Hi everyone,

The last time we saw the Dolomites—briefly—was back in 1982. Obviously, things have changed dramatically since then, as few Italian tourist spots are spared from crowds these days.

So, I have two questions:

1) When? Which period offers relatively good weather and moderate crowds? I was thinking October, but are the cable cars still running then? And what about accommodations?

2) Where? Which "must-see" spots should we skip? On the other hand, which places should we prioritize?

We’d like to do a few hikes—moderate in terms of time, distance, and elevation gain.

Thanks for your tips!

Hi there, We’re planning our itinerary for a month in September 2025 and would love your input, please.

We’re starting from Montreal, arriving in: Paris – 2 nights (already visited, just going back to see Notre-Dame again, 🫠) Ljubljana – 4 nights (we’ll explore the surrounding area, Bled +++) Vienna – 10 nights (we’ll visit nearby spots) Hallstatt – 2 nights Salzburg – 4 nights Innsbruck – 4 nights Barcelona – 4 nights on the way back to Montreal (the flight ticket was cheaper than returning from Vienna, plus it lets us visit another city 🙃😎)

We’ll be traveling by public transport 😎

Any relevant tips—activities, accommodations, or other info—would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance

I'm planning a trip to Sardinia in May 2025, visiting historical sites and the deep countryside: what are the most authentic places?

Hi, flight ticket booked for Scotland—10 days in May! 🙂

First question: I see on websites that starting from 01/04, a visa might be required to visit Scotland... How long does it take to get one, and what’s the cost?

Second question: What are the must-see spots, and what itinerary would you recommend for 10 nights?

Thanks for your tips! 😉

Explore three must-see spots in Europe, blending historical heritage and architectural wonders.

With GetYourGuide, get skip-the-line tickets and often cheaper access to Europe’s most iconic sites 😎 Start with the Palace of Pena in Portugal, a colorful gem perched above Sintra. Next, visit Pompeii, the ancient city frozen under Vesuvius’s ashes, before wrapping up at the majestic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Gaudí’s masterpiece.

Travel smart, explore more, spend less 😉

Hi there, we're heading to Madeira next week. We don’t plan to rent a car directly at the airport. We have 19 km to cover to get to our hotel—is taking a taxi a good deal in Funchal?

Thanks, have a great day everyone

Hi there, I’ve been wanting to explore Sicily for a long time. From an all-inclusive hotel so I don’t have to change accommodation every night, and getting around by rental car. About ten days. Which spot would be best to stay so I can explore without excessive driving? What are the must-see sites, knowing that Mount Etna is already my top pick? What are the key things to know about renting and driving a car (laws, speed limits, requirements in certain cities, parking, etc.)?

Hi everyone, so happy VoyageForum is back up and running! I’m planning to explore Sardinia at the end of April and in May 2025. Could anyone tell me what the must-see spots are for this destination? I know there are tons of stunning beaches and, like everyone, I’m drawn to them. But I’m actually more interested in visits (towns, remarkable sites, curiosities) than the usual touristy spots. Looking forward to your enlightened tips!

Hi there, I visited the Faroe Islands in late March 2026 for about ten days. I was invited by a friend who lives near Tórshavn, so I don’t have any info on tourist accommodations or car rentals. Still, I’d like to share a few thoughts about my trip: - Before leaving, I consulted travel guides and blogs. I was surprised by how repetitive and unoriginal the featured sites were. This leads hurried travelers to follow the same overcrowded routes, which can annoy locals. I found that all Faroese villages were interesting—they reflect the country’s identity, even without the iconic grass-roofed houses. Those are indeed harmonious and beautiful, but they feel like an exotic cliché. For activities, I loved the lively ports that keep the country running. - I was annoyed by the paid trails in tourist spots. Locals explained that these paths cross private land, and owners are responsible for maintenance and safety. There are plenty of free trails, too—signs at the start detail their features. While not alarmist, the extreme and unpredictable weather is a key factor to consider before setting out. - The wind’s strength really impressed me. The architecture, with doors and windows opening outward to prevent gusts from blowing roofs off, speaks to the harsh climate. Some days, relentless rain and squalls made going outside unappealing. I realized that in this country, it’s best to plan for flexible indoor days. - Distances are relatively short. I was happy to be based near Tórshavn because it was easy to explore one or more places in a day. The roads are in great condition. In late March, diesel was 2 €. Tunnel tolls can add up (~26 € per crossing), making a fixed base less practical than I’d thought. - Everyone agrees: the landscapes are breathtaking. Nature feels untamed here—except for the short grass, thanks to all the woolly sheep. - The flight from Paris to the Faroe Islands (and back) was long in March—11 hours with three legs: Paris-Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Copenhagen, Copenhagen-Vágar. In bad weather, Vágar Airport can close, causing delays. During tourist season, Atlantic Airways offers a direct Paris-Faroe Islands flight, which is more comfortable and cheaper. - I found a book recommendation in a guide that fascinated me after my trip: *Les collectionneurs d'images* by Joanes Nielsen. Through its sometimes caricatured characters, it offers a glimpse into Faroese mentalities from the 1950s to 1970s—attitudes that likely persist today. In conclusion, I’ve traveled a lot and I’m tired of destinations that all start to look the same. The Faroe Islands were a delight—a country stunning in its landscape, climate, and culture, where tourism has barely altered its authenticity.

Hi there, I’m looking for some great tips for a stay in Palma de Mallorca this summer. I need cheap flights departing from Toulouse and affordable accommodation for 4 people. What do you recommend? Best regards,

Hi there, I’ll be in Rome from April 1st to 13th, 2026—it’s coming up fast! I’ve been searching online for tickets to visit the Borghese Gallery, but either there’s no availability or the tickets offered are ridiculously expensive. Could someone guide me to a website where I can book 2 skip-the-line tickets (I’ve heard you have to reserve in advance online)?

Thanks in advance for the info!

Simon

Hi everyone,

I’m heading back to Rome soon, but this time we’re bringing our teens. Instead of wandering the streets like I usually love doing in this city, we’ll be hitting the "must-see" sights with them: the Colosseum and the Vatican.

And that’s where it gets tricky—apparently, we need to book everything in advance. We’re getting lost among all the offers, official sites, GetYourGuide and the like, packages, with prices ranging from one to three times as much and different tour options...

Could you share your booking experiences for: - Colosseum visit, including the underground level - St. Peter’s Basilica, including the dome - Vatican Museums

Thanks! 🙂

Hi there, I’m planning a one-week trip to Italy, with Milan and Rome as my destinations. I’ll be taking a bus to Milan with FlixBus (which I’m not thrilled about since it’s not a great company), and I’ll stay for two days. After that, I’ll take the train to Rome. I’d like to know if the bus station is far from downtown Milan. For the trip to Rome, I’m thinking of booking the train via Trainline—is that a good idea? Also, which station does the train leave from? I think there are two stations in Milan. Please share any info you can to help me prepare for the trip. Thanks a million!

Hi everyone, I’m planning to spend about 9 days in Sweden (round trip to Stockholm) in July (without a car, most likely). We’d like to spend 4 or 5 days in Stockholm to really enjoy it. For the rest of the trip, I’m struggling to find good ideas. I’ve seen the Gullmar Fjord or small towns like Kjallbacka or Lysekil, or even the Bohuslän cliffs, but on various travel sites, they don’t mention whether it’s easy to get around, if there are excursions, or what transport options are available. Do you have any suggestions for where to stay for 3 days (outside a big city) with easy transport? Thanks for your help. Dominique

Planning a trip to Italy in October. I’d love to hear about your experiences. Thanks!

Hi there,

I’m coming with my little batch of questions, thinking it’s more sociable to ask here than my favorite AI.

1) In the Faroe Islands, you pay in Danish kroner—that’s clear—and mostly by card. But there are also Faroese kronur, and I’d love to bring some back. Are they available at ATMs? There don’t seem to be any real exchange bureaus in the capital.

2) The Faroe Islands aren’t part of the EU roaming agreement. Local SIM cards are supposedly available everywhere, but does anyone have an idea of prices or an operator to recommend?

Michel

Hi, I’m planning to rent a car at Porto Airport in mid-November. I’ve spotted "Holyday Autos" and "Surprice Empowering Mobility"—they have decent rates, but given the rental issues in Portugal, I’d love to hear from people who’ve rented from them. Thanks in advance for your replies!

Hi everyone

We’re thinking of a getaway to Lisbon in October—how much time should we plan? Any great tips or must-see spots?

Thanks!

Hi everyone,

I’d love to get your thoughts on the following itinerary (late May). I like to take my time in ruins and museums, and beaches don’t interest me. I’ll be staying in hostels and using public transport. Do you see any major omissions or things that aren’t worth it? Thanks!

Day 1: Arrival in CATANIA Day 2: Catania – visit (fish market, cathedral, Biscarri Palace, etc.) Day 3: Mount Etna (day trip)

Day 4: Morning trip to TAORMINA, visit the town Day 5: Alcantara Gorge (day trip) + more time in Taormina

Day 6: Trip to SYRACUSE, visit Ortigia Day 7: Ortigia Day 8: NOTO (day trip) (or another Baroque town?) Day 9: Syracuse Archaeological Park + more time in Ortigia (or leave for Enna?)

Day 10: Transport via Enna? TO BE RESOLVED (long, 2 or 3 changes, limited accommodation in Enna...)

Day 11: AGRIGENTO: town and Scala dei Turchi (optional) Day 12: Valley of the Temples + archaeological museum

Day 13: Departure for TRAPANI (4h), afternoon: town (+ salt flats?) Day 14: Segesta (day trip) + town/Erice Day 15: Monte Cofano Nature Reserve (hike + summit) (day trip) Day 16: Zingaro Nature Park (coastal route out, ridge route back) (day trip)

Day 17: Departure for the AEGADIAN ISLANDS: Levanzo and Favignana (bike), overnight if possible Day 18: Egadi Islands

Day 19: Departure for PALERMO + first visits Day 20: The city Day 21: The city (Monreale?) Day 22: Options: - Capo Gallo hike (3.5h round trip) (via Mondello) - Cefalù (45 min by train) Day 23: Return flight

Hello, We’re heading to Bavaria from May 13 to 23, with a side trip to Austria. Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Brussels-Munich Day 2: Munich Day 3: Munich and departure for Salzburg We’ll be staying three nights in Salzburg. Then we’ll head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where we’ll stay for five nights. Visiting Munich and Salzburg isn’t too tricky. Once in Garmisch, we’re planning a day in Innsbruck, a day for Neuschwanstein Castle, and the rest is still up in the air. What’s really got me stumped is that we’d love to see Königssee Lake—everyone says it’s a must-see. We’d also like to visit the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), where the landscapes are supposedly stunning. This would either be a round trip while we’re in Salzburg or on the way between Salzburg and Garmisch, but I’m guessing it’s impossible to do the drive from Salzburg to Garmisch, the Eagle’s Nest, *and* Königssee Lake all in one day. Plus, the Alpine route between Salzburg and Garmisch seems prettier than the highway. But honestly, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with the planning. We should’ve added a stop between Salzburg and Garmisch, but the hotels are already booked. Thanks for any advice on the itinerary and visits! Another question: How far in advance should we book Neuschwanstein, Königssee, and the Eagle’s Nest in May? Thanks so much in advance for your tips and ideas!

Hello, We’re heading to Rome from 21/09, arriving in the early afternoon, and returning on 28/09, leaving in the morning. We’ve already booked our flight tickets and our accommodation in the city center: Via Ezio. I’d love to get your feedback on our itinerary and if there are any visits we should book right now: Monday 21 afternoon: Largo di Torre Argentina: a sacred spot for cats. Tuesday 22: The Vatican: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in the morning. Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica, the dome, and if possible, the necropolis. Wednesday 23: Morning: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Afternoon: Trastevere neighborhood and the Monumento a Garibaldi. Thursday 24: Piazza Navona, Church of St. Louis of the French, the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Venezia, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, Trevi Fountain. Friday 25: Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Quirinale, Piazza della Repubblica, and Santa Maria degli Angeli. Saturday 26: Aventine and Testaccio neighborhoods, the Capuchin Crypt. Sunday 27: Ostia. Monday 28: Departure. Are any days too packed, or should we add more visits? Thanks for your input and help! Cheers! Anne

Hi everyone! 🙂

For once, I'm heading north... I’ve decided to spend a short time in Iceland, alone, during the first week of July. I’ll only have 5 full days there. Sure, it’s not much, so I’ll focus on what attracts me the most: the Highlands. Obviously, renting a 4x4—or even a regular car—on my own isn’t an option. That’s why I’m breaking my (probably unfounded) principles and have contacted local agencies for "day tours" in small-group format. Well, small-group up to 15 people, anyway... Oh well, I’m going for it! I’m really hesitant about visiting the Golden Circle on the last day, since I’ve read it’s become super crowded. I’d love your thoughts on this. Plus, if I visit that area, I’d want to include Bruarfoss, and as far as I know, only the Troll agency offers that detour. There’s also the Snaefellsnes Peninsula excursion that appeals to me, but it seems time-consuming. Time-consuming like the Jokulsarlon tour I’ve already booked. (But that’s on the first day, so I’ll still be full of energy!) By the last day, I’ll probably be running on empty... Otherwise, I’ll be doing 3 4x4 excursions that I’m really excited about: 1 in Thorsmork Valley, 1 in Landmannalaugar, and 1 in Kerlingarfjöll.

So, Golden Circle or no Golden Circle—that’s the question... Or maybe a relaxed day visiting Reykjavik and a lagoon. Blue Lagoon? Sky Lagoon? Meh...

Hi there, We’re spending a week in Andalusia in April, starting with 2 days in Seville, then Córdoba, Granada, and Ronda. We’re thinking of renting a car the morning we leave Seville and returning it at the airport on the last day.

Do you know which downtown rental spot is the easiest for quickly getting out of the city? Or maybe it’s simpler to rent at the airport and leave the car in a parking lot for the first 2 days? Thanks in advance for your help!

Amandine

Hi there, my partner and I are planning a 3-week trip to Scandinavia next June (2026). We’d love to validate our itinerary and get any relevant tips on what to see—or avoid, etc.

Day 1 and 2: Departure from Montreal and arrival in Copenhagen Days 2, 3, 4: Stay in Copenhagen Day 5: Train from Copenhagen to Stockholm Days 5, 6, 7: Stay in Stockholm Day 8: Flight from Stockholm to Oslo Days 8, 9, 10: Stay in Oslo Day 11: Train from Oslo to Bergen (Bergen Line) Days 11, 12: Stay in Bergen Days 13 to 18: 6-night cruise with Hurtigruten or Havila Day 19: Stay in Kirkenes Day 20: Flight from Kirkenes to Oslo Days 20, 21: Stay in Oslo Day 22: Return to Montreal from Oslo.

Thanks so much.

Hi there,

I’m desperately turning to you all for advice—I just can’t seem to organize myself or make efficient city choices for such a short trip.

There are two of us, and we’re heading to Scotland for a few days in July, without a driver’s license. We arrive in Edinburgh (where we’ve already been) on a Friday at noon and need to be in Glasgow by Monday or Tuesday at the latest.

Between the two, we’d love to catch a glimpse of the Highlands—do you think that’s doable? From Edinburgh, is it easy to get to Inverness, Fort William, or other spots (?) for 2 nights (3 max)? Would you recommend the train or the bus? Which company? Any suggestions for a reasonable little itinerary?

For example, I was thinking of doing Edinburgh → Fort William, and once there, either renting bikes and exploring or taking a round-trip train to Mallaig in the same day, since the route looks stunning.

Alternatively, we could skip the Highlands if there are pretty towns around Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Any tips would be *so* appreciated—thanks a million! !

Hi there, I live in Quebec and I’m planning a trip to Italy. We’re thinking of visiting Rome, Florence, Venice, and Tuscany. Here are a few questions I haven’t been able to find clear answers to online. If anyone can help, I’d really appreciate it—thanks in advance!

- There are different City Passes for Rome. I’ve found the differences between them, but whenever I try to simulate a purchase, I’m always redirected to another site like Tiquet. Is there an official Tourism Office website for these?

- Is it easy to get around Tuscany by public transport, especially in the Chianti region?

- For guided tours (or not), which company do you prefer? Get Your Guide? Viator?

Looking forward to your recommendations—thanks again!

Hi there, we’re planning a 15-day trip to the Azores at the end of April/beginning of May. We’re torn between São Miguel and Terceira, or São Miguel and Flores—could you give us some advice based on the season? We saw a free flight offer within 24 hours of arriving in São Miguel—does this apply to French residents? Thanks

Hello, VoyageForum friends, and happy holidays! I’m planning a trip with my 19-year-old grandson to Milan for Easter Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in 2025. I’d love your insights on what we can visit in Milan that would interest both my grandson and me (I’m 75). Of course, I’m thinking of the must-sees, but not just those—cozy little restaurants, trendy neighborhoods, and anything else you’d recommend. I’m also looking for a comfortable hotel in the city center that isn’t too expensive!

I’m sure the VoyageForum community will help me uncover some hidden gems! Looking forward to your replies.

I'm looking for the best option to visit the Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces (guided tour + tickets), because there are so many choices and I'm overwhelmed trying to pick one that's good value for money and won't rip me off. Thanks! Sandrine

Hi everyone, I’m sharing my draft itinerary with you because I just booked our flight tickets, and I feel like it’s quite late in the season. So, I’d like to be sure about my stops before reserving the hotels. I’ll be traveling alone with my two adult children. We want to prioritize outdoor walks, avoid too many indoor visits (both for budget and preference), and not spend too much time on the road.

D1: Arrival at 9 AM in Malaga, day in Malaga and overnight stay D2: Head straight to Nerja (1-hour drive) and spend the night there D3: Head straight to Granada (1.5-hour drive), spend the day and night there D4: Granada. Visit the Alhambra (Nasrid Palaces tour at 5 PM) and spend the night D5: Head to Ronda (2.5-hour drive) and spend the night D6: White Villages and overnight in Ronda D7: Head straight to the Costa del Sol (e.g., Estepona), spend the day and night there D8: Return to Malaga to catch our flight

There you go! This itinerary takes into account that we’d like to do a circuit starting from Seville in a few years. That said, it’d be a shame to miss something doable from Malaga.

Questions: Since the Alhambra visit is only at 5 PM, and we’d already have the day to explore Granada, would arriving the day before be a mistake? Or should we skip this day and dedicate it elsewhere (Costa del Sol? Head toward Tabernas?)? The old town appeals to me, but maybe the Sacromonte neighborhood isn’t essential... Same question for Ronda: should we dedicate a full day to it, or combine Ronda and the White Villages in one day? Note that we love wandering around villages outside, so that might answer my question! :)

Final question: Is it better to rent the car at Malaga Airport or in the city? If we rent at the airport, we’d need a hotel with parking, which doesn’t seem easy. Or stay outside the city and park for free near the center if possible? I’ve read comments about taking a taxi to Malaga and then picking up the rental car at the airport the next morning. The taxi would really need to be affordable...

Thanks so much for your feedback and suggestions for visits during this little circuit. Have a great day, everyone! Christine