy’s finest wines, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and Dolcetto, as well as a variety of cheeses such as Castelmagno and Robiola.

The region is also famous for its truffles, especially the precious white truffle, which is one of the most expensive ingredients in the world.  We would suggest trying your hand at truffle hunting, it is a lot of fun and you get to make some great dishes with your efforts.

Together, the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato wine regions were named UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2014.

In addition to the famous truffle market, the beautiful small town of Alba is also home to numerous historical sites, including the 15th-century Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the 13th-century Church of San Domenico. The town is also a good base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and wine tasting. 

The little village of Barolo is the center of the eponymous wine and houses the renowned wine museum, the Museo del Vino. In addition, Barolo is home to a picturesque castle, Castello Falletti di Barolo, which today is a museum and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 

The small town of La Morra is known for its spectacular views of the vineyards and the Alps. The town is also a good place to sample local Piedmont food such as hazelnuts and the famous Barolo wine. 

Bra, another small city within this area is the capital of the slow-food movement and the place where the international movement once was founded.

Other charming towns include the medieval village of Monforte d’Alba and the town of Dogliani, known for its excellent wines.  Another highlight is Grinzane Cavour Castle, an imposing 13th-century castle that is now a museum offering insights into 19th-century life in Piedmont.

5. Sacra di San Michele

30km west of Turin, the impressive Abbey Sacra di San Michele is perched on a rocky spur. The abbey is not only the symbolic monument of the Piedmont region and one of the most important religious architectures of the entire Alps, but also one of the most important monuments in Italy.  It was founded as early as the 10th century and had immense importance as a place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages. Those who went on pilgrimage to Rome via the Western Alps stayed overnight in this monastery. 

Perched on its rock at 960 meters above sea level, the former Benedictine abbey offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, the Susa Valley, the Alps, and, on a clear day, even as far as Turin. The imposing Sacra di San Michele also inspired the world-famous writer Umberto Eco to write his novel “The Name of the Rose”. 

The impressive complex includes a variety of buildings, such as the famous “Staircase of Death” and the basilica with the sarcophagi of the royal family of Savoy. Its special location and architecture make the Sacra di San Michele a must-see for Piedmont visitors even if it is only for the fantastic view.

6. Limone Piemonte and Colle di Tenda

The little mountain village of Limone Piemonte and the surrounding area is definitely a hidden gem, even for Italians. Limone Piemonte offers great skiing in winter and is a hiker’s paradise in summer. The small town is located in the south of the Piedmont region, about 120km south of Turin.

Nestled in the Maritime Alps, the little town lies on the border with France and is connected to the Ligurian Riviera and the Côte d’Azur by the international tunnel of Colle di Tenda. Limone is a member of the alpine pearls, an association of little towns in the Alps, committed to soft tourism which should be supported.

Winter sports fans will find 15 lifts and gondolas for 80km of slopes in the “Riserva Bianca” ski resort. In summer there is a large network of trails for hikers and mountain bikers. Especially along the mountain pass Colle di Tenda, 14km south of the village center, between Italy and France, there are many beautiful trails.  

Along the panoramic border ridge, there are 6 impressive military fortress ruins from the 19th century, freely accessible for hiking and inhabited only by chamois. Mountain bikers can even reach the Mediterranean Sea on the “Via del Sale”, the old salt road, through spectacular former military roads along the watershed.

7. Forte di Fenestrelle

85km west of Turin, you will find the absolutely impressive Fenestrelle Fortress. It covers an area of 1.3 square kilometers, overcomes a height difference of 635m, and is thus the largest fortification in Europe. Moreover, it is the second largest masonry complex in the world after the Great Wall of China. The complex actually consists of three independent fortresses: San Carlo, Tre Denti, and Delle Valli. These 3 fortresses are connected to each other by a tunnel, which has in its interior the longest covered staircase in Europe. In total, there are almost 4000 steps that wind through the fortress complex.  

The Fenestrelle Fortress can be visited on a short independent tour or with an (Italian) guided day tour which then covers all parts of the impressive complex.

8. Gran Paradiso National Park

The beautiful Gran Paradiso National Park is located northwest of Piedmont and in the adjacent region of Valle d’Aosta. It is the oldest national park in Italy, founded in 1922 for the protection of ibex. With an area of about 70000 hectares and five valleys, the park is a true paradise for nature lovers. 

The mountain Gran Paradiso, the highest peak of the park with 4061m, gives its name. It is, by the way, the highest peak in Italy, which stands completely, even with the base, in the country. 

More than 60% of the national park is located above 2200 meters of altitude and provides habitat for a variety of animal and plant species. Among other things, visitors can observe rare species of animals such as golden eagles, chamois, marmots, and alpine ibex. 

The Nivolet plateau at 2600 m is the park’s centerpiece and starting point for many popular and stunning hikes. In summer, the pretty mountain village of Ceresole Reale offers a free shuttle service for all hikers who wish to reach the plateau via winding mountain passes. Exploring Gran Paradiso and Val Grande National Park is an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, offering spectacular views of the Alps and their breathtaking beauty.

How To Get To Piedmont

The only international airport in the region is Torino Caselle, north of Turin. But even this one, is not a particularly large airport. Better and often cheaper is the journey via one of the 3 airports of neighboring Milan. There are trains every 30 Minutes between the 2 cities and the ride takes less than an hour. Additionally, there are regular direct buses from Milano Malpensa airport to Turin city center.

Getting Around Piedmont

The larger cities of Piedmont are easily accessible by train or bus, but as soon as you want to visit something in the countryside or away from bigger places, using public transportation is getting difficult. To really explore Piedmont, after having discovered what Turin has to offer, you should rent a car. A great road trip is a loop through Val di Susa and Val Chisone. Other fantastic drives will lead you through the picturesque vineyards of the Langhe Hills.

Best Time To Visit Piedmont

The beautiful Piedmont is worth a trip at any time of the year. In spring the weather is very pleasant and often already really warm, when elsewhere in Europe, still deep winter prevails. Also, many alpine flowers blossom in the mountains and lavender fields bloom in the southeast. The summer is often very hot and perfect for excursions, hikes, and mountain bike tours into the Alps.  

In autumn it is grape harvest time in Piedmont and the landscape shines in beautiful reddish tones. Winter fans can explore plenty of ski slopes in the cold season. Especially the ski area around the mountain resort of Sestrière is popular. The so-called “Via Lattea” Ski resort is one of the largest in the world.

Where to stay in Piedmont

Where to stay in Piedmont depends on your interests as the region is quite large. Turin is generally a good starting point for sightseeing in the city and excursions to the north and west. However, you will always have to go through the city traffic.

If you want to go hiking or for excursions to the wine region, the small town of Cuneo, 100km south of Turin, is a good starting point. It is ideally located to explore several beautiful alpine valleys in Piedmont’s west and also the wine region around Alba and Asti is within an hour’s drive.

Why Should You Visit Piedmont, Italy

No matter if you are looking for a cultural holiday or an exciting outdoor adventure, you need to check out the north Italian region of Piedmont if you want to avoid the masses but not want to miss out on fantastic cities and impressive landscapes, combined with some of the world’s best food. 

Choosing where to stay in Rio de Janeiro is an important decision that can greatly impact your experience of the city. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations, budget-friendly hostels, or something in between, Rio de Janeiro has plenty of options to choose from. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro, from the bustling beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the charming hills of Santa Teresa and beyond, so you can find the perfect home base for your Rio adventure.

Top Places to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

While in Rio de Janeiro, we stayed in several different hotels. By checking out several different neighborhoods in Rio, we have rounded up the best areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro to suit your travel style and budget.

For a better understanding of Rio de Janeiro neighborhoods, we’ve created a map. You can click on the map to find your Rio hotel of choice.

Best Hotels in Rio de Janeiro

Don’t want to read through this entire post? We’ve hand-picked the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro by neighborhood so you can check them out right away.

1. Copacabana

Copacabana Beach is the best place to stay in Rio de Janeiro for first time visitors. It’s where we stayed our first time. Copacabana is one of the most popular areas for tourists in Rio de Janeiro, with a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. It is also beautiful.

There is nothing better than grabbing a coffee, stepping out of your accommodation, and going for a stroll on the boardwalk each morning while taking in the views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the famous beach.

Best Luxury Hotel in Copacabana – Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel 

Luxury: Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel is an art deco hotel that dates back to 1923 and is located on Famous Copacabana Beach. It was the first hotel in the area and it takes up an entire city block.The each was basically built around this hotel and its history and its glamour cannot be denied. It has luxurious rooms that are fully modern and yet epitomize the grandeur of another era.

This luxury hotel has hosted many famous guests, including Fred Astaire and Princess Diana. When we were there, Arnold Schwarzenegger was staying in the hotel so that has got to say something!

It has one of Rio’s largest pools, a fitness center, beach service, and the Copacabana Palace Spa. It has 3 of Rio’s best restaurants including fine dining restaurants including Michelin Star rated, Cipriani Trip Advisor / Booking.com

Best Hotels in Copacabana

Luxury – Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana – You can never go wrong with a Fairmont and this luxury hotel is located on famous Copacabana Beach. Its panoramic pool offers views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Mid Range: Miramar Hotel by Windsor: This sleek, modern hotel is located just across the street from the Beach and features elegant rooms with ocean views, a rooftop infinity pool, and a gourmet restaurant.

Budget: Hotel Novo Biarritz Copacabana: This hotel is located just one block from the Beach and offers simple and clean rooms at a budget-friendly price.

Note: Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana is undergoing renovations until 2024.

Things to do in Copacabana Beach

You could easily spend most of your time at Copacabana Beach and be satisfied with your Rio de Janeiro holiday. There are plenty of things to do within walking distance of the beach and here are a few suggestions.

One of the best ways to take in the beauty of Rio de Janeiro is by helicopter. Book this 30 or 60 minute helicopter tour of Rio to see all of the iconic sights. Watch our doors off helicopter tour

Copacabana Beach – There is no doubt that the beach is the top draw in this Rio neighborhood. Play some beach volleyball, cycle along the boardwalk, or watch the surfers at The Arpoador. There is shopping and vendors lining the path at sunset so get out and do some shopping.

Forte de Copacabana – this historic military fort played an important role in Rio’s history. While it is still a working fort, visitors can browse the military museum and its artifacts. Located on a hill, the fort overlooks the beach and the ocean. While there, you can pop into the cafeteria for some snacks.

Avenue Nossa Senhora de Copacabana – this is a busy area for nightlife and shopping.

Bip Bip Bar – If you want to hear some live music, make your way to the Bip Bip Bar to hear the bands play Bossanova or Jazz.

2. Ipanema

“Tall and tan and young and lovely the girl from Ipanema goes walking….” Made famous by the song, the Girl From Ipanema, Ipanema Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Rio de Janeiro, with clear blue water and white sand. It’s also less crowded than Copacabana, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.

Ipanema is centrally located, making it easy to explore other parts of Rio de Janeiro and is within walking distance to Copacabana, and Leblon, and has easy access to the city center.

Ipanema Beach is most people’s favorite beach in Rio de Janeiro. It’s the local favorite and it is close to many restaurants and shopping. It is known for its upscale restaurants, designer boutiques, and sophisticated nightlife.

Best Luxury Hotel in Ipanema – Fasano Hotel

The Fasano Hotel is the choice hotel for stars, but that was all booked out during our stay sadly. Rumour has it that Madonna was so mad at the Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel for booking an actual president in the Presidential Suite that she moved to the Fassano and has never looked back. Henry Stiles, Kate Moss, and David Beckham have all stayed at the Fassano. I would have loved to have checked it out, but we were at another choice Rio Hotel at the Sol Ipanema.

This stylish hotel is located just steps from Ipanema Beach and features elegant rooms with ocean views, a rooftop pool, and an acclaimed Italian restaurant.

Best Hotels in Ipanema

1. Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema: This luxurious hotel is located just across the street from Ipanema Beach and features spacious rooms with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
2. Praia Ipanema Hotel: This beachfront hotel features modern rooms with stunning ocean views, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine.
3. Sol Ipanema Hotel – Sol Ipanema is all about its location. Located across the street from the beach. It is also just around the corner from the famed Girl from Ipanema Cafe where the famous tune was penned. It has a small rooftop pool and a rooftop bar with views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and the beach. Plus, our suite had stunning views. We suggest taking advantage of the sun chair and umbrella service offered at the Sol Ipanema on the beach. Umbrellas and chairs are hard to come by and having a hotel provide this complimentary service is a huge bonus.

Things to do in Ipanema

Ipanema is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro, known for its beautiful beaches, trendy shops, and vibrant nightlife. Here are some of the best things to do in Ipanema.

Visit Ipanema Beach: Obviously, the Beach is the star attraction and one of the most famous beaches in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a great place to swim, sunbathe, and people-watch as many locals hand out at this beach.

Walk along the Arpoador: Arpoador is a rocky outcrop between Ipanema and Copacabana beaches that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the sunset.

Visit the Hippie Fair: Every Sunday, the Hippie Fair takes place in Ipanema, offering handmade crafts, clothing, and artwork made by local artisans.

Shop at the Farme de Amoedo Street: This street is known for its trendy boutiques, designer stores, and souvenir shops.

Visit the Nossa Senhora da Paz Square: This square is a great place to relax and watch the locals playing sports or relaxing on the benches.

Explore the Garota de Ipanema Park: This park is dedicated to the famous song “The Girl from Ipanema” and features a statue of the song’s muse. And then make your way to over to the Girl From Ipanema Bar known as the birthplace of Bossa Nova.

3. Leblon

Leblon is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro and this was our favorite place to stay in Rio de Janeiro. With luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Leblon is known for those in search of a high-end vacation with fabulous beaches. Leblon also had one of our favorite Rio de Janeiro hotels.

It is a little further from sights than Ipanema and Copacabana, but that is what makes up its charm. It’s quieter yet just as beautiful. Plus, Leblon is considered one of the safest areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

Best Luxury Hotel in Leblan Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

The Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort was a luxury hotel that we never wanted to leave. Located just a little farther down the beach from the more famous Ipanema Beach, the Sheraton has what feels like a private beach as only locals take advantage of the sand. It is the only hotel with direct beach access

It has multiple pools, a spa, a fitness center, and restaurants making the Sheraton the perfect retreat from busy Rio. The newly redesigned pool area was under construction when we were there, but now you can enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool surrounded by a tropical landscape.

There are several restaurant choices including French cuisine at L’Etoile, Casarão Restaurant, Bene Restaurant, Casa da Cachaça, at the pool area. Leblon Beach is within walking distance and if you are up for a hike, the Tijuca Forest National Park is 3.4 km away. This was our favorite place to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

Best Hotels in Leblon

• Luxury: Fasano Rio de Janeiro – This luxury hotel is located on the beachfront and offers stunning views of Leblon Beach. It features a rooftop infinity pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
• Mid-range: Marina All Suites – This boutique hotel offers luxurious suites with balconies and ocean views. It features a rooftop pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
• Mid-Range: Leblon Spot Design D049  – This 2 bedroom apartment has a full kitchen, close to the beach.

Things to do in Leblon

Leblon is a trendy and upscale neighborhood that offers a variety of things to see and do that are within walking distance. Here are some of the top things to do in Leblon:

Visit Leblon Beach: This beach is less crowded than the more famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and is known for its clean sand and clear water. It is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and relax.

Take a walk at the Jardim de Allah: This park is located next to the beach and is a great place to take a walk or have a picnic.

Enjoy the nightlife: Leblon has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants that offer live music and DJs. Leblon also has has many restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of cuisine, including Brazilian, Japanese, and Italian

Visit the Cidade das Artes: This cultural center offers concerts, theater performances, and art exhibits.

Explore the Parque Natural Municipal da Catacumba: This park offers hiking trails, bike paths, and beautiful views of the city.

Visit the Museu do Acervo de Arte Urbana: This museum features graffiti and street art from local and international artists.

4. Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a cool, bohemian neighborhood located in the hills above Rio de Janeiro, with narrow cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and stunning views of the city. Santa Teresa is known for its boutique hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Santa Teresa is a great area to stay in Rio de Janeiro for a local vibe.

Best Luxury Hotel Santa Teresa – Rio MGallery

Hotel Santa Teresa RJ MGallery: This luxurious hotel 5-star boutique hotel is housed in a 19th-century mansion and offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant.

This little oasis is surrounded by gardens and has a full-service spa offering spa treatments. Make sure to eat at its Térèze restaurant, listed in the Michelin Guide.

Suited to its bohemian neighborhood, this hotel features Brazilian designers and art from the ikes of Sergio Rodrigues, Studio Vitty, and Rock Lane.

Best Hotels in Santa Teresa

• Mama Shelter Rio: This trendy hotel features colorful rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning views, and a restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine.
• Casa Amarelo Boutique Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in a restored mansion and offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving French-Brazilian cuisine.
• Casa Cool Beans: This boutique hotel offers colorful rooms, a swimming pool, a rooftop terrace, and a daily breakfast with fresh fruit and Brazilian specialties.
• Santa Vista
• Casa MangoMango: This bed and breakfast is located in a colonial-style house and offers spacious rooms, a garden, and a terrace with stunning views of the city.

Things to do in Santa Teresa

Visit Parque das Ruinas: This park offers stunning views of the city and hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts.

Explore the Selarón Steps: These colorful and iconic steps (Also known as the Lapa Steps) were created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón and feature over 2,000 tiles from around the world.

Visit the Chácara do Céu Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Brazilian art and offers beautiful views of the city.

Wander through the streets and alleys: Santa Teresa is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful gardens, making it a great neighborhood to explore on foot.

Have a meal or drink in one of the many restaurants and bars: Santa Teresa has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Brazilian dishes to international cuisine.

Take the Bonde Tram: This historic tram takes you through the narrow streets of Santa Teresa and offers a unique perspective of the neighborhood.

Visit the Santa Teresa Convent Museum: This museum is located in a beautiful colonial building and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the neighborhood.

5. Flamengo

Flamengo is a quiet, residential neighborhood located near the city center, with easy access to public transportation and many cultural attractions. Flamengo is known for its parks and gardens, as well as its historic architecture and museums.

It is located between Botafogo and Santa Teresa and has an ideal location making it easy to explore downtown Rio de Janeiro, and the city center, as well as other popular neighborhoods like Copacabana, Botafogo, and Lapa

Best Luxury Hotel Flamingo JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro

JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro: This elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, multiple restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city and the bay. This 5 Star resort has a rooftop swimming pool offering stunning views of the beaches. Enjoy sunset at Moonlounge Rooftop Bar and international cuisine at The Carioca restaurant. There is a full service spa, beach access with sun loungers and umbrellas.

Best Hotels in Flamengo

• Hotel Novo Mundo: This historic hotel is located in a beautiful building dating back to the 19th century, offering spacious rooms and suites with views of the bay, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine.
• Hotel Regina: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites decorated in a classic style, a restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine, and a bar with live music.
• Ibis Rio de Janeiro Botafogo: Located just a few minutes away from Flamengo, this budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

Things to do in Flamengo

Flamengo is a great location that offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and scenic views of the city’s famous landmarks. Here are some of the best things to do in Flamengo:

Visit the Museu de Arte Moderna (Museum of Modern Art): This museum features a diverse collection of Brazilian and international art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.

Walk or bike along Flamengo Park: This large park is located along the waterfront and offers beautiful views of the bay, as well as sports facilities, playgrounds, and a bike path.

Explore the Centro Cultural Oi Futuro: This cultural center offers exhibitions, workshops, and performances in the fields of art, music, and technology.

Flamengo is home to several cultural attractions, including the Museum of Modern Art (MAM), which houses a collection of contemporary artworks, and the Monument to the Dead of World War II, a significant memorial in the neighborhood. Additionally, the Municipal Theater and the Museum of Image and Sound (MIS) are located nearby in the city center.

Take a scenic cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain: The Sugarloaf cable car is located near Flamengo and offers breathtaking views of the city from the top of the mountain.

Visit the Casa de Rui Barbosa: This historic house museum was the former home of Brazilian statesman and writer Rui Barbosa, and features a collection of his personal belongings and documents.

Enjoy the views from the top of Morro da Viúva: This hill is located in Flamengo and offers panoramic views of the city and the bay, as well as a park with trails and picnic areas.

6. Lapa

Lapa is a historic and lively neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, known for its samba clubs, nightlife, and cultural attractions and is a great place to stay in Rio for people on a budget.

Lapa is a historic neighborhood located in the center of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is bordered by the neighborhoods of Santa Teresa, Centro, and Glória, and it is situated near the Arcos da Lapa (Lapa Arches), a famous landmark and tourist attraction in the city. Lapa is known for its vibrant nightlife, samba clubs, bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions, such as the Selarón Steps and the Municipal Theatre of Rio de Janeiro.

Best Hotels in Lapa

• Hotel Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro: This luxurious hotel is located in a historic building and features elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop pool and bar, a spa, and a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine. It has a wellness center and outdoor pool with an excellent location just 600 m from Carioca´s Aqueduct and the bohemian center of Lapa.
• Selina Lapa Rio de Janeiro: This trendy and stylish hotel offers colorful and eclectic decor, comfortable rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, and a range of activities and events.
• Hotel Atlântico Avenida: This budget-friendly hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a bar, and a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine.

Things to do in Lapa

Visit the Arcos da Lapa: This historic aqueduct is an iconic landmark of Rio de Janeiro and offers stunning views of the city.

Dance the night away in one of the many samba clubs: Lapa is famous for its lively samba scene, with many bars and clubs offering live music and dancing.

Visit the Rio Scenarium: This popular bar and club is housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion and features live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere.

Explore the street art: Lapa is known for its vibrant street art scene, with many colorful murals and graffiti art adorning the walls of the neighborhood.

Visit the Selarón Steps: These colorful and iconic steps were created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón and feature over 2,000 tiles from around the world.

Visit the Carioca Aqueduct: This historic aqueduct is another iconic landmark of Rio de Janeiro and offers beautiful views of the city.

7. Botafogo

Botafogo offers a great mix of nature, culture, and entertainment, making it a great place to stay in Rio de Janeiro. Located between Copacabana and Flamengo Botafogot is a central and well-connected area without the price tags of the two mor famous beaches. Making a base in Botafogo also provides easy access to other popular areas of Rio de Janeiro, such as Ipanema, Leblon, and the city center.

Best Luxury Hotel in Botafogo

Novotel Rio de Janeiro Botafogo: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms with great views. Located in the heart of Botafogo it is close to restaurants and bars. This contemporary rio hotel has a fitness center with hot tub and sauna.

Best Hotels in Botafogo

1. Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity: This upscale hotel offers modern rooms with stunning views of the bay, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine.
2. Lobie Botafogo Privilege: This mid range hotel offers comfortable rooms with great views of the bay, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant
3. Ibis Budget RJ Botafogo: This budget hotel offers basic rooms with great views of the bay, a snack bar, and a 24-hour front desk.

Things to do in Botafogo

Botafogo offers a great mix of nature, culture, and entertainment, making it a great place to explore while in Rio de Janeiro.

Visit Sugarloaf Mountain: Take the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and the bay.

Enjoy Botafogo Beach: Relax on the sandy beach, swim in the calm waters of the bay, or try stand-up paddleboarding.

Explore the Casa de Rui Barbosa Museum: Visit this historic museum dedicated to the life and work of the Brazilian jurist Rui Barbosa.

Discover the Indian Museum: Visit this unique museum dedicated to the indigenous cultures of Brazil and the Americas.

Walk along Flamengo Park: Take a stroll along the beautiful park that runs along the bay, visit the Museum of Modern Art or the Monument to the Dead of World War II.

Shop at Rio Sul Mall: Check out this modern mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and cinemas.

Visit the Museum of the Republic: Explore this historic museum that showcases the history of Brazil and the life of former president Getúlio Vargas.

Take a boat tour of Guanabara Bay: Book a boat tour to explore the bay, see the city from a different perspective, and visit nearby islands.

Go to the Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences: Discover the universe at this fascinating museum, which features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and telescopes for stargazing.

8. Centro

The city center, also known as Centro, is a bustling area with a mix of historic and modern buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants. It is also a transportation hub with easy access to other parts of the city, including the beaches, the mountains, and other neighborhoods.

Staying in the city center can be a good option if you want to be close to the main tourist attractions, cultural venues, and transportation options. It can also be a more affordable option compared to other areas of the city, such as the beach neighborhoods.

However, the city center can be crowded, noisy, and not as safe as other areas of the city, particularly at night. Some parts of the city center can also be deserted after business hours, making it less convenient for tourists who want to explore the city after dark.

Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and preferences. If you prefer a more relaxed and beach-oriented atmosphere, then staying in neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon might be a better option. However, if you are interested in history, culture, and city life, then the city center might be a great place to stay.

Best Hotel Atlantico Business Centro

Novotel Rio Atlantico Business Centro – this contemporary hotel is located in the hippest neighborhood in Rio. With an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center with a steam room. It is close to Riocentro Convention Center and is great for business or pleasure. Barra Shopping or Metropolitano Barra are located opposite the hotel.

Best Hotels in Centro

Windsor Asturias Hotel: This modern and functional hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine.

PortoBay Rio Internacional: This stylish and contemporary hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with ocean views, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Brazilian and international cuisine.

Hotel Atlântico Business Centro: This budget-friendly hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Brazilian cuisine.

Things to do in Centro

Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts: This museum houses an impressive collection of Brazilian art, as well as European paintings and sculptures.

Explore the Confeitaria Colombo: This historic café and bakery is known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and delicious pastries.

Visit the Candelaria Church: This impressive neo-classical church is one of the most beautiful and important religious buildings in Rio de Janeiro.

Take a stroll through the historic streets: Centro is full of beautiful colonial architecture, including the Municipal Theater, the Royal Portuguese Reading Room, and the Sao Bento Monastery.

Visit the Paço Imperial: This historic palace was once the seat of government in colonial Brazil and is now a cultural center, with exhibitions and events.

Take a tram ride: The Bonde de Santa Teresa is a historic tram that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the streets of Centro and the bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood.

Shop at the Saara Market: This bustling market is known for its wide variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

A trip to Rio de Janeiro is an adventure you’ll never forget. It truly is one of the best cities in the world. Not only is it beautiful, it has some of the best beaches, nightlife, cuisine and attractions on earth. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Rio today, you won’t regret it.

Oahu is home to some of the best hikes in all of Hawaii. The island is home to two vast mountain ranges, the Koolau and Waianae. Running alongside each other they help to create dramatic and memorable landscapes and most of the best hikes on Oahu soar up their ridgelines.

Hikes on Oahu range in difficulty from casual paved strolls through botanic gardens to epic muddy treks deep into the jungle in search of waterfalls. Whatever takes your fancy, unique scenery will surround you in every direction and the summit views will be worth every leg-burning mile.

Top Hikes On Oahu

Deciding what hiking trails you should add to your Oahu itinerary can be tricky, so read on and learn all about the 15 best hikes on Oahu. After completing one of these outstanding treks, read our article on the best things to do in Oahu to keep the fun times rolling.

1. Manoa Falls Trail

Only fifteen minutes from downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, the Manoa Falls Trail presents the perfect urban escape and is one of the most popular Oahu hikes for locals and travelers alike.

From the instant you hit the trail, your world will transform into a jungle paradise and you will see why this is our favorite Oahu hike. Flanked by the lush Manoa Valley on either side, you will rise past the valley towards a beautiful 150ft waterfall. You will hear the tumble of the water long before you arrive, and when you do, color prisms and rainbows will float through the air. The trail is well-maintained and there are several benches along the way where you can rest.

The highlight of the hike is definitely the waterfall at the end of the trail. The waterfall is about 150 feet tall and it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. The Manoa Falls hiking trail is a relatively simple hike that is a great starter trek for newcomers to Oahu and also for families looking for an outdoor adventure.

• Trailhead: Manoa Falls Trailhead
• Distance: 1.6 miles
• Difficulty: Easy hike
• Elevation Gain: 633ft

2. Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Hike)

In one of the most picturesque corners of Oahu, a short ridge hike ends in iconic and colorful pillboxes. Also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, this trek is one of the most rewarding yet straightforward hiking trails on Oahu.

The steady, steep grade will get the legs moving but luckily the Lanikai Pillbox Hike is only roughly a mile one-way. Views are amazing all along the trail, giving you a glimpse into what is to come. Once you are at the top, you’ll not only see the pillboxes, which are two concrete bunkers that were built during World War II, but you will also enjoy epic views of Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach, and the Mokulua Islands.

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike faces due east, so all the more reason to get up early, complete the hike, and take in an unbeatable Hawaiian sunrise.

• Trailhead: 265 Kaelepulu Dr, Kailua, HI
• Distance: 1.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy Hike
• Elevation Gain: 656ft

3. Olomana Trail

Now that you have stretched your legs and broken in your hiking boots, it is time to challenge yourself a little more. This is where the Olomana 3 Peaks Hike comes in.

As one of the more challenging hikes on Oahu, the Olomana Trail takes you up a steep incline to the first of three peaks. After gaining 2000ft of elevation, take a break and soak in the views of the Ko’olau Mountain Range and the rugged Oahu coast, before making your way across to the second peak.

The trail is steep and rocky, and there are some sections that require scrambling and rope assistance. So this is a hike I would only suggest attempting if you are really in shape and have hiking experience.

Although you can climb the third peak, we recommend turning around after peak two because of safety concerns. Once you’re back on level ground, head to the local pub and toast to an incredible day in the mountains.

• Trailhead: Loop Drive near Royal Hawaiian Golf Club
• Distance: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 2761ft

4. Waimea Falls Trail

Similar to the Manoa Falls Trail, Waimea Falls is a very accessible hike near Oahu’s north shore. The trail makes its way through the wonderful botanical garden of Waimea Valley. The valley is worth exploring further after the hike as it comes with a significant cultural and archaeological site.

This is one of the more popular Oahu hikes mainly because it features a mostly paved trail along flat ground. Along the trek, dense forests and gorgeous gardens will welcome you at every turn. Once you have reached the end, you will be able to sit, relax and take in the 45ft waterfall as it tumbles into the Kamanui Stream. To help make the hike even more accessible, there are optional shuttles for young families and elderly hikers.

• Trailhead: Waimea Valley Visitor Center
• Distance: 3.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 272ft

Don’t have time to do all these hikes on Oahu? This best-selling full-day Oahu island tour covers all the highlights including Hanauma Bay to the North Shore, the Kualoa Ranch, Halona Blowhole Nu`uanu Pali Lookout, the beaches of the North Shore, and more.

5. Diamond Head Trail

Anyone who has visited Oahu will know about the mass of volcanic rock that is visible from so many parts of the island, the Diamond Head State Monument. This iconic natural feature is also home to one of the best hikes on Oahu. The Diamond Head Trail takes you through some incredible landscapes that are a world away from the previous treks through rainforests.

The fun, but challenging volcano hike features a steep hike up to the viewpoint at Diamond Head Crater that rewards you with panoramic views of turquoise waters and the Honolulu skyline. Along the way, the trail leads you through an exciting 225ft tunnel, which is almost as memorable as the views. But be aware this is an extremely popular hike and it can get really crowded at sunrise, so be prepared.

• Trailhead: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
• Distance: 1.6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 560ft

Don’t just see Oahu from the ground, get up in the air with this helicopter tour that we did. It goes from Waikiki Beach to the North Shore and it was beautiful. Magnum PI fans will also love this helicopter tour in a replica of the series helicopter to see filming locations plus Pearl Harbor, Sacred Falls, and Le‘ahi (Diamond Head).

6. Koko Crater Hike

Nearby to Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach is one of the most exciting hiking trails on the island of Oahu. The infamous Koko Crater stairs aren’t just there to make your legs heavy, they are the remains of a railroad built in the Second World War. Now instead of transporting supplies, hikers take to this trail for the physical challenge.

The Koko Crater trail takes you over 1,000 steps up to the summit in less than a mile. This is one of the best Oahu hikes but be aware that it is a very steep climb and not for the unfit. From the top of the Koko Head District Park, you will have stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from 1200ft above sea level.

For those who are up for the adventure, prepare to have some jelly legs on the descent.

If you are hooked on Oahu’s unique landscape, go a step further and find out the most amazing facts about Hawaii.

• Trailhead: Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
• Distance: 2 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 990ft

7. Seven Falls Hike

All the best Oahu hikes have something unique to enjoy. But for an all-around adventure, it is hard to pass up on the Seven Falls trail. Featuring waterfalls, plenty of wading through streams, and boulder hopping along the challenging route, Seven Falls has it all.

The hiking trail is next to a rocky stream that cuts through a deep and narrow gorge. Along the way, you will pass several waterfalls, with the trail requiring the use of ropes so you can hike beside them.

It is possible to complete the entire trek and reach the seventh waterfall, however, your technical ability will need to be sound as it quickly becomes a trail for experienced hikers.

• Trailhead: Yellow Gate on Maakua Road
• Distance: 5 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1805ft

8. Ka’au Crater Hike

From one epic adventure to another, Oahu sure doesn’t take its foot off the pedal. This hike comes complete with an ancient volcanic crater, waterfall after waterfall, and panoramic views at multiple stages.

From your first step, you enter the jungle with magnificent soaring trees everywhere you look. The foliage is so dense that the sun only makes its way through the canopy at rare intervals. From gaps along the ridge, you will see as far as Waikiki Beach and Oahu’s southeastern shoreline.

At various stages, you can glimpse beautiful waterfalls. Some that you can pause and take a dip in, providing the perfect break to what is a challenging but exhilarating hike, finishing with views into the crater from the summit.

• Trailhead: Ka’au Crater Trailhead
• Distance: 5.1 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1942ft

9. Crouching Lion Hike

A steep, yet short hike is a great way to see the breathtaking Kahana Bay from above, along with the imposing sight of Pu’u Manamana. Like seemingly all the Oahu hiking trails, there is no gradual beginning, with the path immediately ascending into the heavens.

The trail comes with not just one, but multiple viewpoints which create many spots to rest along the way. It is likely you will need it as the trail can be slippery and the roots can bring you unstuck.

But the best view is, of course, from the peak where you will see the vibrant coral reef below. At the right time of day, the surrounding mountains will light up under the sun’s rays.

• Trailhead: 51-676 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaaawa, HI
• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 2000ft

10. Aiea Loop Trail

After some challenging, adventurous hikes through the vast Oahu forests, it’s time to take the difficulty down a notch. The Aiea Loop Trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy some of Oahu’s best scenery without venturing deep into the mountains.

With plenty of shade and flat sections, you can stroll around the loop at a leisurely pace viewing forests packed with eucalyptus groves, Norfolk pine, and native Koa.

Being on the west side of the Halawa Valley, the trail also provides plenty of long-range views of Pearl Harbor, the Ko’olau Mountains, and the ever-present Diamond Head monument.

• Trailhead: Aiea Loop Trailhead
• Distance: 4.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 900ft

11. Mt Olympus Hike

As one of the tallest mountains on the island, Mt Olympus is a common goal for a lot of adventurous residents. At over 2400ft tall, Mt Olympus is regularly hidden by cloud coverage. Despite having multiple options, the most popular summit trail begins in the Wa’ahila Ridge State Recreation Area.

This Oahu hiking trail takes you deep into one of the island’s main mountain ranges with several vantage points to view the entire island. The complete hike takes around a 4 to 5-hour round-trip. With many muddy sections, bring along sturdy boots and hiking pants.

• Trailhead: Wa’ahila Ridge Trailhead
• Distance: 5.9 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 2618ft

12. Maunawili Falls Trail

On the windward side of Oahu, the Maunawili Falls trail is a three-mile trek. However, it can take as long as two hours to reach the cascading waterfalls.

Along the way, you will reach a plateau where you can have a break and take in the views down to the valley along with the surrounding jungle.

Afterward, the trail descends into the trees where, after many enormous steps, you will be greeted by the 20ft falls tucked into the Pali Cliffs. The journey doesn’t end here though, continue across another stream and your reward will be a refreshing natural pool.

• Trailhead: Maunawili Falls Trailhead
• Distance: 2.8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1007ft

13. Kuliouou Ridge Trail

The Kuliouou Ridge Trail is a moderate to difficult trail that comes with relatively dry hiking compared to many of the hiking trails on this list. For this reason, the trek is a common running trail for locals.

Along the way, you will have sections of stairs taking you up and over rocky terrain, at other times you will have to do it yourself. The ridge comes with several plateaus providing excellent views of the eastern side of Oahu before traversing through a beautiful archway of banyan branches.

From the peak, all your toil will be worth it with stunning views of the coastline and as far as the eye can see.

• Trailhead: End of Kalalau Place
• Distance: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate–Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1800ft

14. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

For beautiful ocean views and the chance to see a historic lighthouse, the Makapuu Point and Lighthouse Trail provide plenty of bang for your buck.

At the end of the 1-mile journey to the eastern tip of Oahu, you will have unbeatable views of Manana and Black Rock islands. From the top of the 600ft volcanic cliff, you will also be able to see the century-old lighthouse.

If you are hiking the trail from December to May, Makapuu Point is a great place to have a picnic, and keep an eye out for whales who arrive in great numbers during these months.

• Trailhead: Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trailhead
• Distance: 2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 500ft

15. Stairway to Heaven via Moanalua Valley Trail

Arguably the most famous hike not just in Oahu but Hawaii as a whole is the Haiku Stairs trail. Since the late 1980s, the trail has been closed to the public, yet its fame continues to rise. One way to reach the impressive viewpoint along the Haiku Stairs is to take a difficult, yet legal route.

The hike starts on the Moanalua Valley side and takes you to the summit via a series of rope climbs and steep ascents. It will take around half a day to reach the summit shared with the closed route. Keep in mind that once you join the Stairway to Heaven viewpoint, you are considered to be on the illegal trail.

• Trailhead: Moanalua Valley Trailhead
• Distance: 9.3 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 5030ft

16. Wiliwilinui Ridge trail

The Wiliwilinui Ridge trail is one of Oahu’s best-kept secrets. Located on the eastern side of Oahu along the spine of the Ko?olau Mountain range this hike takes you through the lush forest up to the top of the mountain ridge to the summit where you will get incredible views of all of Oahu.

It is not too difficult of a hike if you are in shape but there it does get a bit steep in the last half mile of the hike up to the summit. It is not recommended for beginner hikers as you will have to where you’ll scramble up a bunch of steep stairs, made of wood and usually covered in the Oahu clay, which can make things quite slippery so be aware.

To access this hike you will have to get a parking permit at the start of the trail in a gated community. There are only a few parking spots, but this trail is relatively unknown so you should be able to snag one. Once you get to the top you will wonder why this hike isn’t more popular. It feels like you are looking out on Jurassic Park!

• Trailhead: Waialae Iki Gated Community
• Distance: 4.7 miles
• Elevation gain: 1,617 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

17. Makiki Valley Loop Trail

The Makiki Valley Loop Trail is the perfect hike for those who are looking for a short forest trail on Oahu that is close to Waikiki and easy to access. This trail is pretty easy with only 1000ft of elevation gain, but it can get muddy, so if you are thinking of doing it with the family or pets keep this in mind.

The hike itself takes you through the lush green forest with trails covered in green palms, trees draped with vines, and even a small waterfall about halfway along the trail. The footing gets a little more challenging as the elevation changes but as long as you are paying attention you should be. alright.

If you are looking to escape the city then this is the perfect hike to take.

• Trailhead: Hawaii Nature Center in Makiki
• Distance: 3.2 Miles
• Elevation Gain: 1000 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest hike in Oahu?

There are over 200 hikes to choose from in Oahu. Many reach great heights and go deep into the dense island jungle. However, there are a few easy hikes that will be the perfect brief excursion to break up your vacation.

The Lanikai Pillbox hike along with the Waimea and Manoa Falls are excellent examples of short, simple hikes that still provide walkers with views and memorable highlights.

What are the hiking trails like in Oahu?

Hiking on Oahu brings amazing variety, where you can complete a crater hike in the morning and finish with a jungle trek to a beautiful sunset viewpoint.

Two distinct shield volcanoes played a large role in creating Oahu’s dramatic landscape. Mountains here soar out of the valley at stark angles so most of the hiking on the island features steep climbs. Although the dense forest helps to keep the ground solid, many trails still face issues of erosion and trails can be slippery and muddy.

For these reasons, it is best to prepare for these hikes with sturdy footwear and accept that you’ll often get dirty. For tips on hiking all around Hawaii, check out our article on the best hikes in Hawaii.

Final Thoughts on Oahu Hikes

Hiking in Oahu is exciting for people of all skill levels. The simple, easy-access hikes bring you close to the island’s beautiful scenery without strenuous effort. On the other hand, the range of challenging hikes will put a smile on the face of experienced hikers who want to go that extra mile for an unforgettable view.

Whether you are coming to Hawaii to enjoy the sun, surf, and cocktails with the odd day hike or planning to do nothing but trek the endless trails, you will find what you’re looking for on this list of the ultimate 15 hikes in Oahu.

Once your time in Oahu is up, why not journey to Big Island? Explore the best things to do on Big Island.

If you plan to visit Cabo San Lucas, rest assured you are in for a treat. The resort city on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula of Mexico’s west coast is one of the best places to visit in Mexico. Cabo San Lucas has celeb status when it comes to holidaying in Mexico, famed for its sandy beaches, beach bars, and marine life. The entire Los Cabos area is dedicated to coastal living. Whether you are whale watching, snorkeling, or sampling the local cuisine, there are just so many things to do in Cabo San Lucas you’ll want to come back again and again.

Top Things to do in Cabo San Lucas

There are countless things to do in Cabo San Lucas with a variety of activities to suit every type of traveler. This is easily one of Mexico’s top destinations. Check out these 28 best things to do in Cabo San Lucas.

1. Lover’s Beach

Visiting Lover’s Beach is an absolute must in Cabo San Lucas. The water-locked beach is only accessible by boat or sea kayak (read more about our kayaking adventures on the Baja Peninsula here). This makes Lover’s Beach an adventure before you even get there.

The swimmable beach is a dream for those wanting a quick dip before sunbathing on soft sands. However, its winning feature is El Arco. This famous archway rock formation resembles the curves and colors of Portugal’s iconic Algarve coast. At Lover’s Beach, you have exceptional views over this geological attraction. If you catch a boat ride to the beach, the captain will likely detour to take you up for a closer look.

Just how Lover’s Beach got its name is a bit of a mystery. Some say it’s because it is the spot where the Gulf and Pacific Oceans connect. Others that two lovers locked lips here, apparently a Japanese sailor and Mexican woman. Who knows. But visiting Lover’s Beach is easily one of the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas and the prettiest places in Los Cabos.

2. Whale watching

We highly recommend a whale-watching tour in Cabo San Lucas. Sit back and relax as you head out on this highly rated boat tour, where expert crews lead you to whale hotspots. There is nothing more magical than watching whales in their natural habitat. They are often active here and you may see them breach and occasionally even leap from the water. It is a mesmerizing and wonderful experience when visiting Cabo San Lucas.

The chances of whale sightings during whale season are very high. There is a 90% chance of sightings between December and April, with December and January having the highest number. Many boat tours offer a refund policy or a free next-day tour if you don’t see whales, so keep that in mind when choosing. This is the tour that we recommend. Nothing beats seeing whales from a luxury catamaran.

3. Snorkeling tour with sea lions

Another sea life highlight in Cabo San Lucas is snorkeling with sea lions. As sea lions are so engaging and playful, it is one of the most fun things to do in Cabo San Lucas. As you enter the water, the sea lions rush up and investigate – twirling and looping around you in a dizzy dance. It is an entirely different experience from snorkeling with fish and even whales. Sea lions are nicknamed puppies of the sea; enough said, really.

This highly rated snorkeling tour specifically takes you to snorkel with sea lions in their natural habitat on a luxury yacht. Cruise to Espiritu Santo Island as you enjoy a fresh breakfast. After swimming with sea lions, manta rays, turtles and other tropical fish, you make your way to one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, Isla Partida Beach for some beach time as you enjoy lunch and an open bar

The best time to snorkel with sea lions is between November and April. The most popular sites to swim with them are Land’s End and Pelican Rock. If you book a boat trip from Marina Cabo San Lucas, you’ll be escorted to see them on a typically hour-long experience. While sea lions are playful, they are relatively harmless. So many tour operators, including PADI, recommend this as a family activity.

4. Take one of the Cabo food tours

You don’t need us to tell you how delicious Mexican cuisine is. Take our word; no Cabo vacation is complete without a food tour. Heading out to sample delectable dishes is easily one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Where exactly you go depends on the tour operator. You might go to a sit-down restaurant in Downtown Cabo before hitting up various beach vendors. Or you might dot between cafes and takeaway street stalls. The best of Cabo adventures include heading to taste new foods.

Cabo San Lucas has famous fish tacos. Naturally, given its coastal location, the city has incredible seafood. You can try Mexican chocolate clam, smoked marlin, and even sushi. Come with an open mind, and you’ll be blown away by all the different dishes.

This taco tour takes you through downtown Cabo to immerse yourself in Mexican cuisine. Immerse in the culture of the city as you enjoy stops at taco vendors and street stalls to sample everything from spicy salsa to tamales and fish tacos with fresh aguas frescas.

5. Swim with whale sharks

Yes, we are back to talking about whales (or, technically, sharks, considering that whale sharks are the world’s largest fish). However, this whale-watching tour is completely different. Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most magical things to do in Cabo San Lucas and definitely needed its own category. While diving is fantastic, swimming with whale sharks is in a league of its own. There are only a few places on Earth where you can swim with whale sharks, and people travel to Cabo San Lucas just to tick this activity off their bucket lists.

These gentle creatures are sedate and complete gents to swim alongside in the water. It is important not to touch them but through no danger to humans. Touching whale sharks is only dangerous to them, as it damages a layer of mucus that protects them against parasites and bacteria. On swimming with whale shark tours, you can still get super close, though – the animals don’t mind.

Whale shark season is between October and May in Cabo San Lucas. So if you want to experience seeing a whale shark up close in the water, then book to visit Cabo San Lucas during this period.

You can book this whale shark excursion in advance. You’ll jump in and snorkel with whale sharks after sailing to the blue waters of the Mar de Cortes. Snorkel equipment is included. And onboard lunch, water and soft drinks are served.

6. Hike up Pedregal

Pedregal is a wealthy neighborhood set on a vast hill. It is also a fantastic place to hike for views over San Lucas Bay and the city below. The setting is urban and safe for solo hikers seen, as there are plenty of people around. We suggest allowing an hour for the hike. Still, you could easily spend a few hours enjoying the different viewpoints and exploring this community.

If you want to, you can drive instead of walk – but where is the pride in that? Grab your hiking boots and a bottle of water. Even better if you coincide your walk with sunrise or sunset.

7. Kayak to El Arco de Cabo

We’ve already touched on El Arco de Cabo when discussing Playa del Amor. But El Arco is a standalone attraction, not just a detour from visiting Cabo’s beaches. The massive arch juts out of a rock formation on the southernmost point of Cabo San Lucas. It translates as ‘The Arch,’ but its location has also coined the nickname ‘Land’s End’. The granite rock gives it a pale appearance. It is easy to see how it attracts so much attention – dramatically perched at the end of the peninsula.

It is no exaggeration to say that there are always tours to see El Arco. Whether you want to combine it with a trip to the nearby beaches or wildlife spotting is up to you. To save yourself some money, you could even catch a water taxi to one of the beaches and have a drive-by experience of the formation.

One of the best ways to see the beautiful landscape is by kayak. This highly rated kayaking tour takes you up close and personal to Cabo’s most famous landmark, The Arch. After the sea lion colony and exploring the beaches and rock formations, you’ll have the opportunity to go snorkeling. Beverages and snacks are included.

8. Dine at El Squid Roe

El Squid Roe, you are probably wondering, what even is that? El Squid Roe is Cabo’s most electric bar and restaurant. The venue has a live DJ and constant dancing – giving it a fun edge over other venues in Downtown Cabo. However, it also has delicious food. You can grab a beer from the bar and then a restaurant menu. El Squid Roe is renowned for its tacos, pizzas, and massive burgers. Basically, all the comfort food you

If you want restaurant recommendations in Cabo San Lucas, Squid is easily the top three. And if you love a vibrant, slightly chaotic atmosphere, it’s sure to please but heart and stomach. Besides its DJ music and great menu, Squid has a convenient location. You can reach the marina in minutes, surrounded by other leading names like the Hard Rock Cafe San Lucas and the city’s massive shopping mall.

9. El Medano Beach

El Medano Beach is the most popular in Cabo San Lucas. Easy accessible on foot or public transport, it is located conveniently on the mainland and right next to downtown Cabo. The spacious sands open out onto calm waters that are popular for swimming. And the beach is always packed with people and action. Numerous restaurants and beach bars dot its shores; where they don’t, beach vendors sell goods and refreshments.

Visiting El Medano Beach is one of the easiest things to do in Cabo San Lucas. If you want a classic beach day, El Medano is a breeze to get to and has an infectiously fun atmosphere. The beach bars also give it a partying edge, with plenty of chances to socialize with new people.

10. Try The Local Beers at Baja Brewing

Baja Brewing is the city’s leading brewery and one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. The brewery has a range of cervezas and proudly only uses four ingredients in each beer. These all-important four are premium barley, purified water, brewers’ yeast, and hops. Many of the beers are only available in Mexico, which is exciting for tourists wanting to try something completely new.

The brewery has a beautiful restaurant in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. You can head to the rooftop venue, decked with misters to beat the heat and fire pits to beat the chilly days.

11. Scuba diving

Scuba diving is one of the most sought-after things to do in Cabo San Lucas. The city’s surrounding waters are home to colorful fish, dramatic underwater habitats, and larger sea life. It is clear why Cabo San Lucas is considered one of Mexico’s top scuba diving sites.

Of course, even Cabo San Lucas has prime times for sea life sightings. We suggest visiting between December and May if you want to spot incredible animals like whales. This period also has calmer seas, although a wet suit will be needed to keep warm in the water. We’ll talk about whales more later, as there are many things to do in Cabo San Lucas related to its cetacean population – so don’t worry if you don’t have a PADI. This SCUBA diving excursion is perfect.

12. Jet Skiing

Okay, who doesn’t love the thrill of jet skiing? Depending on the make, conditions, and passengers, jet skis can reach up to 70 mph. You could fly across the ocean with Cabo San Lucas in the background. Going jet skiing is a thrill, but it is also one of the most inventive ways to sightsee independently from the water. The Baja coast is beautiful, so make the most of it.

El Medano Beach is the best jet ski destination in Cabo San Lucas. There are jet ski rentals lined all the way along the shores. You can just head up to one and organize an experience on the day. Typical opening times are 7 am until 5 pm. Still, depending on whether you are visiting off-season, you’ll probably find these change a little.

13. Go On A glass bottom boat tours

A glass-bottom boat ride is a fantastic way to see the underwater world without getting wet. A glass-bottom boat is ideal for non-confident swimmers or families with young children. You still get to see the ocean floor and all the tropical fish, just safely tucked up in the belly of the boat. It is one of the most inclusive and family-friendly things to do in Cabo San Lucas.

Glass bottom boat tours leave from Cabo San Lucas Marina and can be booked online or at the marina itself. The tours typically last a couple of hours, serving refreshments during the experience. If it sounds up your street, pencil it in as a morning or afternoon activity.

This day tour lets takes you to the main square of Cabo San Lucas and includes a glass bottom boat tour to see El Arco and the marine life. It’s then onto the beautiful colonial town of San José del Cabo to do some shopping.

14. Take a Day Trip to Todos Santos

This might be cheating a little since Todos Santos is an hour’s drive up the peninsula from Cabo San Lucas. However, it is such a pretty town that we had to squeeze it in as a day trip. Besides, if you are staying in Cabo San Lucas for longer than a week, then it is good to broaden out your things to do by exploring the wider region.

So, why visit Todos Santos? Firstly, the turtles. In Tortugueros Las Playitas A.C., hatchling turtles are released every day between December and February. If you head up there for sunset, you can take part free of charge. It is an amazing initiative and totally volunteer organized, though, so we recommend leaving a donation. Helping release baby turtles is on most people’s bucket lists, and we think it warrants an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas.

This Jeep tour to Todos Santos takes you on a self-drive adventure to this beautiful village in Baja California Sur. After a thrilling self-drive adventure on off-road tracks and scenic dirt roads to view the Sierra Laguna Mountains, you’ll head to Punta Lobo to view a colony of sea lions.

Apart from the turtles, Todos Santos is home to the legendary Hotel California, and a beautiful little art gallery called Galeria Logan. El Faro Beach and Spa is a fabulous club environment where you can rest peacefully.

15. Puerto Paraiso Mall

Sometimes, you just need some retail therapy. Puerto Paraiso Mall is an upmarket shopping center with plenty of clothing stores and a huge meal hall where you grab a bite. It is the best place for a real retail experience in Cabo San Lucas. The layout is handy, and the mall is self-contained and air-conditioned. In the height of the midday sun, it’s refreshing to have somewhere cool and shady to retreat to. And even more so when it has tons of clothes to sift through.

Puerto Paraiso is centrally located right next to Cabo San Lucas Marina. After a boat tour, you can head a short walk away from the luxury yachts and tourist boats and get out of the sun to enjoy shopping. The mall is also open super late, opening its doors at 9 am and not closing them until 10 pm.

16. Museum of Natural History in Cabo San Lucas

Sometimes, a museum just ticks the box. The Museum of Natural History is a fantastic addition to your itinerary, especially if you have time to kill in Downtown Cabo. You’ll love the variation – the museum has everything from marine life to a fossil collection.

The Museum of Natural History is also one of the only indoor things to do in Cabo San Lucas. So it is pretty foolproof if you are looking for a stormy or rainy day activity.

17. Party at Cabo Wabo Cantina

Cabo Wabo Cantina is one of the best places to eat and drink in Cabo San Lucas. Cabo Wabo serves classic Mexican cuisine – whether you want burritos, nachos, or traditional tacos. It is far from just a culinary experience, and you’ll find constant action. There’s daily entertainment on the Cabo Wabo stage. There is always something on the go, from celebs to musicians and DJs.

If it sounds familiar, you might know the restaurant’s sister franchises on the Las Vegas Strip and Hollywood Boulevard. The name came from ‘Cabo Wabo’ – a song Hagar wrote in 1988 after being inspired by partying in Cabo San Lucas.

18. Play Golf at Palmilla Golf Club

Where better to play golf than overlooking the Sea of Cortez? The Palmilla Golf Club has 27 holes and a beautiful course that runs parallel to the ocean. With a traditional clubhouse, stunning views, and regular tournaments, it’s easy to see why Palmilla is up there with the best golf courses in Mexico. Travel & Leisure even went as far as to claim it was the best golf course in Mexico – a notable title.

Booking tee times is a breeze online. You can reserve your slot and rock up, hiring golf gear from the on-site shop if you’ve left yours at home. Even if you don’t fancy a game, it’s worth checking out the upcoming tournaments. You can watch some high-quality golf without lifting your own club.

19. Take a Mexican Cooking Class

So you’ve taken a food tour; what next? Well, chances are you’ve already fallen in love with a few local dishes. A Mexican cooking class is one of the most educational and long-lasting things to do in Cabo San Lucas. After all, how valuable is being able to take home a piece of your holiday with you? And your friends and family will love your new recipes.

Most cooking classes give you options for different dishes. You could tackle a taco-making course – learning to make all the ingredients from scratch, even the salsa. Ceviche, tortillas, and churros are also usually on the cards. You’ll be able to get all the top tips and tricks, all while having a laugh and learning new skills. Read more about great Mexican Foods here.

We’ve taken a cooking class in Mexico and it’s awesome. This highly-rated cooking class with a master chef takes you through local produce and spice markets to gather ingredients. You’ll visit a tortilla factory to gather your dough and then head to your chef’s home to cook your feast. It includes margaritas, tequila, and a mescal tasting.

20. Pelican Rock

Pelican Rock is a beautiful rock formation only accessible by boat unless you are happy viewing it from a distance at Vie’s Beach. Luckily, you won’t be short of options. Boat tours run to take tourists to see Pelican Rock all the time. You can get up close and snap some pictures. And if you are brave, you can even indulge in snorkeling with specific tours. Pelican Rock is famed for sea turtles, sea lions, and rays. An underwater camera is a must.

If you fancy a sightseeing boat trip around Cabo San Lucas, heading to see Pelican Rock is a classic addition to your itinerary. This sunset cruise is a fun trip on a pirate ship. It includes a BBQ dinner and entertainment with pirates climbing the ropes of the ship as you enjoy views of  Los Arcos, Lover’s Beach, and Pelican Rock. It has an open bar with cocktails, beer, and soft drinks included.

21. Espiritu Santo Island

Visiting Espiritu Santo Island is one of the most adventurous things to do in Cabo San Lucas. The uninhabited island is a stunning area of natural beauty. The heat-bleached orange peaks and bare soil starkly contrast the white sand beaches and bright blue waters. Espiritu Santo Island has a beauty that stands out from the rest of the Los Cabos area. In fact, it is more reminiscent of the Baja Desert than any traditional tropical island.

You can read all about our experience at Isla Espiritu Santo here. But to organize a visit for yourself, it’s best to plan a trip up to La Paz or book a boat trip from Cabo San Lucas Marina. A boat trip is an ideal way to experience the island. It has a really expeditionary feel with plenty of wildlife sightings.

This highly rated snorkeling tour on a cruise to Espiritu Santo Island as you enjoy a fresh breakfast. You’ll then swim and snorkel in a most diverse marine environment that is filled with fish and marine mammals. After swimming with sea lions, manta rays, turtles, and other tropical fish, you make your way to one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, Isla Partida Beach for some beach time as you enjoy lunch and an open bar

22. Visit the Glass Factory

Visiting the Glass Factory is one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Especially if you love watching artistic projects in motion. Glass blowing has been used to create products for centuries. And right in the middle of Cabo, you can watch the process for yourself. The Glass Factory not only produces and sells artisan glass ornaments and products, but it also provides tours and demonstrations. The factory opened in 1990 as the only hand-blown glass factory on the peninsula. While this is no longer the case, the Glass Factory is still a firm favorite.

It is suggested to visit before 2pm if you want to see most of the action. You can easily book a glass tour online or visit independently if you want to just wander around putting two and two together. Of course, it is nice to browse the shop after as well. The Glass Factory sells everything from figurines to beautiful bowls – perfect souvenirs.

23. Playa del Divorcio

Visiting Divorce Beach is a sneaky addition to our guide on things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Why? Because it is actually located adjacent to Lover’s Beach, the first ‘thing to do’ on our list. While Lover’s Beach has calm waters and faces the Gulf of California, Divorce Beach meets the Pacific Ocean and is known for its rough waves and jagged rocks. The vibe is completely different.

Needless to say, you won’t be swimming at Divorce Beach. The waters are not safe enough to swim or indulge in water activities. And like Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach is only accessible by water. You can catch a water taxi or book an organized tour. Playa del Divorcio is a dramatic and exciting addition to any visit to its calmer neighbor and the iconic El Arco.

You can kayak to see this beach and this highly rated kayaking tour takes you up close and personal to The Arch, Divorce Beach, and Lover’s Beach. You’ll also view a sea lion colony and have the opportunity to go snorkeling. Beverages and snacks are included.

24. Santa Maria Beach

Regarding beaches in Cabo San Lucas, one shortfall is that they tend to be either touristy (like Lover’s Beach) or busy with beach vendors and partiers (Medano Beach). Santa Maria Beach is the answer if both of these scenarios send shudders down your spine. Set in Santa Maria Bay, a hotspot for snorkeling amongst colorful fish, Santa Maria Beach is a peaceful alternative to Cabos’ other beaches. You can snorkel independently in shallow, calm waters. Or just enjoy sunbathing hassle-free on its quiet sands.

Santa Maria Beach is a 20-minute drive up the eastern coastline from Cabo San Lucas, located on the southern tip of Baja California Sur. You can hire a taxi or book a rental car. You’ll love the peacefulness when you arrive, and the extra effort to get off the beaten track will be all worthwhile.

25. Ride an Extreme Zipline

Cabo Adventures is one of the city’s leading outdoor activity operators. The attraction hosts numerous different hair-raising things to do in Cabo San Lucas. However, the extreme zipline is by far the mass favorite. You’ll ride the longest and fastest zipline in Mexico, reaching speeds of 100kph at over 4000 feet in the air. That isn’t even all; you fly over the beautiful Boca de la Sierra Natural Reserve – meaning you have stunning views throughout.

Activity centers can seem like a waste of time when you only have a short period to get the most out of a destination. This definitely doesn’t apply to ziplining at Cabo Adventures. The combination of sightseeing, protected scenery, and reaching record-breaking speeds make this a brilliant activity in Cabo Lucas, no matter how short your itinerary is.

26. Take a Cactus ATV Tour

Taking an ATV tour is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Cabo San Lucas. The best tour provider is Cactus, which offers a complimentary shuttle to a remote area of natural beauty. Jumping on an ATV, you embark on a tour through desert, mountain, and canyon landscapes – ending on a beach with sand dunes and dramatic cliffs. It is a brilliant way to combine an adventure activity with sightseeing Cabo’s scenery.

Cactus has all sorts of ATVs. You could ride a little 250cc Honda or a 1000cc Can-am Sports Max, depending on your capabilities and tour choice. This tour is ideal for anyone who enjoys bikes, quads, and 4WD driving experiences. There is something special about experiencing new terrain from the back of an ATV.

27. San Jose del Cabo Art Walk

San Jose del Cabo Art Walk is a weekly cultural affair that runs from November until June. Every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm, a sightseeing procession winds its way through San Jose del Cabo. The crowd gets to meet some of the city’s top artists and gallery owners – gaining an inside look into the region’s artwork. The San Jose del Cabo Art Walk is essential for any art enthusiast. Interacting with so many art professionals is terrific, and the event has a real social buzz that is fantastic for networking and casual socializing.

As an added bonus, San Jose del Cabo Art Walk also involves wine and cheese tasting. The event itself is free. So treating yourself to the wine and cheese opportunities along the way is a well-deserved treat. Who knows, maybe you’ll also bag yourself a piece of artwork.

Cabo San Lucas FAQs

Now that we’ve covered all the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas let’s look at some common FAQs. This section will cover all the essentials – from getting to Cabo San Lucas to how many days you should stay there.

What is Cabo best known for?

Cabo San Lucas is best known for its beaches and ocean activities. The resort city is somewhere to scuba dive, sunbathe, and spot marine life like whale sharks and sea lions.

How many days is enough for Cabo?

A week is the perfect length of time to visit Cabo San Lucas. The city is ideal for a relaxing getaway with activities and day trips. Visiting for less than a week defeats the purpose of going to Cabo San Lucas to relax.

How do I spend a day in Cabo San Lucas?

Start your day at the beach before it gets too crowded. Playa del Amor or Medano Beach are our favorites. Next, head to a food tour for lunch, sampling local Mexican cuisine (and hopefully the delicious fish tacos). Then, in the afternoon, head out on a boat excursion – to go whale watching, see tropical fish through a glass bottom boat tour, or scuba diving. You can catch the sunset in the evening while enjoying drinks at the beach bars.

This day tour lets takes you to the main square of Cabo San Lucas and includes a glass bottom boat tour to see El Arco and the marine life. It’s then onto the beautiful colonial town of San José del Cabo to do some shopping.

The area of Los Cabos is made up of Cabo San Lucas and the neighboring city of San José del Cabo. You can book a day tour to see the best of Los Cabos. This 5-hour tour takes you to the main square of Cabo San Lucas and includes a glass bottom boat tour to see El Arco and the marine life. It’s then onto the beautiful colonial town of San José del Cabo to do some shopping.

Is Cabo nicer than Cancun?

Cabo is nicer than Cancun. It has more of a luxury, laidback vibe than Cancun, which is more of a party destination. If you want parties, head to Cancun. But for a nice atmosphere, Cabo San Lucas is unmatchable.

How to get to Cabo San Lucas

The easiest way to reach Cabo San Lucas is to fly. It has its own international airport, Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in San José del Cabo which is approximately 40 minutes north of the city.

Los Cabos International Airport is connected with direct flights to many major cities abroad, including cities in the US. You fly straight in for a convenient journey to Cabo San Lucas. And from Los Cabos International Airport, you can catch the Ruta del Desierto bus if you are on a budget or a taxi if you don’t mind splurging a little.

You can book this private transfer to and from San José del Cabo. Your driver will meet you at the airport in San José del Cabo with a name plate and take you to your resort or hotel. The private transfer takes the stress out of trying to find a transfer and this includes a round trip.

For those wanting to keep things cheap, consider flying into Tijuana (which sometimes has more affordable flights) and catching the bus to Cabo San Lucas. As a quick disclaimer, the bus is a long option and takes over 24 hours. However, you will get the chance to switch buses at La Paz – so it is also a budget-friendly way to experience a bit more of Mexico.

Driving

Fancy a bit more of an adventure? We salute you. Renting a car is an excellent way to combine both Cabo San Lucas and the rest of the Baja California coastline. Highway 1 runs between Tijuana and Cabo San Lucas, treating drivers to stunning ocean views. The Baja Peninsula is on the Pacific Ocean side of Mexico.

This route is ideal for those with a sense of adventure and a bit more time. Just fly into Tijuana and rent a car, or go the whole hog and start the drive from San Diego, crossing the US border. Compare prices here.

Getting around Cabo San Lucas

The easiest way to get around Cabo San Lucas is by public bus or rental car. We’ll take a quick look at public buses first.

Public Buses

The bus line runs between Cabo and San Jose del Cabo, and its buses are easily spotted as they are green and white. This bus line connects Cabo San Lucas with Los Cabos International Airport, plus loops together a network of attractions for tourists sightseeing in the Los Cabos area. Cabo San Lucas’ public buses are a budget-friendly and relatively reliable way of getting around.

Rental Cars

A rental car is our next recommendation. Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom – whether you want to drive to the nearest shops or head up the Baja California Peninsula on a road trip. You can pick a car up from Los Cabos International Airport tin San José del CAbo o save getting the bus into the city and start your journey independently from the get-go.

As a last resort, you can use the local taxi system. This is a hit-and-miss way of getting around Cabo San Lucas. The resort city does not have metered taxis, so beware of scams and always agree on a price beforehand.

Best time to visit Cabo San Lucas

The best time to visit Cabo San Lucas is in October. October is brilliant for a plethora of reasons. It is at the backend of peak season, with fewer crowds and cheaper hotels. It is also after the worst of the rainy season when the Los Cabos region is plagued with storms and severe weather. If you want to enjoy the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas, we recommend avoiding the busy tourist and the high storm season. October is the ideal candidate, and sunbathers will be glad to know that it still reaches an average temperature of 78 Fahrenheit.

Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas

Deciding where to stay in Cabo San Lucas is another priority before your visit. After all, what use is a perfect itinerary if you have landed in an appalling hotel and horrible area? For adults wanting an adults-only experience in Mexico, you can head to our guide on the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts. But otherwise, check out our top three places to stay in Cabo San Lucas for each budget level.

• Budget: Sofia Hostel Cabo

Sofia Hostel Cabo is a fantastic choice for anyone on a budget. Guests access a shared kitchen, terrace, garden, and lounge – basically, all the facilities to cut your costs and relax.

• Mid-Range: Marina View Villas

Marina View Villas is a wonderful mid-range accommodation option. The villas are spacious and just 300 yards from the marina. With plenty of your own space, you also have an outdoor pool and BBQ facilities to enjoy.

• Luxury: Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

Nobu Hotel Los Cabos is a top-tier five-star resort with all the facilities you could wish for. From an outdoor swimming pool to a luxe spa with a sauna and a beautiful tropical garden, Nobu is an ideal luxury base in Cabo San Lucas.

To Conclude

There are lots of Cabo adventures to tick off when you visit. By now, you’ve understood the many things to do in Cabo San Lucas. The Baja Peninsula is a beautiful spot for a resort city. And you’ll love all the different sandy beaches and the postcard image of El Arco de Cabo. Cabo San Lucas is a whirlwind of coastal action and exciting ocean-side living.

Looking for more Mexico travel inspiration? Check out our guides on the best things to do in La Paz, Mexico, and a collection of our favorite fun facts about Mexico. Otherwise, enjoy Cabo San Lucas.

Did you know that there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts in Florida? Full-service vacation packages are not only for Caribbean islands, the ‘Sunshine State’ is a top-tier beach holiday where the sea, sun, and theme parks collide to create the perfect holiday. It’s even better when you can make it an all-inclusive resort stay. You’ve made an excellent choice shopping for all-inclusive resorts in Florida – so let’s take a look at the state’s 15 best all-inclusive resorts.

The Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

And all-inclusive packages are a luxury to be experienced at least once; having drinks, food, and activities included makes for a totally relaxed Florida experience.

1. Little Palm Island Resort

To put it briefly, Little Palm Island Resort is one of the most impressive all-inclusive resorts in Florida. Little Palm Island Resort is one of the best places to stay in Florida. Guests of Little Palm Island Resort can book a meal package to create a full all-inclusive luxury getaway. There are different resort packages that include daily resort credits to cover meals and spas.

The resort feels like its very own desert island and is situated on Little Torch Key in the Florida Keys. You arrive at Little Palm Island by yacht transfer or seaplane, which is beyond being an exciting luxury in itself and more like an entire adventure. For us, its location and tropical island setting immediately won it a place on our list.

As the only private island resort in the United States, Little Palm Island Resort really helps guests to unplug. And for that reason, there are no televisions and it offers an adults-only resort experience. Even telephones and technology use is limited. To go all-inclusive off the grid, Little Palm Island Resort is somewhere you must consider amongst the best all-inclusive resorts in Florida. See rates and reviews on TripAdvisor.

• Starting rate: $3,000 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

2. Bungalows Key Largo

Bungalows Key Largo is a beautiful adults-only resort offering an impressive all-inclusive package. Apart from the fact it’s adults only, the main benefit is the fact that it entirely offers bungalow-style accommodation. Guests get spacious bungalows, some of which come with outdoor soaking tubs and outdoor showers. The vibe is totally Zen and perfect for a romantic getaway or girls’ weekend. Check out: 23 Best Things to Do in Key Largo

Resort activities include daily yoga sessions, watersports, and of course, a fitness center should you wish to push yourself with a workout. Bungalows Key Largo is a really indulgent place for an adult-only break. Guests of Bungalows Key Largo experience a true all-inclusive vacation with enjoy unlimited meals in five restaurants, with premium alcoholic beverages, poolside and beach dining, and select wine and beer. Check rates and availability here.

• Starting rate: $1,260 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4

3. Legoland Florida Resort

Who hasn’t heard of Legoland Florida Resort? Legoland Florida Resort is one of the most famous all-inclusive resorts in Florida. For families, this resort is like the creme de la creme of all inclusive packages from dining to free valet parking and multi-park tickets. There are actually 3 different hotels; Pirate Island Hotel, Legoland Hotel, and Beach Retreat.

The family entertainment is excellent and it is located just 130 steps away from the Legoland theme park entrance. Each room has a theme of either pirates, adventure, or kingdom, which is super exciting for young children. And there are regular complimentary events like treasure hunts and free LEGO workshops. Read more: The Best Places to Visit in Florida

For us, the family-friendly aspect goes above and beyond at Legoland Florida Resort. It far surpasses other family resorts, even just through the number of complimentary kids’ activities. There are also facilities like the heated outdoor pool. See rates, availability, and reviews on Booking.com

• Starting rate: $89 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4

4. Sandpiper Bay by Windham

The Club Med Sandpiper Bay was closed as of September 2022. It was a sudden closure. However, there is good news! The Trademark Collection by Wyndham did a full-scale renovation to the 307-room, 216-acre property and it looks like it is already reopened. Check reviews and availability here.

Over the next two years, the marina and the additional amenities of the full-service, all-inclusive resort will be updated but it will remain open to guests during the renovations. You may also want to check out The Best Places to Stay in Florida

Located in  Port Saint Lucie, Florida: You can check rates, availability, and more information here. Sandpiper Bay by Wyndham.

5. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

There may be a lot of Disney-related resorts on this list, but we couldn’t resist adding Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The resort sits on the lapping shores of the man-made Seven Seas Lagoon amidst carefully pruned palm trees and tropical-style vegetation. The resort atmosphere and design sit somewhat between rustic and somewhat between magic. Everything is aesthetic – from the pool bar to the room furniture. It is impossible not to love the aesthetic vibe. Check out: the 11 Best Theme Parks in Florida To Visit

Guests can choose packages that include hotel rooms, and Disney park tickets, and if you choose the Disney dining plan your meals will be covered as well. (Note: dining plans will resume in 2024)

You aren’t far from the excitement of Disney World either; just two stops away on the complimentary Disney monorail. There is live entertainment galore onsite too, with character breakfasts and a tiki bar with constant action. And when it’s time to return to the airport, a complimentary shuttle service is included in your original booking price. Check for rates and reviews.

• Starting rate: $700 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4

6. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is exactly the sort of Hilton all-inclusive experience you’d expect. The luxury 4-star high rise juts right up from the sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach. You bag private balconies with every room – the majority of which have views over Fort Lauderdale Beach below.

We’ve added Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort to our guide because it just has that classic all-inclusive vibe. With the beach on one side and the boulevard on the other, it provides a fantastic inner-city beach retreat. You can book the Experience and Stay Package which includes up to $100/night resort credit.

The resort itself has a business center and a large fitness center. The terrace pool is a real highlight, especially if you don’t want to deal with the crowds on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Check our availability, more reviews, and rates here.

• Starting rate: $380 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

7. Holiday Inn Resort

Holiday Inn Resort in Orlando is a family magnet. The resort is a colorful explosion of multi-colored waterslides and constant splashing – basically, the perfect family-friendly all-inclusive resort to choose in Florida. True to its target guests, the Holiday Inn Resort provides a washing machine and dryer in each accommodation choice. So don’t worry about young children and accidents. And older children will love the five-storey waterslides and the lazy river outside.

For us, the family-friendly atmosphere at Holiday Inn Resort instantly bagged it a place in this guide. It also has a full all inclusive package that includes, eat stay, park, and play. Plus Disney World is just a complimentary shuttle ride away. Check rates and availability.

• Starting rate: $280 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

8. Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate

Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate is the Disney Resort that is just enough distance from Disney World itself. You skip the huge crowds yet still get complimentary transfers to the theme park. Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate made it onto our list as a luxurious compromise. It is the perfect stay for someone wanting to visit Disney World without making it their whole trip purpose.

Different packages include the golf package, bed, and breakfast, or spa packages.

Facility-wise, this resort has an exciting outdoor pool layout, with a lazy river, wave pool, and an adults-only pool. Omni also has a 36-hole championship golf course (and a full-service spa if you’d prefer a relaxed afternoon in a steam room). Compare reviews and rates here.

• Starting rate: $260 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

9. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa opens out right onto Miramar Beach. So if you want a beachfront, it doesn’t get better than this golf resort and spa. You can walk straight out onto the beach or enjoy the warm waters of one of the three outdoor pools onsite. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has room service, valet parking, and – strangely enough – a staggering 15 tennis courts on its grounds.

It really ticks off every luxury you’d hope from an all-inclusive resort. Aside from its beachfront locale, this reliable luxury is its most impressive factor. See more reviews and compare rates here.

• Starting rate: $400 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4

10. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

We’ve have to be honest; you are never too old for Disney. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a Victorian-style all inclusive resort set right in the midst of Florida’s beloved Disney World. It’s clear that its location is a real highlight, but what also makes this resort stand out is its style.

Guests can choose packages that include hotel rooms, Disney park tickets, and if you choose the Disney dining plan your meals will be covered as well. (Note: dining plans will resume in 2024)

Rather than the loveable but cheesy resort hotels you may otherwise find around Disney World, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a picture of complete elegance. Sophisticated and luxurious, it comes equipped with a spectacular outdoor pool and spa for guests to slink away and unwind after a day in the Magic Kingdom. Compare rates and availability.

• Starting rate: $900 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

11. Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

It is pretty easy to spot the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina. In fact, the fact that it is pink makes it one of the most recognizable Florida all-inclusive resorts. The towering resort juts up in turret-style architecture straight off the front of Fort Myers Beach. It is a beautiful building with a sublime location.

In short, perfect for aesthetic resort-seekers wanting a beach break. Especially as guests receive a wealth of complimentary beach amenities. For us, its beach access and entertainment earned it a spot on our list. With a low $10 resort fee that includes a buffet meal, and free self-parking.

In 1950, Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina was a humble but ambitious cottage making a mark in the world of Florida hospitality. However, word of its ‘full service’ all-inclusive experience spread fast, and nowadays (many renovations later) Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina is one of the most successful all-inclusive resorts in Florida. The resort sits on a 12-acre site of beach and premises. See rates and reviews on TripAdvisor

Pink Shell Beach Resort has re-opened after Hurricane Ian but amenities are limited. Check their website for updates.

• Starting rate: $260 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

12. Ocean Key Resort & Spa

Ocean Key Resort & Spa is a luxury base on Key West in the beautiful Florida Keys. Ocean Key Resort is somewhere you can almost stumble out of your room into an outdoor pool. The pool itself is more boutique style than a resort-style pool – with a more intimate atmosphere than you’d get at one of the major resorts in Florida.

There are different packages from $100 food and beverage credit, to daily breakfast for two with room service on your own balcony.

We like that. From most rooms, you have stunning Gulf of Mexico views. And depending on your room choice you may get a spa bath and balcony. Ocean Key Resort is a modest size which makes it an endearing, boutique-style all-inclusive to choose from in Florida. See more reviews and rates

• Starting rate: $550 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

13. FantasyWorld Resort

FantasyWorld Resort in Kissimmee is an absolute explosion of colors and chaos – a haven for families with young, energetic children. FantasyWorld Resort wiggled its way onto our list for its family-friendly atmosphere and facilities that kids (and parents) will adore. Kids have access to the five-story, multi-colored waterslide, while older children can try their skills at an indoor surfing simulator.

Each two-bedroom suite comes with a full kitchen and washer and dryer making it perfect for the family and it is pet friendly. Guests can book vacation packages that include Disney or Universal tickets.

The resort is located in Kissimmee just a hop skip and jump from Orlando and is action-packed in the best way possible. Further facilities include a lazy river, three outdoor pools, and even a sauna for the parents. And if you needed anything else to add to your list of things to do, there is a complimentary shuttle to Disney World. Compare rates and availability

• Starting rate: $170 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4

14. Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

You can never go wrong with booking a Ritz Carlton. This luxurious hotel is located on Amelia Island on 13 miles of beachfront. If you book the Ritz Carlton club-level experience, you’ll have meals included.

The Club Level upgrade is where you’ll find the all-inclusive experience with access to the lounge that is stocked with premium alcohol, snacks, and meals. Club-level guests have unlimited access to the club lounge which includes meals and snacks and endless beverages including crafted daily cocktails. You can even book a hotel, flights, and car all at once.

Five-star amenities include valet parking, Five Diamond dining, and an oceanside spa. Guests can also book golf packages. All guests have access to lounge chairs and umbrellas and can choose from different packages that include resort credits and breakfast. See rates and reviews.

• Starting rate: $1350 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

15. Rosen Shingle Creek

If you are ready to graduate from mini golf to the real deal, Rosen Shingle Creek is the place to be. The elegant 4-star property is situated in extensive bright-green golf course grounds and is somewhere to retreat with a golf club and swimming costume. We like how Rosen Shingle Creek is set more privately than other resorts in this guide.

Packages include stay and golf packages, spa packages, and health and wellness.

The resort offers a quieter base in Orlando with some fabulous facilities. Scenic walking trails or an afternoon in the lounge chairs alongside one of four pools; whatever your tastes and preferences Rosen Shingle Creek is peaceful. The all-inclusive package is just the cherry on top.

• Starting rate: $140 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

16. Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection

Looking to skip the Atlantic Ocean in favor of the Gulf of Mexico? Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection is a stunning 4-star resort set right on the beachfront of Key Largo – one of the best places to stay on the Florida Keys.

The tropical vibe won us over immediately. Baker’s Cay Resort has a private beach, doorstep access to jungle-style mangroves, and beautiful nature trails. Your resort fee includes parking, bicycles, beach chairs & umbrellas, paddle boards & kayaks, nightly champagne toast, and free refillable water throughout your stay. You can opt for breakfast included.

Besides these huge tropical highlights, there are activities galore. You can scuba dive, take a boat tour, or just work up a sweat at the onsite fitness center. Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection might be a luxurious romantic getaway, but it is also a base for a Florida Keys adventure. Compare rates and reviews

• Starting rate: $470 per night
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

FAQs: All Inclusive Resorts in Florida

Now that we’ve covered the best all-inclusive resorts in Florida, we’ve got some essentials to run over. This type of holiday can be a little tricky to get your head around; all-inclusive rates, the different ways that hotels offer all-inclusive packages, and how to narrow down your choices will all be on your mind. So let’s look at the most commonly asked questions when choosing from all-inclusive resorts in Florida.

Do all-inclusive resorts exist in Florida?

Yes, there are lots of all-inclusive resorts in Florida. Most Florida all-inclusive resorts are located around theme parks or major beach destinations – like Panama City Beach and Key Largo or Key West.

What does all-inclusive mean in Florida?

All-inclusive means that the rate you pay upfront covers part of your resort experience. Usually in Florida, your all-inclusive package covers food, soft drinks, and some activities. You then have the choice to upgrade to something like a culinary paradise package – with special food and alcoholic beverages.

What are the best sites for all-inclusive vacations?

The best sites for all-inclusive vacations in Florida are areas near the beach. By choosing a coastal spot, you get more options for activities, and you can enjoy anything from sea kayaking to scuba diving. And if you get lucky, you might get access to a private beach or ocean views.

To Conclude

As far as US states go, Florida is an impeccable all-inclusive holiday destination. Who doesn’t want a romantic getaway with all cocktails included? Or room service breakfast at one of the luxurious resorts with a private balcony overlooking Fort Myers Beach? Whether you want a beach retreat or theme parks – or both – Florida has plenty of all-inclusive resorts. Activity-wise, you’ll be enjoying everything from group yoga classes to stand-up paddle boarding and tennis courts. While if you have a more laidback holiday style, there’ll be a white sand beach or glitzy outdoor pool with your name on it.

Looking for more Florida inspiration? Once you’ve chosen from these best all-inclusive resorts, we’ve got lots more to tell you about enjoying Florida in its own right. We highly recommend the Miami to Key West drive, and these best things to do in Key Largo.