TL;DRThis 2026 New York itinerary comes in three lengths: 3 days (Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, Empire State Building), 5 days (adding Brooklyn, museums, SoHo, Chelsea Market, the High Line) and 7 days (throwing in Williamsburg, DUMBO and Coney Island). Budget for 5 days per person ranges from 27 000 Kč for backpacking through 46 000–70 000 Kč for mid-range travel up to 92 000+ Kč for a comfortable trip, covering flights, accommodation, food, transport and tickets. Worth considering are city passes: Go City Explorer (5 attractions, around $139) for 3 days, CityPASS ($146) for 5 days and Go City All-Inclusive ($289) for 7 days. May, June, September and October are the best months to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Have you read our article with 44 tips on what to see in New Yorkbut you don’t know how to put it together in 5 days, or you’re here for the first time and need help with your itinerary? Whether you want inspiration on what to see in New York in 5 days, are looking for tips on which part of New York to stay in or are wondering how to save money on tickets, read on to find out.
For me the best time is autumn, winter and spring, in summer it was too hot in New York and there were too many tourists. In general, however, every period has something to it. Even though it’s quite cold in December and January in New York, it’s a magical time, especially when it snows.
I found New York the most beautiful in May, June, September and October.
Moon
Average max. temperature (°C)
Average minimum temperature (°C)
Average rainfall (mm)
Average number of rainy days
January
3
-3
94
10
February
4
-2
79
9
March
9
1
110
10
April
16
7
114
11
May
22
12
105
11
June
27
18
112
10
July
29
20
117
11
August
28
19
112
9
September
24
15
108
8
October
18
9
112
8
November
12
4
102
9
December
6
-1
101
10
Where to stay in New York
I mentioned in a previous article about New York (what to see in 3 days) that it’s best to stay in Manhattan so you don’t have to waste time moving from other parts of the city.
If you’re lucky and they have availability, I recommend either the Artezen Hotel on Wall Street or the Best Western Plus Soho Hotel near SoHo and Chinatown.
Where to stay in New York: Best Western Plus Soho Hotel
How to save up to 34% on New York City admission
On GetYourGuide you can buy a New York CityPASS, which saves you about 34% on admission. As part of New York CityPass, you have access to:
Empire State Building
American Museum of Natural History
And then you can choose 3 of these attractions
Top of the Rock® Observation Deck
Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
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What to see in New York in 5 days: itinerary
Five days is quite enough time to see New York, unless you’re like me and feel the need to see all the museums – even a week is not enough. 😁 Let’s take a look at what to see in 5 days in New York.
Day 1: Midtown Manhattan
Start your stroll in Central Park, this iconic park is over 340 hectares so you won’t get through the whole thing, but it’s nice to get your bones moving in the morning and avoid the biggest crowds and meet the locals.
Top of the Rock – viewpoint
Top of the Rock – Personally, this is my favorite sight in New York, and I’ve really been to all of them, and more than once. It has a view of the Empire State Building. If for some reason you don’t buy a CityPass, buy a Top of the Rock ticket at GetYourGuide.
From here, take a proper tour of Rockefeller Center, those of you who like the Christmas movie Home Alone will probably want to take a picture in front of Radio City Music Hall, and for us LEGO fans, a stop at the 5th Avenue store is a must before continuing on to St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
If you like art, there’s room to visit MoMA – Museum of Modern Art, or continue on to Time Square, where, in addition to the luminous billboards, you’ll find some of the famous shops like Hershey’s Chocolate World and Disney.
End the day with a stroll along Broadway and Columbus Circle. For those of you who speak English well, we recommend going to a show, it’s worth it (you can buy a ticket safely on GetYourGuide, for example). Don’t buy tickets on the street! They’re usually scams.
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Day 2: Brooklyn and the Financial District
We’ll start our second day in Brooklyn – on the popular Brooklyn Heights Promenade, stretching your legs and taking panoramic photos overlooking Manhattan.
Then we slowly move to the Brooklyn Bridge through the DUMBO district. (DUMBO, short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” is a small but significant neighborhood in Brooklyn, located on the border between Brooklyn and Manhattan. You have beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge from here).
Brooklyn Bridge
Battery Park – The second big stop is Battery Park, where you’ll find The Sphere, a peace symbol that stood between the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center before it was damaged in the 9/11 attacks. September and subsequently moved here.
From Battery Park, take the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. If you don’t buy your entry to the Statue of Liberty as part of CityPass, you can buy it through GetYourGuide so you don’t spend time in line for tickets.
What to see in New York: Statue of Liberty
From Battery Park, head straight to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum – it’s both a memorial and a museum created in memory of the nearly 3,000 people who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. September 2001 at the World Trade Center. You’ll find it where the World Trade Center Twin Towers stood .
You’ll see how much time you have, but if you have any left, you can also visit the One World Observatory. You can buy your ticket again via GetYourGuide.
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Day 3: Museums or attractions of your choice
Dedicate the third day to the museums, New York has some of the best museums in the world and they are interesting even for those who were last in a museum in high school. 😁
The Metropolitan Museum – it houses two million works of art, including paintings by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Cézanne, and Titian.
The Guggenheim Museum – which is a short walk from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and houses works by many leading artists, including Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and Wassily Kandinsky.
The Intrepid Museum – officially known as the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum – for anyone interested in planes, ships, submarines and space.
American Museum of Natural History – one of the most popular museums in the world, visited by over 5 million people a year.
American Museum of Natural History
Head over to the Chrysler Building and see one of New York’s most iconic skyscrapers, built in 1930 in the Art Deco style.
From the Chrysler Building , it’s a short walk to Grand Central Station / Grand Central Terminal, the iconic train station you may recognize from the movie Friends with Benefits, starring Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake.
From here you can go to the Empire State Building, if you have enough time you can go up. But make sure you have bought a ticket in advance (for example, via GetYourGuide).
From the Empire State Building, if your feet aren’t aching yet, take a walk to the next major skyscraper: the Flatiron Building, which is shaped like an iron.
Things to see in New York: the Flatiron Building
For the evening we recommend going on an evening cruise around Manhattan, we did it and it was a great experience. That’s when we found her on GetYourGuide. Availability is by season. In winter they run different cruises than in summer.
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Day 4. SoHo and ChinaTown
You’ll probably want to take a break from museums, so we’ll head to SoHo, known for its impressive cast-iron buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century. This neighbourhood has always been known as the centre of the art scene.
From here we move on to Chinatown, on the way you can stop at the unusual Museumof Ice Cream or if you love contemporary art, I recommend the New Museum.
And it’s going to Chinatown! As soon as you enter, you’ll suddenly find yourself in a whole different world 😁 You can even buy a food tour of Chinatown and Little Italy on GetYourGuide.
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If you’ve already seen New York’s Chinatown, don’t forget another very popular neighborhood – the Italian one, called Little Italy. Historically, there was quite a large community of Italians living here, unfortunately it is getting smaller and smaller, which is why we recommend visiting it as soon as possible.
Now you have to decide where you stand in terms of time, either catch up on something you missed in the previous days or we have a tip for you for an afternoon trip – head to Coney Island, but you need plenty of time, it will take you an hour just to get there.
Coney Island features a historic amusement park with the world-famous Cyclone roller coaster, one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world, and the Wonder Wheel, a giant wheel offering beautiful views
In addition, Coney Island is simply alive, especially in the summer there are a lot of events and there is also a relatively large public beach.
Day 5. Chelsea and Greenwich
On our last day, we’ll head to Chelsea Market first thing in the morning, which is located in one of the most elegant neighborhoods in New York. Here you can buy original souvenirs instead of the traditional trinkets sold on every corner.
There are two other contemporary art museums/galleries near Chelsea Market that are worth mentioning (and visiting, but I know not everyone is an art fanatic), one of them is the David Zwirner and the other is Whitney Museum.
Lukas and I love going to museums in New York
From Chelsea Market, head towards the High Line Park. It is an innovative park located on a former railway line, 9 meters above the city and offers beautiful views of New York.
After that, we’ll head to Hudson Yards, where you’ll find more interesting buildings from recent years. One of the most beautiful is probably the Vessel, a structure of interconnected staircases that form a unique tower resembling an inverted beehive.
What to see in New York: St. Vessel
Another interesting structure is The Edge observation deck, built in 2020. It is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, located at 345 metres at 100. of the 30 Hudson Yards skyscraper. Unlike traditional observation decks, the Edge rises 24 metres from the side of the building, creating the illusion of being suspended in mid-air. Be sure to buy your ticket in advance on GetYourGuide so you don’t stand in line.
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Another interesting building is The Shed, an art centre dedicated to various art forms. But what is interesting is the construction of the building, half of the building is fixed to the high-rise building, the other half functions as a movable extension, which can, if necessary, cover part of the adjacent courtyard and create a temporary hall for 1,250 seated and up to 2,000 standing spectators.
Move over to Greenwich Village, this neighborhood was a hotspot in the 60s. a 70. years 20. century epicentre of the civil rights movement, the feminist movement and the LGBT movement, and has been home to famous American artists such as Bob Dylan, Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.
Greenwich Village
Plan an unusual experience for your last day , we were surprised to find that a helicopter flight over New York is actually quite affordable (at least when compared to prices elsewhere).
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
TL;DREgypt for 2025/2026 brings 20 holiday ideas, from buzzing Hurghada and quieter Marsa Alam to Sinai’s Sharm El Sheikh, laid-back Dahab and upmarket El Gouna, plus landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo’s new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), Luxor with the Valley of the Kings, and southern Abu Simbel. The best time to visit is April, May, October and November, with temperatures of 28–32°C, while summer brings brutal heat well over 40 degrees. A direct flight to Hurghada takes four and a quarter hours, a tourist visa costs $25 (about £20), and entry to the GEM comes in at roughly $30 (£24). The Red Sea ranks among the world’s best diving spots, thanks to reefs like Ras Mohammed and the SS Thistlegorm wreck.
You know that miserable feeling when it’s grey and dreary outside, a cold drizzle is swirling around, and you trudge off to work in the morning while it’s still pitch dark? At moments like these it’s genuinely hard not to daydream about some beautiful spot where the warm sun is shining on your back right now and the air smells temptingly of the sea. Imagine a destination that works as a reliable emergency brake against that classic winter gloom and serves up gorgeous warmth just five hours’ flight from the UK. That destination is Egypt, and if you’re wondering where to holiday in Egypt, you’re in exactly the right place.
Egypt offers such an incredible variety of experiences that you can mix and match them precisely to suit your current mood. You can fly out purely to switch your brain off by the pool, but once the bug bites, the very next day you could be standing open-mouthed in front of thousand-year-old pyramids, or floating in a diving mask above a coral reef teeming with colourful fish that look like they’ve just swum straight out of an animated film.
Getting your head around that huge range of resorts and excursions can sometimes be a real puzzle, which is exactly why I’ve put together this detailed guide to make it easy. Inside you’ll find 20 specific tips for amazing places, whether you’re after a bustling promenade full of little shops, a quiet bay for a full day of snorkelling, or a proper adventure deep in the desert. We’ll walk through the very best areas, take a look at the newly opened museum in Cairo, and of course I’ll add essential practical advice on visas and some honest warnings on how to avoid the most persistent street touts.
TL;DR
Best resorts: Hurghada is enormous and absolutely ideal for families and first-timers, while Marsa Alam further south offers complete peace, far better-preserved reefs and slightly warmer sea during the winter months.
When to go: The main season for a really pleasant holiday runs from October to April, when temperatures are lovely and bearable, while in summer you can definitely expect extreme heat over forty degrees that’s only survivable in the water, not while sightseeing around baking-hot monuments.
New attraction: In Cairo, after endless years of waiting, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is finally opening, where for the very first time in history the entire staggering treasure from Tutankhamun’s tomb is on display in full.
Visas and money: A standard tourist visa costs 25 USD (around 23 €) and you pay in Egyptian pounds, while many monuments now accept card only, so you keep small amounts of cash mainly for tips, known as baksheesh.
Underwater world: The Red Sea quite rightly and for years has ranked among the very best diving destinations in the whole world, and in many hotels there the most gorgeous corals begin just a few metres from your beach lounger.
Safety and health: Tourist resorts are carefully guarded and genuinely very safe, but trust me, you should always drink only bottled water and definitely remember to pack sturdy water shoes against sea urchins and sharp coral fragments.
A huge advantage of a Red Sea holiday is the brilliant fact that you can come here practically any time of year, you just need to set your own expectations a little in advance. The most pleasant time to visit is clearly spring and autumn, specifically April, May, October and November, when air temperatures in this absolutely ideal period hover around a comfortable 28 to 32 degrees, the sea is beautifully warmed up, and the evenings are just balmy enough for long stints outside with a glass of wine.
If you’re planning to escape the harshest part of the British winter, though, choose your destination a touch more carefully. January and February are Egypt’s coolest months overall, with daytime temperatures sometimes dropping to around 20 degrees, and a fairly cold sea breeze often blows along the coast, so in the evening you’ll be bundling up in a jumper. In this chillier period the absolute winner for me is the area further south, because the sea and the air there are simply always a few degrees warmer than in the north.
The summer months of July and August, on the other hand, mean genuinely extreme heat for the whole country, routinely climbing over 40 degrees in the shade, when the sea feels more like a heated thermal spa and is completely still, which is guaranteed to be loved by everyone who enjoys grilling themselves on the beach. Summer is, however, completely unsuitable for travelling to monuments in Cairo or Luxor, because the ever-present scorching stone and total lack of shade turn such a trip into a physical endurance test I certainly wouldn’t wish on you 😅.
For a detailed overview of exactly what temperatures and conditions await you in each month, do read our comprehensive article When to Visit Egypt / Weather. You’ll also find a specific comparison of water temperatures between the various big resorts, so you can pick the very best option for your dream holiday that fits your dates perfectly.
Where to Stay in Egypt
Among specific resorts that consistently score well, we can name Steigenberger Al Dau Beach in Hurghada, Steigenberger Coraya Beach in peaceful Marsa Alam, Reef Oasis Beach Resort in Sharm with a reef right off the beach, or the family-friendly Fort Arabesque in Makadi Bay. You’ll find more detailed hotel tips in the articles about the individual resorts.
Choosing the right hotel is absolutely crucial in this country, because let’s be honest, you’ll probably spend a substantial part of your holiday in your sprawling all-inclusive resort and its quality will fundamentally shape your overall experience. When hunting for the perfect spot, I recommend focusing on three main things, the very first of which is the so-called house reef. Trust me, if a hotel has beautiful corals right by the beach, it’s simply priceless for snorkelling lovers, who then don’t have to reach for their wallet every day and pay for expensive boat trips.
The second hugely important factor is the entry into the sea itself and the overall location of the chosen bay, so it’s worth checking reviews in advance to see whether you have to walk to deeper water along a kilometre-long wooden jetty, which can often be closed entirely due to strong wind and big waves. The completely ideal choice for calm family swimming with children is rather hotels in naturally sheltered bays, where the water surface stays beautifully calm even on the breezier days.
The standard of accommodation by the sea can vary quite a lot even within that lavish five-star category, which is why it’s always best to choose primarily based on verified personal experiences and recommendations from other travellers. If you’re after guaranteed luxury and top-class service right in the heart of the action, the Steigenberger ALDAU Beach Hotel is a sure bet for me with its enormous pools where you’ll want for nothing. For lovers of total quiet and snorkelling in the south, a fantastic choice is the Jaz Lamaya Resort, which sits in that magical sheltered bay with a gorgeous reef and no big waves.
And if you’re heading to the Sinai Peninsula this year and crave truly premium service, the wonderful Rixos Sharm El Sheikh offers brilliant views and absolutely flawless dining. To get a better idea of which area will actually suit you best, make yourself a coffee and have a look at our detailed article Hurghada or Marsa Alam?.
💡 Tip for the best prices on packages and flights: Accommodation prices are constantly changing and it really pays to keep an eye on them for a while, so before you rush into buying anything, check out our comparison of Egypt holiday deals, where our clever AI compares offers from various operators on exactly the same hotels and dates every day. If you’d rather fly out independently, definitely keep an eye on flight prices, which our system faithfully updates for you every twenty minutes.
Where to Holiday in Egypt: The Best Resorts
This is simply the single most important choice before you even take off, because the coastline stretches hundreds of kilometres and individual resorts differ enormously, even though on those pretty catalogue photos they can all look fairly similar. In some places wild nightclubs and bellowing pool animators await you, while elsewhere you’ll find total silence broken only by the soothing murmur of the waves.
So pick your resort precisely according to how you imagine your ideal relaxing moment by the sea, because it will soon become your base camp for all your excursions. Let’s take a look together at the nine most interesting locations, from bustling centres with little cafés to those beautifully hidden, exclusive bays.
1. Hurghada Is a Buzzing Classic for Everyone
Hurghada is without doubt the biggest, liveliest and historically most accessible Egyptian resort, the one that once shaped all of the mass tourism here. You’ll find absolutely everything, from enormous complexes full of colourful water slides to the bustling new marina, where in the evening you can enjoy a great coffee and watch the luxury yachts. It’s an absolutely ideal choice for families with small children, and for all of you flying out for the very first time who want everything close at hand.
A huge plus of this popular spot is the short direct flight from the UK, taking just under six hours, so after landing you don’t have to endure endless hours on a coach through scorching wasteland, because plenty of the lovely hotels are only about fifteen minutes’ drive from the airport. The honest downside of the old centre itself is, unfortunately, that there are usually no nice coral reefs by the beaches, so for slightly better snorkelling you simply have to head out on paid boat trips to the open sea.
Luckily the town also has its own very authentic original centre called El Dahar, where you can happily lose yourself in a typical Arab market, haggle endlessly over the price of fragrant spices and soak up a good dose of that local North African chaos 😅. If you’d like to know even more, all the details and specific excursion tips are nicely written up in our article Hurghada: 13 Tips.
2. Marsa Alam Offers a Diving Paradise and Peace
While the northern coast seems never to sleep, the Marsa Alam area lying roughly 270 kilometres further south is a genuine, utterly undisturbed oasis of quiet, beloved mainly by passionate divers and by people who simply desperately need to escape the noisy crowds and stress. You won’t find any big town here, nor even those busy shopping promenades, because most of the sprawling hotels stand somewhat in isolation in the desert along that gorgeous coastline.
The main draw here, of course, is the breathtaking nature, since this area offers some of the best-preserved house reefs in the whole country, which begin essentially right at the edge of the beach and are wonderfully full of life. Trust me, you can quite routinely swim side by side with enormous sea turtles here, and with a bit of travel luck you might even spot a rare dugong, or sea cow, in the famous Abu Dabbab bay.
Another huge bonus is the very favourable local climate, because thanks to its markedly more southerly position closer to the equator, both the sea and the air here are demonstrably warmer during our winter months, so for that gloomy January getaway it’s about the best possible choice for me. For lots more inspiration and practical advice, do have a look at our detailed article Marsa Alam: 13 Tips.
3. Sharm el-Sheikh Is the Jewel of the Sinai Peninsula
You’ll find this famous little town right on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, and trust me, it has a completely different, far more European atmosphere than the African part of the country. Above all those luxury resorts loom imposing rocky mountains, giving the whole coast a dramatic and wonderfully photogenic look. The centre of all the action is the exceptionally lively Naama Bay, where plenty of modern cafés and little shops await you.
The very best of it, though, is hidden beneath the salty surface, and you absolutely must take a peek. The area is world-renowned for top-class diving, because it lies right next to the famous Ras Mohammed National Park. The coral walls here drop incredibly steeply into vast blue depths, and the colourfulness of the local reefs takes the breath away even of seasoned divers with thousands of dives under their belt.
Great news for us comfort-loving travellers is that, after years of breaks, direct charter flights from the UK are running again, so the need for those tedious, tiring connections falls away entirely ☺️. We’ve written up everything interesting about this breathtaking destination in our detailed guide Sharm el-Sheikh: 13 Tips.
4. Dahab Is a Bohemian Village Without Big Resorts
If the mere thought of shouting animators and organised entertainment in some giant all-inclusive hotel gives you goosebumps, head off instead to discover Dahab. This laid-back little town on the eastern coast of Sinai grew out of an original Bedouin village, and in the seventies it was discovered by free-spirited hippies. To this day it has kept a wonderfully informal atmosphere full of small family guesthouses and charming beach cafés.
Today this place is a literal magnet for independent backpackers and modern digital nomads who love to work with a view of the waves. It’s also a famous mecca for freedivers, mainly thanks to its proximity to the iconic, slightly terrifying spot known as the Blue Hole, a chasm over a hundred metres deep just a stone’s throw from the shore. You can conveniently rent snorkelling gear on pretty much every corner here for a few coins.
Thanks to a specific funnel formed by the surrounding mountains, a very strong and steady wind also blows here almost constantly, which makes the spot an absolutely fantastic base for windsurfing. It’s probably not the ideal destination for those of you looking for traditional luxury pools and marble lobbies, but if you want to soak up an authentic alternative atmosphere and sip a drink with your feet buried in the sand among cushions on the beach, you’ll definitely be thrilled 😅.
5. El Gouna Feels Like an Egyptian Venice Full of Luxury
Imagine incredibly clean, litter-free streets, luxury millionaires’ yachts moored at the jetty, and not a single annoying vendor trying to shout at you. That’s exactly what El Gouna is like, a very exclusive, gated resort lying about twenty-five kilometres north of the busy airport. It was built entirely artificially on a rather intricate network of interwoven canals, which is why it’s rightly nicknamed the Egyptian Venice.
This whole lovely little town functions as a safe, carefully guarded microcosm with thoroughly premium services. The hotels here are often of a much higher standard than in the rest of the country, and there’s a strong emphasis on ecology and overall sustainability. It’s an ideal retreat for more demanding travellers or couples on a romantic holiday who want to enjoy a glass of good wine in complete peace and privacy.
The shallow turquoise lagoons with their soft sandy bottoms are also absolutely perfect for safely learning kitesurfing, because the water here is calm as a mirror. Just bear in mind that for this above-standard peace and high level of service you’ll pay a little more than for the classic offers, but every now and then you simply have to treat yourself to a bit of luxury 🙂.
6. Makadi Bay Offers Family Comfort in a Calm Bay
About thirty kilometres south of the city bustle lies Makadi Bay, which to me represents the absolutely perfect holiday compromise. It’s no longer the totally remote wilderness you get in the south, yet at the same time you won’t find any noisy city centre full of honking cars, which is a considerable relief. The whole area is made up of essentially just a row of large, modern resorts that are quite cleverly linked by a nice pedestrian promenade.
This area is exceptionally popular with families with small children, for several very practical reasons. Most of the hotels here have fantastic water parks within their grounds, and the entry into the sea from the beach is beautifully gradual. You don’t need to worry at all about giant waves here, because the bay is naturally and very well sheltered from strong winds off the open sea.
And what’s the best part of all? The bay hides in its waters very decent and colourful coral reefs for divers, within really convenient reach of the hotels. So for your first snorkelling adventures you really don’t have to immediately buy expensive full-day boat cruises; usually you just need to swim a little way from the shore and there it is, right in front of you 😁.
7. Soma Bay Means Golf, Kite and Premium Peace
A little further south, the beautiful Soma Bay peninsula bites deep into the waters. This gated area is a true synonym for peace and a higher standard, because the hotels are a decent distance apart and don’t stand crammed one on top of the other. You’ll find mostly premium hotel brands here offering enormous clean pools and very luxurious wellness centres for that perfect moment of complete relaxation.
The place is world-famous mainly for two absolutely exceptional things that draw connoisseurs from all over Europe. The first is a top-class eighteen-hole golf course, which turns incredibly green right in the middle of the yellow desert with a view over the deep-blue sea. The second is the utterly phenomenal conditions for water sports, since the local bay acts as a kind of perfect wind tunnel.
For enthusiastic divers and swimmers, a gorgeous house reef hides just beneath the surface, formed of several enormous coral towers rising right up to the surface itself. It’s simply a place that wonderfully combines sporty activity with luxurious relaxation in a spot where genuinely nothing will disturb you, so you can just sit down, rest and enjoy your holiday to the full.
8. Sahl Hasheesh Is Modern Elegance Near the Airport
Sahl Hasheesh is a relatively new and, in my view, very cleverly thought-out resort lying just a few kilometres south of the main airport. In practice that means one huge advantage for you: a lightning-quick and very comfortable transfer straight to your hotel. Trust me, that feeling of getting from the plane to your room and your longed-for poolside lounger in an incredible half an hour, without any pointless, exhausting wait on a coach, is simply priceless.
The whole resort has been designed from the very start in a very modern, beautifully airy and pleasantly orderly way. Its main landmark is a twelve-kilometre paved promenade lined with tall palm trees, along which you can safely stroll at leisure with a coffee in hand, or try renting one of those popular little electric vehicles. The architecture of many local hotels also often resembles lavish palaces straight out of the romantic tales of the Thousand and One Nights.
In the sheltered, calm bay the sea is usually very gentle, and there’s even an interesting underwater curiosity hidden here for all you curious swimmers. Just off the shore, an artificial sunken city full of statues and columns has been created, which is gradually being overgrown by corals and forms an absolutely fantastic, slightly mysterious backdrop for beginner snorkellers with a mask 🙂.
9. Marsa Matrouh Hides Turquoise African Mediterranean
When people think of a holiday in this country, almost everyone automatically pictures just the sun-drenched Red Sea. But up in the north there’s also a surprisingly long Mediterranean coastline, and its main jewel is the absolutely gorgeous resort of Marsa Matrouh. Prepare for a completely different visual experience, because the water here has an incredible turquoise colour and all those long beaches are covered in snow-white sand whose hue more closely resembles some exotic Caribbean.
This little town is a very popular summer refuge for wealthier Egyptians themselves, who flee here somewhat en masse from the scorching August heat of Cairo. That’s precisely why you’ll feel a far more authentic and traditional local atmosphere here than in the classic big international resorts in the east. You’ll find here, for example, the breathtaking rocky Agiba lagoon, which is cleverly hidden away from the biggest crowds.
It’s hugely important to know, however, that the tourist season here actually works the complete opposite way to the south. This whole area comes alive exclusively in summer, from June to September, when the climate is very pleasant, while in the winter months a very cold wind blows in off the sea and you certainly won’t be jumping into the water unless you’re a dedicated cold-water enthusiast 😁.
What to See: Ancient Egypt’s Monuments
After all, to fly thousands of kilometres just for the sea and not see up close even a tiny piece of the area’s striking thousand-year history would, in my view, be a fairly big sin. The very most famous ancient monuments are scattered along the life-giving Nile, and most of them can surprisingly comfortably be managed as an organised full-day trip from the coast, often using a quick domestic flight or one of those classic overnight sleeper coaches.
When planning all these longer trips, please reckon with one very important practical thing, namely that the air conditioning on long-distance coaches runs constantly at maximum. So definitely pack a warmer hoodie or a light jumper in your day bag so you don’t needlessly catch a chill on the very first day. Below I’ll introduce you to five of the very biggest historical icons that draw people from all over the world, and which we cover in detail in our big article What to See in Egypt.
10. The Pyramids of Giza and the Mysterious Sphinx Take Your Breath Away
Standing on your own two feet beneath the only surviving wonder of the ancient world is an immensely powerful feeling that honestly cannot be satisfactorily captured by even the most beautiful photograph. The three enormous, majestic pyramids led by the famous Great Pyramid of Khufu, and the iconic Great Sphinx, rise at the very edge of the searing desert, while the noisy twenty-million-strong capital presses relentlessly in from the other side. Trust me, only up close do you fully grasp the utterly insane scale and the unbelievable weight of all those stone blocks.
When you head out here, please arm yourself with a big dose of patience and don’t let the ever-present and sometimes quite pushy touts get to you. The whole site is enormous and someone will constantly be trying to foist on you a camel ride supposedly almost for free, which is that absolutely classic tourist trick meaning that getting on is free, but for getting off the poor animal you’ll then pay easily twenty euros. The best defence here is dead simple: just keep repeating, with a kind smile but very firmly, an English “no” and resolutely carry on with your unhurried stroll.
If you want to bag the very best and most famous photos without the annoying crowds, head off on foot a little further to the elevated panoramic viewpoint in the desert, from where you can beautifully capture all three pyramids in one absolutely perfect line. Note that entry right into the heart of the largest pyramid carries an extra fee, and because of the quite noticeable lack of fresh air it’s more of a small athletic feat 😅.
11. Cairo and the New Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Cairo itself is simply an enormous city that, on arrival, will either completely absorb you with its untamed energy, or make you want to flee immediately because of all the ever-present noise. It’s a very chaotic and at the same time immensely fascinating mix of all sorts of cultures, where in endless traffic jams battered old cars weave between donkey carts and the air smells intensely of mysterious exotic spices. Apart from the gorgeous old Islamic centre, though, for most of us the biggest draw is of course that breathtaking ancient history.
One huge and truly long-awaited piece of news is that, just by the pyramids, the architecturally staggering Grand Egyptian Museum, known by the abbreviation GEM, has finally opened in full. It’s by far the largest archaeological museum in the whole world dedicated to one single civilisation, where under one gigantic roof over a hundred thousand breathtaking historical exhibits await you, leaving you shaking your head in disbelief.
The absolute crowning glory of this immense exhibition is the fact that, for the very first time in modern history, the entire treasure from Tutankhamun’s tomb is on display in full, including his iconic, breathtaking golden death mask. A practical aside for you: tickets for foreigners cost around 30 dollars, that’s about 28 euros, and be very careful, because they’re now bought exclusively online through the official system, so you simply won’t get anywhere with paper cash in your pocket on the spot.
12. Luxor and the Famous Valley of the Kings
The city of Luxor, which lies nicely in the south of the country, is nicknamed among us travellers the largest open-air museum in the world, and really not without reason. This breathtaking little town on the fertile banks of the Nile was once the famous Thebes, and trust me, the concentration of immense monuments here is incredible. As you wander the eastern bank, you’ll be amazed by the gigantic Karnak temple complex with its enormous and absolutely fascinating, richly decorated hall of columns.
The western bank of the river, by contrast, belonged in antiquity exclusively to the dead, and strange funeral rituals took place here. This is precisely where you’ll find the famous and mysterious Valley of the Kings hidden in the parched sandstone cliffs, where pharaohs had elaborate tombs cunningly carved deep underground, just to protect them from greedy robbers. What’s perhaps most fascinating of all is the fact that the thousand-year-old wall paintings have kept their incredibly rich and vivid colours to this day, as if someone had painted them only yesterday.
A basic purchased ticket to this valley normally lets you enter any three of the open tombs, with the exception of the most famous ones, such as Tutankhamun’s, for which there’s always a hefty surcharge. Honestly, though, I have to warn you that during the summer months the heat here is genuinely unbearable, because the surrounding rocks act like a baking oven, so head out ideally first thing in the morning before you turn into a walking grilled chicken 😅.
If, like me, you long to experience a bit of real old-world romance and feel, at least for a little while, like a character in a gripping Agatha Christie novel, definitely head out on a multi-day Nile cruise. It’s probably by far the most comfortable and elegant way to get to know the southern part of the country in real depth. The cruise itself usually takes place on a very comfortable cabin boat with full board and a small rooftop pool, and this treat typically lasts three or four nights.
A huge advantage of this easygoing way of travelling is simply the fact that you don’t have to laboriously pack and move from hotel to hotel every day, which is something I genuinely appreciate on my travels. Imagine waking up comfortably in the morning in your cosy cabin, the boat already nicely moored by a new ancient temple, you explore it in complete calm with a local guide, and after a good lunch you’re back sitting with a coffee on the sun deck, dreamily watching the banks slip by.
During this cruise heading south, you regularly stop at amazing and very well-preserved monuments, such as the unique double temple at Kom Ombo, which will give you goosebumps. You can easily buy this wonderful cruise as a standalone intensive sightseeing trip, or very cleverly combine it with a following week of relaxation on the beach, which to me seems like the absolutely ideal way to take home the maximum experience from your holiday while still getting a bit of rest.
14. Abu Simbel and Calm Nubian Aswan
The southern city of Aswan is a kind of figurative hot gateway to black Africa, and it gives off a completely different, far calmer and friendlier Nubian atmosphere than the incredibly hurried Cairo to the north. Across the wide river, white sailing boats called feluccas glide along elegantly and quietly, and on one such little island in the middle of the current stands the most beautiful temple of Philae, lovingly dedicated to the mighty goddess Isis.
The main and most important reason why people venture all the way to that distant south near the Sudanese border, though, is the staggering, colossal complex of Abu Simbel, which you must see with your own eyes. The two gorgeous rock temples, built here long ago by the mighty pharaoh Ramesses II, are guarded by enormous twenty-metre stone statues of the immensely self-assured ruler himself, gazing intently somewhere into the distance.
The story of this mysterious, magical place is fascinating mainly in that the temples had to be, in the 1960s, completely cut into thousands of blocks and moved tens of metres higher. Otherwise, because of the construction of a huge dam, they would have vanished forever beneath the surface of a newly forming artificial lake, and we’d see nothing at all of that splendour, which would have been a genuinely enormous loss for all of humanity.
What to Experience: The Red Sea and the Desert
Trust me, this country really isn’t just dry old mummies and ancient stone temples breathing nothing but the past. Two enormous and very wild natural playgrounds, namely the deep sea and the endless desert, will offer you adrenaline and visual experiences that make people return here with enormous enthusiasm even ten times in their lifetime. You just need to overcome a little holiday laziness and leave the safety and comfort of your favourite beach lounger for a few hours 🙂.
15. World-Class Diving in the Red Sea
Whether you’re a very experienced professional diver or have never breathed from a steel tank in your life, the local underwater world will guaranteed bring you to your knees. This wonderful area has long and very rightly ranked among the top ten best diving destinations in the world, and for us Europeans it’s clearly the most accessible top tier, incredibly full of varied, colourful life.
For very advanced and certified divers there are legendary, slightly more demanding spots somewhere far out on the open sea. You can explore the famous wreck of the British ship SS Thistlegorm, still brimming to this day with rusty motorbikes and ammunition from the Second World War, or take a boat out to far-flung reefs like Elphinstone, popular for watching those breathtaking oceanic whitetip sharks.
If, on the other hand, you’re like a fish out of water and a total beginner only just discovering the water bit by bit, don’t worry at all, because almost every larger hotel has good access to a certified dive centre. For a few tens of euros they’ll very happily take you on a so-called try dive in shallow water, during which the instructor safely holds your hand the whole time and carefully watches your every breath, so there’s nothing to be afraid of.
16. Snorkelling and the Beauty of House Reefs
Don’t fancy lugging heavy neoprene gear around in the crazy African heat, and a bit daunted by the very idea of deep water? That doesn’t matter at all, because a lot of the most beautiful underwater life takes place at a safe depth of just a few metres below the surface, where the warmest sunlight reaches. For us slightly lazier travellers there’s also the huge benefit of those already-mentioned house reefs, which you can reach comfortably straight from the warm hotel beach.
Essentially you just need to put on a well-fitting mask, take a few slow strokes, and suddenly you’re above a coral reef where, right up close, shoals of brilliantly colourful fish swim past you, playful parrotfish contentedly nibble at the corals, and through it all glide majestic, if slightly venomous, lionfish. Especially in the more remote areas in the south and on Sinai, these reefs are still in incredibly good natural condition, so you’ve genuinely got plenty to look forward to.
Please, though, bear in mind one absolutely crucial rule every time you enter the water, which I urge upon you. Corals are extremely fragile and very sensitive living organisms, so never stand on them, never touch them with your hands, and genuinely don’t take anything from the sea home as a souvenir. And don’t forget to faithfully pack sturdy water shoes in your suitcase, which will protect you from a very painful moment after stepping on a hidden sea urchin 😅
17. Ras Mohammed National Park Is Full of Life
On the utterly sun-drenched southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula you’ll find the very first and historically oldest Egyptian national park, known as Ras Mohammed. It’s precisely at this unique spot that the waters of the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba meet and mingle wildly, creating fairly strong sea currents that constantly bring in vast amounts of much-needed nutrients for the whole underwater ecosystem.
The most famous and probably most photographed spot in this whole sprawling park is without doubt the dive at Shark and Yolanda Reef. Trust me, even if you’re not diving with heavy gear on your back, just the boat trip combined with ordinary snorkelling is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience, because beneath the surface you’ll see enormous shoals of barracuda and perhaps even the slightly comical cargo of toilet bowls from the sunken ship Yolanda.
You can also very easily reach this wonderful park by land in pleasantly air-conditioned off-road vehicles, which you’ll appreciate especially in the scorching summer. There you can bathe in a magical, very salty pool that, according to old Bedouin legends, supposedly grants secret wishes, and see the unique mangrove groves that miraculously manage to grow right in the salty seawater.
18. Desert Safari Under the Stars
While at the harsh midday hour the endless desert looks more like an inhospitable, deadly furnace, come evening it transforms into an absolutely magical place full of long shadows. A half-day adventurous desert safari is a very popular and fairly cheap addition to an ordinary beach stay, organised from pretty much every larger resort, and usually starts with an afternoon adrenaline ride on fairly noisy quad bikes over the high sand dunes.
Most of these popular trips also include a short stop in a traditional, if honestly slightly touristy, Bedouin village, where you’ll see flatbread baked over a fire. The most beautiful and, for me personally, calmest moment of the whole trip, though, is the sunset itself, when the ever-present sand turns an incredibly rich orange and almost blood-red, from which you won’t be able to take your eyes.
After a simple but very tasty vegetarian dinner prepared over an open fire comes the main reason you’d go into the night desert at all. That’s the absolutely staggering, dark night sky, because thanks to the total lack of light pollution you’ll see the shining Milky Way as sharply and clearly as perhaps nowhere in our overcrowded Europe 🙂
19. The White Desert Looks Like a Landscape From Another Planet
If you sometimes long for a genuine and slightly rougher adventure far from the safe tourist centres with their perfectly blue pools, the deep Western Desert hides one of the greatest natural wonders of all Africa. The gorgeous White Desert National Park looks exactly as its name suggests, because this whole sprawling area is strewn with giant, brilliantly white limestone formations that the tireless wind has gradually sculpted into the shapes of giant mushrooms and all sorts of animals.
I’ll warn you honestly that this is definitely no longer a simple afternoon trip just outside the hotel, but a proper and noticeably more demanding multi-day expedition, which usually begins with a long drive to the Bahariya Oasis. There, with local and very experienced guides, you climb into specially adapted off-road vehicles and set off on a long journey deep into the wilderness, where you can forget about any phone signal altogether.
The absolutely strongest and most romantic experience of the whole trip, though, is the overnight stay in a Bedouin tent itself, or even just in a warm sleeping bag right under the stars among these strange limestone sculptures. Especially at early dawn the rocks catch gorgeous pink and purple pastel tones, so you’ll suddenly feel like a bold explorer on the surface of a completely unknown planet.
20. The Siwa Oasis Is a Remote Berber Wonder
Even further into the hot west, not far from the carefully guarded border with Libya, lies the fascinating Siwa Oasis. If you’re after genuine exotica, head right here, because it’s one of the very most remote and most authentic places in all of North Africa, which was physically isolated from the rest of Egyptian civilisation for centuries, and thanks to that it has beautifully preserved its own distinctive Berber culture and customs.
The main visual landmark of this green oasis is the vast and very fertile palm groves and the ancient mud fortress of Shali, which feels incredibly imposing even though it’s already crumbling a little before your eyes. The atmosphere of the whole little town is unbelievably slow, quiet and calming, so along the dusty sandy lanes people quite routinely get about only on old bicycles or on wooden carts pulled by adorable little donkeys.
A huge draw for modern travellers, though, is the gorgeous local turquoise salt pools, in which the salt concentration is so extremely high that you’ll float effortlessly on the surface like a cork. I’ll honestly admit that the journey here from Cairo takes over ten hours on a wearisome overnight coach, but the amazing memories and photos are one hundred percent worth that moment of discomfort ☺️
Practical Info: Visa, Money and Safety
Preparing for a trouble-free trip to this breathtaking North African country fortunately isn’t especially complicated, but there are still a few very important bureaucratic and practical rules worth knowing well in advance. Trust me, that way you’ll save yourself a load of needless stress and money in the moment after stepping off the plane, and you won’t be caught out by the local quirks, which do differ quite a bit from our European ones.
That essential paperwork and visa requirement is the absolute basis. Your dream trip on a UK passport, which must be valid for at least six months after your return, unfortunately won’t happen without a standard single-entry tourist visa. This entry visa costs a flat 25 US dollars everywhere, which is roughly 23 euros, and entitles you to a peaceful stay of a maximum of thirty days in the country.
Essentially you have two options for obtaining this important document. Either you sort it out in advance from the comfort of home online via the official visa2egypt portal, or you simply buy it on arrival. But here comes one of my big honest warnings and a big watch-out at the airport: buy your visa exclusively at the official bank counter, and calmly ignore the reps at the so-called VIP desks who’ll rather cheekily push it on you for fifty dollars under the false pretext of some faster processing. We explain all these official formalities in detail in the article Egypt Visa.
For some of you, though, there’s one very pleasant exception, and that’s the so-called Sinai stamp, which is entirely free. You get it essentially automatically on arrival at the airport in Sharm el-Sheikh and it’s valid for fifteen lovely days, but be careful, because it limits you exclusively to staying in the southern Sinai area. If you then wanted to head off on one of those long trips to the pyramids, this stamp unfortunately won’t be enough and you’d have to arrange it differently.
As for money, the official state currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), and the exchange rate is fairly favourable for us, hovering around 1.7 pence per pound. Although in the big tourist resorts people routinely and happily deal in cash euros or dollars, for those traditional purchases at fragrant markets or paying local taxis it’s always far better to pay in their local currency, so you don’t needlessly lose out on a really bad rate.
What has, however, changed radically for the better in recent years is paying for entry tickets themselves. Imagine that today, at many of those significant monuments, right at the pyramids or in the wonderful Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), they accept card only and will simply send you away with any cash. Still, definitely keep that classic paper cash in small denominations for the so-called baksheesh, or tips, on which this smiling local culture of service is literally built.
In practice, you’d routinely give a few small pounds to a kind porter for help with your luggage, around twenty pounds a day for the hard-working hotel housekeeper, and roughly five to ten euros to the brilliant guides on full-day trips. Always try to have enough small notes on you, because the locals can’t do anything at all with our metal euro or dollar coins at their bank and simply can’t exchange them.
Safety and health are perhaps the most frequent topics of discussion over every glass of wine before departure. As for ordinary crime, the big seaside tourist resorts are genuinely very carefully guarded by police and absolutely safe, as confirmed by official UK Foreign Office advice. A separate chapter is the constantly media-hyped shark attacks, which are, however, statistically extremely rare, as long as you follow the most important basic rule and don’t swim in the sea at dusk or very early in the morning, when these marine predators routinely hunt for food.
Trust me, far more likely than some film-style shark encounter is the so-called pharaoh’s revenge, those dreadfully unpleasant stomach troubles 😅. The golden rule for survival is actually simple: never drink tap water and be very careful even with ice in mixed drinks, unless you know for absolute certain it’s made from bottled water. If these troubles do catch up with you despite everything, forget about your usual medicines from home and buy the very effective and cheap medicine Antinal at any local pharmacy.
A big test of your frazzled nerves can also be the very persistent street touts at the monuments and colourful markets, who’ll try to put enormous psychological pressure on you. Your basic defence is to never take anything from them into your hands that they smilingly call a wonderful free gift, because they’ll immediately, very aggressively demand payment. Simply learn to say a clear no with a light smile but very firmly, and just keep walking with a calm head.
Egypt With Kids and Who It’s Ideal For
If you’re just considering a proper big family holiday, know that this local culture is exceptionally welcoming to families with small children and genuinely loves them. The shorter flight, lasting just a little over five hours from the UK, is manageable with cartoons on a tablet in hand even for most of our little preschoolers without any major hysterical fits, and the sprawling all-inclusive resorts are fantastically and down-to-the-last-detail prepared for every conceivable family need.
Right within the sprawling hotel grounds you’ll routinely find enormous colourful water parks, perfectly safe kids’ clubs and entertainment programmes so rich that they’ll guarantee, with a smile, that you won’t know a thing about your beloved offspring for half a day and can enjoy a moment to yourself. Of the popular resorts, the best for families is clearly big Hurghada or the sheltered and beautifully calm Makadi Bay, where the entry into the sea is exemplary shallow, gently sandy, and there’s absolutely no danger of nasty waves.
Overall it’s simply an absolutely ideal and very affordable destination for all of you who are looking to reliably warm up your frozen bones in the middle of our ugly European winter with an excellent value-for-money ratio. Honestly, though, it’s probably not quite the right place for die-hard introverts seeking utterly calm wilderness with no people, or for those of you who genuinely struggle with the constant Arab haggling and the distinctive noise of the oriental street.
Where to Eat
Dining during a seaside holiday usually takes the form of those wonderfully abundant hotel buffets, where you’ll always find a nice mix of classic European and slightly adapted local cuisine. If you’re a vegetarian like me, I’ve got genuinely great news for you, because the traditional Arab cuisine is full of absolutely amazing and hearty meatless dishes, so you certainly won’t be left with just dry pasta and a sad salad.
An absolute national treasure you must one hundred percent try is the street dish called koshary. It’s a wonderfully hearty, very cheap carb bomb, which wittily mixes lentils, rice, chickpeas and pasta in one bowl, all of it topped with a mildly spicy tomato sauce and generously sprinkled with wonderfully crispy fried onions.
Among the other meatless delights at buffets or in local restaurants, you’ll routinely come across excellent chickpea or bean falafel, lovingly called ta’meya by the locals, and of course the best silky-smooth hummus or creamy aubergine dip baba ganoush. For breakfast Egyptians most often eat ful medames, a very slowly and long-cooked mash of fava beans, richly seasoned with cumin and olive oil. The locals do adore grilled meats or fish above all else, but here you’ll get by on a plant-based diet like royalty.
Where to Next
If you’re tempted by a much more detailed and deeper exploration of specific popular destinations, we’ve prepared a series of very detailed guides for you, to make your planning as easy as possible. Read our article Hurghada: 13 Tips, where we break down this busiest centre full of fun in detail, or explore the considerably calmer and quieter south in the guide Marsa Alam: 13 Tips.
For those of you tempted instead by the rugged beauty of the mountains and the very best diving far and wide, I recommend heading straight to the article Sharm el-Sheikh: 13 Tips. And if you’re now sitting over your coffee, still not quite sure which of those two most famous areas to choose for your first trip, our detailed comparison article will definitely helpHurghada or Marsa Alam?.
We haven’t forgotten history lovers and practical advice either, because it simply wouldn’t work without them. For those who want to soak up the truly mysterious atmosphere of antiquity and are planning trips to the pyramids, we’ve put together a comprehensive list What to See in Egypt. And so you don’t, heaven forbid, forget anything important at home, definitely run through our very practical checklist What to Pack for an Egypt Holiday at your leisure before packing your suitcase.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go to Egypt?
The absolute best and most pleasant weather here is roughly from October to April, when daytime temperatures hover between a lovely 28 to 32 degrees, which is simply perfect for warming up frozen bones. Spring and autumn are the absolutely ideal compromise for that endless swimming in the sea and occasional exploration of scorching monuments. In summer, on the other hand, expect extreme heat over 40 degrees, and that’s really only for the biggest heat lovers.
Is Egypt safe and what about sharks?
The tourist resorts by the Red Sea are really very carefully guarded and officially designated as safe by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs itself. Shark attacks are statistically extremely rare, and it’s more than enough to follow the sensible ban on swimming early in the morning or at sunset and always swim only in the designated zones, so you definitely don’t need to worry.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Yes, Czech citizens need a standard tourist visa for entry, which costs 25 USD. You can conveniently arrange it in advance online through the visa2egypt portal, or simply purchase it at the bank counter right upon arrival at the airport. A major exception is the free Sinai stamp, but you’ll only get that if you stay exclusively in the popular southern Sinai.
Should I choose Hurghada or Marsa Alam?
Hurghada is significantly busier, full of large water parks and nightlife, which is absolutely great especially for families with restless children. Marsa Alam in the south, on the other hand, is a real oasis of tranquility, has much nicer and more vibrant coral reefs right at the hotel beach, and in the winter months always offers a sea that’s a few degrees warmer, which I personally quite appreciate.
How long does the flight to Egypt take?
A direct charter flight from Prague to the somewhat more northern Hurghada takes a very pleasant four hours and fifteen minutes, so you’ll barely have time to read a few chapters of your book. The flight to the more southern destination of Marsa Alam takes about fifteen minutes longer. To the popular Sharm el-Sheikh in Sinai, direct flights take just over four hours.
What currency is used and what about tips?
The official state currency is the Egyptian pound, but at resorts they commonly and happily accept euros and dollars as well. For entrance fees to monuments today you primarily need a payment card, but definitely keep some small cash on hand for baksheesh, which is simply an absolute social norm here for kind housekeepers or helpful drivers.
How to defend yourself against touts and salespeople?
I’ll be honest with you, in the street bazaars and at the pyramids, you’ll face quite a bit of pressure. The key to success is not to take anything into your hands that seems to be free, because then they’ll obviously want money from you, and most importantly, learn to say no with a smile but really firmly and just keep walking 😅.
Do I need water shoes for the sea?
Definitely pack them, trust me. The Red Sea is incredibly full of life, and besides the beautiful colorful fish, inconspicuous sea urchins, sharp shell fragments, or very stinging fire coral sometimes hide near the coral reefs. Those sturdy water shoes will reliably save you from a lot of unnecessary and, most importantly, painful health complications that you really don’t want to deal with on vacation.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
TL;DRPlan on 7 to 10 days for the road trip from Vancouver to Banff, covering around 850 kilometres (at least nine hours of actual driving). The route runs through Kamloops, Revelstoke, Golden and Yoho National Park before reaching icons like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway with Peyto Lake. The best time to go is late June or the turn of August into September, when wildfire smoke tends to clear out, or the second half of September for the golden larches in Larch Valley. Car hire firms charge 300 to 500 CAD for one-way drop-off between Vancouver and Calgary, while the Canada Strong Pass gets you free entry to all national parks from 19 June to 7 September 2026.
Planning a road trip from Vancouver to Banff? Let me warn you about one thing right at the start. When you glance at the map, it’s easy to fall for a brutal optical illusion and assume that getting from Vancouver to Banff National Park is basically just a hop down the road. The reality is that you’re facing roughly 850 kilometres and at least nine hours of pure driving without a single stop for a toilet break or to photograph the bears loitering by the roadside. This is an absolutely iconic route that pulls you through temperate rainforests, the dry semi-desert of interior British Columbia, all the way to the dramatic limestone walls of the Rocky Mountains that will leave you gasping for breath. So let’s map out the itinerary properly so you arrive prepared and leave with a full memory card.
Lukáš at the turquoise Bow Lake on the Icefields Parkway
TL;DR
Car rental and one-way fee: If you pick the car up in Vancouver and drop it off in Calgary, rental companies will charge you a so-called drop fee of 300 to 500 CAD (roughly £170 to £290).
Canadian distances are deceptive: The ideal pace for this route is 7 to 10 days, and anything shorter means you’ll spend most of your holiday just staring at the tail lights of the RVs in front of you.
Park entry in 2026: The Canadian government has introduced the so-called Canada Strong Pass, which gives you free entry to all national parks from 19 June to 7 September 2026.
Moraine Lake without cars: You can no longer reach Canada’s most beautiful lake by private car at all — you have to book a spot on the Parks Canada shuttle bus well in advance.
Watch for smoke and wildlife: August and September are wildfire season in British Columbia, while in autumn you need to watch out for aggressive elk during the rutting season in Banff.
Lukáš on the road with golden autumn aspens and mountains behind
When to set off on your Vancouver to Banff road trip
Western Canada plays by its own rules, and the weather in the Rockies cheerfully ignores the calendar. It’s perfectly normal for one in five days to be rained out — or even snowed on — in the middle of summer, so you genuinely have to pack for every kind of weather. Locals fondly nickname June “Monsoon June” thanks to the frequent rain, but this is also when you’ll find the greenest meadows and the waterfalls at full power.
The biggest tourist crush hits the region in July and August, when the roads are snow-free and the lakes have thawed beautifully, but the risk of wildfires also rises. August is traditionally the smoke month in British Columbia, when visibility can drop to almost nothing and the sun looks like nothing more than an ominous red dot in the sky. If you’re coming primarily for perfect photos of those turquoise lakes, a far safer bet is late June or the turn of August and September, when the air usually clears. Winter is a chapter all of its own — temperatures routinely plunge to -30 °C, and your summer sleeping bag definitely won’t cut it up here.
An absolutely magical time is the second half of September, when the so-called Larch Madness kicks off. The needles of the mountain larches turn brilliant gold, and crowds of hikers head out to Larch Valley to see this beauty with their own eyes. In autumn, though, you really must be extremely careful around the wildlife, because the elk rut is in full swing and the males can be extremely aggressive — they’ll even charge at cars. For a family holiday or a first visit I’d definitely recommend taking advantage of the generous government scheme, the Canada Strong Pass, which will save you a tidy sum on entry fees between 19 June and 7 September 2026, since it makes all national parks completely free. The regular annual Discovery Pass would otherwise set you back 83.50 CAD per adult.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel with Bow Falls in the foreground
Where to stay on the way from Vancouver to the Rockies
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We like to search for places to stay on Booking.com, where the cancellation terms tend to be the best. For tickets, tours and activities it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
Planning your overnight stops along this route takes strategic thinking, because prices in the very heart of the national parks reach astronomical heights. As you make your way from Vancouver, several transit towns present themselves with brilliant infrastructure that cost nowhere near as much as the mountain resorts. During the season you simply won’t find a room without booking at least a few months ahead, so forget the beloved “we’ll just turn up and see” approach right now.
For the first stage of the trip, the town of Kamloops is an absolutely ideal place to spend the night, with dozens of classic motels and nicer hotels where the average price hovers around a reasonable 150 to 250 CAD (about £85 to £145) per night. Over the following days you’ll head into the mountains, and the charming little town of Revelstoke makes a perfect base in British Columbia. Mercifully it lacks the slightly snobbish arrogance of its more famous cousin Banff, yet its scenery is no less breathtaking. A more luxurious stay here might be the Sutton Place Revelstoke at around 300 CAD, while backpackers will appreciate the clean HI Revelstoke hostel, where a bed costs about 80 CAD.
The real dilemma, however, awaits once you cross into Alberta, where prices shoot through the roof. Banff itself is a gorgeous hub of action with pretty little streets, but accommodation here commonly starts at 600 CAD (over £340) for a single night in season — not to mention the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise at over 800 CAD a night. A much smarter strategy is to drive about twenty minutes further and stay in the neighbouring town of Canmore. It sits just beyond the national park boundary and feels more like an authentic mountaineering base camp. Beautiful apartments with a kitchenette, like the Blackstone Mountain Lodge, can be found here through the popular portal Booking for 350 to 450 CAD. For a multi-day stay that adds up to enormous savings, and you also get to cook from your own supplies.
Banff townsite at night with fireworks above the mountains
Where to eat well along the way
Finding good food around the national parks can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, especially if you don’t want to splash out a fortune every day on overpriced tourist traps. On the journey from Vancouver to Alberta, though, there’s no shortage of brilliant spots where you can eat not only deliciously but for a reasonable price too. The golden rule usually applies: the further you are from the main highways and the iconic lakes, the more authentic and cheaper the food gets.
On top of that, don’t forget to stock up on plenty of snacks for the car. Hunger on the long mountain drives can sour your mood faster than overcast skies, so I recommend filling the boot with water and energy bars at the very first decent town stop.
In Kamloops, a safe bet is The Noble Pig Brewhouse, where they brew fantastic beer and make excellent pulled-meat sandwiches. It’s an ideal spot to relax in the evening after the first long drive out of Vancouver. The portions here are huge, so you can happily share one dish and still have plenty left over.
Once you reach Banff and fancy something properly Canadian, hunt down a classic poutine in one of the local bistros. Chips topped with cheese curds and smothered in hot gravy will get you back on your feet after a full day of hiking more reliably than a litre of coffee. They do it brilliantly at Banff Poutine right in the centre of town, where queues sometimes form, but it’s definitely worth a try.
The view from the summit of Sulphur Mountain above Banff
10 stretches and stops to see on the Vancouver to Banff road trip
It doesn’t look like much on the map, but the whole route from the Pacific coast to the foot of the Rocky Mountains makes for a proper, full itinerary. For each stretch you’ll learn how long you’ll be driving, exactly where to stop, and which mistakes to strategically avoid, so you can enjoy the journey without any needless stress.
1. From Vancouver through Fraser Canyon to Kamloops
Distance: 350 km, Driving time: 4 hours
For this first stretch, ideally set off from Vancouver right around eight in the morning to avoid the worst of the rush hour. Highway 1 will get you out of the city fairly quickly, and after roughly two hours of driving you’ll arrive in the picturesque little town of Hope, where you absolutely must stretch your legs. Here you’ll find the fascinating Othello Tunnels, an easy 3.5-kilometre walk leading through old railway tunnels carved straight into the solid granite. It’s a great start to the whole road trip and the perfect spot for your first morning coffee.
As soon as you leave Hope, the landscape begins to change dramatically before your very eyes. The rainforests and ever-present greenery of the coast give way, and you’ll drive through the deep valley of Fraser Canyon, where the character of nature shifts to almost dry semi-desert. If you’re passing through here in the autumn of 2026, be sure to make a little detour to Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park near the Adams River. A so-called “big year” will be taking place there, when more than two million sockeye salmon spawn in the river — an utterly astonishing spectacle, and entry is completely free, too. In the afternoon you’ll roll calmly into Kamloops, which makes a perfect logistical point for your first overnight stop on the route.
💡 Tip: Don’t stock up on food in Vancouver, where everything is needlessly expensive. Wait and stop at the supermarkets in Kamloops instead, where you can grab big barrels of water and snacks for the coming days in the mountains at far friendlier prices.
Photo: Jakub Fryš / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
2. Entering the mountains and the cedar forests of Revelstoke
Distance: 210 km, Driving time: 2.5 hours
On the second morning, the mountains you’ve been longing for are finally waiting — specifically the Columbia Mountains in British Columbia. The drive to Revelstoke passes beautifully, and on arrival you definitely shouldn’t skip Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s the only national park in all of Canada where you can comfortably drive your car up the stunning 26-kilometre Meadows in the Sky Parkway almost to the very summit. If you visit during August, you’ll be greeted at the top by gorgeously blooming alpine meadows bursting with colour and offering fantastic views down into the valley.
On the way to town, don’t forget to stop for a short stroll along the wooden boardwalks known as the Giant Cedars Boardwalk. You’ll walk through an ancient cedar forest — known technically as an inland temperate rainforest — where an incredible sense of calm and silence washes over you. The trees themselves are hundreds of years old and the walk takes barely half an hour, so it suits smaller children too.
For the evening I recommend spending time in the centre of Revelstoke, which offers plenty of brilliant independent cafés and a very relaxed, authentic mountain atmosphere. The town hasn’t yet succumbed to mass tourism the way the Alberta resorts have, so you can still soak up that genuine, unpretentious Canadian mountaineering vibe.
💡 Tip: Unlike Alberta, British Columbia charges a 12% tax on goods and services, so if you’re planning bigger souvenir purchases, it pays to hold off until you’re across the provincial border.
Photo: bulliver, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
3. Over the glacial pass to Golden
Distance: 150 km, Driving time: 2 hours
This stretch may be shorter in kilometres, but you’ll spend far more time on it thanks to the breathtaking views. You’ll be crossing the famous Rogers Pass right in the heart of Glacier National Park. Be sure to stop at the local Discovery Centre, where you’ll learn utterly fascinating stories about how nineteenth-century railway workers waged a futile and often tragic battle against the enormous avalanches. The scenery here is gloriously rugged, and the road twists beneath steep peaks and glaciers that look almost within arm’s reach from the car window.
Do watch the weather carefully here, though, because the pass is known for its rapid changes and even in summer a snow shower can catch you out. Your destination for the lunch break will be the town of Golden, sitting at the strategic confluence of two glacial rivers and offering plenty of pleasant bistros. You can have lunch and gather your strength before entering the most famous national parks waiting for you just around the next bend in the highway.
💡 Tip: If you’re travelling as a family and love animals, just beyond Golden lies the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre. You’ll learn a huge amount about protecting Canada’s wolves, and it’s a great change of pace on a long day of driving, especially if you need a break from the demanding mountain treks.
Lucie in a red life jacket canoeing on Emerald Lake in Yoho
4. The hidden gem of Yoho National Park
Distance: 80 km, Driving time: 1 hour (plus long stops)
Sadly, most travellers just blast mindlessly through Yoho in British Columbia, eager to get to Banff as fast as possible. You, however, should hit the brakes and stop right at the Natural Bridge, a stunning natural stone bridge beneath which the turquoise Kicking Horse River roars wildly. It’s a captivating sight, seeing how the water carved its way through the solid rock over thousands of years.
A little further on you must turn off to the absolutely fairy-tale Emerald Lake, which boasts a green so rich you won’t believe your own eyes. There’s nowhere near the crush of people you’ll find at the better-known lakes in Alberta, and a stroll around the shore is pure balm for the soul. You can also rent a canoe here, though the rental prices climb fairly high in season. Only towards evening will you cross the provincial border at the Continental Divide, set your watches forward by an hour, and ceremonially enter Banff National Park, where Alberta waives the provincial tax and everything is suddenly 7% cheaper.
💡 Tip: If you love exclusivity and a bit of planning adrenaline, try entering the Yoho lottery for access to the strictly protected Lake O’Hara, where private cars are banned. For the 2026 season, applications run from 2 to 23 March. Sadly the chance of winning is only around 10 to 20 percent, but if you succeed you’ll experience the most beautiful turquoise lakes completely free of crowds.
View of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise above the turquoise lake
Distance from Banff/Canmore: 60 km, Driving time: 45 minutes
Visiting Lake Louise demands logistics on the level of a military operation, because parking at the lake costs 36.75 CAD per day (about £21), the enormous car park is hopelessly full before six in the morning, and the wardens then turn most cars away without mercy. It’s far more convenient to use the park-and-ride lots and arrive on the official Parks Canada shuttle bus. The sunrise over the lake is absolutely worth the early start, though, especially when the first rays catch the Victoria Glacier in the background.
Once you’ve had your fill of the views from below, set off on the hike up to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House. This trail is 3.4 kilometres long with a 400-metre elevation gain, and at the top you’ll find a charming tea house from 1901 that has no electricity at all — all its supplies are carried up on the staff’s backs. Your reward will be a beautifully brewed cup of tea and fresh pastries, but don’t forget to bring plenty of cash, because they really don’t take cards up here.
💡 Tip: If you want to fulfil the dream of paddling out onto the lake in a canoe from the iconic Fairmont Boathouse, prepare a hefty wad of cash. For non-resident guests, an hour’s boat rental costs an astronomical 170 CAD, so it pays to fill the boat with up to three people to split the cost.
Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks
6. Moraine Lake and the new rules for 2026
Distance from Lake Louise: 14 km (by bus only)
Moraine Lake, with its famous Valley of the Ten Peaks, is probably the single most photographed landscape in all of Canada. It’s precisely because of this extreme interest that a strict ban on private cars has been in force here since 2023 — a new reality you need to prepare for. Your only chance is to book a Parks Canada shuttle bus, whose system opens for the 2026 season at exactly 8:00 Mountain Time on 15 April. Expect a queue of a comfortable 75,000 people in the online line, and the booking fee is 3.50 CAD.
If you manage to grab a ticket for the very earliest morning service, you’ll experience something unreal. You’ll climb to the iconic rocky viewpoint known as the Rockpile, often nicknamed the “Twenty Dollar View” because this scene once adorned the Canadian twenty-dollar note. You’ll watch open-mouthed as the sun slowly tints the sharp mountain peaks pink while they reflect in the utterly still, deeply turquoise water. This is exactly why you get up at four in the morning, and suddenly the queue for the bus makes perfect sense. 😁
💡 Tip: If you miss the April bus booking window, don’t despair. Roughly 60% of capacity is released via a so-called rolling release system, always exactly two days before the planned departure at 8:00 in the morning. You’ll have to be glued to your computer clicking lightning-fast, though, because the tickets vanish within seconds.
Banff Avenue with the church and Cascade Mountain behind
7. Downtown Banff, hot springs and the gondola
Distance: getting around within town
The town of Banff itself is enchanting, even though it bursts at the seams in the summer season under the onslaught of tourists from all over the world. Take a walk along the main street, Banff Avenue, with its iconic view of Cascade Mountain, and then turn your attention to the historic Cave & Basin site. It was right here in 1883 that railway workers discovered the hot springs, giving rise to Canada’s very first national park. Swimming is strictly forbidden here to protect an endangered species of snail, but the historical exhibition is absolutely fascinating.
Before sunset I warmly recommend riding the Banff Gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Tickets are dynamically priced and cost around 60 to 80 CAD, on top of which in 2026 you’ll need to add a further 17.50 CAD for parking at the lower station. But the views from the wooden boardwalks on the roof of the world are worth every cent. In the evening you can soak your hike-weary muscles in the outdoor pools at Banff Upper Hot Springs, where the entry fee is surprisingly very reasonable, hovering around 19.75 CAD.
💡 Tip: If you’re planning a more upmarket dinner in town, I recommend the renowned The Bison Restaurant. They focus on local Alberta ingredients and the menu changes with the season. It’s definitely worth a try, especially if a full day of hiking leaves you craving something more than a petrol-station sandwich.
The winding Bow Valley Parkway between tall pines
8. Bow Valley Parkway and safe wildlife watching
Distance: 50 km of scenic driving
Instead of moving between Banff and Lake Louise on the dull, fast highway, drop down onto the parallel scenic road, the Bow Valley Parkway (signposted as Highway 1A). The speed limit here is strictly capped at just 30 km/h to protect the wildlife and cyclists, which makes it an absolutely ideal alternative for slow travel. It’s right on this route that you have a huge chance of spotting, from the safety of your own car, a black bear gorging itself on fresh berries just off the road.
About halfway along, be sure to stop and head off to explore the popular Johnston Canyon. It’s a very accessible, easy walk where concrete pathways and iron catwalks suspended right against the rock face reliably lead you to the beautiful Lower and Upper Falls. It’s only 1.2 kilometres to the lower waterfall, so even smaller children or older travellers can manage the trail without any trouble. In summer, a pleasant refreshing mist forms around the falling water, providing wonderful relief from the heat.
💡 Tip: For photographing the morning reflections of the mountains on the water’s surface, head to the nearby Vermilion Lakes. They’re shallow lakes just outside the town of Banff, and on a windless day you’ll capture the most beautiful mirror photographs of the iconic Mount Rundle without having to elbow your way through crowds of other tourists.
Turquoise Peyto Lake from the Bow Summit viewpoint
9. The epic drive along the glacial Icefields Parkway
Distance: 230 km towards Jasper
The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) is simply one of those roads you want to drive slowly with the window rolled down, where every other bend along all 232 kilometres is worth framing on a wall. First thing in the morning, make a stop at Bow Lake, where the legendary red roof of the historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, reflected against the glacier, makes for a perfect composition.
A little further on, a climb to the renowned Peyto Lake awaits, sitting at the highest point of the pass at over two thousand metres above sea level. The colour of this lake is so unbelievably blue that it looks almost like it’s from another planet, and from a bird’s-eye view its shape resembles a giant wolf’s head. If you drive all the way to the Athabasca Glacier, you can try a ride on the special Ice Explorer bus straight onto the ice mass, which costs around 116 CAD.
💡 Tip: There’s absolutely no mobile signal on this entire highway, and there are no wildlife fences either, so you really need to drive carefully and have your offline maps downloaded. The only place to fill up along the way is Saskatchewan Crossing, but the petrol prices there are utterly astronomical, so fill up your tank in the morning back in Banff or Lake Louise.
Panorama of Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island
10. Alternatives and extending the itinerary with islands and dinosaurs
Distance: depending on the route chosen
If you have more than a week (and why not?), it pays to stretch the route out and add two detours that would be a shame to miss. Right at the start of the trip you can add a detour to wild Vancouver Island, reached by ferry with BC Ferries. The crossing costs around 117 CAD per car plus 18.50 CAD per passenger. You’ll need to book your tickets at least three weeks ahead, though, otherwise you risk spending up to six hours waiting at the port. On the island you’ll find the gorgeous capital, Victoria, or whale watching out on the open ocean.
Before flying out of Alberta, a brilliant option is to take a day trip from Calgary to the parched Badlands region around the town of Drumheller. The landscape here changes dramatically from high mountains to deep canyons, and you’ll find the world-class palaeontology museum, the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where entry costs 25 CAD.
💡 Tip: If you’re thinking of heading north along the Icefields Parkway all the way to Jasper, don’t forget to very carefully check accommodation availability in advance. The national park is still recovering from the devastating wildfire of July 2024, and the rebuilding of the town and some hiking trails, such as the popular Maligne Canyon, will take a while yet.
Where to go next in Canada
If you enjoyed this itinerary and are looking for more inspiration for your trip to the land of maple syrup, I’ve prepared some other detailed articles for you. They’re packed with practical tips for each individual region:
When planning a road trip this big, plenty of practical questions always crop up. Looking at the map, it’s easy to get your head in a spin with all the options and rules.
That’s why I’ve put together answers to the most common questions you send me. You’ll find everything here from the paperwork to sorting out mobile data, so you don’t forget anything important before you fly out.
Do I need a visa to enter Canada?
As Czech citizens, you don’t need a traditional visa, but you must obtain an electronic eTA registration. It costs just 7 CAD, you can apply for it online, and it’s valid for a full five years or until your passport expires. Be very careful and apply exclusively through the official Canadian government website (canada.ca/eTA), because the internet is full of fraudulent agencies that will happily charge you up to 100 dollars for the same form. Warning: without an approved eTA, you won’t be allowed to board the plane.
What to do when you encounter a bear on the trail?
The basic rule is to always carry so-called bear spray with you (spray against bears), which costs approximately 40 to 60 CAD and has a range of up to 9 meters. Always keep it clipped to your chest or belt, never hide it at the bottom of your backpack. If you see a bear, don’t approach it, don’t run away, and slowly back away while talking to the animal in a calm voice.
Can I bring bear spray on a plane?
No, absolutely not. You are not allowed to take it on the plane either in your carry-on or checked baggage, as this is strictly prohibited by airline regulations (IATA). You must purchase the spray only after arrival at outdoor stores in Canada and dispose of it in special disposal bins at the airport before your flight back home.
How does health insurance work for Canada?
Healthcare in Canada is astronomically expensive and a day in a hospital bed can easily cost 5,000 CAD, so don’t even get on the plane without quality insurance. You’ll need insurance with a limit of at least €200,000 to €400,000 and don’t forget to check that it explicitly covers high-altitude hiking above 2,000 meters above sea level. I highly recommend checking out our SafetyWing review, for example.
How to Sort Out Mobile Data in Canada?
Data from a Czech SIM card will reliably ruin you in roaming. The ideal and very affordable solution is to get an electronic SIM card (eSIM) before departure, through which you’ll get enough data for navigation for a few dozen euros. Read our Holafly eSIM review, which we’ve tested in many countries and which offers unlimited data, or you can use cheaper packages from Airalo. Keep in mind though that once you drive onto the Icefields Parkway, the signal will drop to zero and don’t expect much of it in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance, ideally Google Maps for driving and AllTrails for hikes.
Is Jasper National Park already operational after the major wildfire?
The majority of natural landmarks in Jasper National Park are opening to tourists in the 2026 season, but the town itself is still recovering from the aftermath of a massive wildfire from summer 2024, which destroyed roughly 30% of all buildings. If you’re planning to visit and stay overnight, you must verify well in advance with your specific hotel whether their building is operational and whether they’re actually accepting guests. Also be aware that some popular trails, such as Maligne Canyon or the Edith Cavell Road access road, remain closed in 2026 due to ongoing repairs.
How does the one-way fee (drop fee) work for cars?
If you rent a car at the airport in Vancouver and want to return it at the airport in Calgary, rental companies will charge you a so-called drop fee (one-way fee). This fee typically ranges between €185 to €310. It’s quite a steep price, but if you only have about a week for the entire trip, it makes sense to pay it. You’ll save a huge amount of precious time and won’t have to drive the entire 850 kilometers back to the coast the same way. EXCERPT: Planning a road trip from Vancouver to Banff National Park? We’ve prepared a detailed 7 to 10-day itinerary for you with the most beautiful stops in the mountains.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
TL;DRProvence comes with fourteen highlights worth building a trip around. Start with Marseille‘s buzzing old port and the Le Panier district, then head to the limestone inlets of the Calanques National Park — the coves of En-Vau and Sugiton, the latter requiring a booking from 11 June once 2026 rules kick in. Add elegant Aix-en-Provence and its Cours Mirabeau boulevard, the Gothic Papal Palace in Avignon, and the purple fields of the Valensole plateau near Sénanque Abbey. May, June and September are the best months to go, with lavender blooming from late June through mid-July. Rooms in the 2026 season run €120–€180 a night, tolls come to roughly €9.50 per 100 kilometres, and entry to the Papal Palace costs around €12.
The sun in this part of Provence, France burns with such intensity that at high noon the colours lose their sharp outlines and fade into a blinding white. The air here smells of pine resin, salt water and the ever-present lavender, while the soundtrack is provided by the deafening rattle of thousands of cicadas. Provence simply isn’t your average holiday destination — it’s a completely immersive, physical experience that gets under your skin instantly. And it’s not just the polished, romantic postcard from the movies, where people endlessly sip rosé on the terrace of an old stone house.
It’s also the harsh, relentless mistral wind that can blow for days on end and scour the sky into an unbelievably crystalline blue. You’ll discover the parched earth, the brutal summer temperatures climbing past forty degrees, and the raw, pulsing energy of the big port cities. If you really want to understand this gorgeous corner of France, I’d recommend experiencing it in all its contrasts and not settling for just the best-known tourist draws.
Lose yourself in the narrow lanes of bustling towns, scramble sweatily up the limestone cliffs above turquoise fjords, and let the cool of vast Gothic halls wash over you. Then, just before sunset, pull over by an endless purple field humming gently with millions of busy bees. In this article we’ll focus on the true heart of the region, where history was written, where the famous painter Cézanne created his masterpieces, and where the finest scents in the world are born.
Photo: Vincent van Gogh / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
TL;DR
Nature reservations: The Sugiton calanque in Calanques National Park requires a mandatory free online booking via QR code for 2026; the system opens on 11 June.
Driving into Marseille: From 2026, Marseille enforces a strict low-emission zone (ZFE) that bans cars with Crit’Air 4 and 5 stickers under threat of a hefty fine.
When to see lavender: The best time to visit the purple fields on the Valensole plateau is from late June to mid-July; by August most fields have sadly been harvested.
Avoid August: July and August bring extreme heat above 40 °C and enormous crowds. You’ll find far more pleasant temperatures and atmosphere in May, June or September.
The Papal Palace, upgraded: From May 2026, Avignon offers an interactive HistoPad on the tour, using augmented reality to bring the empty Gothic halls back to their original glory.
Transport and tolls: Exploring the smaller villages in the Luberon mountains is practically impossible without a rental car. Motorway tolls run roughly €9.50 per 100 kilometres.
Dining rules: In French restaurants, lunch is served strictly between noon and 2pm. Later in the afternoon you’ll get a coffee or some nibbles at most.
Photo: https://www.reddit.com/user/Grafixart-Photo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
The ideal months for visiting this fragrant region are May, June and the whole of September, when the weather is at its most pleasant and the entire landscape feels wonderfully fresh. The days are already gloriously long, the sun is just warm enough for wandering between landmarks, and the tourist crowds are still very manageable. You can enjoy your morning coffee on a small square in peace, without battling dozens of other travellers for a free chair — and you’ll dodge the highest seasonal prices for accommodation too.
July and August, on the other hand, are an absolute extreme in both climate and traffic, because temperatures in the south routinely hit 35 to 43 °C and shade becomes a precious commodity. Stone-built historic towns soak up heat during the day and radiate it long past midnight, so sleeping in the un-airconditioned rooms of old houses becomes nearly impossible. France’s summer holidays also begin around the start of July, last a full eight weeks, and the whole country relocates en masse and without compromise to the sun-drenched south.
Huge traffic jams build up on the motorways in summer, which the locals fondly call “the black days”, because traffic on the main arteries grinds to a complete halt. This happens especially at the turn of July and August on the main A6 and A7 motorways, when enormous waves of holidaymakers swap over. If you decide to travel during this window, arm yourself with patience, always keep a big supply of drinking water in the car, and forget about a smooth journey.
A phenomenon unique to the whole region is the cold north-westerly wind called the mistral, which can dramatically derail your carefully laid plans. It blows most often in winter and spring, but it can easily catch you out in the middle of a hot summer too, knocking the perceived temperature down by a good few degrees. The mistral is fairly unpleasant when you’re on the coast, but on the upside it reliably blows away every last cloud and delivers the most dazzling blue sky you’ve ever seen.
Photo: Rangoni Gianluca / Pexels
Where to Stay in Provence
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We like to find our stays on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation policies. For tickets, tours and activities, it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
Choosing the right base is absolutely key to exploring the region, because the distances between individual sights can be surprisingly large and you definitely don’t want to spend hours in the car shuttling around. If you prefer the buzz of the city and excellent access to restaurants, I’d recommend looking for accommodation right in Aix-en-Provence or Avignon. These vibrant towns offer great infrastructure, gorgeous historic centres, and in the evening you’ll find dozens of open spots where you can enjoy excellent cheeses, olives and a traditional Provençal ratatouille with a fresh, crusty baguette.
For those of you chasing total tranquillity and that famous bookish romance straight out of Peter Mayle’s novels, the Luberon mountains and their little stone villages will be the ideal choice. Accommodation here often takes the form of old, renovated farmhouses with a pool, surrounded by silent vineyards and silvery olive groves. Prices for 2026 remain fairly high: expect to pay at least €120 to €180 per night for a decent double room in high season, with the more luxurious hotels charging easily three times that. So be sure to book your hideaway through Booking well in advance, because rooms vanish at lightning speed.
As for specific favourite hotels, I can recommend the Hotel de l’Horloge right in the historic heart of Avignon, which offers beautiful views from the windows and sits just a few steps from the main sights, including the Papal Palace itself. In elegant Aix-en-Provence, a great and well-proven choice is the Aquabella Hôtel & Spa, where after a full day on your feet you can recover beautifully in the spacious thermal baths surrounded by ancient walls. And if you crave absolute luxury amid unspoilt nature, take a look at the Hotel Les Bories & Spa near the stunning village of Gordes, offering first-rate wellness and incredible peace far from the main roads.
Photo: Solo Rossi / Pexels
14 Things to Do in Provence
Let’s take a look together at the very best this varied region has to offer. I’ve put together fourteen specific tips to guide you from the raw harbour lanes through deep limestone fjords to quiet abbeys lost in endless fields of fragrant lavender. I’ll show you how to dodge the biggest crowds and where to find the most beautiful views.
Photo: Benh LIEU SONG / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
1. Marseille and Its Buzzing Old Port
Forget classic Parisian elegance for a moment, because Marseille is a giant Mediterranean melting pot, mixing influences from across North Africa, Corsica and Italy. It’s France’s oldest city — loud, chaotic and immensely authentic — so it will either swallow you up instantly or you’ll leave with relief after a few hours. But it’s well worth giving it a chance, because you simply won’t find this kind of raw life force anywhere else in France.
At the heart of it all is the Vieux-Port, the Old Port, where the whole city lives from the crack of dawn until late at night. Just after sunrise, local fishermen sell their overnight catch straight from their wooden boats; in the afternoon the crowds promenade, and in the evening the quayside bars fill to bursting. Right next to the port rises Le Panier, the oldest and once-feared quarter, now transformed into a labyrinth of steep lanes full of colourful street art, bistros and small galleries.
Despite the city’s rough reputation, the tourist zones are perfectly safe; after dark, just steer clear of the Noailles and Belsunce districts and the area around the Saint-Charles main station. If you’re driving here, don’t forget the strict ZFE low-emission zone in force from 2026, which absolutely bans cars with Crit’Air 4 and 5 stickers under threat of a fine of €68 to €375. You’ll find more detail about the city in our separate article on Marseille.
💡 Tip: Head into Le Panier ideally right after breakfast, when the narrow lanes are still completely empty and you can photograph the ever-present street art in peace, without crowds of tourists in the shot.
Photo: Walter Coppola / Pexels
2. The View from Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
You’ll get the best possible view over this fascinating urban chaos by heading up to the gorgeous Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica. This iconic building sits atop a steep limestone hill a full 150 metres above the sea, and the golden statue of the Virgin Mary on its bell tower acts as an unmissable beacon for the whole surrounding area.
The climb up in summer heat is a small purgatory, but that 360-degree view over the sea, the islands and the endless city below you is absolutely worth a bit of sweat. If you don’t fancy walking, you can take the little tourist train that runs regularly straight from the Old Port. Inside, the basilica will surprise you with hundreds of votive plaques and model boats, brought here by sailors praying for a safe return home.
You’ll discover the city’s thoroughly modern face down by the water, where the architectural gem MuCEM stands — the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. The building itself looks like a dark cube wrapped in incredibly delicate concrete lacework, connected to the historic Fort Saint-Jean by a photogenic suspended footbridge. After that, you can stroll along La Corniche, a five-kilometre coastal promenade, where you’ll see local kids leaping off the cliffs straight into the waves.
💡 Tip: Plan your visit to the basilica for late afternoon, when the sun is slowly sinking over the sea and the whole city turns an incredibly photogenic golden hue.
Photo: Hedy Balk / Pexels
3. Calanques National Park and the En-Vau Cove
Just beyond the gates of the bustling metropolis, an entirely different world begins, full of untouched nature. Calanques National Park is a belt of bright white limestone cliffs plunging steeply into the sea, creating deep, narrow coves that strongly resemble Norwegian fjords. Here, though, the water is the colour of bright blue curaçao, and the air smells of sun-baked pine needles and salt.
The best base for exploring this beauty is the little fishing town of Cassis, from where you can set off on foot to the most famous coves. The trail starts at Port-Miou harbour, packed with white yachts, continues past the far more intimate Port-Pin cove, and after about an hour and a quarter of demanding hiking over rocks and roots, leads you to the iconic En-Vau. The cliffs tower high above a narrow strip of pebble beach, and the water is icily refreshing even on the hottest August days, because the sun reaches in for only a small part of the day.
The terrain here is genuinely rough, so leave the flip-flops at the hotel and kit yourself out with sturdy shoes and a huge supply of drinking water, because you won’t find a single spring or refreshment stand along the way. In summer, the car parks at the trailheads are hopelessly full well before nine in the morning.
💡 Tip: If you’re not exactly a fan of demanding hiking, buy a ticket at Cassis harbour for a sightseeing boat that will cruise you comfortably through the majestic coves — tickets are easy to grab in advance online too.
Photo: SlimMars 13 / Pexels
4. The Sugiton Cove and the New Rules for 2026
Overtourism has hit some parts of the national park so brutally that the management has had to take unprecedented steps to protect the fragile local nature. If you long to visit the stunning Sugiton cove, which is a little more accessible from the Marseille side, you’ll need a mandatory online booking during the summer season.
For 2026, this free booking is compulsory from mid-June until mid-September. The reservation system officially opens on 11 June 2026 at 9am, so be sure to mark that date in your calendar if you’re planning a summer trip. After a successful registration you’ll receive a unique QR code, which park rangers strictly check right at the access path — without it, they simply won’t let you go any further.
A single booking is strictly limited to a maximum of five people per code, and daily capacities disappear from the official website at lightning speed. It also often happens that, due to the high risk of summer wildfires, the authorities shut the entire limestone massif overnight. So always check the latest information on the website before your trip, or download the park’s mobile app.
💡 Tip: Even with a valid Sugiton reservation on your phone, set off at dawn — that way you’ll dodge not only the lines of other lucky QR-code holders but, above all, the murderous midday sun.
Photo: AXP Photography / Pexels
5. The Harbour Town of Cassis and Its Charm
While Marseille is wild and untamed, the little fishing town of Cassis is its complete opposite. It’s a very neat, picturesque and fairly pricey resort that, in summer, is literally bursting at the seams under the enormous influx of French and foreign day-trippers. The town is dominated by an ancient stone castle perched on a cliff high above the turquoise bay.
Stroll around the colourful harbour, where luxury white yachts bob next to traditional fishing boats, and take a seat in one of the many terraces with a sea view. The local restaurants serve excellent meat-free specialities — I’d definitely recommend you try the traditional Provençal vegetable soup or the fresh local cheeses with a crusty baguette and olive oil.
Cassis is also world-famous for its fantastic white wines, grown on sunny terraced vineyards rising just behind the town. Wines bearing the AOC Cassis label have a subtly salty, mineral taste that pairs absolutely perfectly with light summer lunches and a leisurely glass at sunset.
💡 Tip: Parking in the very centre of Cassis is practically impossible in summer, so use the large Les Gorguettes park-and-ride above town, from where a cheap and reliable shuttle bus runs into the centre.
Photo: Lukas Lussi / Pexels
6. Aix-en-Provence and the Famous Cours Mirabeau
The town of Aix-en-Provence, known simply as Aix, is the perfect embodiment of polished, bourgeois elegance. It’s a very proud town of a thousand fountains, shady plane-tree avenues and gorgeous ochre façades, where time drifts along at a pleasantly slow pace. The ever-present fountains provide much-needed refreshment on hot summer days and lend the town its unmistakable soundtrack.
The whole social scene revolves around Cours Mirabeau, a wide and majestic boulevard lined with trees and luxury cafés. The main local discipline is to sit on a terrace, order an espresso for about €2.50, and discreetly watch the stylishly dressed passers-by. At the very start of the boulevard you’ll be wowed by the enormous La Rotonde fountain with its three statues symbolising justice, art and agriculture, while a little further on you’ll come across the stunning Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, a textbook of architecture from the 5th to the 17th century.
If you find yourself in town on a Saturday morning, you absolutely can’t miss the huge local markets. They’re exactly what you imagine when you think of a Provençal market full of colours and scents. You’ll find mounds of marinated olives, dozens of kinds of local cheese, fresh fruit, linen shirts and handmade lavender soaps.
💡 Tip: As you wander the town, don’t forget to try calissons, a traditional local sweet made of almond paste and candied melon, shaped like a small diamond and sold in gorgeous tin boxes.
Photo: Borys Trusevych / Pexels
7. In the Footsteps of Painter Paul Cézanne
Above all, Aix is inseparably tied to the figure of the famous Impressionist and father of modern art, Paul Cézanne. This brilliant painter was born here, created his greatest works here, and left an indelible mark on the streets and the surrounding landscape. The whole town is literally threaded with brass paving studs bearing the letter C, which guide you step by step through the places connected with his extraordinary life.
The greatest experience is visiting the Atelier des Lauves, his last working studio, which has been preserved exactly as he left it before his death. In the bright room with its enormous window, his old dusty brushes, work smocks and the small objects and models he so loved to paint in his famous still lifes still lie around.
The second absolutely key stop is then the family estate Bastide Jas de Bouffan, which has undergone an extensive and costly restoration. It was finally reopened to the public in 2025 and is fully operational for the 2026 season, but always check the current opening hours online in advance, as they change fairly often with the time of year at these sites.
💡 Tip: Head a little way out of town to the Terrain des Peintres hill, from where Cézanne most often painted his beloved Montagne Sainte-Victoire massif. Here you’ll find beautiful reproductions of his paintings set right into the landscape.
Photo: Bingqian Li / Pexels
8. Avignon and the Majestic Papal Palace
When, in the fourteenth century, the papal court surprisingly moved from Rome to Avignon, it turned this once-sleepy town on the banks of the Rhône into the very centre of the Christian world. What they left behind is the Palais des Papes, the Papal Palace, by far the largest Gothic building in the world. It looks more like an impregnable military fortress than a spiritual residence, and its bare stone walls and massive towers still command enormous respect today.
Basic admission to the palace interior costs around €12, and touring the labyrinth of corridors takes at least two hours. For 2026, the palace has also prepared a big technological novelty: from 1 May, visitors receive an innovative HistoPad included in the ticket price. It’s a special tablet with augmented-reality features that transforms the empty, cold stone halls back into their magnificent 14th-century form.
Thanks to this amazing technology, you’ll see rich historical frescoes, period painted furniture and virtually flickering fires in the enormous hearths. Without this clever guide, the visit would be just a fairly ordinary walk through empty corridors. For more detail about the city, be sure to read our in-depth article on Avignon.
💡 Tip: The palace’s vast courtyard gets incredibly hot in summer, so I’d recommend going on the tour early in the morning at opening time, when the stone halls are still pleasantly cool from the night.
Lukáš and Lucie recommend
Where to stay in Provence
4 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options
When visiting Avignon you absolutely can’t miss the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, which most people know by its popular name, the Avignon Bridge. It’s precisely the bridge sung about in the famous French children’s song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”, and which today rather comically ends halfway across the rushing Rhône, because devastating spring floods swept the rest of it away for good long ago.
Instead of buying separate tickets, I warmly recommend you pay a little extra for the great-value combined ticket at €15.50, which will let you into both the Papal Palace and onto the surviving arches of this medieval bridge. The walk across the bridge doesn’t take long, but it offers an absolutely superb view back over the heavily fortified town and the monumental palace.
On the bridge itself there’s also a small two-storey chapel of Saint Nicholas, where boatmen and bargees once prayed for a safe journey across the unpredictable river. A walk along the Rhône is then a very pleasant way to break up a hot afternoon, once you’ve had enough of the sun-baked city streets.
💡 Tip: You’ll get the most beautiful photo of the whole bridge with the palace in the background from the opposite bank of the river, or from the Île de la Barthelasse island, reached by a free ferry straight from the historic centre.
10. Pont du Gard and the Evening Light Show
Photo: Carsten Ruthemann / Pexels
About thirty kilometres from Avignon stands one of the most breathtaking historic monuments in all of France, the enormous Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard. This three-tiered stone giant, listed by UNESCO, has survived an incredible two thousand years of floods and wars, and to this day it takes your breath away with its sheer engineering perfection and remarkable architectural elegance.
Walking access to the aqueduct and into the surrounding countryside is completely free, but be prepared for fairly high parking fees, which effectively function as a fixed entry charge for the whole carload. Without a car you can get here on a local bus from Avignon or from the town of Nîmes, but the services don’t run very often, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on the timetables. On hot days you can also swim right in the River Gardon beneath the arches of the bridge.
In the 2026 summer season, prepare yourself for some incredible evening magic too. From 15 May to 20 September the bridge will be beautifully and artistically lit after dark, and during the peak season from 4 July to 30 August a spectacular audiovisual show takes place. Seeing these ancient arches play in every colour under the starry summer sky is an experience you really shouldn’t miss.
💡 Tip: Bring a blanket and a picnic basket full of Provençal cheeses and vegetables, settle on the riverbank before sunset, and wait calmly until full darkness for the light show to begin.
11. The Village of Gordes in the Luberon
Photo: Le sixième rêve / Pexels
If you’re after precisely that romantic Provence from the pages of Peter Mayle’s books, you have to head into the stunning Luberon mountains. This is where you’ll find the famous villages clinging to hilltops, known as “perched villages”, which regularly win national polls for the most beautiful historic villages in all of France.
Begin your exploring in Gordes, because the very approach to this village is a visual event in itself. The road suddenly takes a sharp bend and before you appears a cascade of pale stone houses glued to a steep cliff, majestically crowned by a Renaissance castle. Stop at the viewpoint just before the village and soak in that perfect view — even though in summer you’ll have to fight for a good spot with dozens of other photographers.
Inside the village, you’ll find winding cobbled lanes, pricey boutiques, cosy cafés and superb views deep into the green valley. Gordes is extremely popular and gets genuinely packed in summer, so I’d recommend coming early in the morning, while the narrow lanes are still relatively passable and you can find some quiet corners. You can easily combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Sénanque abbey.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the fascinating visit to the underground labyrinth Caves du Palais Saint Firmin right beneath the centre of Gordes, where you’ll see old carved olive-oil presses and escape the summer heat for a while.
Photo: christine roy / Pexels
12. Roussillon and Its Red Ochre Cliffs
Just a few kilometres on from Gordes lies the village of Roussillon, which at first glance looks as if someone had mistakenly transported it here from the Wild West in Colorado. While the rest of the Luberon is traditionally built from pale limestone, Roussillon sits on a vast deposit of natural ochre, and all the houses here glow in shades from bright yellow to deep blood red.
Definitely pay for entry to the famous ochre trail, Le Sentier des Ocres, which starts right at the edge of the village. You’ll walk through former quarries where the coloured cliffs form an utterly surreal landscape, contrasting with the deep-green pines and the blue sky. The trail has two well-marked loops: the shorter takes about thirty minutes, the longer just under an hour. If you have time, be sure to stop at the quieter nearby Ménerbes or at the river source in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
When visiting the ochre quarries, keep one very important rule in mind: the fine red dust instantly gets everywhere, so definitely don’t wear white canvas shoes or light-coloured clothing on this trip, because natural ochre washes out incredibly badly and leaves permanent stains.
💡 Tip: Stop by the small local shops and buy natural ochre pigments in powder form, sold here in little jars — a completely unique souvenir for any painting lover.
13. Blooming Lavender on the Valensole Plateau
Many people arrive in this region only in August, pay a fortune for accommodation, and then just stare tearfully at harvested, parched brown fields. Lavender, you see, doesn’t wait for your holiday — it has its own clearly defined natural cycle. The main flowering season runs roughly from mid-June to the end of July, with the absolute purple peak falling at the turn of these two months.
The most famous spot for the most iconic photographs is the sprawling Valensole plateau, where endless fields of purple beauty stretch literally to the horizon and beyond. The variety grown here is mostly lavandin, a robust hybrid forming huge, photogenic bushes with a very strong scent. In peak season, prepare for massive crowds of tourists posing with hats in every spare row.
Be extremely careful about timing your trip around the local festivals, a common tourist trap. The famous Valensole festival is always held on the third Sunday in July, which sounds like the ideal date, but in reality it’s a celebration of the approaching harvest. So it can easily happen that you arrive at the festival, buy some fragrant soaps, but the prettiest surrounding fields have sadly already been cut down to the ground.
💡 Tip: If you want to experience Valensole in bloom without hundreds of coaches and the stress, come in the last week of June and be in the fields around half past six in the morning, when the sun is just rising and the colours are at their most vivid.
14. Sénanque Abbey and the Quieter Fields at Sault
Photo: AXP Photography / Pexels
You’ll capture the truly iconic and probably the most famous photograph in all of France at the Notre-Dame de Sénanque abbey near Gordes. It’s a plain Romanesque Cistercian abbey from the 12th century, in front of which a perfect strip of purple lavender stretches in absolute symmetry. The monks still live here in silence, growing plants and bottling excellent home-made honey.
It’s a place of absolute calm and spiritual contemplation — unless, that is, you come here in mid-July at high noon, when the small car park bursts at the seams under the enormous onslaught of tour coaches. If, however, you’re tied to a late-summer holiday date, your salvation will be the Albion plateau and the area around the little town of Sault.
This area lies at a notably higher altitude, so the lavender here blooms markedly later, peaks in mid-July and often keeps flowering into early August. Only true lavender is grown here, which has somewhat smaller bushes than the lavandin on Valensole, but boasts a far finer and more refined scent. The atmosphere is also incomparably calmer, and the local festival is held only on 15 August.
💡 Tip: A very narrow and winding access road leads to Sénanque abbey, where two cars can only pass each other with enormous difficulty, so drive very carefully and strictly observe the one-way system if it’s signposted at the time.
Photo: Catherine Kozdoba / Pexels
Where to Go Next from Provence
If you have a car and plenty of free time, this region offers loads of further options for seamlessly continuing your exploration. If you love dramatic scenery and don’t mind driving above deep chasms, be sure to head out to explore the nearby Verdon Gorge, often called the Grand Canyon of Europe, which offers absolutely fantastic views and pedalo rental right on the turquoise river.
And if you’ve had enough of the sun-baked interior and crave a bit of luxury, a sea breeze and pebble beaches, just move a little further east. There the famous French Riviera awaits, with towns like Nice, Cannes and Monaco, where you can soak up the atmosphere of luxury yachts and elegant seaside promenades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for lavender in Provence?
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You have the greatest certainty of blooming purple fields always from the end of June roughly until mid-July. In the lower elevations at Valensole, the harvest begins around mid-July, while the higher-altitude Sault keeps blooming until early August, before agricultural machinery rolls in there too.
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Is the city of Marseille safe for tourists?
Standard tourist zones like Vieux-Port, the museum district and the historic center are completely safe. Drug-related crime takes place in isolated northern suburbs that you’ll never visit as a tourist. In the center, just watch out for pickpockets in crowds or on the metro, same as in other big cities, and after dark avoid the area around Saint-Charles station and the Noailles and Belsunce neighborhoods.
What is the ZFE zone in Marseille and how is it changing in 2026?
This is a strict low-emission zone in the wider city center that operates 24 hours a day. From 2026, there’s an absolute ban on entry for cars with Crit’Air 4 and 5 stickers, including vehicles with Czech license plates. You must purchase the environmental sticker in advance online for approximately €5; without it, you risk a fine ranging from €68 to €375.
How to best get around the region?
Major cities like Marseille, Aix or Avignon are excellently connected by TGV high-speed trains and local services, but you practically won’t get to smaller villages in the Luberon mountains and lavender fields without your own or rental car. I recommend booking a car well in advance directly at the airport.
How much does the toll cost on French motorways?
In France, there are no classic motorway vignettes; tolls are paid in cash or by card directly at toll booths. The indicative price for 2026 is around €9.50 per 100 kilometers driven, so longer journeys can put quite a strain on your budget.
When are the restaurants open and what’s the situation with English?
The French strictly observe meal times. You can only get the lunch menu between 12:00 and 14:00. If you arrive later, the kitchen will already be closed and won’t open again until dinner around 19:00. When communicating with staff, always start with a greeting “Bonjour” before switching to English – this small gesture of respect for the language can work wonders.
How much does food in a restaurant cost?
Prices in 2026 aren’t exactly the lowest. A classic three-course lunch menu at a bistro will cost you 15 to 25 euros, while a standard dinner without wine will set you back at least 20 to 35 euros per person. A 15% service charge is already included by law in the price of the meal, so an additional tip isn’t strictly necessary.
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TL;DRThe Champagne region pairs Reims and its Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral (where 33 French kings were crowned) with Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne, under which more than 200 million bottles are ageing. There are 12 tips here, from the chalk cellars of Taittinger, Moët & Chandon and Mercier to the village of Hautvillers, tied to Dom Pérignon, and the lighthouse at Verzenay. Tastings in 2026 run from €40 to €90, cellar temperatures sit around 10–12°C, and May, June or September are the best months to go. The TGV gets you from Paris to Reims in 45 minutes.
Picture a glass of finely beaded bubbles in the shadow of a Gothic cathedral, where everything revolves around perfection. If French wine is your thing, you’ll find the true heart of this winemaking heritage in Champagne, France, just east of Paris.
Real champagne is a proud protected appellation and a geological one-off that gourmets travel from all over the world to taste. Don’t expect tiny dusty cellars, though. What awaits you instead is a fascinating world of renowned houses and underground labyrinths hiding millions of precious bottles.
Get your taste buds ready for a trip to a region where time is measured in vintages. You’re in for an unforgettable experience in a place where life is celebrated every single day.
Photo: Tournasol7 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
TL;DR
Booking ahead is a must: You simply won’t get into the famous houses like Taittinger or Moët & Chandon without an online ticket bought weeks in advance.
Two main bases: Reims offers big-city buzz and a Gothic cathedral, while Épernay is the thoroughbred capital of bubbles with opulent architecture.
Warm clothes for the cellars: The chalk tunnels sit at around 10 to 12 °C all year round, so you’ll need a jumper or light jacket even on a scorching summer afternoon.
Tasting prices in 2026: Get your wallet ready, because basic tours start at around 40 euros and the exclusive ones climb into the hundreds.
Don’t skip the countryside: Head out to the picturesque village of Hautvillers, where the legendary monk Dom Pérignon once lived, or to historic Troyes.
Eco sticker for your car: If you drive your own vehicle, you absolutely need a Crit’Air sticker to enter Reims because of the strict low-emission zones.
The ideal time to visit this magical corner of France falls in May, June or September, when the days are pleasantly long and the vineyards glow with colour. September also brings the unmistakable buzz of the harvest, which turns the whole region into one giant humming hive. The exact start date of the harvest, the so-called Ban des vendanges, is announced each year based on the ripeness of the grapes, so it pays to follow the official wine websites and keep your plans flexible right up to the last minute. It does get busy everywhere during this period, but that atmosphere full of the scent of fermenting must is 100% worth it.
On the other hand, steer well clear of August, because the French take their mass holidays then and, paradoxically, plenty of small family wineries are closed. The motorways also see the infamous “black days” in August, when the whole country migrates south and you’d spend hours stuck in endless tailbacks. The festive season in November and December is cold and damp here, but it draws huge crowds with Christmas markets that spill over from neighbouring Alsace and create a fairy-tale mood. Just bear in mind that hotel rooms vanish at lightning speed and prices soar.
If you don’t fancy spending hours behind the wheel, the best option is the TGV high-speed train from Paris, which whisks you from Gare de l’Est to Reims in a fantastic 45 minutes. From the UK, the easiest way is to take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris and switch to the TGV there, or fly into Paris and continue by rail. Buy your train tickets as early as possible, because the system works just like airline fares — the closer to departure you book, the deeper you’ll dig into your pocket. Drivers need to watch out for the tricky low-emission zones in Reims, where you absolutely need a Crit’Air eco sticker. It’ll set you back about five euros and you can sort it online, but without it you risk a hefty fine. On French motorways, also keep an eye on the new Free-Flow tolling system — there are no barriers anymore, but cameras read your plate and you have to pay online within 72 hours 😅.
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Where to Stay in the Champagne Region of France
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities, it’s worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.
Choosing the right home base is absolutely key to a smooth trip, because the two main cities offer completely different experiences. Reims is a great choice for lovers of city life, as it gives you direct TGV connections, lively nightlife, and the biggest chalk cellars literally beneath your feet. A brilliant tip is to stay right next to the cathedral, for example at the elegant La Caserne Chanzy hotel, which puts the best sights within easy walking distance. Reims can feel more like a bustling metropolis than a romantic wine-country village, but it makes up for it with perfect infrastructure and a huge choice of excellent restaurants.
If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere and want to be right at the epicentre of the wine action, Épernay is the place for you. This smaller town is the absolute hub of bubbles, and from a hotel like Hôtel Jean Moët you can reach the famous Avenue de Champagne in just a few minutes. The compact, walkable centre means that after a day of tastings you don’t have to worry about taxis — you simply stroll back to your room through the lit-up streets. The slight downside of Épernay is that in high season and during the harvest, rooms sell out incredibly fast and prices can run a touch higher than in Reims.
You’ll find the widest range of accommodation of every kind on Booking.com, where you can filter for exactly what you’re after, from luxury châteaux among the vines to cosy modern apartments. If you’re travelling by your own car, always check parking availability and prices in advance, because parking spaces in the historic centres of both cities are scarce and very expensive. Ideally, find a hotel with its own secure courtyard so you can leave the car parked and set off to explore the glasses on foot ☺️.
Lukáš and Lucie recommend
Where to stay in Champagne
3 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options
Photo: Gros Thony / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
12 Things to See and Do in Champagne, France
Let’s dive together into the very best this dazzling region has to offer, from majestic architecture to deep chalk tunnels full of liquid gold. In the following twelve tips you’ll find the perfect mix of history, practical tasting advice and gorgeous spots you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Photo: Uoaei1 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral in Reims and the Coronation of Kings
Reims is a city of two faces, and above ground you’ll be instantly blown away by the monumental Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It was on this sacred spot that thirty-three French kings were crowned over the centuries, making it one of the most important historic and political buildings in the entire country. Its sheer scale and the incredibly rich sculptural decoration of the main façade will leave you standing in silent awe the moment you step out of the side streets onto the main square.
As you tour the dimly lit interior, don’t miss the stunning stained-glass windows — the ones at the back were created by the famous artist Marc Chagall and lend the ancient space an unexpectedly modern, dreamlike feel. The combination of deep blue tones and Gothic arches is almost magical. Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but if you want to climb the towers and enjoy the panoramic view over the whole city, I’d recommend buying a ticket online in advance to skip the long queues. 💡 Tip: Try to come early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the sunlight streaming through the coloured glass creates a fascinating play of light and shadow on the stone floor.
Photo: Eric Salard / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
2. The Chalk Cellars of Reims and Their Underworld
The real treasure of Reims doesn’t lie on the surface but hides tens of metres below the pavement in a vast underground labyrinth. Beneath the city run hundreds of kilometres of corridors carved into pure white chalk, known as crayères, which serve as perfect, naturally air-conditioned ageing cellars. These spaces originally began as ancient Roman stone quarries, but today they hide some of the most expensive wine in the world. The temperature stays at around 10 to 12 °C year-round and the humidity is so high that water starts condensing on your clothes after a while, so a jumper is essential.
Pop in for a tour of the famous Taittinger house, whose cellars are among the most breathtaking and proudly listed by UNESCO. You descend steep steps into a deep silence broken only by the occasional clink of glass and the muffled footsteps of your guide. Tours here cost from 40 to 90 euros depending on the vintage and how many samples you want to taste at the end, and booking through sites like Champagne Booking is absolutely essential. Other giants have their underground palaces here too, such as Veuve Clicquot, the oldest house of all, Ruinart, or the famous Pommery, where the tour of the dark corridors is paired with modern art installations, creating a truly bizarre and visually stunning experience 😁.
Photo: Paul Vidal de La Blache (1845-1918) / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
3. Épernay and the World’s Most Expensive Street, Avenue de Champagne
While Reims feels like a genuine metropolis, about half an hour’s drive to the south lies Épernay, considered the absolute capital of sparkling wine. Everything important here revolves around the renowned Avenue de Champagne, of which Winston Churchill once joked that it was the most drinkable street in the world. The whole wide promenade is lined with opulent nineteenth-century mansions, and behind their wrought-iron gates and manicured gardens sit the biggest players in the business.
Strolling down this luxurious street, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another century — and at that very moment, over 200 million bottles lie beneath your feet in deep chalk tunnels. It’s an incredible contrast between the quiet residential street on the surface and the massive global industry underground. Many of these grand houses offer seating in their courtyards, where you can simply order a glass and soak up the snobbish yet wonderfully relaxed summer atmosphere. 💡 Tip: Set aside at least one full afternoon for Avenue de Champagne, because hopping from one beautiful courtyard to the next is incredibly addictive and time slips away dangerously fast.
Photo: SAplants / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
4. The Underground Labyrinth of Moët & Chandon and the Little Train at Mercier
Right on Avenue de Champagne sits the legendary Moët & Chandon, which has an incredible twenty-eight kilometres of precisely arranged cellars below it. The tour here is extremely professional, perfectly organised, and shows you exactly how production works on a vast global scale. You’ll walk through endless corridors full of dust and history, where the best vintages mature. Tasting prices here start at around 48 euros, and for the exclusive tastings they can climb to dizzying sums of over 400 euros.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed and fun to lighten the day, definitely head to the neighbouring Mercier house. Here there’s no boring walking — instead you hop straight onto a special underground train that comfortably carries you through the sprawling chalk corridors. It’s a touch touristy, sure, but seeing with your own eyes the giant wooden barrel that held the equivalent of 200,000 bottles — which founder Eugène Mercier once hauled to the World’s Fair in Paris with an ox team — has an unmistakable historic charm and reliably entertains even those who don’t normally seek out wine history.
Photo: APictche / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
5. Hautvillers and the Legend of Dom Pérignon
Drive just a few kilometres out of busy Épernay into the hills and you’re suddenly surrounded by an endless sea of picturesque green vineyards. In their midst lies Hautvillers, an unassuming village with an enormous historical legacy. It was in the local ancient abbey that the monk Dom Pérignon worked in the seventeenth century — the one legend credits with inventing champagne and, at his first sip, exclaiming in delight that he was drinking the stars.
Although historians will dryly explain that the monk was actually trying hard to get rid of the bubbles, since the pressure used to shatter the fragile glass bottles, the beautiful myth lives on, and his grave in the local church is practically a pilgrimage site for every wine lover. The village itself is incredibly charming, full of wrought-iron shop signs and narrow cobbled lanes that invite aimless wandering. You’ll find plenty of small family wineries here where you can taste superb wine at a fraction of the price of the big commercial houses in Épernay — and chat directly with the people who made it with love.
Photo: ŠJů / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
6. The Secret of Production: How Champagne Is Born
Understanding the complex production process is absolutely key to truly savouring every glass and grasping its price. The foundation is the so-called méthode champenoise, a strictly regulated process in which the wine undergoes a second fermentation directly inside the sealed bottle. It’s during this lengthy and delicate process that those fine, elegant bubbles form — the ones that turn ordinary wine into a global phenomenon.
A fascinating part of the process is shaking down the yeast, known as remuage, where bottles placed neck-down in special wooden racks are turned by hand a precise amount every single day. While at the big producers this gruelling work is now handled by clever machines called gyropalettes, in many traditional cellars you’ll still see masters who can flick thousands of bottles a day with nothing but a twist of the wrist. The whole ageing process on the lees takes a minimum of fifteen months, but for the finest vintages it stretches to several years, giving the drink its typical flavour of toasted bread and brioche.
7. Tasting Rules: How to Taste and Champagne France Prices for 2026
Tasting in this prestigious region has its own unwritten rules and is definitely not about quickly knocking back a glass at the bar before dinner. During a tasting you’ll always get an expert explanation of the grape varieties — most often Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier — and you should pay attention to the colour, the bead and the aroma before that very first sip. Don’t be shy about using the spittoons provided, especially if you plan to visit several houses in one day and you’re driving a rental car.
Price levels in 2026 have settled fairly high, and you need to expect that quality and exclusivity come at a generous cost here. Basic tours with a tasting of one or two samples at the big brands run around 40 to 60 euros per person. But if you visit the smaller family wineries scattered across the countryside, they’ll often happily waive the tasting fee if you buy a few bottles to take home at the end. Tours and tastings can frequently be searched and booked very easily through platforms like GetYourGuide, which saves you a lot of hassle translating French websites and gets you instant confirmation of your slot.
Photo: Paul Cézanne / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
8. UNESCO Vineyards and the Montagne de Reims Nature Park
The landscape between Reims and Épernay is made up of wooded hills and sweeping slopes that fall within the protected Montagne de Reims nature park. This area is famous in the wine world for growing the blue Pinot Noir grape, which gives the local wines their much-needed power and structure. The unique terroir here — a perfect combination of the specific chalky soil, the angle of the slopes and a favourable microclimate — is so valuable that it earned a prestigious place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The best way to explore this beautiful landscape in detail is to rent an e-bike and set off along the small roads lining the individual plots of vines. You’ll ride through quiet villages labelled Grand Cru — the highest possible classification of vineyard quality in France — and be treated to panoramic views that genuinely take your breath away. 💡 Tip: Stop at the edge of a vineyard and take a close look at the bright white soil; you’ll see with your own eyes the pure chalk that acts as a perfect natural sponge, holding water for the hot summer days.
Photo: Chabe01 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
9. The Harvest Experience and the Vendangeur d’un jour Programme
If you want to experience the region in its rawest and most authentic form, plan your trip for the turn of August and September. This is when the long-awaited harvest takes place and the whole area essentially never sleeps. Narrow roads are blocked by slow tractors, the sweet smell of fermenting must hangs in the air everywhere, and thousands of seasonal workers labour in the vineyards, because machine harvesting is strictly banned here by law and every single grape must be cut by hand.
A huge draw for visitors is a special programme called Vendangeur d’un jour, or Grape Picker for a Day. For a fixed fee, a local winemaker takes you into the rows with secateurs and a basket, shows you how to gently and correctly cut the grapes, and you round off the physically demanding experience with a hearty lunch and a well-earned tasting right there in the sun-drenched vineyard. It’s an unforgettable experience that gives you a whole new appreciation for just how much honest human graft hides behind every luxury bottle on the shop shelves ☺️.
Photo: Myrabella / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
10. The Town of Troyes and Its Medieval Half-Timbered Houses
Head a little further south and you’ll come across the historic town of Troyes, once the original capital of this whole wealthy region. From a bird’s-eye view, its historic centre is shaped exactly like a champagne cork, an incredible quirk of fate and medieval town planning. Troyes instantly charms you with its fantastically preserved architecture and narrow cobbled lanes that beg for long walks.
The town’s biggest highlight is the gorgeous wonky half-timbered houses from the sixteenth century, which often lean so close together that their upper floors almost touch. Stroll down the famous Ruelle des Chats, where you really will see cats leaping from roof to roof, visit the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, and enjoy a far calmer, more intimate atmosphere without the huge crowds of tourists who tend to cluster up north around Reims.
Photo: Vassil / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
11. The Verzenay Lighthouse and Views to Infinity
One of the most bizarre and photographed structures in the middle of the French vineyards is undoubtedly the Phare de Verzenay, an unmissable lighthouse that rises on a hill an awfully long way from any sea. It was built at the start of the twentieth century by a local entrepreneur purely as a clever advertising stunt to draw attention to his wine brand at the time, and it fulfils that purpose as a perfect visual beacon flawlessly to this day.
Today, inside this curious and slightly out-of-place building, there’s an interactive museum of the vine, where you’ll learn loads of fun facts about the history of grape growing across the region and the work of winemakers through the seasons. The biggest reward, though, is the climb itself up the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, where a circular view opens out over an endless sea of green vineyards — and on a clear day you can even make out the outline of Reims Cathedral on the distant horizon.
Photo: Euro RSCG. Agence de publicité (création) / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
12. Gastronomy and Local Cheeses Paired with Bubbles
The travel experience definitely wouldn’t be complete without a thorough exploration of the local gastronomy, which has been perfectly tuned over the centuries to pair with sparkling wine. Even if you’re not a meat lover, the French cheese culture will utterly captivate you here and keep you going for your entire stay. Local cheeses like the creamy Chaource or the bold Langres go fantastically with the bubbly — and the little dip on top of a Langres is sometimes filled with a small splash of the local Marc de Champagne spirit before serving for an extra flavour kick.
Beyond the matured cheeses, you mustn’t leave without trying the famous pink biscuits, the Biscuits Roses de Reims, which local bakeries have been baking to a traditional secret recipe since the seventeenth century. Their utterly unique trait is that you dip them lightly straight into your glass of champagne before eating — and thanks to their special double baking, they hold their shape and don’t go soggy in your drink. It’s an incredibly elegant, sweet and 100% vegetarian way to round off every great day spent among the vines.
Where to Go Next from Champagne
Now that you’ve made the journey to this part of France, it would be a shame not to explore the other famous regions within driving distance, which offer completely different experiences.
Turn your attention south and discover Burgundy, where red Pinot Noir reigns supreme alongside famous vineyards and the legendary medieval Hospices de Beaune with its colourful tiled roof.
If you’re drawn more to fairy-tale architecture and white wines, head east, where the stunning Alsace Wine Route awaits with villages full of flowers and stork nests.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How to best get to Champagne from Paris?
The fastest and most comfortable option is to take the TGV high-speed trains, which depart from Paris’s Gare de l’Est station. The journey to Reims takes just 45 minutes and to Épernay a little over an hour. I recommend buying tickets well in advance through the official SNCF app, as last-minute prices increase significantly and trains tend to sell out.
Do I need a car and an environmental sticker for Reims?
You can get by without a car in Reims or Épernay themselves, but for exploring the villages and countryside wineries, a vehicle is a great advantage. However, if you’re driving directly into Reims, you absolutely need the French environmental sticker Crit’Air (costs just over five euros), because the city falls within a strict low-emission zone and without it you risk a €68 fine.
How much do tastings and cellar tours cost?
Prices in 2026 at the large and famous houses range between 40 and 90 euros for a basic tour with a tasting of one or two samples. If you visit small family winemakers in the countryside, tastings are usually significantly cheaper and they often waive the fee altogether if you purchase a few bottles to take home as a souvenir.
Do I need to book a cellar visit in advance?
Yes, for all the major commercial brands and famous houses, advance booking is absolutely essential, even up to a month ahead, especially during summer season and September harvest time. Without a valid online ticket they won’t let you in, because tours run in small groups with a guide and the capacity of the underground spaces is strictly limited.
What’s the weather like in underground chalk cellars?
In the deep chalk tunnels called crayères, there’s a constant year-round temperature of around 10 to 12 °C and very high humidity, so you might get cold quite quickly. Even when it’s scorching hot summer weather outside, always bring a sweater, light jacket and closed-toe shoes for the hour-long underground tour, so you don’t spoil the experience by getting chilled.
Is the region suitable for vegetarians too?
Absolutely! While French gastronomy often revolves around meat, in this region you’ll find fantastic enjoyment in the form of local cheeses, such as the wonderfully creamy Chaource or the distinctive Langres, which pair perfectly with bubbles. In restaurants, you can easily order meat-free menus, and don’t forget to taste the famous pink biscuits from Reims.
Can I just walk through the vineyards for free?
Yes, most vineyards are freely accessible for walking and cycling on paved paths and asphalt roads between individual plots. However, remember that the vine rows themselves are private property, so make sure not to pick grapes, damage the vines, and respect the heavy machinery that often moves along the paths.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
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TL;DRLourdes, tucked under the Pyrenees in southwest France, is a pilgrimage town that draws four to six million visitors a year. Top picks include the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, the Gothic Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the brutalist underground Basilica of St Pius X (which holds 25,000 people), and the evening candlelit processions. Getting into the whole sanctuary area is free, and a good place to stay, the Grand Hôtel Moderne, comes in at €130–€180 a night. The best time to visit is late May to early June or October, when it’s far quieter than the Easter-to-late-October rush. From Lourdes it’s about an hour and a quarter’s drive (50 kilometres) to the Cirque de Gavarnie, home to a 422-metre waterfall, and a cable car will take you up to the summit of Pic du Midi at 2,877 metres.
France wears many faces, but Lourdes in France, nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees, feels like an entirely different world. Every year this little town in the southwest of the country welcomes millions of visitors. Some arrive carrying enormous hope, while others are drawn here by pure curiosity.
In this article you’ll find 11 practical tips that will help you make the most of this fascinating pilgrimage site. You’ll learn where to look for strategically located accommodation and when the best time to visit is. That way you can soak up the incredible atmosphere even if you don’t count yourself among the deeply devout.
TL;DR
The magical Massabielle Grotto: The site of the apparitions, where absolute silence reigns and you can touch the sacred rock.
The evening procession: The most powerful emotions come after dark, when thousands of people walk through the night carrying lit candles.
Lourdes water: A miraculous spring where you can fill bottles or take part in the traditional ritual.
The underground basilica: A fascinating concrete colossus shaped like an upturned hull, holding an incredible 25,000 visitors.
Trips into the Pyrenees: The town is an absolutely ideal launchpad for journeys to the Gavarnie waterfalls or the summit of Pic du Midi.
Commerce vs. spirituality: Be ready for the huge contrast between neon-lit souvenir shops in the streets and quiet prayer inside the sanctuary.
Photo: Père Igor / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Lourdes comes alive mainly from Easter to the end of October, when the vast majority of visitors arrive and the whole town runs at full tilt. Each year an incredible four to six million people show up here, with the absolute peak of the tourist and pilgrimage season traditionally falling in the hot summer months. August 15th is especially intense, when the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is celebrated and the streets and hotels are literally bursting at the seams under the influx of pilgrims from all over the world.
If you’re planning a trip for 2026, keep in mind that Lourdes is entering a new three-year cycle dedicated to Saint Luke. Various dioceses around the world organise massive national pilgrimages during this period, so logistics in the town tend to be extremely tight and accommodation vanishes at lightning speed. The British diocese, for example, sends a huge organised pilgrimage here in late August, so for a calmer visit I’d recommend the turn of May and June, or alternatively a warm October, when the crowds thin out but the weather in the Pyrenean foothills is still very pleasant.
So how do you actually get here from the UK? The most logical option is to fly into Toulouse or Bordeaux and pick up a reliable rental car right at the airport. There are convenient connections from London and other major UK airports. The drive from Toulouse airport takes roughly two hours on the motorway, covering 175 kilometres to the foot of the mountains. A car gives you enormous freedom in any case, because reaching the most beautiful Pyrenean waterfalls and glacial lakes by relying on public transport alone is genuinely very difficult.
Photo: John Samuel / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to Stay in Lourdes
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We like to search for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. Tickets, tours and activities are then worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.
Lourdes is absolutely packed with hotels and guesthouses, but bear in mind that most of them are primarily geared toward huge organised groups and often carry a slightly retro feel from decades past. If you’re after something more personal and comfortable, it’s definitely worth booking a room well in advance through Booking. Ideally choose accommodation within walking distance of the sacred precinct, so you don’t have to deal with tricky evening parking, which becomes an absolute nightmare in the narrow streets during summer — and the police are only too happy to hand out fines for parking in the wrong spot.
A great choice is the renowned Grand Hôtel Moderne, which will instantly charm you with its historic atmosphere and beautiful Belle Époque architecture. It sits just a few steps from the main entrance to the sanctuary, so the magical evening procession is right on your doorstep and you avoid pushing through crowds across the whole town. Prices per night for two people in the 2026 season hover roughly around 130 to 180 euros, which is a fairly reasonable amount for such a prestigious location.
If you prefer more modern, quieter facilities, take a look at the Hôtel Roissy or the very popular Hôtel Alba, both offering excellent value for money, spotlessly clean rooms and friendly staff. Ordinary travellers, though, would do better to avoid staying right in the epicentre of the noisiest shopping streets. An alternative for nature lovers is to set up base camp in nearby mountain towns like Cauterets or Luz-Saint-Sauveur, from where you’re close to the Pyrenean treks and can simply make an afternoon trip into Lourdes.
Photo: John Samuel / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
11 Things to See and Do in Lourdes
Let’s take a look at 11 specific tips on what to see and do in Lourdes and the immediate surroundings. Whether you’re seeking spiritual comfort or rather architectural and natural highlights, you’re sure to find something here for you.
Photo: Thomon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
1. The Massabielle Grotto and the Apparitions
This is exactly the sacred spot where it all began in 1858, and which changed the history of the entire region forever. Back then, a local girl named Bernadette Soubirous, only fourteen years old, claimed that the Virgin Mary repeatedly appeared to her in the shallow Massabielle Grotto. Today this little rock overhang on the bank of the Gave de Pau river is the pulsing heart of the whole pilgrimage complex, drawing millions of the faithful from around the world every year.
As you approach the grotto itself, you’re immediately struck by the absolute, deeply respectful silence that reigns here. People stand in long but orderly queues, pray quietly, light candles, and hopefully touch the damp limestone rock. Over the long decades, the stone has been worn incredibly smooth by millions of human palms, and the whole scene feels powerful even for complete atheists who come purely out of curiosity.
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds and experience the place in its purest form, head to the grotto early in the morning around seven o’clock. The sanctuary grounds open at dawn, and the morning mist rising off the icy mountain river lends the whole space an incredibly mystical, peaceful atmosphere.
Photo: Kaitu / Wikimedia Commons, CC0
2. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
Right above the grotto of the apparitions rises a magnificent white building that serves as the main visual symbol and landmark of all Lourdes. The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception was completed in 1871, and thanks to its elevated position, its elegant, sharply cut slender spire can be seen from nearly every corner of the town. The brilliant white stone also creates a fantastic contrast with the dark green slopes of the Pyrenees that rise just behind the complex.
Be sure to step inside too, because the neo-Gothic interior is truly beautiful and intricately detailed. Stunning stained glass windows tell the complete story of the apparitions and, on sunny days, let in soft, beautiful light that colours the stone walls. Around the perimeter you’ll see hundreds of marble thank-you plaques from pilgrims from the most varied corners of the world, who believe this place brought them the healing or comfort they longed for.
An amazing architectural feature leads up to the basilica: a system of enormous stone ramps that embrace the main square like two giant protective arms. From here you get a perfect panoramic view over the entire sacred precinct, and only from this bird’s-eye perspective do you fully grasp the vast, endless crowds of people constantly streaming toward the grotto.
Photo: Editions Brun (Perpignan, early 20th century) / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
3. Underground Basilica of Saint Pius X
This is a huge architectural shock that you probably wouldn’t expect in a traditionally ornate pilgrimage town full of neo-Gothic. The Underground Basilica of Saint Pius X is a gigantic concrete structure designed in pure brutalist style, ceremonially consecrated in 1958 to mark the centenary of the first apparition. For many lovers of modern architecture, this space is the most interesting in the entire complex.
From the outside you can barely see it, because it’s cleverly hidden below ground level and its roof is formed by a sprawling green lawn. But as soon as you descend the wide steps, you’ll be stunned by a space of giant proportions resembling the hull of an upturned ship. The whole structure is technically designed so that an incredible 25,000 visitors can fit into its elliptical interior at once, without the slightest problem.
💡 Tip: Even when there’s no big international mass on and the space sits empty, definitely head down and walk around the perimeter. A stroll through the giant concrete hall has a peculiar, almost slightly dystopian, raw atmosphere that contrasts sharply and very interestingly with the romantic, airy architecture of the upper historic basilicas.
Photo: Carnage 2000 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
4. The Evening Candlelight Procession
The single most powerful emotional experience in Lourdes doesn’t await you during the day, but long after dark. Every day from roughly April to the end of October, the famous Marian procession takes place on the main esplanade at exactly 9:00 p.m. Thousands of people from all over the world gather with lit candles in hand and walk slowly, in perfect harmony, along the wide paths of the pilgrimage grounds.
It’s a visually overwhelming spectacle that’s guaranteed to move and stir nearly every visitor, regardless of faith. The crowds, singing the traditional Ave Maria without pause, form an endless river of flickering light stretching through the darkness. The power of shared hope takes on an almost tangible, physical form here, and the overall night-time atmosphere is incredibly moving.
You can buy a candle with a protective paper cone to shield it from the wind for just a few coins on practically every corner in the streets surrounding the grounds. I’d recommend arriving at the main esplanade a little earlier to find a good elevated spot on the steps for watching and taking photos, or you can simply join the crowd and become a direct part of this fascinating ritual.
Photo: Carnage 2000 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
5. Lourdes Water and the Cleansing Baths
The clear water springing from the source right inside the Massabielle Grotto is a phenomenon in itself and the main reason many people come here. Pilgrims from all over the world believe boundlessly in its miraculous, healing effects on body and soul. Today, along the rock wall, you’ll find dozens of neatly arranged stone taps from which you can fill bottles for free and take a piece of Lourdes home with you.
Historically, seriously ill people came here to undergo full cleansing baths in stone pools designed for the purpose. In recent years, however, for hygiene reasons, full immersion in the icy water has been somewhat phased out. Instead, what’s done now is the so-called water gesture, where under the supervision of volunteers you symbolically wash your face and hands, which is a safer yet still deeply spiritual experience.
💡 Tip: If you want to take Lourdes water home as a keepsake, don’t waste money on overpriced plastic canisters in the shopping streets. An ordinary clean bottle from the supermarket will do you just fine. The spring water is regularly and very strictly tested in laboratories, is perfectly drinkable, beautifully cool, and wonderfully refreshing on hot summer days.
Photo: Multiples / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
6. The Monumental Stations of the Cross on the Hill
If you want a break for a while from the constant flow of crowds on the main esplanade and to stretch your legs in nature at the same time, set off on the local Stations of the Cross. They wind their way up the steep, wooded Colline des Espélugues hill right above the sanctuary and offer a beautiful, quiet walk in the pleasant shade of mighty trees — something you’ll definitely appreciate in summer.
The whole route is gradually lined with 115 monumental statues cast in golden metal, modelled at larger-than-life size. The realistic scenes from the last days of Christ’s life feel very dramatic in the wild, natural setting, with the whole trail measuring about a kilometre and a half up a fairly steep hill — it’ll give you a proper physical workout.
For older visitors, families with pushchairs or people in wheelchairs, this wooded route is unfortunately too demanding and inaccessible. Luckily, right in the lower grounds on flat terrain you’ll find another, modern and fully accessible Stations of the Cross, so no visitor has to miss out on this powerful artistic and spiritual experience.
7. The Castle and the Pyrenean Museum
Lourdes isn’t just a world-famous pilgrimage complex but also an interesting historic town with a splendid medieval fortress dominating the whole valley. The Château Fort de Lourdes stands on a high, steep rock right in the middle of town and for many centuries served as an impregnable military guardian of the strategic trade route leading deep into the heart of the Pyrenees.
Today, thankfully, you don’t have to climb the demanding steps, because you can reach the inside comfortably by a glass lift, and from the massive ramparts you’ll get an utterly unrivalled panoramic view over the entire sanctuary and the surrounding green mountain peaks. It’s by far the best spot for capturing the most spectacular photos of the whole Lourdes valley from a bird’s-eye view.
Inside the castle complex, don’t miss the Pyrenean Museum, which vividly illustrates the rugged, traditional life of the local mountain folk. You’ll find interesting examples of old crafts, beautifully decorated traditional costumes, and scale models of typical rural dwellings and farms from across the vast region of southwestern France.
Photo: Britchi Mirela / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Lukáš and Lucie recommend
Where to Stay in Lourdes
4 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options
8. The Atmosphere of Pilgrimages and Major Feast Days
Visiting Lourdes during the most significant religious feast days is a chapter all its own and requires a little mental preparation. On these days the whole town transforms into one enormous, pulsing organism, where the streets are constantly criss-crossed by hundreds of devoted volunteers pushing blue wheelchairs carrying seriously ill pilgrims who have come here seeking healing.
It’s absolutely fascinating to watch the incredible logistics and organisation that a town of just fifteen thousand permanent residents manages to handle. Special white trains converted into mobile hospitals arrive at the local station from all over Europe, and everywhere there’s a contagious atmosphere of mutual help and human solidarity that’s quite unique in today’s fast-paced world.
💡 Tip: During the big August feasts, such as the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, or during national pilgrimages (in 2026, for example, the major British pilgrimage in late August), expect extreme waiting times for absolutely everything. From tables in restaurants to parking to the entrance to the grotto itself. If you don’t like crowds, give these busy dates a wide berth.
Photo: Benh LIEU SONG / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
9. A Trip to Pic du Midi
Once you’ve had just about enough of the spiritual atmosphere and the bustle of the town, set off to discover the wild, untamed countryside. Lourdes is, after all, an absolutely fantastic starting point for day trips into the high mountains. One of the best and most accessible experiences is the ride on the giant cable car up to the majestic summit of Pic du Midi de Bigorre, to a staggering altitude of 2,877 metres above sea level.
The journey begins in the nearby ski resort of La Mongie, and the modern cable car whisks you in no time straight up to the steep, rocky peak, where you’ll feel a sharp change in temperature. At the top, the famous astronomical observatory has been operating continuously since the end of the nineteenth century, because conditions here are among the very best and clearest for stargazing in all of Europe.
From the huge viewing terraces, on a clear day you can take in the entire breathtaking wall of the Pyrenees stretching for hundreds of kilometres. For true connoisseurs and romantics, there’s even the option to book an exclusive overnight stay at the summit, spend the evening stargazing with local astronomers, and wake up in the morning high above the clouds with a view of the rising sun.
Photo: Benh LIEU SONG / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
10. Cirque de Gavarnie and the Waterfalls
If you’re going to see just one single natural wonder in the whole of the Pyrenees, let it be the breathtaking Gavarnie, which you can reach from Lourdes by car in about an hour and a quarter (50 kilometres). This enormous glacial amphitheatre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was described by the famous writer Victor Hugo as a natural colosseum — and looking at it, you’ll realise he certainly wasn’t exaggerating.
Picture a gigantic rock wall rising steeply to a height of over 1,500 metres, forming a perfect semicircle six kilometres across and closing off the entire valley. Countless icy streams tumble down this mighty limestone wall, and the largest waterfall, the Grande Cascade, measures an incredible 422 metres, making it one of the very tallest in all of Europe.
The walk from the car park in the village to the waterfall itself is surprisingly fairly easy, leading over gentle terrain and taking roughly an hour and a half of comfortable walking. You can book organised trips here through GetYourGuide if you’d rather not deal with the hassle of driving your own car along the narrow, winding mountain roads.
11. Pilgrimage Commerce and Souvenirs
The last tip is more of a practical observation about the local reality, which might catch you off guard. Lourdes is, you see, a town of enormous and often hard-to-grasp extremes. Right beyond the gates of the sacred, quiet, soothing complex begins a wild commercial zone full of glowing neon and hundreds of souvenir shops, all competing to grab your attention.
Be ready to see shop windows overflowing with colourful plastic bottles shaped like the Virgin Mary, glow-in-the-dark rosaries, holy-water canisters and kitschy figurines of every imaginable kind. This massive visual onslaught is literally shocking for many people, but it’s been an inseparable part of the Lourdes character and the workings of the local economy for many decades now.
💡 Tip: Take in the souvenirs at your leisure as an interesting cultural phenomenon, but remember that prices in the streets closest to the sanctuary tend to be significantly inflated. If you’re looking for something a bit more tasteful for yourself or your loved ones, try searching in the smaller shops tucked away deeper in the historic town centre, away from the main tourist flow.
Where to Go Next from Lourdes
Once you’ve had your fill of the Lourdes spiritual atmosphere and the majestic mountains, I’d recommend heading straight toward the ocean. Just a little over two hours’ drive separates you from an entirely different world, where surf culture, long beaches and a very laid-back mood rule.
Here you’ll find the famous Biarritz and the Basque Country, which will instantly charm you with their wild cliffs and authentic architecture. Stop in beautiful, historic Bayonne for a traditional thick hot chocolate, or explore the picturesque fishing lanes of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It’s an absolutely ideal contrast to the quiet mountain valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does entry to the grounds in Lourdes cost?
Entry to the entire sacred area, including the Massabielle grotto, the procession grounds and all the basilicas, is completely free and open to all regardless of faith. Payment is only voluntary for candles, or for entry to the historical museums or the medieval castle towering above the town.
Can non-believers visit the basilicas and the cave too?
Absolutely yes, you don’t need to have any concerns. Lourdes is open to people of all faiths and curious non-believing visitors who come here to admire the architecture and the phenomenon of the place. Only basic human respect for the site is required, along with quiet, considerate behavior in the immediate vicinity of the grotto, where people are focused on silent prayer.
Can you normally drink Lourdes water?
Yes, the water flowing from the mountain spring directly in the cave is regularly and very strictly tested in laboratories to meet all hygiene standards. It’s absolutely pure, refreshing spring water that you can safely drink and fill into your own bottles at the stone fountains prepared for this purpose near the cave.
How to dress for visiting a shrine?
Since this is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the world, respectful and appropriately modest clothing is logically expected. It’s recommended to have your shoulders covered and ideally your knees as well, so it’s better to leave very short beach shorts, low-cut tops or tank tops at the hotel to avoid unnecessarily offending older pilgrims.
Are Lourdes suitable for wheelchair users?
Lourdes is probably the most wheelchair-accessible city in the entire world. Given the enormous number of sick pilgrims in wheelchairs, you’ll find comfortable ramps everywhere, spacious elevators, perfectly maintained wide paths, and even a specially adapted flat Stations of the Cross in the lower part of the complex.
How much does a stay in Lourdes for a few days cost?
The price level here is surprisingly very friendly compared to Paris or the French Riviera. You can find a room for two in a decent three-star hotel in the 2026 season for around 100 to 150 euros per night. A coffee will cost you about 3 euros and a simple lunch at a local bistro away from the main tourist spots will run you around 15 euros per person.
Will I find good vegetarian food in Lourdes?
France can sometimes be a bit tricky for vegetarians, but in Lourdes and the surrounding area you’ll manage without any problems. Head to the local traditional crêperies for excellent savoury pancakes filled with local cheese and mushrooms, or thanks to the international clientele you’ll find plenty of Italian restaurants with good pizza and pasta. Be sure to also try the excellent local hard sheep’s milk cheeses, which are typical for the Pyrenees region.
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Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
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TL;DRSaint-Émilion is a medieval wine town on the right bank of the Dordogne near Bordeaux, listed by UNESCO, and you can reach it on a direct train from Bordeaux Saint-Jean in 33 to 40 minutes. Among the 11 tips, standouts include the monolithic church carved out of limestone rock (entry around €15), climbing the 118 steps up the Tour du Roy, wine tastings at the châteaux themselves (€15–35), and trying the traditional macarons that date back to 1620. May and June are the best months to come, along with the September and October grape harvest, while July and August bring crowds and temperatures of 35–40°C, so it’s best to avoid them. Half a day is enough for the historic centre, but for cycling, tastings and the surrounding châteaux it’s worth setting aside a full day, or staying the night.
Say “French wine” and your mind probably jumps straight to the famous region around the city of Bordeaux and those rich, ruby-red bottles. The whole area is an absolute paradise for lovers of history and gastronomy, but if you’re after the most picturesque wine village of them all, your feet should carry you to Saint-Émilion in France. This medieval gem sits on the right bank of the Dordogne river and offers a perfect escape into a world where time moves at the pace of maturing wine. Golden limestone houses rise up a steep hill and, quite literally on every side, are surrounded by an endless sea of carefully tended vineyards.
Because the wine region as a whole is enormous and tricky to navigate without a car, Saint-Émilion offers a genuinely brilliant solution for laid-back travellers. You can easily reach the village by direct train, and the best tastings are all within walking distance of each other. I’ve put together a detailed guide that shows you how to make the most of this magical UNESCO-listed spot. You’ll find tips for exploring the mysterious underground, fantastic wine tastings, plus practical advice on how to avoid the frustration of overcrowded streets.
Photo: Oli / Pexels
TL;DR
Stress-free travel: A direct regional train (TER) runs here from Bordeaux Saint-Jean station, and the comfortable journey takes just 33 to 40 minutes.
A world first: Saint-Émilion was the very first wine-growing landscape in the world to earn a prestigious place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Architectural wonder: The main draw is the giant monolithic church, carved during the Middle Ages out of a single block of underground limestone.
Book ahead: Tours of the prestigious wineries (châteaux) and entry to the underground church must be booked online well in advance for 2026.
Treacherous lanes: The village is full of extremely steep cobbled streets that the locals call tertres, so comfortable footwear is an absolute must.
Not just wine: Beyond the tastings, don’t miss the genuine local macarons, baked here to a secret recipe dating back to 1620.
Avoid August: In the summer months the village is bursting at the seams, so it’s far better to visit in spring or during the autumn grape harvest.
Getting your timing right is absolutely crucial for this destination, because Saint-Émilion is a global name and hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world descend on it every year. The worst possible time is July and August, when the narrow lanes clog up with crowds of tourists and temperatures in south-west France often climb to a merciless 35–40 °C. On top of that, in early July (roughly from 3 July) the whole of France hits the road for the summer holidays. The first weekend of August, which the locals call chassé-croisé, is traditionally the single worst day of the year on French roads, and every restaurant tends to be hopelessly booked out far in advance.
If you want to savour the romantic atmosphere and have plenty of room for relaxed tastings, come in May or June instead. The days are already beautifully long, the vineyards are lush and green, and the whole area feels incredibly fresh. Spring weather is ideal for longer cycling trips around the countryside too, since the sun isn’t yet so scorching. During this period you’ll also find it much easier to book a slot at the smaller family-run wineries, where the owners can give you their personal attention and calmly walk you through every secret of winemaking. If you really must come in the middle of summer, at least catch the first morning train.
The village then takes on a truly magical atmosphere in September and October during the harvest. The colours of the vine leaves slowly turn to gorgeous shades of gold and crimson, and the whole region pulses with incredible energy. Tractors are constantly hauling in fresh grapes, the air carries the sweet scent of fermenting must, and the town comes alive with traditional festivals. Just bear in mind that strikes (grèves) are something of a national sport in France and frequently hit the SNCF railways. So always check the SNCF Connect app 24 to 48 hours before your planned departure to make sure your train is actually running, so you don’t end up stranded at the station.
Photo: TBD Traveller / Pexels
Where to stay in Saint-Émilion
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We like to look for accommodation on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities, it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
Although plenty of people only pop over from nearby Bordeaux for a quick day trip, staying overnight reveals a completely different and far more poetic side of the village. As soon as the last coaches pull away in the afternoon, the lanes empty out and a wonderful calm settles in. You can wander freely through the beautifully lit historic centre, sit with a glass of wine in the square and soak up the views over the darkening valley. Accommodation is very limited here, though, and prices are understandably on the higher side, so don’t put off booking through your favourite site.
If you want to be right in the thick of things and don’t mind dragging suitcases over cobblestones, look for somewhere inside the historic walls. You’ll find gorgeous boutique hotels in historic buildings. A great choice is the luxurious Hôtel de Pavie, which offers breathtaking views over the rooftops and top-notch service. A more affordable yet still utterly charming option is the guesthouse Les Chambres d’Ovaline, where you’ll love the owners’ personal touch and a classic French breakfast with fresh croissants. If you arrive in a hire car, be very careful about parking, as access to the historic centre is strictly controlled.
For those who prefer absolute peace and want to wake up to endless rows of vines, the ideal choice is to stay right out among the vineyards. The countryside just around the village is dotted with restored châteaux offering accommodation with a pool and their own cellars. Just outside town, for example, lies the fairytale Château Hôtel Grand Barrail, which looks like a small castle and boasts a fantastic spa. From here you can reach the village centre either on a pleasant walk or by hire bike. Just remember to sort out the Crit’Air environmental sticker online before your trip (it costs a little over €5), because the larger French cities nearby have introduced strict low-emission zones (ZFE) and you risk hefty fines without it.
Photo: Josef Kali / Pexels
11 things to see and do in Saint-Émilion, France
Let’s take a look together at the very best this enchanting village and its surroundings have to offer. From underground mysteries to tastings of the finest vintages on sun-drenched terraces.
1. Get lost in the steep lanes (tertres)
Photo: TBD Traveller / Pexels
The historic centre itself is so visually stunning that it deserves at least two hours of slow wandering. Saint-Émilion was built into a hillside in the shape of an amphitheatre, and it’s cut through by extremely steep cobbled lanes known as tertres. These paths were originally designed for donkeys carrying barrels of wine, so the cobblestones are very uneven, oddly rounded and often dangerously slippery even in dry weather. It’s a complete contrast to flat Bordeaux, so without good shoes with a firm, non-slip sole your stroll quickly turns into an adrenaline sport.
As you walk you’ll come across wonderfully picturesque corners, old stone arches and limestone houses that practically glow with warm yellow tones in the sun. Every lane hides something interesting, whether it’s a small independent gallery of a local artist, a tucked-away café serving excellent coffee, or a little shop selling traditional local ceramics. The whole town feels like a perfectly preserved open-air museum, with history breathing out of every stone.
I’d recommend leaving the main routes as soon as you can and heading for the narrowest side streets, where you often won’t meet a soul and you’ll feel as though you’ve slipped back several centuries in time. The photogenic quality of this place is simply incredible at any time of day. 💡 Tip: If you come first thing in the morning, before the first day-trip trains arrive from Bordeaux, you’ll have the most beautiful lanes bathed in soft morning light all to yourself.
2. Explore the unique monolithic church
Photo: Pascal MOULIN / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
This is an absolute architectural marvel and without doubt the main landmark of the entire town. The monolithic church in Saint-Émilion wasn’t created by stacking stones in the classic way at all — instead it was painstakingly carved downwards into the limestone bedrock. Work began as far back as the 12th century, and the medieval builders had to dig out an astonishing 15,000 cubic metres of solid rock. When you stand inside this huge underground space with its massive pillars, lit by only the faintest hint of daylight, you feel a genuine sense of sacred awe and admiration for the craftsmen of the time.
The church is so vast that it can easily hold hundreds of people, and its walls still proudly bear the marks left by the tools of medieval stonemasons. You can only go inside with an official guide, as the monument is extremely fragile and requires special care. Admission in 2026 works out at around €15, and you should definitely secure your tickets well in advance online through the local tourist office (Office de Tourisme). During the fascinating tour you’ll also see the mysterious catacombs and the cave of the hermit Émilion, after whom the whole village is named.
💡 Tip: Even when it’s scorching summer outside and the sun pushes temperatures well past an uncomfortable 30 °C, it stays a steady, cool 14 °C underground. So be sure to bring a light jumper or jacket so you’re not shivering during the commentary.
Photo: Guiguilacagouille / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
3. Climb the Tour du Roy tower
If you’re looking for the absolute best spot to capture breathtaking panoramic photos, your feet must clearly head for this medieval defensive tower. The Tour du Roy (King’s Tower) dates back to the 13th century and is the only surviving Romanesque keep in the entire wider region. To this day, historians can’t quite agree whether it was built by the French king or the English monarch, since the Bordeaux region changed rulers very often throughout its turbulent history. It remains a beautiful and faintly mysterious landmark of the town.
To reach the very top of the tower, you’ll need to conquer exactly 118 fairly steep and narrow stone steps. The reward for all that effort is an utterly fantastic 360-degree view. From up here you’ll see the perfect mosaic of the village’s terracotta rooftops, the Dordogne valley and, of course, tens of kilometres of neatly trimmed vineyards stretching all the way to the horizon. Admission costs just a few euros and the climb is manageable for any reasonably fit traveller.
💡 Tip: The tower plays a starring role during the Jurade festivities, when the local wine brotherhood, dressed in traditional red robes, ceremonially announces the start of the harvest from its top. The tower is usually only open at certain hours (typically in the afternoon), so check the current opening times on the door or at the nearby tourist office beforehand.
4. Go wine tasting without the stress
Photo: Oli / Pexels
Most people arrive in the Bordeaux region with one clear goal: to taste the famous local Grand Cru wines. While the Médoc area on the left bank of the Gironde estuary is an absolute logistical nightmare without your own car or an expensive driver, Saint-Émilion is sheer paradise for independent travellers. Many of the prestigious wineries (châteaux) sit right next to the historic centre or just a few minutes’ walk from the small station. So you can comfortably fit in several tours in a single day without having to wrestle with the question of who’s going to drive back to the hotel that evening.
Most wineries offer a classic guided tour that traditionally starts with an explanation of the work in the vineyard, moves on to a look at the fermentation vats and ends with a visit to a magnificent barrel cellar. The highlight, of course, is the tasting itself, where you’ll typically try two or three different wines. Prices for these tours in 2026 range from roughly €15 to €35, depending on the prestige and renown of the particular winery. The local right-bank wines are built mainly on the Merlot grape, which — unlike the Cabernet-based wines of the Médoc — gives them a wonderful softness, fruitiness and velvety texture.
💡 Tip: Counting on simply strolling past a winery and being welcomed in for a tour with a smile is a huge mistake. The best and most sought-after addresses need to be booked online a good month ahead, especially in the summer season.
5. Discover the underground kingdom of cellars
Photo: Cuville Fernand / Wikimedia Commons, CC0
What you see on the sun-drenched surface of Saint-Émilion is really only half the fascinating story. Right beneath the town and the surrounding vineyards lies an incredible 200 kilometres of dark underground passages and caves. These vast spaces were created by the gradual quarrying of high-quality limestone, which was used to build not only the village itself but also, to a large extent, the magnificent palaces in nearby Bordeaux. When the stone quarrying finally came to an end, local winemakers quickly realised that the abandoned tunnels offered the absolute best possible space for storing their precious wine.
Some châteaux have their main cellars located in these very old limestone quarries. During a tour you’ll often descend tens of metres underground into dark, cool passages where thousands of oak barrels rest in perfect silence at a constant temperature. The atmosphere is faintly mystical, and the distinctive scent of damp stone mingles beautifully with the typical sweet aroma of maturing wine. It’s a completely different and far deeper experience than visiting modern above-ground halls full of stainless steel tanks.
💡 Tip: One excellent underground tour is offered by Château Villemaurine, just a few steps from the historic centre, where the old limestone quarries are beautifully lit during the commentary.
6. Taste the genuine macarons with history
Photo: 胡蘿蔔 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Even though the town is famous worldwide above all for its wine, it has one more enormous culinary draw. Genuine Saint-Émilion macarons have been lovingly baked here to a secret recipe since 1620. If the word “macaron” conjures up those fluffy, brightly coloured, cream-filled treats from Paris, their original appearance will surprise you no end. The local traditional version is far more rustic, has absolutely no filling, and at first glance looks more like a small, cracked biscuit.
This ingenious recipe was created by the Ursuline sisters, and it’s based on just a handful of quality ingredients: sweet almonds, bitter almonds, fresh egg whites and sugar. They contain no flour and no artificial colourings, making them an utterly perfect vegetarian treat. Crisp on the outside, they literally melt on your tongue inside. They go brilliantly with a cup of strong espresso, which will set you back around €1.80 to €2.50 in the local cafés. The most famous place to pick them up is the Fabrique de Macarons bakery on Rue Guadet, which still carefully guards the original recipe.
💡 Tip: The macarons are sold stuck to baking paper in lovely gift boxes. They stay fresh for several days, which makes them the perfect edible souvenir of your trip for family and friends.
7. Head out on a cycling trip through the vineyards
Photo: TBD Traveller / Pexels
The view over endless vineyards is lovely from the town itself, but it’s even better to find yourself right in the middle of them. The landscape around Saint-Émilion is only gently rolling, so it offers absolutely ideal conditions for relaxed leisure cycling. You can hire bikes right in the town centre or down by the station (I’d warmly recommend going for an e-bike so you don’t work up a sweat in the summer heat) and set off along narrow lanes that wind romantically between tidy rows of vines and ancient stone walls.
The local tourist office provides beautifully produced maps with several perfectly signposted loops of varying length. You can choose a shorter hour-long route or set off on a full-day trip, during which you’ll visit architecturally fascinating châteaux from the 18th and 19th centuries. Along the way you’ll pass enormous rose bushes, traditionally planted at the start of the vine rows as a natural and very sensitive indicator of any plant diseases. A bike ride also lets you admire the very best views without the tiresome hunt for a parking space.
💡 Tip: Most of the better rental shops also offer bikes fitted with special sturdy wine panniers, so you can carry your precious tasting hauls back into town comfortably and completely safely.
Photo: JGS25 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Lukáš and Lucie recommend
Where to Stay in Saint-Émilion
4 accommodations — resorts, wellness hotels and other lodging options
Amid the bustling, sun-baked lanes hides a true oasis of absolute calm. The Les Cordeliers monastery dates back to the 14th century, and today all that remains are incredibly romantic ivy-clad ruins and a beautifully preserved cloister. This historic complex has a magical atmosphere and offers the perfect shelter from the merciless midday heat. Entry to the garden area itself is usually completely free, and you can wander freely among the old stone columns that have witnessed hundreds of years of history.
But this place is also remarkable for another reason. In the enormous underground cellars right beneath the monastery, which reach a staggering depth of up to 20 metres, an excellent sparkling wine — Crémant de Bordeaux — has been produced since the 19th century. Unlike the still red wines from the surrounding vineyards, this refreshing fizz is made using the traditional method of fermentation in the bottle. Right in the cloister garden there’s a relaxed bar where you can enjoy a glass of chilled crémant and simply watch the play of shadows on the old walls.
💡 Tip: If you also want to see the fascinating production cellars beneath the monastery, you can pay for a guided tour, which is easy to combine with tickets booked through GetYourGuide or the monastery’s official website.
Photo: JLPC / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
9. Soak up the atmosphere on Place de l’Église
Every French village has its main square where all the social life plays out, and in Saint-Émilion that’s unmistakably Place de l’Église. This picturesque space is lined with traditional cafés and restaurants and offers a fascinating view of the huge Gothic windows of the monolithic church, carved directly into the rock face of the square. This is exactly the spot where locals and travellers from all over the world come together after work.
If you want to enjoy genuine French gastronomy here, though, you absolutely have to play by their rules. The most crucial of these is lunchtime, because most restaurants and bistros keep their kitchens open strictly between 12:00 and 14:00. During that window life grinds to a halt and everyone eats. If you turn up at quarter past two feeling peckish, you’ll find the doors closed or be steered towards an overpriced tourist baguette. At lunch, look out for the words Menu du jour (set menu) on the boards — it’s usually an honest three-course meal that comes in at a very reasonable €15 to €25.
💡 Tip: A service charge (service compris) of 15% is already included in the bill by law in France, so you’re under no obligation to leave another twenty per cent. If you’re particularly happy, though, it’s quite common to leave a small coin worth €1 to €2 on the table. Paying by card is the standard practically everywhere these days.
Photo: Pascal MOULIN / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
10. Walk the walls and the Porte Brunet gate
In the Middle Ages Saint-Émilion was an immensely important fortified town and long proudly defended itself against all manner of raids. Quite extensive remains of the massive stone walls that hug the historic centre survive to this day. The most impressive part is the Porte Brunet gate, which once served as one of the main entrances to the town and through which merchants drove their carts laden with precious goods. Its mighty arches make it easy to imagine just how impregnable the town must have appeared to anyone approaching.
A slow stroll along the remains of the medieval fortifications is also a great alternative to the occasionally crowded centre. From here you’ll be treated to lovely, undisturbed views over the surrounding countryside, and you generally won’t run into as many people as at the main attractions. You can take your time looking at the old defensive ditches, which today often serve as picturesque private gardens for the locals, and admire how seamlessly the medieval architecture flows into the surrounding nature.
💡 Tip: Head to the Porte Brunet gate ideally just before sunset. The warm evening light beautifully sets the old limestone blocks aglow, and you’ll capture the absolute best photos without needing any artificial filters at all.
11. Put together your own picnic among the vines
Photo: Philippe WEICKMANN / Pexels
The restaurants in town are fantastic, but they’re often packed and in season require booking well ahead. So why not simply do lunch your own way? South-west France is a land of absolutely perfect produce, and putting together your own picnic basket is huge fun. Stop by one of the local bakeries (boulangerie) in the morning for a fresh, crusty baguette, pick out a few local matured cheeses at the cheese shop (fromagerie), and don’t forget to add fresh fruit or olives from the market.
With your backpack filled like this, all you need to do is head just a short way out of town and find a peaceful spot with a view. Many châteaux even offer special, well-kept picnic areas for tourists, or you can simply perch on the edge of an old wall by a country lane. Eating great mature cheese, breaking off pieces of fresh bread and gazing out at the very vineyards your glass of wine came from is one of the most authentic and laid-back experiences you can take away from here.
💡 Tip: Local specialities include both hard and blue cheeses, which pair wonderfully with walnuts. These are brought in in large quantities from nearby Périgord and make an absolutely perfect, filling vegetarian combination for your picnic.
Where to go next from Saint-Émilion
If you have more time in the region, Saint-Émilion makes a perfect launchpad for further exploration. The most logical step is to take the train back and have a proper look around the region’s main metropolis. Read our article on how to enjoy Bordeaux, which is sure to wow you with the gigantic Miroir d’eau water mirror or the wonderfully revitalised docks along the river Garonne. Well worth a visit too is the ultra-modern wine museum La Cité du Vin, which in 2026 celebrates exactly 10 years since it opened (admission is €22), and the fascinating digital art centre Bassins des Lumières, built in a former submarine base.
If you have a car at your disposal and long for a much deeper dive into the picturesque French countryside, head north-east into the interior. Roughly two hours’ drive away lies the magical region of Dordogne and Périgord. The landscape here is full of dense forests, dramatic cliffs above the river and medieval castles. This is where the very best walnuts, prized truffles and regional dishes come from, with the locals most often tucking into traditionally prepared duck and the famous foie gras pâtés.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does the train journey from Bordeaux take?
The journey by regional train (TER) from Bordeaux Saint-Jean main station to Saint-Émilion station is very quick and takes only 33 to 40 minutes. Trains run quite frequently, making it an absolutely ideal option for a relaxed day trip without parking worries.
How much time should you set aside to explore the town?
For the historical center itself and a visit to the underground church, half a day will be more than enough. However, if you’re planning to rent bikes, take trips to the surrounding area, and enjoy at least two tastings at the local châteaux, definitely set aside a whole day, or simply spend the night here.
Do I need to wear formal clothing for winery tours?
Definitely not. Although some châteaux are very prestigious, the atmosphere here is relaxed. “Smart casual” style is more than enough (decent trousers or a dress and clean shoes). The main thing is to have really comfortable footwear because of the cobblestone streets and walking through the vineyards.
Is the town suitable for visiting with children?
Yes, kids will enjoy exploring the secret underground passages and cycling through the vineyards. However, you need to keep in mind that moving around with a stroller is very challenging due to the extremely steep hills and uneven cobblestones in the city center, so a baby carrier is a much better choice.
Where can I book tickets for attractions and trains?
I recommend buying tickets to the monolithic church and the Tour du Roy tower exclusively through the official website of the local tourist office (Office de Tourisme Saint-Émilion). For train tickets (whether it’s the high-speed TGV INOUI trains with mandatory seat reservations or the cheaper OUIGO), sort them out through the SNCF Connect app.
Can I buy wine and have it shipped home?
Yes, most of the larger wineries and specialized shops in town offer international shipping. It’s a slightly more expensive service, but you don’t have to worry about your precious bottles breaking in your suitcase on the way to the airport.
Can you easily pay by card on site?
Prompt: 120 tokens
Context: None visible
200000
This is a simple translation task with minimal HTML. The content is a short paragraph about payment methods. I need to:
1. Translate Czech to English in a natural travel-blog tone
2. Keep all HTML tags exactly as they are
3. Convert CZK to EUR (though none appears in this text)
4. Only return the translated HTML
This should take approximately 150-200 tokens for the response.
Paying by card in 2026 is the common standard practically everywhere, including small bakeries and souvenir shops. I only recommend having some small cash on hand for purchases at outdoor markets, from small street artists, or for minor expenses under €5.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
TL;DRBrač, the third-largest island in the Adriatic, is famous above all for the iconic Zlatni Rat beach near Bol and for the view from Vidova Gora (778 metres), the highest peak on the Adriatic coast. There are 12 ideas here, including the Blaca hermitage, the stonemasons’ town of Pučišća with its famous white limestone, and the Dragon’s Cave near Murvica. May, June and September are best for quieter sightseeing, while July and August are prime time for windsurfing, thanks to the steady maestral wind. You can reach the island on the Jadrolinija ferry from Split to Supetar (around 25 euros for a car), or take the seasonal catamaran straight to Bol, which takes under an hour.
If you’re wondering where to head for a beach holiday this year, Brač island in Croatia should definitely be on your radar, because it offers an utterly unique blend of unspoilt nature and historic little towns. It’s the third largest island in the entire Adriatic and at the same time the most extensive island landmass in Dalmatia, home to just under fourteen thousand permanent residents.
While most tourists head straight for the mainland riviera, life here flows at a far slower pace that instantly makes you leave your worries behind. The island is famous around the world above all for its dazzling white limestone, used to build the most magnificent palaces since Roman times, and for one of the most photographed beaches in Europe.
Whether you’re a fan of active holidays on a windsurf board or you prefer wandering through narrow stone lanes and tasting excellent local olive oil, you’re guaranteed to find your thing on Brač. I’ve put together a detailed guide to help you plan the perfect getaway.
TL;DR
The iconic Zlatni Rat beach: Located near the town of Bol, its pebbly tip constantly changes shape depending on how the wind blows and the sea currents flow.
The highest peak in the Adriatic: Vidova gora rises to 778 metres and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the neighbouring islands of Hvar and Vis.
White Brač stone: This local limestone was used to build the famous Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and legend has it that it even went into the White House in Washington.
The mysterious Blaca Hermitage: This unique 16th-century monastery complex is set right into a rock face and can only be reached on foot.
Getting to the island: With a car you’ll need the ferry from Split to the port of Supetar, while without a car you can take a fast catamaran straight to the resort of Bol.
A windsurfing paradise: Thanks to the regular afternoon maestral wind, the island’s southern coast is one of the best surfing spots in Europe.
Choosing the right time is absolutely crucial for an island holiday, because each season offers a completely different experience. High summer in July and August is the absolute peak of the tourist season, when the most ferries run and the island truly comes alive. These holiday months are perfect if you’re heading here for windsurfing or kitesurfing. The reason is the regular afternoon maestral wind, which blows along the southern coast with iron regularity almost every day. On the other hand, in summer you have to reckon with prices climbing to their maximum and the most famous spots being packed with people from all over the world.
If you’d rather explore the sights at a calmer pace and go on long hikes, the ideal choice is May, June and September. In spring and early autumn you’ll elegantly dodge the biggest crowds and the scorching summer heat. September in particular is lovely, as the Adriatic has been warmed by the whole summer, so you can swim without a problem, but the sun no longer beats down so hard on demanding climbs into the hills. Accommodation prices ease slightly after the holidays, too, and you’ll find far more of that coveted privacy on the pebble beaches.
When planning an off-season trip, just bear in mind that some fast catamarans only run during the defined summer season. The fast connection from Split straight to the resort of Bol usually only operates from mid-May to roughly the end of September. So if you head to Brač in early spring or late autumn, you’ll have to rely solely on the classic large ferries that run year-round to the northern port of Supetar. From there you can easily reach the rest of the island by car or local bus.
Where to stay on Brač island
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
When planning your stay, you’ll probably be choosing between two main hubs: the busier resort of Bol in the south and the practical port of Supetar in the north. Picking the ideal location depends heavily on whether you’re travelling with your own car or relying solely on boat transport and getting around on foot. The differences between the towns are huge, and each has a completely different atmosphere.
If you want the Split ferry right on your doorstep and plan to take day trips around the whole island, Supetar is the most practical base. The town has great infrastructure, plenty of shops, family-friendly beaches, and you’ll find, for example, the excellent Hotel Osam. It’s adults-only, so it offers the perfect peace and quiet to relax after a busy day. For families with children seeking even more calm without the crowds, this northern area also has quieter villages like Sutivan, Milna and the picturesque Postira nearby.
For dedicated water-sports lovers, livelier evening promenades and nightlife, the clear choice is the resort of Bol, which lies right next to the famous Zlatni Rat beach. The atmosphere here is noticeably more touristy and louder, but the gorgeous scenery and huge choice of activities right by the sea more than make up for it. You won’t go wrong by booking a beautiful room well in advance at the design-led Boutique Hotel Bol, which offers truly excellent service. Alternatively, you can pick the very popular and slightly more affordable Villa Daniela, just a few minutes’ walk from the sea.
If you’re after something truly unique and don’t mind a daily drive to go swimming, the inland or the stonemasons’ town of Pučišća also offers a magical and very quiet atmosphere. These more remote spots are ideal for those of you who crave the authentic Dalmatian countryside, love tasting local wine right at the source and don’t need the most famous beaches right outside your window.
12 things to see and do on Brač island
Whether you decide to lounge on the sun-warmed pebbles or prefer hunting down hidden historic treasures, the island certainly won’t disappoint. Let’s take a detailed look at twelve places and experiences you definitely shouldn’t miss on your visit, so you take home the best possible memories.
1. The iconic Zlatni Rat beach
This unique geomorphological landmark is probably the very first thing that springs to mind when you think of the Croatian coast. It’s a vast pebble tongue that juts roughly half a kilometre straight out into the deep blue waters of the Adriatic. Zlatni Rat is utterly fascinating above all because its iconic tip constantly changes shape. It bends one way or the other depending on how the wind is blowing and which direction the strong sea currents are pushing. The beach therefore looks a little different every day and never stops surprising its visitors.
Since this is an absolute symbol of all of Croatia and one of the most photographed beaches in Europe, you have to expect huge numbers of tourists in high season. The big advantage, though, is the sheer size of the beach and the fact that one side is nearly always calmer and nicely sheltered from the wind. You’ll appreciate that especially if you’re travelling with smaller children who wouldn’t manage to swim in big waves. The entry into the water is fairly steep here, the pebbles are beautifully clean and the crystal-clear sea simply invites you to swim all day.
💡 Tip: A beautiful shady promenade lined with tall, fragrant pines leads from the centre of Bol to the beach, and you can get here on a very pleasant walk in under twenty minutes. That way you don’t have to deal with the tricky parking, which in summer is quite expensive right by the beach and, above all, hopelessly full.
2. The romantic town of Bol
Bol isn’t just a practical starting point for visiting the famous beach, but above all an utterly charming historic resort with an unmistakable Dalmatian atmosphere. Its heart is a picturesque harbour, around which centuries-old narrow stone lanes weave. The local promenade, incidentally, is paved with the renowned Brač stone, so it looks truly majestic and elegant. On evening strolls you’ll come across countless cosy cafés, traditional restaurants known as konobas and small craft shops selling local products.
If you enjoy discovering historic sites and looking for quieter corners, I recommend heading to the picturesque Glavica peninsula. That’s where an ancient Dominican monastery dating back to the fifteenth century proudly stands. Inside its historic walls there’s a valuable museum and even a rare altarpiece attributed to the famous Italian master Tintoretto. From the carefully tended monastery gardens you also get a gorgeous, romantic view of the shimmering sea, best enjoyed at sunset.
💡 Tip: Right next to the Dominican monastery you’ll find the pebble beach of Martinica, which is a markedly calmer alternative to the perpetually busy Zlatni Rat. You won’t find as many facilities or attractions there, but it offers very authentic, undisturbed swimming with a breathtaking historic backdrop.
Photo: Vladimir Srajber / Pexels
3. Climbing the majestic Vidova gora
At 778 metres above sea level, Vidova gora is not only the highest point on Brač island, but actually the highest peak of all the Adriatic islands. From its bare, very rocky summit you get an absolutely spectacular panoramic view. On a clear summer’s day you’ll see the neighbouring islands of Hvar and Vis beautifully, the Pelješac peninsula, and on truly exceptional days you can even make out the Italian shores. At the top you’ll also find a twelve-metre stone cross and the remains of the medieval Church of St Vitus from the thirteenth century.
The bird’s-eye view straight down onto the sea also reveals the famous Zlatni Rat in all its glory and unusual shape, a visual treat you definitely shouldn’t miss. You can set off for the summit from Bol on foot along a marked hiking trail, a fairly demanding two-hour climb. But if you’re not a fan of mountain hiking in the heat, you can comfortably drive the whole route right up to the transmitter, where there’s a free car park.
💡 Tip: If you choose to walk up, set off really early in the morning, before the merciless summer sun hits the slopes. A large part of the route runs across unshaded terrain without a scrap of shade. Don’t forget to pack plenty of drinking water and good, sturdy footwear for the rocky ground.
4. Supetar, the main gateway to the island
For the vast majority of travellers who arrive on Brač by car from the mainland, the northern port town of Supetar is the very first place they encounter on the island. With around three and a half thousand permanent residents, it’s the largest settlement on the island, living at its own peaceful pace all year round, not just during the short summer season. It’s a great place for shopping at the local market, evening strolls along the promenade and sampling Dalmatian specialities.
Well worth seeing here is the stunning neo-Byzantine mausoleum of the Petrinović family, dating from 1914. This impressive white-stone structure majestically dominates the local cemetery on the St Nicholas peninsula and is a recognised masterpiece by the renowned sculptor Toma Rosandić. For another cultural experience you can head to the gallery of the famous local-born artist Ivan Rendić. This talented sculptor is considered the founder of modern Croatian sculpture, and his beautiful works now adorn many a significant square across the country.
💡 Tip: From Supetar a beautiful, easy route runs along the northern coast towards the picturesque village of Postira. This roughly seven-kilometre route is perfect for a sea kayak or paddleboard outing, as it takes you past plenty of deserted coves where you can take a private swim break.
5. The stonemasonry tradition in Pučišća
The picturesque town of Pučišća, nestled deep in a safe, narrow sea bay, is an absolute world treasure thanks to its incredibly long tradition of working limestone. It’s home to the renowned Stonemasonry School, founded back in 1909. To this day it’s the only educational institution of its kind in all of Europe, where students learn to work raw stone exclusively using old hand techniques with traditional tools passed down through generations. Its graduates are then enormously sought after for restoring historic monuments all over the world.
It’s from the massive surrounding quarries that the legendary dazzling-white Brač stone comes, which holds immeasurable value on the island. Historically it was used to build many important structures, including the stunning Diocletian’s Palace in nearby Split. Locals will also proudly tell you that their white stone made it all the way to the façade of the White House in Washington. Although historians still tend to doubt this popular myth and have no proof of it, it takes nothing away from the town’s charm.
💡 Tip: During the summer tourist season the school building is open to the public, and you can take a close look at the stunning sculptures and decorative pieces created by the students themselves. It’s a fascinating sight, an ancient stonemasonry craft brought to life right before your eyes.
6. The remote Blaca Hermitage
A visit to this fascinating historic monastery complex is without doubt one of the most powerful experiences you can take away from travelling around Croatia. Blaca Hermitage was founded in 1551 by Glagolitic monks who fled here to safety from the harsh Ottoman raids. The whole site is literally carved into and organically clinging to a steep rock face in a deep, very hard-to-reach canyon, which gives it an utterly mystical, mysterious atmosphere.
The monastery operated for an incredibly long time, and the monks only left it in 1963. The people who lived here were highly educated and built not only a respectable library with more than eleven thousand rare volumes, but in the nineteenth century even added a significant astronomical observatory. The facilities they managed to create in such inhospitable conditions are simply breathtaking. Admission to today’s museum is 8 € per adult, and the opening hours vary by season, with the site always closed to the public on Mondays without exception.
💡 Tip: You can only reach the complex from the car park on foot along a roughly two-and-a-half-kilometre rocky goat track, which takes about forty minutes of brisk walking. Sturdy closed-toe shoes and plenty of drinking water are an absolute must for this hike — definitely don’t attempt it in flimsy beach flip-flops.
7. Škrip and traces of ancient history
If you want to peek into truly deep history during your holiday, be sure to take a trip to the inland village of Škrip. With a history stretching back an incredible three thousand years, it’s the oldest documented settlement on the entire island. The atmosphere here is utterly magical, incredibly quiet and calm, a huge and very welcome contrast to the bustling coastal promenades full of tourists, loud music and souvenir stalls.
Strolling through the village, you can admire the remains of mighty Illyrian walls dating from around 1400 BC, and you’ll even come across an ancient Roman mausoleum. The biggest historical draw, however, is the Museum of Brač Island, stylishly housed in the historic defensive fortress of Castel Radojković from the seventeenth century. This is where you can take a detailed look at the most valuable archaeological finds from the whole region in one place.
💡 Tip: In the museum’s exhibitions, definitely don’t miss the unique objects from the famous Kopačina cave and the fascinating ancient Roman tombstones, which tell the stories of the island’s first inhabitants. It’s also, by the way, a great place to escape the midday summer sun, as the thick stone walls of the fortress keep it very pleasantly cool inside.
8. The mystical Dragon’s Cave (Zmajeva špilja)
High in the steep limestone slopes above the picturesque village of Murvica, just a short distance from Bol, hides the mysterious Dragon’s Cave. This magical place is a fascinating crossroads of different religions and ancient cultures. In the fifteenth century, Glagolitic monks settled here and gradually carved stunning, highly detailed reliefs into the cave’s soft walls. Their art blends classical Christian symbolism with old Slavic mythology and pagan motifs from ancient times in a truly unique way.
The most striking work in the whole underground space is a huge relief of a menacing dragon, which gave the cave its present name. Access to this protected historic treasure is fairly steep and physically quite demanding. What’s more, you have to bear in mind that you usually can’t enter without a licensed guide for conservation reasons, as the entrance portal is protected by a massive locked metal grille.
💡 Tip: In summer, always book your cave tour well in advance through the local tourist office, as group capacity is strictly limited and demand tends to be high. The climb from the car park in Murvica to the cave itself takes just under an hour, so once again don’t forget good footwear and, above all, a bottle of water.
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Where to stay on Brač Island
4 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options
Besides the ever-present and famous Zlatni Rat, the island’s coast offers a huge number of other gorgeous coves, which often provide far more peace and that coveted intimacy. Most of the beaches here are made up of perfectly smooth white pebbles, which is why the water is incredibly clear, turquoise and absolutely ideal for snorkelling and watching marine life. Just don’t forget to pack a good pair of water shoes, which will make the otherwise rather hard, rocky entry into the sea far more comfortable.
If you stay in Supetar in the north, you can visit the very popular and easily accessible town beaches of Tri Mosta or Acapulco. They have every conceivable facility, from sunlounger hire and parasols to great beach bars with ice-cold drinks. If, however, you’re after that rare Croatian sand, be sure to take a day trip to Vela Luka beach, on the western edge of Supetar.
💡 Tip: The aforementioned Vela Luka beach has really fine sand and a beautifully gentle entry into the water, so it’s a perfect and safe choice for families with small children or for non-swimmers. In high season it does get a bit busier here, but the sheer comfort of swimming is definitely worth it.
10. How to get to Brač island
Sorting out transport is the most important part of the whole planning process, and your options differ significantly depending on whether you’re travelling with your own car. Cars are carried to the island exclusively by the state-run Croatian company Jadrolinija. Its large, spacious ferries run regularly from mainland Split to the northern port of Supetar, with the comfortable crossing taking about fifty minutes. In high summer the boats shuttle back and forth really often, sometimes up to fourteen times a day. The fare for a passenger car up to five metres long is around 25 € in 2025, while each adult foot passenger pays just over 6 €. Coming from the UK, the easiest route is to fly into Split (direct flights run from London, Manchester and other cities with the likes of British Airways, easyJet and Jet2) and then continue to the port — Split airport is the nearest one for reaching Brač.
If you leave the car at home or parked on the mainland, you can use the much faster and more direct fast catamarans run by Krilo or Kapetan Luka. These modern boats will get you from Split straight to the popular southern resort of Bol in under an hour. One-way tickets usually fall within quite a wide range, roughly from 9 to 25 €, depending heavily on how far in advance you book. Bear in mind, though, that these catamarans are a seasonal affair only.
💡 Tip: In high summer, it’s best to buy your car ferry tickets several days ahead online via the official Jadrolinija website. You’ll save yourself a lot of needless stress and long, exhausting queues at the harbour ticket offices under the blazing sun.
Photo: Alex Proimos from Sydney, Australia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
11. Windsurfing and water sports
Thanks to its utterly specific weather conditions, the southern side of the island has long been considered one of the very best spots for water sports in all of Europe. During the summer holiday months, the regular, strong thermal wind known as the maestral takes charge here almost every day. This phenomenon usually starts blowing soon after noon, peaks around two o’clock and creates absolutely perfect conditions for windsurfing and the hugely popular adrenaline-fuelled kitesurfing. The sight of dozens of colourful kites flying over the sea is fascinating even if you just watch from the shore.
Around the famous Zlatni Rat beach you’ll find several professional schools and superbly equipped rental shops for all sorts of activities. Experienced licensed instructors will happily take you on, regardless of whether you’re a complete beginner who’s never stood on a board in your life or a more advanced rider polishing your technique. Various guided tours and sports courses can also be booked very easily and safely online in advance through the GetYourGuide platform.
💡 Tip: If you prefer calmer activities on the water and adrenaline jumps in the waves aren’t your thing, hiring a sea kayak or paddleboard is a great experience for the whole family. Especially early in the morning, while the sea is smooth as a mirror and the maestral isn’t yet blowing, exploring the hidden rocky coves is huge fun.
Photo: Vladimir Srajber / Pexels
12. What to taste from the local cuisine
Dalmatian cuisine is renowned far and wide for its wonderful lightness and generous use of fresh local ingredients, which goes double on sunny Brač. The island is a very important grower and producer of quality olives, so be sure to taste and take home some of the local top-class olive oil, which has an incredibly rich flavour. We love it best simply with fresh homemade bread and a bold sheep’s or goat’s cheese from the local fragrant pastures. For a relaxed early-evening sit-down, I warmly recommend ordering a glass of the heavier red wine made from the famous Plavac Mali grape, which thrives on the sun-baked southern slopes and pairs absolutely perfectly with the cheeses.
A traditional local culinary speciality for meat lovers is so-called vitalac. It’s goat or lamb offal skewered on a spit and slowly roasted over hot coals, and this distinctive dish originating from the village of Dol is even listed as protected intangible heritage. Whether you opt for lighter vegetable dishes packed with organic produce from local gardens or the island lamb just mentioned, definitely head out for a meal in the traditional rustic konobas.
💡 Tip: You’ll find an authentic Dalmatian atmosphere and truly excellent food, for example, at the renowned Kopačina restaurant in the picturesque village of Donji Humac or at Konoba Dolac, where a genuine historic atmosphere washes over you and you’ll spend an unforgettable evening.
Where to go next from Brač island
If you’ve set aside more time to explore the gorgeous Dalmatian coast, Brač itself can be just a very pleasant start to your big summer adventure. From the local ports there are countless options for where you can smoothly carry on, either inland or to the neighbouring islands, each of which again has a completely different and unique character.
You can take a comfortable ferry back and thoroughly explore the historic centre of the city of Split, where the stunning Diocletian’s Palace and the ever-bustling Riva promenade await you.
If island life still appeals to you, consider hopping over to the neighbouring island of Hvar, known for its fragrant lavender fields and very lively nightlife.
For a complete overview of the best summer destinations and resorts, be sure to read our big article on where to go on holiday in Croatia.
If you long for total independence and romance on the waves, explore the options for experiencing Croatia by boat, which lets you discover even the most secluded, tourist-free coves.
As you plan your next trip, our practical tips on the best accommodation in Croatia will surely come in handy, so you can find the perfect apartment or hotel completely stress-free.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the famous Zlatni Rat beach made of sand?
Although it might look that way at first glance in many edited promotional photos, Zlatni Rat is not a sandy beach. It’s entirely made up of very fine and perfectly smooth white pebbles that slope quite steeply straight into deep water. Make sure to bring quality water shoes with you, as walking on hot pebbles can become quite uncomfortable after a while.
Can you get to the island of Brač with your own car?
Yes, traveling around the island in your own car is completely normal and entirely hassle-free. To cross the sea, however, you need to use the large ferry operated by the state company Jadrolinija, which regularly departs from mainland Split and docks at the northern port of Supetar. The fast catamarans sailing to the resort of Bol in the south carry only foot passengers without vehicles.
How much does a ferry ticket from Split cost?
Prices are slightly adjusted each new season, but for 2025 you can expect to pay around 25 euros for a standard passenger car up to five metres in length for a one-way journey. A ticket for an adult foot passenger on the same route works out at approximately just under 7 euros, and I recommend buying tickets online rather than on the day.
Can I make it up to the highest peak Vidova Gora?
The hiking trail from the resort of Bol directly to the summit is marked as moderately difficult and takes about two hours of continuous climbing. The main problem is usually not so much the rocky terrain itself, but rather the scorching summer heat, as a large part of the trail runs in open sun with absolutely no shade. If you don’t feel up to it, you can drive all the way up to the transmitter at the summit quite safely by car.
How long does the catamaran ride to the resort of Bol take?
A fast modern catamaran, operated during the summer season by the popular companies Krilo or Kapetan Luka, covers the route from Split directly to Bol in just under 55 to 60 minutes. It’s undoubtedly the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the island if you’re traveling light without your own car and don’t want to waste time.
When is the best time for windsurfing?
For windsurfing enthusiasts and adrenaline-fueled kitesurfing fans, the main holiday months of July and August are absolutely ideal. During this period, the thermal maestral wind blows with clockwork regularity almost every day. It typically starts to pick up around 2 PM and keeps creating perfect waves until early evening.
Can you drive to Blaca Hermitage by car?
No, this unique and mysterious monastery complex is hidden deep within a rocky canyon and is only accessible on foot. You must leave your car at the designated upper parking lot, and then you’ll face approximately a two-and-a-half-kilometer hike down a very rocky and uneven goat trail, for which you’ll definitely need sturdy closed-toe shoes.
What is this famous Bračský stone?
This is a high-quality and brilliantly white limestone that has been quarried in the local extensive quarries since the times of ancient Rome. Its most famous historical use is undoubtedly the construction of the breathtaking Diocletian’s Palace in nearby Split, and the traditional craft of hand-working this precious stone is still taught today at the renowned school in the town of Pučišća.
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Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
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TL;DRCorsica’s GR20 gets billed as Europe’s toughest trek — around 180 kilometres and 12,000 metres of climbing, taking most walkers 15 to 16 days between Calenzana in the north and Conca in the south. The route breaks into 16 stages, with nights spent exclusively in mountain refuges (wild camping’s banned), so for 2026 you’ll need to book beds well ahead. The best window is mid-June to early July or September, while August is worth avoiding thanks to crowds, heat and ferry prices. The northern half is the technical, rocky stretch, home to the famous Cirque de la Solitude, while the southern section down to Porto-Vecchio and Palombaggia beach is gentler and greener.
The moment you step off the ferry and take your first deep breath, you’ll feel it instantly. A blend of wild thyme, rosemary, myrtle and sun-baked earth creates the scent the Corsicans call maquis. But this green island in the middle of the Mediterranean is far more than romantic beaches and lazy days. It’s a proper mountain range that someone seems to have picked up and dropped into the sea, with the highest peaks forming the backdrop for one of Europe’s greatest adventures — and for the legendary Corsica trek known as the GR20.
If you’re after a trek that will wring you out physically, test your nerve and reward you with some of the most stunning mountain scenery imaginable, you’re in exactly the right place. Corsica is rugged, proud, and the mountains here don’t forgive mistakes. The legendary GR20 route stretches across the entire island and promises an experience you’ll still be talking about in retirement.
Let’s take a look together at everything you need to know before you lace up your boots. I’ll walk you through how to plan the whole expedition, where you can shorten the stages, and what to watch out for most in the mountains.
TL;DR
Distance and elevation: The route is roughly 180 kilometres long with a brutal total elevation gain of 12,000 metres.
Time required: For most hikers, crossing the entire island takes 15 to 16 days.
Accommodation on the trail: Wild camping is strictly forbidden — you must sleep only at mountain huts (refuges).
Booking: For 2026 it’s absolutely essential to reserve hut beds or tent pitches many months in advance.
Best time to go: Conditions are ideal from mid-June to early July, or again throughout September.
Difficulty: This isn’t ordinary hiking — expect technical scrambling over rock and hanging onto chains.
Splitting the route: The northern half is noticeably harder and rockier, while the south is greener and gentler.
Photo: unknown author / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Timing your trip right is absolutely key to finishing the trek. Most mountain huts open from late May or early June until the start of October. Set off any earlier and you risk dangerous amounts of snow still lingering in the highest passes, plus you’ll be missing the safety net the huts provide. The best months for the crossing are without doubt June and September. In June the days are at their longest, nature is waking up, and mountain temperatures are far more bearable for a full day of physical effort with a heavy pack. September brings slightly shorter days, but the weather tends to be more stable — and once you’re back down you can reward yourself with a swim in a sea that’s beautifully warm after summer.
The month you should avoid at all costs is, without question, August. Not only are there two to three times more tourists on Corsica than in other months, but the extreme heat turns those steep climbs into pure torture. On top of that, dangerous and fast-moving heat thunderstorms form in the mountains nearly every August afternoon. August also brings a huge spike in the cost of all transport. While off-season a ferry crossing costs a reasonable amount, in August a return ticket for two people with a car can land anywhere between €250 and €1,000.
From the UK the simplest approach is to fly to mainland France or Italy and pick up a Corsica Ferries crossing, as the boats sail from several French ports. The quickest route is Nice to Bastia, taking around six to seven hours. From Toulon expect eight to ten hours at sea, while the crossing from Marseille is the longest at up to fourteen hours. There are also direct seasonal flights from various UK airports to Bastia, Calvi and Ajaccio with carriers like easyJet, which saves a lot of time if you’d rather skip the ferry. In high summer the roads turn into one giant car park and the best beaches are hopelessly packed. The ideal plan is to travel outside the main French and Italian school holidays, when you can enjoy the island in peace.
Photo: Pikkupapupata / Wikimedia Commons, CC0
Where to stay before and after the trek
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We prefer to look for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities, it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
Before you set off and after you finish, you’ll absolutely need a comfortable base to recharge. The northern start point sits in the little village of Calenzana, while the southern one is in the village of Conca. I recommend booking accommodation at these points well in advance through Booking, as capacity sells out fast in season. If you’re starting in the north, Calenzana itself or the nearby coastal town of Calvi make ideal bases. In Calvi you can stroll around the enormous historic citadel that towers on a rocky headland above the sea and soak up the atmosphere in the cobbled lanes.
Right in Calenzana, Hotel A Flatta offers a great rest before the off, set in peaceful surroundings with mountain views. A cheaper option for backpackers is the local Gîte d’étape, where you’ll meet plenty of fellow enthusiasts gearing up for the same journey. After finishing the trek in the south at Conca, most exhausted hikers head to the nearby resort of Porto-Vecchio. Here, after two weeks of going without, you can treat yourself to some well-earned luxury and visit the island’s most beautiful beaches. A firm favourite is the Hotel Costa Salina, set right by the harbour with a huge pool for your wrecked muscles. For a quieter stay close to the beaches, try the cosy Le Goéland.
From here you can easily head to the famous Palombaggia beach, fringed by umbrella pines with photogenic red porphyry rocks poking out of the water here and there. Also worth a visit is Santa Giulia bay, shaped into a perfect horseshoe forming a shallow natural lagoon. Another great choice is Rondinara beach, which is shaped like a seashell and even made it into the TOP 10 best beaches in the world back in 2019. If you have a car, be sure to drive over to nearby Bonifacio. The houses here balance on the edge of dazzling white cliffs, and you can climb the legendary 187 steps of the Escalier d’Aragon, carved straight into the sheer rock face below the citadel.
Photo: Lenka Janochová / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
11 tips to know before the GR20 in Corsica
Let’s get into the concrete tips and advice that will help you prepare for Europe’s toughest trek. From logistics through physical preparation to life in the mountains themselves.
1. Why the GR20 corsica difficulty is the toughest in Europe
When people hear a route is the hardest in Europe, most picture an enormous distance. The reality of the GR20 is a little different — and far more treacherous. The whole route is around 180 kilometres in total, which a fit walker on flat ground would knock out in a few easy days. The main reason people give up so often is the extreme profile and brutal elevation gain. Across the recommended 16 stages you’ll climb an incredible 12,000 vertical metres, and you’ll feel every one of them in every muscle.
That’s roughly the same as climbing from sea level to the summit of Mount Everest and then halfway up again. Every day brings steep ascents into mountain passes followed by sharp descents that are often far worse on your knees than the climb up. The terrain is certainly nothing like soft forest paths or nicely maintained trails. Most of the time you’ll be hopping across giant granite boulders, picking your way through scree and searching for grip on smooth rock slabs.
This isn’t classic hiking but much more often so-called scrambling — technical climbing at grade three to four. You’ll regularly need to use your hands, haul yourself up on steel chains and constantly balance on tricky terrain. It’s not just plain walking, it’s relentless full-body work and absolute focus on every single step.
💡 Tip: Progress here isn’t measured in kilometres but purely in hours. You’ll often spend more than two full hours covering a section just three kilometres long, so always leave yourself a big time buffer.
2. Northern vs. southern part of the route
The trek splits very naturally into two halves, divided by the small railway station in the village of Vizzavona. The northern half is generally considered significantly harder, far more technical and an altogether more rugged experience. This is where you’ll find the steepest stages, where you’ll constantly use your hands to climb and hang onto steel chains. The landscape in the north resembles a high-mountain wilderness full of sharp granite peaks and deep chasms that will test your nerve.
If you start in Calenzana, the island shows its merciless face within the very first three days. Many hikers end their adventure right at this early stage simply because they misjudge their strength and the technical difficulty of the terrain. The southern half, from Vizzavona down to the finish in Conca, is by contrast somewhat gentler and noticeably greener. You’ll pass through fragrant pine forests, grassy plains and come across far more water sources overall.
Heading south you’ll also be amazed by the Aiguilles de Bavella region — fascinating jagged granite towers rising above the forests. This area is, incidentally, also a huge paradise for climbers and canyoning lovers. It still isn’t a Sunday stroll in the park, mind you, as the south has its steep passes and sharp descents too. But there are noticeably fewer pure climbing sections and the going is a little smoother.
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure of your fitness, you can do just the southern part to start with — it’s a bit kinder on the body and doesn’t demand the same climbing skills.
3. GR20 corsica how many days: stages and mountain huts (refuges)
The whole route is officially divided into 16 very demanding stages that will test your stamina. Most printed guidebooks recommend sticking to a pace of one stage per day so you don’t overload your body. That means roughly six to eight hours of pure walking every day, and that doesn’t even count rest and food breaks. Super-fit individuals occasionally combine two stages into one, but that requires truly elite fitness and getting up before dawn in pitch darkness.
At the end of each stage a mountain hut awaits, known on Corsica as a refuge. These huts are managed by the Corsican national park and really are only very basically equipped. Don’t expect any Austrian or Swiss standard with a heated dining room and a soft bed. You sleep on simple bunks in cramped dormitories, the showers often have only cold water, and the toilets are usually the classic squat type.
Thankfully, at each hut you can buy a basic hot meal to top up those vital calories. Most commonly served are plain pasta, hearty lentil soup and excellent local sheep’s cheeses. After a tough day, even a simple bowl of hot soup or the famous Corsican chestnut beer Pietra will feel like the greatest luxury in the world. Supplies are often brought to the huts by helicopter or on mules, so expect a fitting high-mountain markup.
💡 Tip: Always carry plenty of small euro notes in cash — card payments are absolutely not accepted in the mountains and you won’t find an ATM anywhere.
4. How and when to book accommodation for 2026
This is an absolutely crucial part of your preparation that you mustn’t underestimate. Wild camping outside the designated areas by the huts is strictly forbidden on Corsica and policed with heavy fines. Given the trek’s huge popularity right across Europe, the logistics and planning are now often more complicated than the walking itself. For the coming seasons there’s an uncompromising rule: you must book your spots online many months in advance.
The Corsican national park’s booking system usually opens at the start of the calendar year, and available places vanish at lightning speed. You can reserve either a bed inside the hut, the rental of a fixed tent pitched outside, or just a pitch for your own tent. If you set off without a valid reservation, you risk huge problems on the very first day. The park wardens can flatly refuse to let you stay and send you back down to the valley.
In the mountains, where there’s nowhere else to go, this represents a real danger and the immediate end of your trip. Even if you carry your own tent and rely on yourself, you must have a pre-booked and paid-for pitch where you’re allowed to set it up for the night. This is how the national park tries to manage the enormous influx of tourists and protect the fragile mountain environment from destruction.
💡 Tip: Always print out your booking confirmation on paper. There’s often no signal at all in the mountains, and phones drain very quickly in the cold.
5. Legendary sections and the Cirque de la Solitude
For years the greatest bogeyman and legend of the whole trek was the section known as the Cirque de la Solitude. This dark and very steep rock cauldron required descending vertical chains and iron ladders directly above a deep abyss. It was without doubt the hardest and most exposed part of the entire GR20. But in 2015 a terrible tragedy struck here, when a massive landslide following a violent storm buried several hikers.
Since then the original route through the Cirque de la Solitude has been officially and permanently closed. It was replaced by an entirely new variant, but don’t for a moment think the new path is in any way easy. The new route runs over the demanding Pointe des Éboulis pass and climbs to an impressive height of over 2,600 metres above sea level. You’ll find yourself just a short way below the summit of the island’s highest mountain, the majestic Monte Cinto.
It’s an extremely brutal, never-ending climb over unstable, sliding scree that will sap the very last of your physical strength. You’ll have to focus constantly on exactly where you’re treading so a rock doesn’t slip out from under you. But the magnificent views from the top over the surrounding rocky peaks will, in the end, more than repay every drop of sweat you leave on the slope.
💡 Tip: Set off on this particular stage really early in the morning — afternoon thunderstorms are extremely dangerous at this altitude and you do not want to be caught in one on a ridge.
6. Physical preparation and experience
You don’t need to be a professional climber with full kit to tackle the GR20, but you must be in absolutely excellent physical condition. What matters above all is sure-footedness on exposed terrain and the ability to function at altitude with a heavy pack on your back for many days on end. You really mustn’t underestimate the preparation before you leave, or you’ll be saying goodbye to the trek very quickly.
Ordinary running on the flat around your local park really won’t help you tackle steep rock. You need to actively train walking up steep hills, ideally already carrying a pack that weighs exactly what you plan to bring to the island. Your body has to gradually get used to the daily load, and your knees must be thoroughly prepared for the endless pounding of sharp descents into deep valleys.
If you suffer from even the slightest fear of heights, this trek probably isn’t for you at all. You’ll regularly cross spots where the path is just one foot wide and a hundred-metre drop opens up directly below you. Steady legs, perfect balance and a cool head are absolutely essential here, because panic on a slippery rock slab can have very serious consequences.
💡 Tip: In your training, focus mainly on the endless descents — they tend to be far more painful and destructive for untrained legs than the climbs themselves.
7. What to pack in your backpack
One very simple and merciless rule applies on the whole trek. Remember that every gram you carry on your back you’ll soon come to hate. Your main goal should be to pack so that your base pack weight, without water and food, doesn’t exceed 10 to 12 kilograms. Once your pack tips over that magic threshold, you’ll very quickly lose the balance you so badly need on the technical rocky sections.
The key to success is clever layering of quality merino wool clothing, which doesn’t smell even after several days of intensive wear. Evenings in the mountains can be surprisingly cold after sunset, so a good down jacket and a light but sufficiently warm sleeping bag are absolute essentials. Even if you sleep inside the huts on a bed, your own sleeping bag is compulsory on the island for hygiene reasons.
Don’t forget top-quality, sturdy trekking boots that you’ve already broken in perfectly at home. Under no circumstances bring brand-new boots — painful blisters would ruthlessly take you out of action by day three. Also pack a reliable water filter or purification tablets, a good first-aid kit with plenty of plasters, and a powerful head torch for those early morning starts.
💡 Tip: Trekking poles aren’t just an optional hiking accessory — on the GR20 they will literally save your knees from total destruction on the endless steep descents.
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Where to stay in Corsica
5 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options
Getting to the start of the trek takes a bit of logistical planning, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. Corsica has four international airports, and from the UK the easiest option is often a seasonal direct flight to Bastia, Calvi or Ajaccio. Many travellers, however, choose the more leisurely ferry route from mainland France or Italy as part of a road trip. Corsica Ferries boats most commonly sail from the French cities of Nice, Toulon or Marseille.
From Nice the crossing takes around six to seven hours, while from Marseille you can be sailing for up to fourteen hours. From Italy, on the other hand, a popular route runs from the port of Livorno to the Corsican towns of Bastia or Île Rousse, which has historically been the most budget-friendly option of all. Once you’re on the island and starting traditionally in the north, your main target is the gateway village of Calenzana.
The easiest way there is via the port town of Calvi, from which regular local buses run to Calenzana during the peak summer season. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi for those last few kilometres. If you decide to do the trek in the opposite direction, from south to north, you’ll begin your journey in the village of Conca. The best way to get there is by bus from the well-known resort of Porto-Vecchio. At both ends of the trek you’ll find small shops for buying your last supplies.
💡 Tip: If you’re driving and leaving the car at one end of the trek, you’ll have to use the more complicated bus network to get back after finishing the route — which takes the best part of a whole day.
9. Safety and waymarking on the route
Getting lost on the GR20 in good weather is fairly difficult, as long as you pay attention and don’t rush. The whole route is very carefully marked with red-and-white stripes painted on rocks, large stones and trees. The moment you’ve walked more than twenty minutes without seeing another marker, you’ve probably wandered off the path, so carefully retrace your steps to the last one straight away.
The biggest danger on the route, surprisingly, isn’t wild animals or getting lost, but the unpredictable and very aggressive mountain weather. Afternoon thunderstorms arrive on Corsica with incredible speed and enormous force. Smooth granite rock turns into a dangerous ice rink within minutes of rain, and a lightning strike on exposed ridges is a real and frequent threat.
The golden rule of all experienced mountain folk is therefore to set off on each stage at first light, ideally around five in the morning. The aim is to have the highest and most exposed passes safely behind you before midday, before the typical heavy storm clouds start to build. By the afternoon you should ideally be resting safely back at the hut.
💡 Tip: Each evening at the hut, check the latest weather forecast directly with the warden — the locals know the quirks of the Corsican mountains best and can spot approaching danger.
10. Shorter options for those who don’t have 16 days
Sadly not everyone can take more than two weeks off work in one go to complete the entire route. The good news, though, is that the trek can be elegantly and logically split into two shorter parts. Thanks to the old narrow-gauge railway that cuts across the island exactly in the middle, there’s a great logistical solution for shorter mountain trips you can manage in just a week.
Vizzavona railway station sits at the notional halfway point of the whole route. If you only have limited time, you can tackle just the harder northern part from Calenzana to Vizzavona. Once you’ve finished it, simply hop on the charming little mountain train and ride comfortably back to civilisation towards the major towns of Bastia or Ajaccio, where you’ll catch your flight or ferry.
Equally, you can do it the other way round and arrive in Vizzavona by train and walk just the southern half down to the finishing village of Conca. This second option is absolutely brilliant for those who want to experience the unique atmosphere of the famous trek but don’t fancy the most extreme northern sections full of technical climbing and steel chains.
💡 Tip: Even half of the GR20 is a huge sporting achievement that you certainly needn’t be shy about in front of other hikers — and it’ll give you unforgettable memories.
11. Corsica alternatives for the less fit and for families
If, after weighing up your strength, you realise the GR20 is simply beyond you, Corsica thankfully offers beautiful long-distance routes with a far gentler profile. You don’t have to give up your dream of a wonderful mountain crossing at all — you just need to pick a more suitable and safer alternative. A great choice is the popular Mare e Monti (From sea to mountains) route, which winds picturesquely along the island’s rugged west coast. Walking it takes around ten days, the total elevation gain is perfectly manageable, and you’ll sleep in lovely old Corsican villages. There you can treat yourself to a hot shower in a guesthouse each evening and, after a full day, enjoy great vegetarian food in local family-run restaurants, such as delicious pasta with fresh brocciu sheep’s cheese or honest vegetable soups.
For families with older children or for occasional hikers, the absolutely superb option is the Mare a Mare (From sea to sea) route, which crosses the entire island from west to east. The pace here is far more relaxed, the trails are wider and the whole feel of the trek is noticeably less stressful. It’s more about leisurely discovery of Corsica’s hidden interior, the deep chestnut forests of the Castagniccia region and refreshing dips in clean mountain rivers, where you’ll reliably avoid the big crowds.
💡 Tip: On these easier routes, unlike the uncompromising GR20, you can also make use of very popular luggage-transfer services between accommodations, so you can walk the whole way with just a light daypack on your back.
Where to go next from Corsica
If you’ve got a few days to spare after the trek, definitely explore the rest of the island. Hire a car and head for the gorgeous turquoise beaches in the south around Porto-Vecchio, or discover the fascinating cliffs at the historic town of Bonifacio. You’ll find a complete guide for an island road trip and plenty more practical tips in our extensive article Corsica.
And if these long mountain crossings have captured your heart and you’re looking for another European challenge that comes with slightly better infrastructure and epic views of real glaciers, I definitely recommend taking a look at our big guide to Chamonix and Mont Blanc. There you’ll find all the information you need for the famous Tour du Mont Blanc circuit, which is a touch more forgiving but perhaps even more breathtaking to the eye.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to complete the GR20?
For regular hikers with good physical fitness, the entire route typically takes 15 to 16 days, which corresponds to a healthy pace of one stage per day. Experienced mountain folk who easily handle enormous elevation gains and occasionally combine two stages into one can manage it in 10 to 12 days. Extreme runners, or skyrunners, can indeed complete the entire route in less than 40 hours, but that’s absolutely unimaginable for an ordinary mortal with a heavy backpack and borders on unnecessary recklessness.
Is there enough drinking water along the route?
At absolutely every mountain hut or refuge you’ll find a reliable source of drinking water where you can and must refill your supplies for the next day. During the stages themselves, particularly in the dry and rocky north, natural water sources are very scarce and often dry up completely in the sweltering summer. You must therefore always carry at least 2 to 3 litres of water per person from early morning onwards to avoid dangerous dehydration in the scorching sun.
Can I do the trek in the opposite direction (from south to north)?
Yes, the entire trek can be done without problems in both directions. Most people traditionally start in the north in the village of Calenzana, so they have the toughest and steepest sections behind them while they’re still full of energy and initial motivation. The big advantage of going in the opposite direction from south to north, on the other hand, is that you don’t have the unpleasant sun shining directly in your eyes for most of the day, you gradually get used to the difficulty of the terrain, and you’ll encounter slightly fewer crowds on the trail.
Can you pay by card at the mountain huts?
Absolutely not, forget about payment cards in the mountains altogether. Throughout the entire Corsican interior, many places lack a stable signal, so payment terminals logically don’t work here at all. For the entire duration of the trek, you therefore need to carry a sufficient supply of cash in euros. You’ll need money to pay for accommodation, any hot meals, morning coffee, and small purchases of necessary supplies at the mountain huts, where, logically, a high-altitude surcharge is added for the complicated helicopter transport of supplies.
Can I bring my dog?
Although it’s not legally prohibited across the entire length of the trail, taking your dog on the extreme northern section of the GR20 is strongly and emphatically discouraged. Technical sections with steep ladders, smooth slabs, and steel chains would not be safely manageable for any dog. You would have to awkwardly carry them in a special climbing harness above deep drops, which is extremely stressful and very dangerous both for the animal itself and for your own balance on the rock.
Can you hike GR20 solo?
Yes, many experienced hikers do this challenging route completely solo. During the main tourist season from June to September, you’ll never be completely alone on the trail anyway. During the day you’ll meet plenty of other enthusiasts, and in the evening at the huts you’ll always gather with the same group of people, who you’ll very quickly become friends with. For safety reasons though, it’s absolutely crucial to regularly inform your family about your plans and to have a charged phone with you in case of emergency.
Do I need a guide for the trek?
For navigation in the terrain itself, you don’t need a mountain guide, as the entire route is very well and densely marked with red-and-white stripes. However, if you’re not confident in your abilities in exposed rocky terrain, lack experience with high-mountain hiking, or simply don’t want to deal with the very complex logistics and refuge reservations, you can use the services of organized groups. These operate either through popular platforms like GetYourGuide, or directly through local Corsican mountain agencies.
Does mobile signal work in the mountains?
The mobile signal in the Corsican interior is very irregular and generally unreliable. At the highest peaks or in open mountain passes, you’ll often connect to the network and sometimes even pick up an Italian operator from neighboring Sardinia, but as soon as you descend into the deep valleys to the refuges themselves, the signal usually disappears completely. Therefore, it’s better to expect that you’ll be completely offline for several days, and download all necessary offline maps and reservation confirmations in advance.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
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TL;DRCalvi and the Balagne region in north-west Corsica mix history, mountains and sea, and here are 11 tips covering the 13th-century Genoese citadel, the six-kilometre pine-backed Pinède beach, the hilltop villages of Sant’Antonino and Pigna, the U Trinighellu coastal train to Île-Rousse (around 50 minutes) and the natural pools in the Fango valley. The best time to go is May, June or September, when it’s around 25 degrees and there are fewer crowds — steer clear of August. You can fly into Sainte-Catherine airport, or take the ferry from Nice (6–7 hours, with a return fare with a car running €250–€400). Calvi itself makes the best base, with hotel rooms costing €120–€180 a night in 2026, and a car is essential for reaching the more remote spots.
The moment you step off the plane or ferry and take your first deep breath in the northwest of Corsica, you’ll catch that unmistakable blend of wild thyme, rosemary and myrtle. Locals call this dense, impenetrable scrubland the maquis, and legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte himself could have recognised his native island blindfolded, purely by this distinctive scent. Corsica, rightly nicknamed the Island of Beauty, is about far more than fragrant herbs, though — it’s essentially a towering mountain range dropped into the middle of the Mediterranean. If you’re heading to Calvi, Corsica, you’re in for a treat.
If you’re after a destination that combines rugged nature with gorgeous swimming, the Balagne region and its main hub of Calvi will completely win you over. Don’t expect a polished French Riviera with promenades for the jet set, because Corsica is proud, wild and utterly itself. In this article I’ll guide you through the very best the northwest coast has to offer, and show you places where you can hike mountain trails in the morning and unwind in turquoise coves come afternoon.
Photo: Chabe01 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
TL;DR
Best base: Calvi offers the perfect mix of history, fantastic beaches and great accessibility thanks to its own airport.
Genoese Citadel: The historic heart of Calvi, with the most stunning views over the entire bay and surrounding mountains.
Beach and pine forest: A six-kilometre sandy beach lined with the shade of fragrant pines, ideal for families with children.
Hilltop village of Sant’Antonino: One of the most beautiful villages in all of France, perched like an eagle’s nest high on a hill.
Coastal train: The iconic U Trinighellu train carries you along a scenic coastal ride from Calvi all the way to the town of Île-Rousse.
When to go: Avoid August, when the island is bursting at the seams, and plan your trip for June or September instead.
Getting around: A car is an absolute must for exploring the more remote villages and wild beaches.
Photo: Pierre Bona / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting the timing right is absolutely key for a visit to Corsica, as the island sees huge swings in visitor numbers. The ideal months for a trip are May, June and September, when air temperatures hover around a very pleasant 25 degrees and the sea is finally inviting for a swim. In these months you’ll fully enjoy nature in bloom, emptier roads and far more reasonable accommodation prices. September in particular is wonderful — the weather in Calvi, Corsica stays warm and the Mediterranean has had all summer to heat up, making it perhaps the very best time for lovers of lazy beach days.
There’s one absolutely crucial rule you should always keep in mind, though. Give August a very wide berth, because this is when the island gets stormed not only by the French but the Italians too. Compared with early summer there are two to three times as many tourists, the narrow mountain roads turn into never-ending car parks, and the prettiest beaches are hopelessly packed. Prices for accommodation and car hire in 2026 climb to absurd heights during August, so if you can, save your trip for the autumn.
When it comes to getting to the Balagne region itself, you have two main options. Calvi has its own small airport, Sainte-Catherine, served in season by flights from mainland France and other European cities — from the UK you’ll usually connect via Paris, Nice or Marseille, with British Airways and easyJet operating to the mainland gateways. If you prefer to bring your own car, you can take a Corsica Ferries crossing into the nearby port of Île-Rousse. The ferry from Nice in France takes roughly six to seven hours, and an off-season return ticket for two people with a car runs between 250 and 400 euros.
Photo: Isiwal / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Where to stay in Calvi and around
💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities, it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.
The Balagne region offers a huge range of accommodation, but for a first visit the most strategic choice is the town of Calvi itself or its immediate surroundings. Staying right in the centre below the citadel means all the famous restaurants, bakeries and the harbour promenade are literally a few steps from your room. If you’re travelling by car, though, make very sure your accommodation has its own parking, because finding a free space in the narrow lanes can be nerve-wracking in season.
For those of you after peace and the perfect seaside relaxation, I’d recommend looking at hotels along Pinède beach. This area is lined with pine forest and offers direct access to soft sand, which you’ll especially appreciate when travelling with younger children. Prices per night for a double room in 2026 hover around 120 to 180 euros, but at the shoulder edges of the season you can find very welcome discounts. Don’t forget to book your stay through Booking well in advance — even half a year ahead is no exaggeration.
Among the tried-and-tested favourites is the Hotel Mariana, which boasts a rooftop pool and an absolutely fantastic view over the whole bay and the historic citadel. If you’re looking for something truly special and don’t mind paying a little extra, the luxury resort La Villa Calvi, set in the hills above town, offers perfect privacy and first-class service. A great middle-ground option is the historic Hotel l’Abbaye, housed in a beautifully restored former monastery just a short walk from the harbour.
11 things to see and do in Calvi, Corsica and Balagne
The Balagne region is often called the garden of Corsica, and it offers an incredibly varied mix of experiences. Let’s take a look at the most interesting things you definitely shouldn’t miss on your visit.
Photo: Isiwal / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
1. The Genoese Citadel in Calvi
As you arrive in town, your eye is instantly drawn to the mighty fortress that rises majestically on a rocky promontory above the sea, forming the unmistakable landmark of the entire bay. The Genoese Citadel was built in the thirteenth century, its massive walls designed to protect the strategically important harbour from raids by pirates and enemy fleets. Today its interior is a fascinating maze of cobbled lanes, off-limits to cars, where time seems to have stopped.
A stroll through the citadel is like a journey into the past, where you’ll come across picturesque little squares, ancient houses with peeling shutters and hidden cafés. Be sure not to miss the Cathedral of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, which holds a precious wooden cross said to have once saved the town from ruin. Locals are also immensely proud of the legend that the famous navigator Christopher Columbus was born in one of the houses inside the citadel, though historical sources differ quite a bit on this point.
The citadel offers its most beautiful moment at dusk, when the blazing sun begins to slowly sink below the horizon and tints the stone walls in glorious golden and orange hues. From the bastions, the views are absolutely breathtaking — the whole town below you, the turquoise sea, and the high peaks of the Corsican mountains in the distance.
💡 Tip: Entry to the citadel itself is completely free, but if you’d like to learn more about its turbulent history, you can rent an audio guide at the local tourist centre for around 10 euros.
2. The harbour and Marina waterfront
Right below the citadel’s historic walls lies the pulsing heart of the whole town: the harbour promenade known as Quai Landry. This place perfectly captures the contrasts of modern Corsica, as you’ll see luxury millionaires’ yachts moored right next to old, weathered fishing boats. The waterfront is lined with mature palms and makes an ideal spot for a slow morning stroll or an evening sitting over a glass of good wine.
The entire promenade is dotted with dozens of restaurants, bistros and cafés with outdoor terraces, where you can watch the harbour bustle for hours on end. If you get hungry, I’d recommend trying the excellent vegetarian pizza topped with fresh herbs from the maquis, hearty pasta, or traditional Corsican cheeses, which are served here with fig jam. Locals are fond of various wild-boar cured meats, but even without meat you’ll find plenty of delicious, filling dishes.
The atmosphere on the waterfront changes dramatically as the hours pass, turning a sleepy morning harbour into a buzzing centre of nightlife. In the evening, street musicians often play here, and the air carries the scent of roasted chestnuts and a salty sea breeze.
💡 Tip: Come down here early, around eight in the morning, when local fishermen return from their night’s catch and sell their haul straight from the boats — it’s an incredibly authentic spectacle even for those who don’t eat fish.
3. Pinède beach and pine forest
Once you’ve had your fill of wandering among the monuments, just take a few steps from the centre and you’ll find yourself on one of the loveliest town beaches on the island. Plage de Calvi stretches an impressive six kilometres, and its fine white sand combined with incredibly clear, turquoise water feels more like the exotic Caribbean than a European resort. The sea here shelves very gently and stays shallow for a long way out, which you’ll appreciate most when travelling with small children. It’s easily one of the best beaches in Calvi, Corsica.
What makes this beach truly unique is the dense pine forest called the Pinède that lines its entire length. The tall pines provide merciful natural shade on hot summer days, so you don’t necessarily have to lug along a parasol. A pleasant wooden boardwalk also runs beneath the trees, leading all the way to the far end of the bay, and along the way you’ll come across several agreeable beach bars and restaurants.
On the beach you can rent sun loungers with parasols, with 2026 prices hovering around 25 to 35 euros for a set for the whole day. If you prefer a more active kind of relaxation, you’ll find several rental outlets for paddleboards, kayaks and pedal boats, which offer an unusual view of the citadel from the water.
💡 Tip: Although the beach is enormous, in peak season the best spots in the shade of the pines fill up fast, so I’d recommend heading to the water ideally before ten in the morning.
Photo: Chabe01 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
4. The U Trinighellu coastal train
The link between Calvi and Île-Rousse isn’t just the road — there’s also the legendary narrow-gauge train fondly nicknamed U Trinighellu, or the Rattler. This historic railway runs right along the very edge of the cliffs and passes close to the seashore, offering views you simply have no chance of seeing from a car. The ride on this little, slightly noisy train is a huge experience in itself and ranks among the very best things to do in the Balagne region.
The train essentially works like a kind of beach tram, stopping at all the major coves and beaches around the bay. You can easily explore more remote swimming spots, such as the beautiful Algajola or Bodri beaches, without having to wrestle with expensive parking. The train runs fairly often in the summer season, and the entire route from Calvi to Île-Rousse takes roughly fifty minutes of very easy-going rattling.
You can buy tickets directly from the conductor on the train or at the larger stations, with a one-way trip between the two towns costing around 7 euros in 2026. The trains tend to be quite full, especially in summer, so arm yourself with a little patience and try to grab a window seat on the left-hand side heading out of Calvi for the best sea views.
💡 Tip: If you want to be sure of a seat, board at the starting station in Calvi well in advance and don’t leave reaching the platform until the last minute.
5. Île-Rousse and the covered market
If you head east on that train or by car, you’ll reach the immensely likeable little town of Île-Rousse, founded in the eighteenth century by the Corsican national hero Pasquale Paoli. The town takes its name from the red porphyry islets that lie just off the coast and which, at sunset, literally glow a deep crimson. Compared with historic Calvi, Île-Rousse feels far airier, has a regular grid of streets and exudes a relaxed spa-town atmosphere.
The main hub of all the action is the spacious Place Paoli, dominated by the shade of plane trees, cafés and a statue of the founder himself. Right next to the square you’ll find a stunning covered market built using mighty ancient columns, looking like a classical temple. Every morning local farmers sell the best of the island here, so you can stock up on superb goat’s cheeses, wildflower honey, olive oil or fresh fruit for the beach.
After visiting the market, be sure to walk out to the lighthouse on the Pietra peninsula, connected to the mainland by a short causeway. The path to the lighthouse winds between red rocks and offers a marvellous view of the whole town and the high mountains rising right behind it.
💡 Tip: On Place Paoli, don’t forget to join in a game — or at least watch the local older gentlemen playing pétanque — it’s an absolutely perfect snapshot of slow island life.
Photo: Isiwal / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
6. The village of Sant’Antonino
The Balagne region isn’t only about the coast — above all it’s about the picturesque little villages scattered high in the hills above the sea. Sant’Antonino holds the title of one of the most beautiful villages in France and, seen from a distance, resembles an impregnable eagle’s nest perched on the very top of a steep hill. This settlement is among the oldest on the island, founded as far back as the ninth century, and its circular layout was meant to protect inhabitants from Moorish raids.
The moment you step inside the village, you’ll instantly understand why no cars are allowed. A tangle of impossibly narrow, steep, cobbled lanes awaits you, weaving between old stone houses, passing under vaulted arches and climbing right up to the summit. The walk calls for fairly good footwear and a bit of fitness, but your reward is the utterly unique atmosphere of a place where nothing has changed in hundreds of years.
From the highest point of the village a sweeping panorama opens up in every direction. You’ll see the entire Balagne coastline, valleys full of olive trees and the snow-capped peaks of the highest Corsican mountains. In a few small cafés here you can also try a local speciality: a refreshing lemon juice made from fruit grown right on the surrounding terraces.
💡 Tip: Parking below the village is paid and fills up very quickly in summer, so I’d recommend visiting Sant’Antonino early in the morning, while the air isn’t yet so hot and the lanes are empty.
Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
7. The village of Pigna
Just a few kilometres from Sant’Antonino lies another inland gem: the charming village of Pigna. This place is best known for its bright blue shutters, which, combined with the ochre stone walls of the houses, create an absolutely perfect photographic backdrop. Unlike other villages, Pigna has held on to a very strong artistic and craft tradition, giving it an incredibly lively, creative feel.
In the narrow cobbled lanes you’ll come across dozens of small workshops and studios. Pigna is home to potters, painters, sculptors and, above all, makers of traditional Corsican musical instruments, so from the open windows you’ll often hear the sound of carving chisels or the testing of new wooden flutes and music boxes. You can watch master craftsmen at work and pick up a genuinely original, authentic souvenir that has nothing to do with cheap imports from Asia.
The village is also surrounded by old olive groves and has a strict ban on cars, so you can wander it in complete peace. The local church with its lovely square is also worth a visit, offering yet another fantastic view down towards the blue sea and the coastal town of Algajola.
💡 Tip: If you’re after an out-of-the-ordinary experience, try one of the local little restaurants, which often cook exclusively with local ingredients grown on the terraces below the village.
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Where to stay in Calvi and Balagne
4 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options
While you’re driving through the mountain villages, you should know that this entire area is linked by a special tourist route called the Route des Artisans, or the Craftsmen’s Trail. This route leads you through the most interesting studios and workshops scattered across the Balagne region. This is no artificially created open-air museum for tourists, but a living tradition that the locals are working hard to preserve for future generations.
Beyond fine and applied arts, Corsica — and the Balagne region in particular — is renowned for its utterly unique musical heritage. These are traditional polyphonic chants, sung exclusively by men without any musical accompaniment. These deep, resonant voices, weaving together in incredible harmonies, have their roots in ancient shepherding traditions and still give listeners goosebumps today.
Concerts by polyphonic choirs take place fairly often in the summer months, and the most powerful experience comes from performances in old stone churches. Thanks to the superb acoustics of these historic places of worship, the sound literally fills the entire space and you feel as though you’ve touched the very soul of the island. You’ll find concert details on posters stuck to lampposts or at local information centres.
💡 Tip: Tickets for evening polyphonic concerts usually cost around 15 to 20 euros, and I’d recommend getting them in advance, as the local churches have very limited capacity and sell out fast.
9. Hiking on the Revellata peninsula
If you love wild nature and don’t mind a little physical effort, head west out of Calvi to the Pointe de la Revellata peninsula. This rocky headland is the absolute opposite of the polished town beach, offering a raw landscape of lashing winds, sharp cliffs and lonely coves. You can reach the peninsula on foot straight from the town’s citadel, and the whole loop trail will take you roughly three to four hours of very pleasant walking.
The route follows rutted dusty tracks that wind between the fragrant maquis bushes, constantly serving up stunning views of the turbulent sea far below you. At the very tip of the peninsula you’ll come across a lonely white lighthouse, which has stood here since the nineteenth century, watching over the safety of ships passing the treacherous reefs. This is where you grasp the true power of nature and the vastness of the Mediterranean.
As you walk you’ll come across several small, pebbly coves accessible only on foot or by boat. The water here is incredibly clear and teeming with marine life, so if you have room in your backpack, definitely pack a diving mask and snorkel. These little beaches tend to be almost deserted even in the middle of summer.
💡 Tip: There’s no shade at all on the whole peninsula and nowhere to top up supplies, so take sturdy footwear, a hat and at least two litres of water per person.
Photo: Julian Nyča / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
10. The Notre-Dame de la Serra viewpoint
If you’re looking for the spot to take the very best photos of the whole bay, you’ll need to climb up to the little chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra. This sanctuary stands high on a hill behind Calvi, reached by a fairly steep, narrow road you can drive up — though for the more adventurous it’s also a lovely walking challenge. Locals deeply revere this place and regard it as a kind of guardian angel watching over the whole town and its surroundings.
On the courtyard in front of the chapel stands an unmissable statue of the Virgin Mary, arms spread wide as if protecting the entire bay below. According to local legend, a visit to this place brings luck in love, and if you come here with your better half, you’ll supposedly stay together for the rest of your lives. Whether or not you believe the tale, that breathtaking view won’t be leaving your mind any time soon.
From the viewpoint you’ll see the whole town of Calvi laid out before you, the imposing citadel and the six-kilometre ribbon of beach stretching to the horizon. The most beautiful atmosphere reigns during the golden hour just before sunset, when the surrounding mountains are wrapped in soft light and the sea begins to gleam like a giant mirror.
💡 Tip: If you decide to walk up to the chapel straight from the centre of Calvi, allow about an hour of fairly steep climbing, and again don’t forget plenty to drink.
11. Swimming in the natural pools of the Fango valley
When you’ve had enough of salt water and sand finding its way everywhere in your swimsuit, the Balagne region has one more huge ace up its sleeve. About forty minutes’ drive south of Calvi lies the gorgeous valley of the Fango river, listed as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Over the millennia the river has carved dozens of natural pools into the red granite, making a perfect alternative to the crowded coastal beaches.
The water in these mountain pools is crystal clear, pleasantly refreshing in summer and an incredible emerald colour. You can hop across enormous sun-warmed boulders, swim in the deeper pools, or let yourself be massaged by the little waterfalls that form between them. The valley is also surrounded by dense oak forests, with the steep slopes of the highest Corsican mountains completing the scene.
A fairly good road leads to the valley, with several car parks from which it’s only a few minutes’ walk to the water. The further upstream you go, the fewer people you’ll meet and the better your chances of finding your own private pool all to yourself. Many tours and outdoor activities in this area can also be easily searched for and booked through the popular GetYourGuide platform.
💡 Tip: The stones in and around the river tend to be very slippery, so definitely take water shoes or sturdy sandals to avoid an unnecessary ankle injury.
Where to go next from Calvi
Once you’ve thoroughly explored the northwest coast, Corsica offers plenty of other places to take your breath away. If you’re planning to drive across the whole island, be sure to read our comprehensive guide to Corsica, where you’ll find more detailed information about the other regions. The biggest draw of the entire island, though, is undeniably the south — specifically a town teetering on the edge of an abyss. Find out why you definitely shouldn’t skip Bonifacio on your trip, with the most dramatic scenery in the whole Mediterranean.
From Calvi you can also set out on a full-day boat trip to the strictly protected Scandola nature reserve, which can only be reached by water, or head off to explore the rugged Cap Corse peninsula in the northeast of the island, which looks like a raised finger and is studded with old Genoese watchtowers.
Frequently asked questions
How to get from Calvi Airport to the city center?
Sainte-Catherine Airport is located about seven kilometers from the city center. There’s no regular public transport service here, so you’ll need to rely on either a pre-booked rental car or local taxis. A taxi ride to the center takes about fifteen minutes, and in 2026 you’ll pay a fixed rate of around 20 to 25 euros depending on the time of day.
Do I need a car in the Balagne region?
Yes, a car is an absolute necessity for exploring Corsica. Public transport does exist, but buses run very infrequently and most picturesque mountain villages or wild beaches are completely inaccessible by bus. Without a car, you’d be limited to just the town of Calvi and the train to Île-Rousse.
Is Corsica an expensive destination?
Compared to mainland France, prices on the island are roughly 10 to 20 percent higher, as most goods have to be brought in by ferries. The most expensive items are usually car rental and the ferry itself if you’re travelling with your own vehicle. You can save money by travelling outside the main summer season and buying local produce at markets.
Can I manage visiting mountain villages with a stroller?
Visiting villages like Sant’Antonino or Pigna with a classic stroller is very challenging and I rather don’t recommend it. The streets here are extremely narrow, steep, full of bumpy stones and often interrupted by stairs. For traveling with smaller children in these places, a baby carrier or backpack carrier is much more practical.
Will I be able to communicate in English in Corsica?
In main tourist centers, hotels, and larger restaurants, you can usually get by with English, although the level may vary. However, Corsicans are very proud and will appreciate it if you learn at least basic phrases in French like bonjour, merci, or s’il vous plaît, which will often open the door to a much friendlier approach.
Is it hard to find vegetarian food in restaurants?
Korsika may be famous for its cold cuts and meaty dishes, but finding vegetarian food is no problem at all. Most restaurants offer excellent vegetarian pizza, pasta with fresh herbs, hearty salads, or dishes made from outstanding local cheeses, such as the famous brocciu cheese.
Where to park when visiting Calvi?
In the city center, you’ll find several paid parking lots, of which the largest and closest to the citadel is the parking lot along the harbor. During the summer months, these spots tend to fill up very quickly, so it’s better to arrive early in the morning or use the park-and-ride facilities a bit further from the center and walk that short distance on a pleasant stroll.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
