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Villa Belza. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

What to do in Biarritz, France: A guide to the top attractions

Located in France’s Basque Country, Biarritz is a jet-setter destination that’s a must visit for those of you who enjoy surf, amazing beaches and a fantastic dining scene. This French resort town located only 22 miles from the Spanish Basque Country will absolutely steal your heart. Whether you enjoy the luxurious life or the most laid-back – Biarritz has it all. Below we have listed our top attractions that are a must-visit while in Biarritz.

Visit the Rocher de la Vierge

Rocher de la Vierge. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro
Rocher de la Vierge. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

There is an old folk tale that claims the Rock of the Virgin celebrates the miraculous return of a group of whalers who, in 1864 while hunting whales, were caught in a storm when the sea suddenly became extremely rough. Despite being close to the coast, they were unable to reach the Old Port of Biarritz and were sure that they wouldn’t survive.

At one point, they saw a miraculous light which guided them to shore. In honor of this, a statue of the virgin was installed in the rock. Soon after, the Rocher de la Vierge was united with the mainland by a wooden bridge constructed by orders of Napoleon III. Ever since, the inhabitants of Biarritz and tourists make the walk from the mainland to the outcropped rocks as a local ritual. The walk offers magnificent views of the Bay of Biarritz and the Basque coast. If you want to avoid the crowds head there early. This attraction is free to visit and open every day.

Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro
Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

Photograph the Villa Belza

Villa Belza. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro
Villa Belza. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

Villa Belza is among the iconic buildings of Biarritz – and for good reason. Located near the Port Vieux, this 19th century marvel is located on a rocky promontory. Through the years this building has served a variety of different purposes including everything from a hotel to a bunker. Today, it has been divided into private apartments so it can’t be visited by tourists. However, you should definitely photograph this building while in Biarritz. There are several vantage points to photograph Villa Belza from different angles and perspectives.

Go up the lighthouse

Biarritz lighthouse. France. Credit: Carry on Caro

Built in 1834, the Biarritz lighthouse stands 73 meters above sea level. This lighthouse can be seen from basically any spot of the coast of Biarritz. To reach the top, you’ll have to climb 248 steps and you will be rewarded with 360 degrees panoramic views of the coast of Biarritz, the Pyrenees and the Landes coast. If you can, head to the lighthouse during sunset to watch the sky turn shades of orange. You can book the tickets to visit the lighthouse on the official website. The cost (as of December 2022) is 5 euros for adults.

Visit the Port Vieux (Old Port)

This part of Biarritz was among my favorites. The Port Vieux is a charming and quaint village where you can walk next to the fishermen’s old crampottes – the small cottages where they used to live. Also, the secluded Port Vieux Beach offers calm waters that are sheltered by rocks.

Photograph the Port des Pêcheurs

Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro
Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

The Port des Pêcheurs seems quite modest compared to the grandeur of Biarritz. This port was originally built by Napoleon III’s order for the fishermen in the 1800s. This port is a great place stroll where you can photograph the boats and the lighthouse in the background.

Soak in the sun at the Grande Plage

Grande Plage. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro
Grande Plage. Biarritz, France. Credit: Carry on Caro

This is the most popular beach in Biarritz and for good reason. In the summer months it’s packed with locals and tourists alike who want to enjoy its golden sand. Choose between renting one of the traditional striped beach tents and relax, swim, or surf in its magnificent waters. The beach is dotted with wonderful cafes and restaurants where you can sit, observe people strolling on the boardwalk and enjoy everything that Biarritz has to offer. With their impressive architecture, the Hôtel du Palais and the Casino Barrière are both located at the Grande Plage.

Head to the Miremont Patisserie Salon de The

This patisserie which opened in the 19th century is located at 1 Bis, Place George Clemenceau. Its traditional family recipes are still passed down from generation to generation making sure the specialties remain throughout the years.

Miremont offers a magnificent selection of pastries and coffee to satisfy your sweet tooth as well as a magnificent view towards the ocean. You can also get some chocolate and other delicious pastries to take home. I have to say that it’s a bit on the expensive side, but again, is everything in Biarritz.

Try your luck at the Casino Barrière de Basque Biarritz

Casino Barrière is one of the top attractions of Biarritz. Offering a wide variety of games table, slot machines and poker tournaments this casino is a must visit. However, Casino Barrière offers more than just games to try your luck -it has brasseries, bars, and an Italian-style theater.

Visit the aquarium

Get close to rays, sharks, seahorses and 150 species of fish and invertebrates at the Biarritz aquarium. Located in an impressive architectural building, the Biarritz aquarium allows you to enjoy a fascinating display of ocean life. Spread over 4 floors, there are several exhibits at the museum including model ships, nautical instruments and hunting equipment. Make sure you don’t miss the seals at feeding time – an amazing spectacle.

The aquarium is located in the old harbor, close to the Rocher de la Vierge and a just short walk from the city center, making it convenient to visit it.

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View of the Singel canal. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Viator tours in Amsterdam you absolutely must do

Canals, walking tours, and tasty bites. Amsterdam is the perfect city to visit multiple times.

It doesn’t matter how many times you visit Amsterdam; you will always discover something new and fall in love with its crooked houses, charming canals and narrow streets.

Below is a curated list of the best Viator tours we recommend while you visit Amsterdam. We selected the tours that have the best ratings and paid special attention to those which have a badge of excellence. We hope this list is useful for you and it saves you hours and hours of browsing through tours.

All-inclusive Canal Tour by Captain Jack (Traveler Choice Award 2022)

A canal tour is the most obvious must-do in a city of full of canals – Amsterdam has 165! This is especially true, if you are visiting the city for the first time; you should experience the city in the way locals have been doing for centuries…from the water. The All-inclusive Canal Tour by Captain Jack is a family-friendly cruise with a maximum capacity of 20 passengers on-board.

On this tour you’ll hop on aboard the boat, sip some adult beverages, and explore the wonderful scenery as you slowly navigate through the canals. Some of the landmarks, just to name a couple, are the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House. Of course you’ll not just learn fun facts and stories about this wonderful city, but you can do so relaxing with a cocktail. Multiple departure times: choose to see the city by day or at night.

Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip from Amsterdam (Badge of Excellence)

While Amsterdam is an amazing and cultured city, it would be a shame not to venture to the countryside. The first stop of this tour is Zaanse Schans – where you will have time to visit a typical Dutch clog shop (make sure to buy a pair of the famed shoes) where you’ll learn how and why these wooden shoes were made. Afterwards comes the best part as you’ll stop by a cheese factory, so show up hungry and see if you can get as many free samples as possible (just kidding!).

Later you will head to Giethoorn, usually referred as the “Venice of the North” – this is the true gem of the tour. In this village, cars are not allowed and the only means of transportation are boats, bikes and of course on foot. Hop on to a boat trip to view the farmhouses, sail under the bridges, and cross lake Bovenwijde. After your boat tour, you’ll have time for yourself to explore this enchanting village.

Van Gogh Museum – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour. Reserved Entry Included (Badge of Excellence)

If you are looking for a personalized experience when visiting the Van Gogh Museum, look no more. There is no better way to experience one of Amsterdam’s top attractions. This exclusive museum tour with your very own private guide allows you to bypass the lines at the Van Gogh Museum (which are often quite long) and admire the amazing works of Van Gogh.

During the tour you will not only learn about the painter’s masterpieces including “Sunflowers” but also discover some of his rarest works of art. You will also be able to view pieces of those artists who served as major influences such as Gauguin and Monet. And if the tour concludes and you still want to continue exploring keep in mind that your entrance ticket is valid all day.

Bike Tour of Amsterdam’s Highlights and Hidden Gems! (Badge of Excellence)

What better way to discover the magic of Amsterdam than by bike? Amsterdam is a city of bikes and the tour will give you that “local” experience. This small-group tour is especially beneficial for those people who don’t have much time to spend in the city and want to explore as many highlights as possible. Bike next to the historic canal ring, the beautiful neighborhood of The Jordaan and then head to the museum square where the Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum are located.

The guide will provide you with information about Amsterdam’s city and culture while you discover secret spots. The small nature of this tour allows you to get a more personalized experience.

Skip-the-line Keukenhof Ticket and Transport from Amsterdam

The Keukenhof is among the largest flower parks in the world and one of the country’s most photographed spots (for good reason!). Located close to Amsterdam the Keukenhof features over 7 million flower bulbs including tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.

This 5-hour tours departs from Amsterdam’s central station and takes you by air-conditioned bus. Once you arrive, you’ll skip the long lines and to enjoy around 3 hours to explore the park on your own before the return trip to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam’s Jordaan District Small-Group Food Walking Tour (Badge of Excellence)

This culinary walking tour will allow you to soak up cultural highlights and munch on delicious bites in the beautiful neighborhood of Joordan. The guide will take you to the best foodie hotspots to try local delicacies such as smoked sausage, creamy Gouda and pickled herring.

The tour is limited to 12 people which ensures a more personalized experience. Take the opportunity to discover the history and culture of this neighborhood while enjoying food from eateries that keep ancient Dutch culinary traditions alive.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

Basílica de Santa María del Coro. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro

Viator tours in San Sebastián you can’t miss

San Sebastián is a gem of a city combining the best of the Basque Country has to offer – gastronomy, beaches, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere that extends past the city limits. To make sure you don’t miss out on anything, we curated the best tours to do while you are visiting the amazing city of San Sebastián. Don’t waste time going through dozens of tours or staring aimlessly at a guidebook– below are our top 7 tours that will give you the best all-around experience.

All the tours featured below are offered by Viator, our favorite website offering tours you’ll remember forever. Some of these tours include the Viator Badge of Excellence – which means that the experience is highly rated by travelers and has met Viator’s top quality standards. As you may have gathered, we use this company quite a bit as it provides a broad range of attractions and tour options.

Small-group electric bike tour

San Sebastián is not a massive metropolis, and everything is fairly close by, so what better way to explore this city than by electric bike? The Small-Group Electric Bike Tour allows you to experience the main attractions of this magnificent city as well as some hidden charming spots. The best part of this tour is that the easy-to-ride bike allows you to see many more attractions than you could do on foot. The electric bike is a major plus for because there are some steep hills with must see attractions, making it easier to include while you explore. We highly recommend this for those visitors who don’t have much time in the city and want to have a flexible option for transportation.

This tour includes some of the best attractions the city offers; you will ride along the boardwalk to explore La Concha beach, Monte Igueldo, and many other key landmarks. The best part? This tour will take you to overlooked areas including the university and sports quarter, so you can truly get a sense of this gorgeous city. The small tour – which allows for a maximum of 4 participants- gives you a semiprivate and much more personalized experience than other options.

Ultimate San Sebastián pintxos & wine tour (Evening)

If you are in San Sebastián, you absolutely MUST try the amazing pintxos (Basque tapas). For a city that is considered home to the best cuisine in the world, what better way to do dive right in than taking this small-group food tour? The Ultimate San Sebastian pintxos & wine tour takes you to six renewed pintxos bars (please eat very lightly the day of the tour!) and meet the families managing these tasty restaurants. This is a small tour (eight people max) and will be a great opportunity to do what the locals do – pintxo hop across town and discover what life really means in San Sebastián. This tour has a Viator Badge of Excellence.

San Sebastián private sailing tour

San Sebastián is a coastal city with a couple natural bays and steeped in nautical culture. The city naturally pulls visitors and locals towards the sea, as you will notice tons of boats dotting the bays. Do like the locals and soak in the city from a different perspective by hopping aboard a private sailboat, just for yourself and your family or friends. You can relax on the deck, immerse yourself in the panoramic views of the coast, or take a refreshing swim. And don’t forget your camera as you will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of San Sebastián’s shoreline.

Bilbao, Guggenheim and Gaztelugatxe small group tour with lunch from San Sebastián

Even though there is plenty to do in San Sebastián, it will be a shame not to venture and discover the beauty of the Basque Country. This tour which features stops in Bilbao, Guggenheim and Gaztelugatxe, is a small group tour with lunch from San Sebastián. It will take you to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a magical and unique place. Be ready to hike to the hermitage church and get amazing views of the Bay of Biscay and sea arches along the way. Next you will head to Bilbao where you will explore the city on foot including the old town and the Guggenheim. After so much walking you probably will feel hungry so take some time to relax over lunch at a traditional restaurant and enjoy sone local pintxos.

Hondarribia and Pasaia (San Pedro & San Juan) Tour

Join the Hondarribia and Pasaia (San Pedro & San Juan) Tour and discover these two charming seaside villages. If you like to visit the small villiages that dot the European landscape, this tour is a can’t miss. Get ready to walk on quaint cobblestone streets, pop into tiny cafés. and experience the charm of village life along the way. Your first stop will be Hondarribia to visit the historic center and then cross to Pasai San Pedro by boat – so you’ll have some exciting paths to take. This is a small group tour, of around 8 people max, and it offers hotel pick up; it also boats the Viator Badge of Excellence.

Walking tour of the old town

San Sebastián is steeped in history, and the best part to see it all is the old town. This Walking Tour Old town of San Sebastián is a great option to experience the best attractions the city has to offer. You will first stop by the Ayuntamiento de San Sebastián where you will learn about the curious purpose of its construction.

Then you will head to the Mercado de la Bretxa where you will find the typical and fresh ingredients of Basque cuisine, make sure you get a snack of Jamon while you explore the market. Next is the Plaza de la Constitución, located in the heart of the old town where you will be surrounded by some of the most beautiful buildings of the Belle Epoque found in the city. A short walk away is the Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro, which is over 200 years old and survived a fire. Its facade is one of the best examples of Baroque in San Sebastián.

The last three stops of the tour are the San Vicente church, an ancient construction from the 16th century, the San Telmo Museo which showcases the history of the Basque Country and its people, along with other temporary exhibitions, and Monte Urgull with its panoramic views above the city.

History and flavors of San Sebastián with lunch

This for me is the best of both worlds – you soak up some history while gorging on delicious food. The History and flavors of San Sebastián with lunch tour gives visitors a a glimpse of San Sebastián’s food, history, and culture; a holistic cultural view that connects you with the locals directly. And the best part? Enjoy tasting the best “pintxos” of the city, as well as typical beverages from the Basque Country and beyond. Stroll past the Bay of La Concha while you digest and learn about the city’s history. This tour is limited to only 8 people and has a Viator Badge of Excellence.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

La Concha Beach. San Sebastian, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Best things to do in San Sebastián

When you dream about the best vacation spot do you think of panoramic views and crystal-clear beaches? If yes, then head to San Sebastián. Believe me, you won’t be the only one as San Sebastián attracts a whole range of tourists; from the chic jet set to bohemian surfers. This city – located in the Basque Country- is without a doubt among the top spots for a beach vacation in Europe.

The most striking feature of this city is its world-famous boardwalk. Dotted by Belle Époque buildings and with magnificent views towards the twin mountain bookends, Monte Igueldo and Monte Urgull, the boardwalk is a great place to enjoy a peaceful stroll or grab a bike and exercise.

I recommend that you get to San Sebastián with an empty belly. San Sebastián has 11 restaurants with three Michelin stars. In fact, San Sebastián places second in the cities with the greatest concentration of Michelin star restaurants per square kilometer. Make your trip a culinary delight and explore these restaurants; I’m sure they will not disappoint.

In San Sebastián (and the Basque Country overall) it rains a lot. In fact, when we looked at the weather app there was rain expected for the 5 days we were going to be there. We almost had a heart attack! The rain is sporadic and a totally cloudy day can easily give to sunny skies in a couple of hours so don’t worry.

Explore La Concha beach

La Concha Beach. San Sebastian, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
La Concha Beach. San Sebastian, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

La Concha beach – named because of its seashell shape- is San Sebastian’s gem and one of the city’s most popular icons – you can find its image in several postcards and marketing products of the city. Considered one of Europe’s finest city beaches, La Concha beach stretches about a mile wide and offers spectacular views of Monte Urgull, Monte Igueldo and Santa Clara Island, not to mention of the extraordinary buildings that dot the coastline of La Concha.

Whether you stroll down the boardwalk, take a swim in its crystal-clear waters or take a boat trip to the nearby Santa Clara island, La Concha Beach will take your breath away. If you are planning to spend the day at La Concha note that this beach offers facilities such as sunshades to protect you from the sun as well as toilets, showers and lockers to take the experience of going to the beach to the next level. Do not miss the opportunity to photograph La Concha beach from different angles. I guarantee that each photo you take will be better than the last! If you want the full experience, rent a boat for the day and relax in the bay.

Go up to Monte Igueldo for the best views over the city

View from Monte Igueldo. Credit: Carry on Caro
View from Monte Igueldo. Credit: Carry on Caro

Monte Igueldo offers the most amazing views over San Sebastián. To get to the top of Monte Igueldo, take the funicular -the oldest funicular railway in the Basque Country -located at the base of the hill. The experience of riding the funicular went smoothly for us except when we decided to go back… The line to ride down was extremely long and took us almost an hour to get down.

The worst part was that there was no shade when we were in line which was really uncomfortable. I’m not sure if this is something that happens regularly, or it was a one-time thing. We paid around 3 euros for the roundtrip. Note that you can also walk up to the top (plan to walk for an hour approximately) or drive; the parking lot is located up-hill close to the amusement park.

Once you are at the top of Monte Igueldo there are several activities you can do. Climb up to the Monte Igueldo Tower to get even higher views. This tower was built back in 1778 and it served as a lighthouse. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the lighthouse and La Concha beach. There is also an old-school amusement park with several rides including a roller coaster and go-carts along with a few food/adult beverage options.

Take photos of the Peine del Viento sculptures

Peine del Viento. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro
Peine del Viento. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro

El Peine del Viento are three steel sculptures by Eduardo Chillida located near the Playa de Ondarreta. An icon of the city, the Peine del Viento are anchored to the rocks so the wind will be “combed” at La Concha Beach. This is an amazing place, full of peace and quiet where the only sound that can be heard is the sound of the waves.

Visit the Aquarium

San Sebastian Aquarium. Basque Country, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Sebastian Aquarium. Basque Country, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

The San Sebastián Aquarium is one of the first oceanographic museums in Europe. Located in the harbor right at the base of Monte Urgull, the Aquarium gives you the chance to look at the skeleton of an 11-meter North Atlantic Right whale, see extraordinary reproductions of historic ships and view a vast collection of corals, crustaceans and seashells.

But without a doubt, the best attraction of the Aquarium is the Oceanarium, a 360-degree view tunnel that allows you to observe more than 40 species of fish and 5 species of sharks. And if you visit the Aquarium on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 12:00 pm you can see how sharks gets fed. Fascinating isn’t it? As of 2022, the entrance ticket is 14 euros for adults and 7 euros for children aged 4-12.

Explore the lighthouse

Lighthouse. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro
Lighthouse. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro

Built in 1855 by to prevent boats from shattering against the rocks, the lighthouse sits on the side of Monte Igueldo that faces out towards the high sea. From the terrace of the lighthouse you can make enjoy the coastline and beautiful sunsets. This lighthouse replaced the tower located at the peak of Monte Igueldo which used a fixed light to warn thousands of sailors of possible dangers.

This is one of the best spots to take the iconic panoramic photo of the city: you’ll have a full view of La Concha beach and the bay.

Explore the Old Town (La Parte Vieja)

Basílica de Santa María del Coro. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro

The Old Town of San Sebastián is full of pedestrian-friendly and charming streets, restaurants and shops. Don’t be afraid to get lose in the maze of small streets and remember to look up to see the beautiful building facades dating back to the mid-19th century.

The Old Town is the perfect place to get the famous pintxos which are very similar to tapas. Note that at night this part of town gets full and it’s a bit difficult to find a place to eat. In San Sebastián and in Spain more generally, locals love eating late so don’t be surprised if you see the restaurants at their fullest at 11:00pm. A few places that are worth a stop in the Old Town are the San Vicente Church, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus and Plaza de la Constitución.

Stop by the Mercado de La Bretxa

Mercado de La Bretxa. San Sebastian, Basque Country. Credit: Carry on Caro

Mercado de La Bretxa is a market located in the basement of a mall in the Old Town. There is a wide selection of Jamon Iberico, wine, olives and other fresh ingredient that can be purchased. I recommend you stop by this market to purchase some local delicacies.

Go hiking in Monte Urgull

Castillo de la Mota. Monte Urgull. Credit: Carry on Caro
Castillo de la Mota. Monte Urgull. Credit: Carry on Caro

Located above the Old City of San Sebastián, Monte Urgull offers magnificent hiking opportunities where you will be rewarded with panoramic views over the city. There are several viewpoints along the way giving you the opportunity to photograph La Concha beach, Monte Igueldo as well as the castle and fortifications. Make sure you take the time to enter the fortress, as it not only has a great museum of the city’s history but you can go up the tower to the uppermost level and get the only view of the entire city.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

Hiking from Bâlea Lake to Lake Capra. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Transylvania pictures that will make you want to visit

Get ready to pack your suitcases and explore one of Europe’s hidden gems…and you don’t need to bring any garlic!

Transylvania, simply put, is breathtaking. We all have our notions of Transylvania, whether it flashes of vampires and monsters, quaint European villages from a different time, or towering mountains, none of it comes close to the actual beauty of the region.

With its picturesque towns and mysterious aura, this area of Romania is a must see when visiting the country. Trust me, Romania is much more than Count Dracula – there are plenty of castles, palaces, and tons of hiking trails to visit when traveling. You will be surprised by how much there is to do, so if your schedule allows, try spending a couple of couple of days here.

Transylvania (and Romania in general) is one of the countries that exceeded my expectations. Before going, I only had glimpses of how gorgeous this part of the world was from photos, but I was not prepared to be blown away. I hope these photos will inspire you to travel to this beautiful country, and have your breath taken away.

Medieval castles…

The magnificent Corvin Castle. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
The magnificent Corvin Castle. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

There are two amazing castles that I recommend you visit when in Transylvania. The first is Corvin Castle. Corvin Castle is in the city of Hunedoara and it’s among the 7 wonders of Romania – a list which catalogues Romania’s most spectacular manmade structures. Head to the castle and learn about the several legends, some ghostly in nature, that surround it. The exterior façade is by far the most striking feature of the castle, but don’t miss the chance to experience the interior of this stunning fortification.

The other castle worth visiting is probably one of the most famous ever built – Bran Castle. Perched atop a 200-foot-high rock in the town of Bran, this castle is known for its association with the world’s most famous vampire; it served as the inspiration for “Castle Dracula” in Bram Stoker’s horror novel. Some of the best views are from the interior grounds, so make sure you take the tour. As you tour the castle, you’ll see antique furniture, armor and weapons from the 14th century, and explore the winding staircases that connect to 60 rooms. Don’t worry, this isn’t the only Dracula associated location on the list.

Bran Castle in Transylvania. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Bran Castle in Transylvania. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

…and imposing fortresses

Rasnov Fortress in Romania. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Rasnov Fortress in Romania. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Transylvania is home to several fortress, it was a crucial part of the area’s defense against its Ottoman neighbors. Rasnov Fortress, however, is one of the most memorable. Located just 6 miles away from Bran, and 9 miles from Brasov, this fortress is an absolute must-see. Rasnov Fortress is located up a hill 650 feet above the town. You can walk up, take the train or the cable car – take your pick.

The highlight here is the interior courtyard with enchanting medieval tile-roofed houses. You will want to definitely photograph this part of the fortress as it’s really picturesque. One things this fortress has, is the charming town of Rasnov; make sure to walk around and enjoy a bite to eat on your way to the next destination.

The interior courtyard of Rasnov Fortress hosts enchanting medieval tile-roofed houses. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
The interior courtyard of Rasnov Fortress hosts enchanting medieval tile-roofed houses. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Another fortress worth visiting is Poenari Castle. And trust me, you will want to have a high level of energy when you decide to visit it. Why? Because to get to the top you will need to climb 1480 concrete steps. But don’t worry if you get tired on the way up as there a few benches scattered along the way to help you catch your breath. So why should you make the herculean effort to visit? This is actually one of the real Dracula’s castles.

Vlad built this castle to serve as a defense point against invaders, and today’s you’ll find some impaled dummies at the base for some authentic vibes. Additionally, the view is to kill for! This was one of the best views we saw, as you can see the countryside in all directions for miles.

Reaching the top of the Poenari Fortress. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Reaching the top of the Poenari Fortress. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Winding roads

The Transfagarasan road offers a unique experience: driving in one of the most scenic highways in the world.
The Transfagarasan road offers a unique experience: driving in one of the most scenic highways in the world. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Driving Romania’s Transfagarasan Road is an amazing experience as you will be driving in one of the most scenic highways in the world. What’s makes this road unique is its tight serpentine path as sharps turns are bountiful and there are several ascents and descends to give you many perspectives of the mountain range you are on.

Driving at the normal Romanian speed limit (which is well above the one suggested on the roadside signs) while on Transfagarasan is 100% an adrenaline rush. Thankfully the road is really well-maintained so don’t be afraid. As you drive the Transfagarasan Road you will encounter a majestic landscape dotted by the Făgăras mountains in the background.

Along the route, you will see many cabins located on the mountains – these can range from large hotel style cabins to tiny little hostels perfect for a night’s sleep. They all have their charm but the best by far is found at Bâlea Lake.

Breathtaking hikes

View of Bâlea Lake from above.
View of Bâlea Lake from above. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The highest point of the Transfagarasan road is Bâlea Lake which is a glacier lake located at 2042 meters of altitude in the Făgăraș Mountains. This is the most magical spot in all of Romania, and it’s perfect to spend a day or two hiking.

Here expect to encounter breathtaking scenery with the mountains and cabin surrounding the lake. There are many hiking options, ranging from novice to expert, so you can’t go wrong exploring. The cabin also has a good restaurant which is perfect to refuel before you head out. You don’t have to leave so soon, I recommend you stay the night and really get the full experience.

Picturesque towns

Beautiful Sighisoara. Credit: Christian Bergara
Beautiful Sighisoara. Credit: Christian Bergara

Romania is chalk full of towns tucked away on the hillsides. It’s really hard to pick which is the most picturesque towns because it seems every town has its own charm. However some of my favorites include Brasov, Sibiu, Sighisoara and Rasnov, and they all can be done in a loop leaving from Bucharest.

One of the best towns is Sighisoara, the birth place of Vlad Tepes, AKA Dracula. Actually, it’s possible to visit the house where he was born right next to the town center. While there is a vampire themed restaurant on the first level, I recommend you go directly to the second level. It’s a small attraction, but full of surprises. It’s not all about Dracula as there are several things to do in this quaint town.

Among the attractions is the watch tower that has views all the way to Bulgaria. After you visit the tower, take your time and wander around the tiny streets, photographing the colorful houses and getting a bite to eat. The citadel square is the center of the town, and is also quite picturesque.

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La Sagrada Familia. Barcelona, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Viator tours in Barcelona you can’t miss

Located in northeastern Spain’s Catalunya region, Barcelona draws people from all over the world…and with good reason. The city is known for the amazing works of Gaudí, a mix of emblematic architecture, art, and amazing food. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, and whether you are sipping a vermouth while peoplewatching, or scaling up Monserrat, you will not be bored. From leisurely strolling Park Güell, to visiting the largest unfinished Roman Catholic church – La Sagrada Familia – and admiring the unconventional architecture of La Pedrera, Barcelona will quickly steal your heart.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with everything this city has to offer. Therefore, we have compiled below the best tours you should book while visiting Barcelona. All these tours are from Viator – our favorite website from booking tours which never disappoints. If you end up booking any of the highlighted tours in this post leave us a comment about your experience – we’d love to know how it went.

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Visiting La Sagrada Familia when in Barcelona is a absolute must do. Some even say that you haven’t been to Barcelona if you haven’t visited the Sagrada Familia. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage this Gaudí masterpiece is fascinating; not only will you be mesmerized from the church’s exterior (which itself goes beyond architecture and veers into the avant garde art realm) but the interior is otherworldly in how the lights and colors play off the sculptures. This is Gaudí’s swansong, and it’s no wonder such a complicated work of art is taking over 100 years to finish building. Make sure to visit the crypt where you will find Gaudí’s tomb.

The only downside of this cathedral is the number of tourists that visit it. Expect long lines and sometimes up to two hours wait. I highly recommend you purchase the Fast Track Sagrada Familia Guided Tour which allows you to skip the long lines. A guide will accompany you to this tour where you will learn the history of La Sagrada Familia while also learning about Gaudí, the building’s charismatic creator. Trust me, don’t waste time doing the queue.

Let Montserrat Monastery take your breath away

Montserrat Monastery. Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
Montserrat Monastery. Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Monserrat is a breathtaking Benedictine monastery located approximately an hour away from Barcelona. Nestled among rocky mountains, Montserrat offers amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. I can’t recommend enough visiting Montserrat, especially for hikers. The monastery offers you lots of things to do – visit the church, monastery, a great art museum, hike along the mountain, to name a few.

The Montserrat Half-Day Tour with Tapas and Gourmet Wines Tour allows you to visit the Montserrat Monastery which is home of the “Black Madonna” often referred by other names including “The Virgin of Montserrat” and “La Moreneta”. It is tradition to either kiss or touch the Virgin’s hand whilst opening out your other hand to Jesus. After seeing all the highlights in Montserrat you will have free time to enjoy traditional food made by the monks or farmers.

The tour ends with a visit to the vineyards of Oller del Mas, a winery housed in a 10th-century castle. Here you will descend into the cellars to learn about the production methods, and sample signature wines alongside a cold tapas lunch with dessert. Enjoy!

Enjoy a Spanish cooking experience

One of the highlights of our trip to Barcelona was enjoying the delicious food the city offers. Let’s be honest, you cannot go wrong choosing a place to eat. However, a really cool idea is to learn some traditional recipes to take back home. Join the Interactive Spanish Cooking Experience in Barcelona and get immersed in the country’s culture by learning how to make tapas, paella and sangria with a Barcelona chef.

Fresh ingredients are key; this tour starts with a visit to La Boqueria – the world famous market in the city where you will find all manner of goodies to eat; each stalls offering the highest quality food and some will even prepare what you purchase as a meal (make sure to get a “cone of jamon” to snack on in between meals).

Then you will head to the professional teaching kitchen. This is a hands-on class that includes dinner, drinks and a snack – just make sure you arrive with your belly as empty as possible. When the paella is done, sit down to the meal you’ve prepared, savoring the rich flavor of the rice and seafood (a non-seafood meal option is served by the chef for those who don’t eat seafood).

360º Barcelona: Walking, helicopter flight & sailing

Ready to explore Barcelona by air, water and land? Then join the 360º Barcelona: Old town walking, helicopter flight & sailing tour. This is the best tour to get a holistic grasp of the city, and it will give you some of the best photo ops. You will first visit Barcelona’s Old Town where you will begin wandering the picturesque streets of this charming neighborhood, marvel at the impressive facade of the Barcelona Cathedral and stop by the Gothic Quarter. Don’t forget your camera as there are plenty of hidden gems throughout and to capture the cool atmosphere of Old Town.

Afterwards, hop on a catamaran for a relaxing cruise starting from the Old Port. Take the time to relax here because the next stop is climbing aboard a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the city and surroundings – get ready to soar high above the city for magnificent views that will be imprinted in your mind forever.

Experience the Park Güell with skip the line tickets

Park Guell. Barcelona, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
Park Guell. Barcelona, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Park Güell offers visitors a place where they can be awed by magnificent architectural and natural heritage blending seamlessly together. However, it’s most famous for its breathtaking views over Barcelona.

Needless to say, this is one of the most popular locations to visit in the city, and it will be packed throughout the day. When I visited Park Güell earlier this year, a guy next to me was trying to get into the park but since he didn’t buy his ticket in advance, the guards didn’t allow him in as the park was full. Lesson learned? Get your ticket in advance. Even better, get the skip the line tour and don’t waste time in line. The Park Güell Guided Tour with Skip the Line Tickets will let you explore the park with its modernist structures and colored tiles while also learning about the history and architecture of one of Gaudí’s masterpieces.

Explore Casa Batlló

Casa Batllo. Baarcelona, Spain. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Casa Batllo. Baarcelona, Spain. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Located in one of Barcelona’s most iconic avenues, Casa Batlló is among the cities’ most eye-catching buildings. The block gets full of tourists trying to take pictures of the marvelous building, so make sure to get there early. While the façade is absolutely brilliant, the interior of the house is just as breathtaking as Gaudí pushed the world’s architectural limits and imagination.

The Casa Batlló Admission Ticket with Intelligent Audio Guide Tour will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in newer additions to Casa Batlló, including the Gaudí Dome and Cube while learning about the architect’s famed life and inspirations. Note that this attraction gets really busy, as many of tourists will merge with the entrance line, so purchasing this skip the line ticket will save you time.

Check out Barcelona on a hot-air balloon flight

What better way to see a city than from above?! Join an early morning hot-air balloon excursion to enjoy the amazing Barcelona cityscape and local landmarks including the Pyrenees Mountains, the Mediterranean and the famous Montserrat. Flying in the early morning ensures the most optimal flying conditions – light from the sunrise guarantees amazing views but temperatures tend to be cooler.

The Hot-Air Balloon Flight Over Catalonia will climb up to heights of up to 3,000 feet (900 meters) during the 1- to 1.5-hour flight. Then, conclude the flight with a snack and a Champagne toast as you go over your favorite parts of flight you just experienced!

Kayak and Snorkel day tour to la Costa Brava

Let’s face it, Barcelona is a city with a beach and Catalonia has miles of pristine beaches along it’s famed Costa Brava. Since you’re already going to enjoying some beach time, what better way to experience the amazing coastline of Costa Brava than from the water? Join the Kayak and Snorkel Day Tour to la Costa Brava from Barcelona to enjoy the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.

Get ready to snorkel and meet the marine life and go kayaking to explore coves and small underwater caves. All your gear and equipment is provided at the time of your excursion and a deli-style lunch will be served. You can’t beat Spanish jamon and a day in the water. Round-trip transport aboard a comfortable coach is also offered from a central location

Enjoy a Flamenco Night

Originating in southern Spain’s Andalucia, flamenco is now the country’s national dance. Barcelona just happens to have one of the most legendary venues for Experience exhilarating flamenco performances, Tablao Cordobes. Join the Skip the Line Ticket: Flamenco Night at Tablao Cordobes, Barcelona and cheer on a talented troupe of flamenco dancers as a unique display of agility, passion and energy is demonstrated on stage.

While you soak up the electric atmosphere of one of Spain’s most famous flamenco venues, you can opt to enjoy a traditional Spanish buffet or refreshing drink while watching the show. Tablao Cordobes attracts the best performers of flamenco, internationally-renowned flamenco dancers take the stage for a truly memorable experience. It’s a great introduction to Barcelona culture, and an ideal choice for your first evening in the city.

Immerse yourself in Spain’s football culture

An absolute must do it visit FC Barcelona’s stadium, located in Les Corts which is about a 20 minute drive from the Sagrada Familia. Delve into FC Barcelona’s history on an independent tour of Camp Nou stadium. With the Camp Nou – F.C.Barcelona Open Date Ticket you’ll be able to skip the lines with your priority access ticket and retrace the footsteps of the clubs (and rival) football (soccer) legends.

Here, you will be able to walk onto the pitch and be awed by 360-degree views of the largest stadium in Europe. Visit the locker room, presidential suite, and press room, then you’ll head to the FC Barcelona Museum, where you find the club’s expansive trophy collection along with interactive exhibits. Skip-the-line admission to Camp Nou is the best way to visit this museum of the world’s most popular sport.

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San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country. Spain

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain: Best viewpoints, hiking info and tips

Ready to explore one of Game of Thrones most breathtaking filming locations?

The pitter-patter drizzle which slowly drenches ancient stones gives way to a timid sun as the salt hangs thick in the air. Dragons suddenly burst through the clouds, flying high above a meandering staircase leading to a cruel castle of black stone. Circling in the air, the little light glistening off their scales from the sun’s desperate attempts to reflect in the water, the dragons finally land on this impenetrable fortress, Game of Throne’s Dragonstone.

Like many, I was blown away by this scene which dutifully highlights the serpentine staircase jutting out into the bay and winding its way up an island to the Targaryen fortress. Little did I know it was an actual location, and once I found out it immediately became my next bucket list travel to-do. Surrounded by unspoiled beaches and cliffs, untouched San Juan de Gaztelugatxe should be on top of the list of places to visit while in the Basque Country.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a magical and unique place; it looks like a mythical location straight from folklore. Its name, which is in Basque, means “castle on the rocks” – which is delightful irony for those Game of Thrones fans.

Through the years, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe served as an actual fortress during battles, including resistance against the crown of Castile or to fight attacks from pesky pirates. Despite its violent past, it’s also a place with religious ties. Sailors and fishermen have packed the island with votive offerings for protecting their boats. Today, a hermitage sits atop of the craggy island, reflecting Gaztelugatxe’s peaceful and spiritual evolution. Legend has it when you reach the hermitage church you should ring the bell three times so that it gives you good luck.

The weather at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Something that you have to be mindful when visiting is the weather. In the Basque Country it rains a lot. Sometimes every day, sometimes multiple times a day. When we visited San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, we started out with some oppressive August heat and humidity, but as soon as we reached the hermitage church we were caught in a downpour.

I should note this was not a regular storm – it was what’s affectionately called “Blizzard Rain” as the wind changes directions ensuring you get soaked even under shelter. Thankfully, we were next to the hermitage church and had a place to stay relatively dry until the rain stopped. Bring a poncho as the weather it’s totally unpredictable.

Tip: Bring comfortable shoes with good traction. If you get caught in the rain having good shoes is essential. The steps can be very slippery so be prepared.

Is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe worth visiting?

Yes, yes, and yes! San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is an incredible place that will take your breath away. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is connected to the Basque coast by a narrow bridge and a winding staircase (with 241 steps). On top of the cliff, there is a hermitage church and a monastery in addition to wonderful views of the Bay of Biscay and sea arches. In fact, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is among the most popular sites in the Basque Country so don’t miss it. It’s an easy day trip from anywhere in the Basque Country and you have a beach town nearby with great surf.

Tip: Note that the stairs are the only way to access the islet making it accessible for people using wheelchairs or taking strollers.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

Getting to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is located between the Basque towns of Bakio and Bermeo along the northern coast of Spain. We drove from my husband’s ancestral town, Bergara, which was about 45 minutes, the same time you’d have to drive if you start from Bilbao. However, we were staying in San Sebastian, and it took us around 1 ½ hours to get back. You can also take a bus (Termibus) from the Bilbao bus station that stops in San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (A3527 Bilbao-Mungia-Bermeo). If you don’t want to drive and prefer to join a tour, I recommend the following:

Entrance tickets to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

The popularity of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has significantly increased in the past years – specifically because Game of Thrones used this as one of it’s iconic filming locations. Now it’s important that you book your ticket online, especially if you are traveling during the high season. Staff will only let you access the island during your allotted date and time during peak months. Tickets are mandatory during:

  • Easter, Christmas and official Spanish holidays
  • Daily from June 15th until the end of September
  • Weekends from the last week of March until the end of the year

The ticket is free and can be reserved on this website. We visited San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in August and got the tickets with a couple of weeks in advance. Even though we booked them earlier we couldn’t get the times we were looking for. My advice? Book as early as possible and book multiple dates in case of weather.

Best viewpoints and hiking trails

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

When you get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe take the Urizarreta, which is the shorter path to the hermitage church. After walking for a few minutes, head to “Begiratokia/Mirador” – where you will have a really nice view of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Get a couple of photos before continuing to walk. Even if you don’t have a ticket, you can still take a photo from this location.

To get to the bridge and commence the ascending trail up to the church you will need to walk approximately a kilometer down to the bridge. The hike goes is rather winding but thankfully there are a few scattered benches to sit down and catch your breath if needed (the hike back can be very tiring).

Once you get to the bridge turn on your camera. This the most famous viewpoint because it was the first scene introducing Dragonstone on Game of Thrones. Like the majority of visitors, this is the best viewpoint, and it will help you capture the mysterious aura that radiates from San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

The next photo location I recommend are the steps to the hermitage church. You should photograph the steps from above as it will give you a chance to capture the winding steps with the mountains in the background.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain. Credit: Carry on Caro

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Gorgeous canal in Amsterdam. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

What to see in Amsterdam in one day: The best itinerary

Check out this itinerary if you only have 24 hours in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is one of the world’s great cities, and it can be hard to figure out what to do in a short time. From strolling alongside the canals to the hectic atmosphere of the Red light District, Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone. To be able to explore everything that Amsterdam has to offer, you will need a few days but even if you only have one day, we have compiled some of our favorite attractions to make sure you maximize your experience.

Thankfully many of Amsterdam’s attractions are located in a small area, so you can walk to most of them.

Tip: As you might know, the Dutch love to ride their bikes. If you are adventurous or short on time, I recommend you rent a bike so you can get to the attractions faster. Biking is serious endeavor in the Netherlands, so please be aware of your surroundings to avoid faster bikes.

9:00 am – Get your energy flowing with a good breakfast

I have to confess I’ve always loved the coffee in the Netherlands. I’m not sure where it comes from, but it is simply perfect – I have never had a bad cup in any of my trips to the country; almost everywhere you go you could get quality coffee. The coffee is a coffee lover’s dream; it’s creamy, not too strong or bitter, and I can’t get enough. And the best thing? An accompanying chocolate or biscuit is always elegantly placed alongside your cup to snack on.

There are several good place for breakfast but Naked Expresso, located right in Dam Square by the Royal Palace, is great and if the line is too long you have another good option right across (there are not many good places to eat in the Dam area, but these two are worth it).

9:30 am – Stop by Dam Square

Dam Square. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Christian Bergara
Dam Square. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Christian Bergara

After your belly is full, the first stop is Dam Square. Here you can visit a few attractions that fall under the obligatory “to do list”. Obviously the most famous is the Royal Palace which holds official receptions. Be prepared for a packed crowd here as there is always something happening whether it is a show, protest, or impromptu spectacle. For a nice view of Dam Square from the top, you can head to the H&M that is nearby. Also here is the Madam Tussaud’s museum where you can take your photo with the most famous characters made of wax.

10:00 am – Visit the canals

View of the Singel canal. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
View of the Singel canal. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

This is a must-do activity while in Amsterdam and since the city is full of canals it’s difficult for you to miss it. I recommend you explore the canals early in the morning while the city is still sleeping and you will have them all to yourself. The most picturesque canals include Singel, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, Brouwersgracht. and Herengracht. They are all next to each other so once you find one you will be able to visit all of them. The morning is also a great opportunity to photograph the reflection of the crooked houses on the water.

Tip: One of the best photo locations spots is the intersection between Leidsegracht and Keizersgracht where you can capture the bridges and crooked houses…and in summer the boats passing by! This is a postcard location so don’t miss it.

Charming Amsterdam canals. Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Charming Amsterdam canals. Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

While you are strolling next to the canals, take a peek at the houseboats – there are nearly 2,500 in the city and they have modern amenities. Honestly these houseboats have privileged views towards the canals.

While you are here take advantage and visit the 9 straatjes (9 streets). Here you can find tiny boutiques and galleries, cozy cafes, and quite original shops. This is a very charming spot in Amsterdam so if you can have time head to this part of town.

11:30 am – View the Westerkerk

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Located at the Prinsengracht canal and close to the Anne Frank’s Museum, you can find the Westerkerk. For a beautiful view of Amsterdam head to the Westerwerk tower. Note the tower is open from April to October and is closed on Sunday. We were in Amsterdam last May and unfortunately every time we tried to visit the tower it was closed.

12:00 pm – Stroll through the Jordaan

The Jordaan is among the most beloved neighborhoods in Amsterdam. Here you can find quaint shows and cafes; lovely canals; vintage shops and crooked houses. This neighborhood was originally populated with the working class but through the years it has become among the most upscale neighborhoods in the country. I’m actually afraid of looking at how much a small house would cost here!

1:00 pm – Rent a bike…

Amsterdam (and the Netherlands as a whole) is a city where you can see bikes everywhere you go. In fact, there are nearly 900,00 bikes in the city and between 12,000 and 15,000 bikes are pulled from the canals every year. Biking through the city is a great opportunity to see more sights in a shorter period of time. But please be careful Dutch people love ride really fast so don’t be surprised if they honk (or angrily ring their bell) at you!

…Or hop on a canal cruise

IMG 4274
Damrak. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

It may sound cheesy for some, but also see if you can hop on a canal cruise. It’s a totally different experience that you shouldn’t miss while visiting the city. If you are in Amsterdam, you must take a canal cruise! Note there are plenty of options to choose from including tours that offer dinner and snacks along with both day and night cruises. There are even private and semi-private tours where you can enjoy the city at your own pace…all with a stacked bar for your leisurely delight.

2:00 pm – Have lunch

Now it’s time for lunch, there are several quaint cafes (what everyone else but the Dutch would call a coffee shop) where you can get a quick bite to eat so I won’t provide any recommendations. If you are looking for more substantial food you can also check out some restaurants or bars located along the canals. And if you are looking to try Dutch snacks, try the bitterballen (meat-based) – they are delicious! For dessert, try the poffertjes, small pancakes topped with powder sugar.

Tip: if you really want to get a solid traditional lunch go to the Upstairs Pannekoekenhuis. It’s so good all the travel shows go there and the Beastie Boys immortalized the restaurant in a song. It’s also on the way to the museums.

3:00 pm – Tour at least one of the museums

Digital Immersive Art exhibition at the Moco Museum. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Digital Immersive Art exhibition at the Moco Museum. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

There are so many extraordinary museums in Amsterdam that it will be difficult to choose just one. In my opinion these are the best museums that are worth a visit. Given the time constraints only choose one.

If you are interested in seeing the works of the Dutch masters including Rembrandt’s famous Nightwatch and Vermeer’s extraordinary Milkmaid, head to the Rijksmuseum. If you want to learn more about Van Gogh’s life and pieces head to the Van Gogh’s Museum, which is located next to the Rijksmuseum. Alternatively, you have MOCO, a private museum showcasing today’s most prominent artists such as Kaws and Banksy. All three are right next to one another, but you will need to book a specific time to visit.

If you want to learn more Anne Frank’s life and her hiding place head to the Anne Frank’s Museum. Please please please get your tickets in advance – specially if you want to visit the Anne Frank’s Museum. Every first Tuesday of the month, all tickets for the following month become available so make sure to get them early.

Tip: There are privately owned or non-profit galleries all around the city so don’t be shy and walk into one you like. The Marc Chagall Gallery is a perfect example where you have a collector showcasing the artist in the one of the few permeant exhibition outside of France.

5:30 pm – Photograph Damrak

Damrak, Amsterdam. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Damrak, Amsterdam. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

This is one of my favorite locations for photographs. The view of the canal, the boats and the colorful and crooked houses make a magnificent photo opportunity. Note that the best lighting is in the afternoon.

6:00 pm – Head to the Groenburgwal canal

Amsterdam canal reflection. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

This canal connects the Raamgracht with the Amstel. What I like the most is the view of the Zuiderkerk reflecting on the canal’s water. The Zuiderkerk was the first Protestant church in the city.

6:30 pm – Red Light District

You can visit this part at any time of the day but for obvious reasons it will be busier at night. This is quite a culture shock for most people; it’s a very nonchalant atmosphere where a potential client “window shops” until they find whatever they are looking for. I say “window shopping” as the workers who are not busy will stand at the window trying to entice potential clients. When a client is booked, the curtains close and a little red light comes on. Please do not take any photos while you are here and also watch out for your belongings as there are pickpockets. My wallet was stolen while I was in this area a few years ago.

We hope you enjoy this itinerary and it will encourage you to visit this amazing city.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Viator and Amazon which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

Amsterdam pictures that will make you want to visit

Pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with one of Europe’s best cities.

For me, Amsterdam is among the most wonderful cities in the whole world. Living here for a couple of years I would wander around town taking nonstop photos. The city, with its narrow streets, picturesque canals, crooked houses, and cobblestone streets, is a photographer’s dream.

Every corner, house, and tiny street are worth photographing so it shouldn’t come as a surprise we ended up taking over 1,000 photos during our visit (my iPhone HATED me). After moving from Amsterdam, I really understood how gorgeous this city truly is and I try to go back as much as I can; my last visit being in May 2022, and I already can’t wait for the next one!

We hope the photos below will encourage you to visit Amsterdam, a place that is near and dear to my heart. Trust me, once you get to know this amazing city you will want to go back again and again!

The crooked houses

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro

I have to confess that I am a bit OCD and having to take photographs of crooked houses makes me want to do something to straighten them! It really blows my mind how owners of these houses are not afraid that the buildings won’t collapse (as some seem do already be on their way to falling over). Think about living in such a house – how do you walk around not falling over and how do the owners hang a picture of the wall? It’s a total mystery to me.

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro

If you are strolling leisurely in Amsterdam maybe you will witness when someone moves in…which is quite an achievement as they have to bring up the furniture through the windows given that the houses are so narrow!

The Canals

Gorgeous canal in Amsterdam. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Gorgeous canal in Amsterdam. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The canals are hands down my favorite part of Amsterdam. They are everywhere in the city and I still can’t find a canal that it’s not charming. Dotted with the cutest houses and lined by trees these canals seem to be out of a Disney movie.

View of the Singel canal. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
View of the Singel canal. Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

There are five canals (Singel, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, Brouwersgracht. and Herengracht) that are the most famous, and by any means you shouldn’t miss – you also find along them the best bars and cafes. Take the opportunity to do a canal cruise (both day and night cruises have their own advantages) and get a glimpse of the city from the water.

Sint Olofssteeg. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Sint Olofssteeg. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Canal water reflections

Damrak, Amsterdam. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Damrak, Amsterdam. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The reflections of the crooked houses on the canals are beautiful to watch. When it’s early in the morning and the city still sleeps, the reflections are at their best. If you can, head to the canals early to capture the amazing landscapes. One of my favorite locations is Damrak (close to central station). Head to this location in the afternoon to get an awesome photo (or maybe several?) of the colorful houses reflected on the water.

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The boat houses

Amsterdam canal. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Amsterdam canal. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

There are a few lucky people in Amsterdam who live in boat houses with privileged views towards the canals. But don’t be fooled, these boat houses are equipped with modern amenities so residents can live here in comfortable conditions. If you are wondering how it is to live on a boat house, head to the Museum of the Canals.

Unpredictable weather

Amsterdam canals. Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Amsterdam canals. Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The weather in Amsterdam is really unpredictable and can change in the blink of an eye. When we arrived, we saw blue skies but very shortly after the sky turned gray and a storm approached. This gave us the opportunity to take amazing photos of the storm. Although while it was raining there wasn’t much sightseeing and we had to hunker down in a cafe…I recommend you always travel to Amsterdam prepared for any weather. This includes bringing a poncho or a compact umbrella – 9 out of 10 times you will end up using these.

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro

Bike city

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carry on Caro

The Dutch love their bikes and maybe that’s why most of them are so fit? They bike to work, they bike to go out, they bike for pleasure, they bike for sport. The bikes are part of the city’s landscape and culture. Rent a bike if you want to experience the city the Dutch way. Also, it’s hard to believe but between 12,000-15,000 bikes are pulled from the canals every year. What an effort!

Get away from the noise

The Begijnhof. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
The Begijnhof. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

In a bustling city, you can still find peace and quiet. The Begijnhof – a quaint medieval inner courtyard – is a perfect location to get away from the noise and crowds. There are people living and working in the Begijnhof so please be respectful and be quiet.

The churches

Amsterdam canal reflection. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Amsterdam canal reflection. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

There are several churches that are worth visiting when in Amsterdam. If you want to see the city from above head to the Westerkerk. Unfortunately, I only learned that it’s possible to go up during my last trip, but it was closed due to COVID restrictions. I’ll have to try again during my next trip! Another church you should photograph is the Zuiderkerk. A really nice photograph is from the Groenburgwal canal.

Dam Square

Dam Square. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Christian Bergara
Dam Square. Amsterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Christian Bergara

The Royal palace is stunning and you should definitely make a stop here for a photo. Note that this area is always crowded – there is always something happening , whether it’s a public spectacle, a royal appearance or a cultural event happening most of the time.

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Windmill De Valk. Leiden, The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Best things to do in Leiden, Netherlands

Explore my top 8 places in Leiden you shouldn’t miss.

Leiden is a beautiful Dutch city which is also crisscrossed by canals and history. Conveniently located only 30 minutes from Amsterdam, and 20 minutes from The Hague, Leiden is a perfect day trip from either of these cities and a must for your itinerary.

We all know Amsterdam is famous for its canals, but in reality, Leiden is the city with the greatest quantity of water flowing through the center of the city. Amazing isn’t it? Leiden’s 88 canals are lined by gabled houses, historic monuments and churches – all in the Dutch style. Leiden is also home to the countries’ oldest university and when visiting you can see a large number of students enjoying what the city has to offer. Take some time to walk around the city and you’ll be greeted by dozens of murals featuring poetry written across walls of houses or important buildings. Below are the best things to do while visiting Leiden:

Visit Molenmuseum De Valk

Windmill De Valk. Leiden, The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Windmill De Valk. Leiden, The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

If you arrive in Leiden central station, the Molenmuseum De Valk is only a short walk away. De Valk is the only windmill in the city of Leiden – out of the original 19 – still standing today. The mill dates back from 1743 and amazingly had to accommodate two families in very tight quarters! The ground floor housed the kitchens, living areas and even a stable of the two houses. The first and second floor were outfitted as the sleeping rooms and the third floor was used as a storage room. The fourth floor along the top of the mill were dedicated exclusively to milling-related activities. The museum has plenty of helpful information about each activity and the miller’s lifestyle. I highly recommend a visit to the mill when in Leiden.

Check the opening hours and entrance fees on the official website

Stroll along the charming canals

Canal in Leiden. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

As with any city in the Netherlands, the canals steal the show. There are plenty of canals dotting the city where you can have a quiet stroll and enjoy the calming sight of the boats passing by. Among the most famous canals is the Rapenburg – considered Leiden’s most beautiful canal.

There are several museums along this canal including the Academiegebouw (the oldest building in Leiden), the National Museum of Antiquities, the Hortus botanicus and the Sieboldhuis. Whenever you need a break head to one of the several cafes and restaurants of the city to enjoy a good meal or cup of coffee with a priceless view.

Canal in Leiden. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Canal in Leiden. The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

If you want to experience the city from a different perspective, take a boat tour – a must do while in the Netherlands. Additionally, if you have the time, sail to “de Kaag” (Kagerplassen) – a lake area located less than 30 minutes from the center of Leiden. There are dozens of windmills and old farms along the water so this would be a perfect trip!

Visit the museums

Leiden has a total of 13 museums so take your pick. The Hortus botanicus is the oldest botanical garden in the country and has a large collection of plan species from several regions including South Africa, Asia and Southern Europe.

For fees and opening hours visit the official website.

The Japan Museum SieboldHuis is another museum worth visiting. Here you will be able to check out a collection of Dutch and Japanese art. You can buy the tickets to this museum online.

The Dutch National Museum of Antiquities lets you explore mummy coffins, statues of Greek and Roman gods and the Egyptian statue of Maya and Merit. This museum is the Netherlands national archeological museum and worth a visit.

For opening hours and entrance fees visit the official website.

Climb the city’s Citadel

Head to the citadel to get panoramic views of the city. The Burcht van Leiden was constructed to defend the city. The citadel was constructed in the 11th century and has walls that are six meters high. The entry is free so head to the citadel if you want to do some exercise and enjoy amazing views of the city and its surroundings.

Check out the wall poetry

When in Leiden, keep your eyes open for the poems that decorate some of the walls. Poems are written in the poet’s original language (including in Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew, Japanese, French, Turkish, Moroccan and Indonesian) but you can find English or Dutch translations next to them. You’ll see poems from the Bard to Rumi along with everyone in between and beyond.

Head to the Morspoort city gate

Leiden, The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela
Leiden, The Netherlands. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The Morspoort (along with the Zijlpoort) are the only remaining city gates still standing in Leiden. This city gate is really picturesque so it’s hard to imagine that in the past it displayed the bodies of hanged criminals. The Morspoort is over four hundred years old and was used as part of the city’s defensive walls. This city gate offers a great photo opportunity so don’t miss this national monument.

Visit Leiden’s churches

Stop by the Pieterskerk church – the oldest church of the city. This late-Gothic Dutch Protestant church houses ancient monuments, stained glass windows and an organ. Here you can also find the grave of the painter Jan Steen. Another church worth visiting is the Hooglandse Kerk located in the historic inner city. This gothic church has most of the structures dating from the 15th century.

Explore the hofjes

Leiden has 35 hofjes (or inner courts) which were constructed between the 13th and 19th centuries. These inner courts were funded by rich benefactors who wanted to build these areas for elderly citizens and poor people who had a critical need for housing. Nowadays students and the elderly enjoy these fairy tale houses. Get your camera ready as you will definitely want to take plenty of photos of these charming nooks.

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