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 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
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
Hi there!
I’m planning a road trip in a camper van around the fjords in Norway and would love to get some feedback and tips on the itinerary.
It’s a 10-day trip:
Day 1: Land in Bergen and drive to Odda
Day 2: Odda (full-day hike to Trolltunga)
Day 3: Kinsarvik (hike in Hardangervidda National Park)
Day 4: Geilo (hike in Hallingskarvet National Park)
Day 5: Hike in Jotunheimen National Park via the Gjendesheim ferry
Day 6: Fossbergom
Day 7: Luster and hike in Jostedalsbreen National Park
Day 8: Flam
Day 9: Bergen
Day 10: Bergen + departure
For the camper van rental, I’ve reached out to this site: https://campervanbergen.com, which seems pretty good with reasonable rates. If you have any comments or advice on the itinerary or the rental company, I’d love to hear them! Thanks in advance! Romain
For the camper van rental, I’ve reached out to this site: https://campervanbergen.com, which seems pretty good with reasonable rates. If you have any comments or advice on the itinerary or the rental company, I’d love to hear them! Thanks in advance! Romain
Hi there,
I’m spending some time in Switzerland this summer. Beyond the landscapes, I’d still like to visit a few cities—especially Bern, Lausanne, Zurich, and Fribourg.
The issue is parking...
For Lausanne, I found a park-and-ride that’s cheaper on Saturdays. But for the others, it gets tricky...
I don’t necessarily plan to park right in the city center, but there don’t seem to be proper park-and-rides...
I see that the Bern–Fribourg railway line is under construction.
I’d really like to avoid paying an arm and a leg for parking over there or relying on a train once an hour.
Same goes for Montreux—it looks pretty complicated...
If you’ve got any tips...
Thanks! !
I’m spending some time in Switzerland this summer. Beyond the landscapes, I’d still like to visit a few cities—especially Bern, Lausanne, Zurich, and Fribourg.
The issue is parking...
For Lausanne, I found a park-and-ride that’s cheaper on Saturdays. But for the others, it gets tricky...
I don’t necessarily plan to park right in the city center, but there don’t seem to be proper park-and-rides...
I see that the Bern–Fribourg railway line is under construction.
I’d really like to avoid paying an arm and a leg for parking over there or relying on a train once an hour.
Same goes for Montreux—it looks pretty complicated...
If you’ve got any tips...
Thanks! !
Hi there,
This year, we booked a rental in Colonno, Italy, by Lake Como.
Everything was going well until my wife wanted to see Milan... Out of 11 days, why not spend a day there, even though I’m not really a "city" person? Then I discovered ZTLs (Zona a Traffico Limitato)...
A 90 € fine if you’re unlucky enough to drive into one, and another 90 € if you drive out... While I was looking for info on where to park without risking a fine in Milan (any tips?), I found out that Como also has a ZTL. (Any parking advice there too?)
My question is: is there a map showing all the cities with ZTLs? Because if it means getting hit with hundreds of euros in fines 9 months later... 😕
The more I look for info, the more I come across unsettling stories... Like people who pass a ZTL sign, turn around immediately, and still get hit with two 90 € fines in 3 minutes... I don’t want to ruin the vacation over a small mistake...
Thanks in advance,
This year, we booked a rental in Colonno, Italy, by Lake Como.
Everything was going well until my wife wanted to see Milan... Out of 11 days, why not spend a day there, even though I’m not really a "city" person? Then I discovered ZTLs (Zona a Traffico Limitato)...
A 90 € fine if you’re unlucky enough to drive into one, and another 90 € if you drive out... While I was looking for info on where to park without risking a fine in Milan (any tips?), I found out that Como also has a ZTL. (Any parking advice there too?)
My question is: is there a map showing all the cities with ZTLs? Because if it means getting hit with hundreds of euros in fines 9 months later... 😕
The more I look for info, the more I come across unsettling stories... Like people who pass a ZTL sign, turn around immediately, and still get hit with two 90 € fines in 3 minutes... I don’t want to ruin the vacation over a small mistake...
Thanks in advance,
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to the White Villages and noticed that many are in the Province of Cádiz—like Setenil de las Bodegas, Olvera, Ubrique, Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, Medina-Sidonia, and Vejer de la Frontera. Are all of these worth visiting, or are there others you’d recommend? I’ve already been to Arcos de la Frontera and Ronda in the area and wouldn’t mind returning, of course. I’m also considering the Caminito del Rey, so maybe a few interesting villages in the province of Málaga too. Do you think an itinerary starting from Málaga (arriving at the airport) with 2 or 3 stops (like Ronda, Arcos, and a third in one of these villages) would work?
Thanks for your tips!
Hello,
I’m starting to plan our summer 2025 trip. We’ll be traveling as a family (2 adults and 2 teens), most likely in mid-July. Here’s a first draft of our itinerary. I’d love to hear your thoughts on whether this 15-day route is doable. We’ll be renting a car in Rovaniemi.
- Rovaniemi (2 nights) - Jokkmokk (1 night) - Kiruna (1 or 2 nights???) - Narvik (1 night) - Lofoten Islands (3 or 4 nights???) - Bodø (2 nights) - Return through Sweden, but where to stay between Bodø and Luleå to break up the drive????? (1 night) - Luleå (1 or 2 nights???) - Return to Rovaniemi (1 night)
What do you think of this route? I’m open to all suggestions—whether there are places to add, remove, or adjust. Thanks in advance for your help!
I’m starting to plan our summer 2025 trip. We’ll be traveling as a family (2 adults and 2 teens), most likely in mid-July. Here’s a first draft of our itinerary. I’d love to hear your thoughts on whether this 15-day route is doable. We’ll be renting a car in Rovaniemi.
- Rovaniemi (2 nights) - Jokkmokk (1 night) - Kiruna (1 or 2 nights???) - Narvik (1 night) - Lofoten Islands (3 or 4 nights???) - Bodø (2 nights) - Return through Sweden, but where to stay between Bodø and Luleå to break up the drive????? (1 night) - Luleå (1 or 2 nights???) - Return to Rovaniemi (1 night)
What do you think of this route? I’m open to all suggestions—whether there are places to add, remove, or adjust. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi everyone,
My wife and I have booked our tickets from the 24th to the 31st to visit Switzerland, and we want to try skiing for the first time.
Here’s the itinerary I put together with some AI help. I’d love your feedback and tips to tweak the plan! Thanks in advance!
Arrival in Basel on the 24th in the evening, hotel in the city center with breakfast the next morning.
Train from Basel to Interlaken on December 25th, arriving at the hotel around 2 PM.
14:00 – 15:00: Arrival and check-in at Neuhaus Golf & Strandhotel Check-in, rest, and freshen up after the trip. Enjoy the view of Lake Thun—it’s a stunning setting. Grab a coffee or a drink on the terrace or at the hotel bar. The Neuhaus has direct lake access, perfect for a short walk right after settling in.
---
15:30 – 17:30: Downtown & Christmas vibes Bus or taxi (10 min) → Interlaken city center (Hohematte Park). Stroll through the park, take in the views of the Jungfrau, and check out the open shops and chocolateries. Wander around Interlaken’s Christmas market (if it’s still up, often until the 26th). Grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine at a local stand.
---
17:30 – 18:30: Gourmet break or aperitif Café de Paris, Hüsi Bierhaus, or Velo Café for a snack or drink.
For a unique hot chocolate: Funky Chocolate Club (you can even make your own chocolate!). 19:30 – Alpine Christmas dinner
Romantic dinner at a typical restaurant: Spycher Restaurant: fondue and Swiss folklore (reservation recommended). Laterne Restaurant: cozy chalet vibe, traditional cuisine. Des Alpes: local dishes with a view of Interlaken’s lights.
21:30 – Quiet end to the evening Digestive walk around the lake, peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Cozy option: hot bath or reading at the hotel bar with mountain views.
---
Thursday, December 26th — First ski day: Bodmi Arena (Grindelwald)
Goal: Learn to ski gently
🕘 10:00 — Leave the hotel Bus or taxi (5–10 min) → Interlaken Ost train station. Train Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald (departs around 10:20, arrives 10:50).
🕚 11:00 – 13:00 — Beginner ski lesson at Bodmi Arena Booking: Swiss Ski School Grindelwald. Location: Beginner slopes with a “magic carpet.”
🍽️ 13:00 – 14:00 — Lunch on-site
Restaurant Bodmi (view of the Eiger).
☕ 14:00 – 16:00 — Free practice + coffee break in the sun Keep practicing or enjoy the valley views from the terrace.
🚂 16:30 — Return train Grindelwald → Interlaken Ost. 🕖 17:00 — Back to the hotel, relax or take a lakeside walk. 🍽️ 20:00 — Fondue dinner at Spycher Restaurant or Husi Bierhaus.
---
Friday, December 27th — Ski #2: Grindelwald First (blue slope autonomy)
Goal: Improve and enjoy the scenery
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald (arrive 10:50). 🕚 11:00 — Rent gear (Skiset or Alpin Center). 🚡 12:00 — Cable car Grindelwald → First (20-minute scenic ride). 🍽️ 12:30 – 15:00 — Ski on the First blue slope, multiple runs at your own pace. 🍽️🏔️ Lunch with a view at Berggasthaus First between runs. ☕ 15:30 – 16:00 — Break at the summit, coffee or hot chocolate. 🚡 16:30 — Cable car descent → return to the station. 🚂 17:30 — Train back → Interlaken Ost → hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Free evening (suggestion: dinner at Des Alpes Restaurant, mountain vibe).
---
Saturday, December 28th — Nature day in Lauterbrunnen
Goal: Discover the valley of 72 waterfalls
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost. 🚂 10:35 — Train Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen (arrive 10:55). 🕚 11:00 – 12:30 — Walk through the village + hike to Staubbach Falls. 🚡 12:30 – 14:00 — Lunch at Hotel Oberland Restaurant or Airtime Café. 🚶 14:00 – 15:00 — Walk to Trümmelbachfälle (45 min on foot, bus available). 🏞️ 15:00 – 16:00 — Visit the indoor waterfalls (entry ~CHF 14). 🚍 16:30 — Return to Lauterbrunnen (bus or on foot). 🚂 17:00 — Train back → Interlaken Ost → hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Dinner in Interlaken (Laterne Restaurant or Ox Restaurant & Grill).
---
Sunday, December 29th — Scenic day: Mürren & Allmendhubel
Goal: Effortless alpine views + mountain vibes
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen (arrive 10:30). 🚡 10:45 — Cable car Lauterbrunnen → Grütschalp → scenic train to Mürren. 🕚 11:30 – 12:00 — Walk around Mürren, a car-free village. 🍽️🏔️ 12:00 – 13:30 — Lunch at Alpenruh Restaurant (panoramic terrace). 🚡 13:30 – 15:00 — Funicular ride to Allmendhubel, views of Eiger – Mönch – Jungfrau. ☕ 15:30 — Descent to Mürren, coffee or walk. 🚡 16:30 — Cable car + train back to Lauterbrunnen → Interlaken. 🚂 17:30 — Return to the hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Cozy dinner (raclette or Swiss soup in Interlaken).
---
Monday, December 30th — Relaxation in Interlaken
Goal: Rest and enjoy the scenery before departure
🕘 10:00 — Leisurely start, walk along Lake Thun. 🚡 11:00 — Funicular to Harder Kulm (~CHF 40 round trip for 2 people). 🍽️🏔️ 12:30 – 14:00 — Lunch at Harder Kulm’s panoramic restaurant (lake views). 🚶 14:30 – 16:00 — Descent and stroll through Interlaken (shopping streets, chocolateries). ☕ 16:00 — Coffee or hot chocolate at Funky Chocolate Club. 🚂 17:30 — Return to the hotel, relax or spa if desired. 🍽️ 20:00 — Dinner at Victoria-Jungfrau Spa & Terrace Restaurant.
My wife and I have booked our tickets from the 24th to the 31st to visit Switzerland, and we want to try skiing for the first time.
Here’s the itinerary I put together with some AI help. I’d love your feedback and tips to tweak the plan! Thanks in advance!
Arrival in Basel on the 24th in the evening, hotel in the city center with breakfast the next morning.
Train from Basel to Interlaken on December 25th, arriving at the hotel around 2 PM.
14:00 – 15:00: Arrival and check-in at Neuhaus Golf & Strandhotel Check-in, rest, and freshen up after the trip. Enjoy the view of Lake Thun—it’s a stunning setting. Grab a coffee or a drink on the terrace or at the hotel bar. The Neuhaus has direct lake access, perfect for a short walk right after settling in.
---
15:30 – 17:30: Downtown & Christmas vibes Bus or taxi (10 min) → Interlaken city center (Hohematte Park). Stroll through the park, take in the views of the Jungfrau, and check out the open shops and chocolateries. Wander around Interlaken’s Christmas market (if it’s still up, often until the 26th). Grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine at a local stand.
---
17:30 – 18:30: Gourmet break or aperitif Café de Paris, Hüsi Bierhaus, or Velo Café for a snack or drink.
For a unique hot chocolate: Funky Chocolate Club (you can even make your own chocolate!). 19:30 – Alpine Christmas dinner
Romantic dinner at a typical restaurant: Spycher Restaurant: fondue and Swiss folklore (reservation recommended). Laterne Restaurant: cozy chalet vibe, traditional cuisine. Des Alpes: local dishes with a view of Interlaken’s lights.
21:30 – Quiet end to the evening Digestive walk around the lake, peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Cozy option: hot bath or reading at the hotel bar with mountain views.
---
Thursday, December 26th — First ski day: Bodmi Arena (Grindelwald)
Goal: Learn to ski gently
🕘 10:00 — Leave the hotel Bus or taxi (5–10 min) → Interlaken Ost train station. Train Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald (departs around 10:20, arrives 10:50).
🕚 11:00 – 13:00 — Beginner ski lesson at Bodmi Arena Booking: Swiss Ski School Grindelwald. Location: Beginner slopes with a “magic carpet.”
🍽️ 13:00 – 14:00 — Lunch on-site
Restaurant Bodmi (view of the Eiger).
☕ 14:00 – 16:00 — Free practice + coffee break in the sun Keep practicing or enjoy the valley views from the terrace.
🚂 16:30 — Return train Grindelwald → Interlaken Ost. 🕖 17:00 — Back to the hotel, relax or take a lakeside walk. 🍽️ 20:00 — Fondue dinner at Spycher Restaurant or Husi Bierhaus.
---
Friday, December 27th — Ski #2: Grindelwald First (blue slope autonomy)
Goal: Improve and enjoy the scenery
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald (arrive 10:50). 🕚 11:00 — Rent gear (Skiset or Alpin Center). 🚡 12:00 — Cable car Grindelwald → First (20-minute scenic ride). 🍽️ 12:30 – 15:00 — Ski on the First blue slope, multiple runs at your own pace. 🍽️🏔️ Lunch with a view at Berggasthaus First between runs. ☕ 15:30 – 16:00 — Break at the summit, coffee or hot chocolate. 🚡 16:30 — Cable car descent → return to the station. 🚂 17:30 — Train back → Interlaken Ost → hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Free evening (suggestion: dinner at Des Alpes Restaurant, mountain vibe).
---
Saturday, December 28th — Nature day in Lauterbrunnen
Goal: Discover the valley of 72 waterfalls
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost. 🚂 10:35 — Train Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen (arrive 10:55). 🕚 11:00 – 12:30 — Walk through the village + hike to Staubbach Falls. 🚡 12:30 – 14:00 — Lunch at Hotel Oberland Restaurant or Airtime Café. 🚶 14:00 – 15:00 — Walk to Trümmelbachfälle (45 min on foot, bus available). 🏞️ 15:00 – 16:00 — Visit the indoor waterfalls (entry ~CHF 14). 🚍 16:30 — Return to Lauterbrunnen (bus or on foot). 🚂 17:00 — Train back → Interlaken Ost → hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Dinner in Interlaken (Laterne Restaurant or Ox Restaurant & Grill).
---
Sunday, December 29th — Scenic day: Mürren & Allmendhubel
Goal: Effortless alpine views + mountain vibes
🕘 10:00 — Leave hotel → Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen (arrive 10:30). 🚡 10:45 — Cable car Lauterbrunnen → Grütschalp → scenic train to Mürren. 🕚 11:30 – 12:00 — Walk around Mürren, a car-free village. 🍽️🏔️ 12:00 – 13:30 — Lunch at Alpenruh Restaurant (panoramic terrace). 🚡 13:30 – 15:00 — Funicular ride to Allmendhubel, views of Eiger – Mönch – Jungfrau. ☕ 15:30 — Descent to Mürren, coffee or walk. 🚡 16:30 — Cable car + train back to Lauterbrunnen → Interlaken. 🚂 17:30 — Return to the hotel. 🍽️ 20:00 — Cozy dinner (raclette or Swiss soup in Interlaken).
---
Monday, December 30th — Relaxation in Interlaken
Goal: Rest and enjoy the scenery before departure
🕘 10:00 — Leisurely start, walk along Lake Thun. 🚡 11:00 — Funicular to Harder Kulm (~CHF 40 round trip for 2 people). 🍽️🏔️ 12:30 – 14:00 — Lunch at Harder Kulm’s panoramic restaurant (lake views). 🚶 14:30 – 16:00 — Descent and stroll through Interlaken (shopping streets, chocolateries). ☕ 16:00 — Coffee or hot chocolate at Funky Chocolate Club. 🚂 17:30 — Return to the hotel, relax or spa if desired. 🍽️ 20:00 — Dinner at Victoria-Jungfrau Spa & Terrace Restaurant.
Hi there,
I’m planning our next (pricey) trip to Norway. It’ll be a road trip with accommodations either in Airbnbs or hotels.
I’ve been dreaming of going to the LOFOTEN for ages, but I don’t want to skip the big fjords either (Geiranger, Flam, Bergen, Stavanger). So to combine both, I thought of doing a round trip from Trondheim to Stamsund with Hurtigruten and spending 4 nights in the southern LOFOTEN. The fares are so steep that I don’t think I can do more.
The coastal road is certainly beautiful up to BODØ, but with the stops to plan, it ends up costing as much as taking the boat—plus the fatigue and extra kilometers.
Has anyone taken the Coastal Express with their vehicle from TRONDHEIM to STAMSUND?
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip for October to visit Naples (6 nights) and the Amalfi Coast (5 nights). We’ve already got the historic center and the Lapis Museum in Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Procida, Sorrento, and Ravello on our list. Any suggestions, addresses, or tips?
Thanks for your help.
Hi there,
I’m planning to spend two short weeks in Scotland in June, renting a car in Edinburgh with the goal of focusing on the islands.
If I can only see two (due to tight timing) out of Lewis, Skye, and Mull, which would you recommend?
I was thinking something like this:
Nantes Edinburgh Flight Edinburgh Ullapool Car Ullapool Lewis / Stornoway Ferry Lewis Car Harris / Tarbert Skye / Uig Ferry Skye Car Skye Scotland Car via the bridge So, I don’t think I’ll have time for Mull.
Thanks for your traveler tips! Daniel
I was thinking something like this:
Nantes Edinburgh Flight Edinburgh Ullapool Car Ullapool Lewis / Stornoway Ferry Lewis Car Harris / Tarbert Skye / Uig Ferry Skye Car Skye Scotland Car via the bridge So, I don’t think I’ll have time for Mull.
Thanks for your traveler tips! Daniel
Hi everyone,
It’s all in the title—we’re planning to travel with three of us: my wife, our 2-year-old baby, and myself for Christmas in Portugal. Is this a good idea? We don’t have much time to figure out everything we can do or visit. We were thinking of flying into Porto, staying there for 2 or 3 days, and then traveling by train to either Lisbon or Faro—I’m not sure yet. Book 2 nights for the arrival and then decide the rest once we’re there. Will we manage without a car? I’d love all your tips! 🙂
Richard
It’s all in the title—we’re planning to travel with three of us: my wife, our 2-year-old baby, and myself for Christmas in Portugal. Is this a good idea? We don’t have much time to figure out everything we can do or visit. We were thinking of flying into Porto, staying there for 2 or 3 days, and then traveling by train to either Lisbon or Faro—I’m not sure yet. Book 2 nights for the arrival and then decide the rest once we’re there. Will we manage without a car? I’d love all your tips! 🙂
Richard
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!
- 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, 🙂
I’m about to book 4 nights in the Italian capital and I’m wondering where the best place to stay would be.
- A neighborhood that’s not too noisy - A neighborhood well served by public transport (airport and the city’s main sights) - A neighborhood with restaurants and supermarkets - A neighborhood with relatively reasonable prices
Public transport is essential. We gave this trip as a gift to someone who won’t be able to walk long distances like we usually do.
I also don’t want to be too far from the historic center.
Termini and Monti seem to fit these criteria? Is Termini a bit sketchy? But sketchy like dangerous or sketchy like homeless people just looking for a place to sleep?
We’ll be traveling off-season.
Thanks for your ideas !
I’m about to book 4 nights in the Italian capital and I’m wondering where the best place to stay would be.
- A neighborhood that’s not too noisy - A neighborhood well served by public transport (airport and the city’s main sights) - A neighborhood with restaurants and supermarkets - A neighborhood with relatively reasonable prices
Public transport is essential. We gave this trip as a gift to someone who won’t be able to walk long distances like we usually do.
I also don’t want to be too far from the historic center.
Termini and Monti seem to fit these criteria? Is Termini a bit sketchy? But sketchy like dangerous or sketchy like homeless people just looking for a place to sleep?
We’ll be traveling off-season.
Thanks for your ideas !
Hi there,
I’m planning a roughly 15-day trip to Scotland at the end of September/beginning of October for a road trip (meaning: renting a car and finding accommodations at strategic points).
There won’t be anything original in my itinerary—I’m discovering Scotland for the first time, so I’ll be visiting the most well-known spots.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice. I’m a bit worried about trying to do *too much* in 15 days—the idea is to enjoy myself and not rush or spend my days in the car.
Here are the places I was thinking of stopping to sleep, which gives an idea of the route I’d like to take:
Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh in the evening Day 2: Day in Edinburgh Day 3: Edinburgh → Cairngorms Day 4: Cairngorms Day 5: Cairngorms → Inverness Day 6: Inverness → Torridon Day 7: Torridon → Plockton Day 8: Plockton → Isle of Skye Day 9: Isle of Skye Day 10: Isle of Skye Day 11: Isle of Skye → Glenfinnan Day 12: Glenfinnan → Trossachs Day 13: Trossachs → Glasgow Day 14: Glasgow → Edinburgh, departure early afternoon
I’m open to all feedback on the itinerary, especially from those who’ve already explored Scotland. Specifically about the stops/overnights—if there’s a better way to do it and if it’s doable without feeling too rushed. Thanks everyone! 🙂
Here are the places I was thinking of stopping to sleep, which gives an idea of the route I’d like to take:
Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh in the evening Day 2: Day in Edinburgh Day 3: Edinburgh → Cairngorms Day 4: Cairngorms Day 5: Cairngorms → Inverness Day 6: Inverness → Torridon Day 7: Torridon → Plockton Day 8: Plockton → Isle of Skye Day 9: Isle of Skye Day 10: Isle of Skye Day 11: Isle of Skye → Glenfinnan Day 12: Glenfinnan → Trossachs Day 13: Trossachs → Glasgow Day 14: Glasgow → Edinburgh, departure early afternoon
I’m open to all feedback on the itinerary, especially from those who’ve already explored Scotland. Specifically about the stops/overnights—if there’s a better way to do it and if it’s doable without feeling too rushed. Thanks everyone! 🙂
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
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
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,
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
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
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
Thanks in advance for the info!
Simon
Hi,
I’m planning a long weekend in Porto soon with 4 other adults, and I’d love some info about the rechargeable Andante card for public transport. Since we’ll be traveling across different zones, I’m thinking of getting the single-trip rechargeable option. When we buy it, do we *have* to purchase just one trip for a specific zone, or can we buy multiple trips for the same zone—or even one for one zone and another for a different zone? Also, how do we go about recharging it?
Otherwise, is the Andante Tour 72-hour card a better deal? The catch is we’ll need to get to the airport on the 4th day, and it won’t be valid anymore by then.
Thanks for your tips!
Otherwise, is the Andante Tour 72-hour card a better deal? The catch is we’ll need to get to the airport on the 4th day, and it won’t be valid anymore by then.
Thanks for your tips!
Hi everyone, I’m really torn.
I’m planning a trip for my girlfriend and I can’t decide between these three European cities: Athens, Lisbon, and Valencia.
I’m eagerly waiting for your replies—help me out!!😅😅
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, 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
Hi, I’m planning a wine trip in the Alentejo by car. Starting from Marbella, I can either follow the coast and stop over near Huelva, or head north and stop over near Aracena. I’m wondering which route is more enjoyable and which village is the most interesting for an overnight stop.
Thanks
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Sicily, and we’ll be renting a car at Palermo Airport. For our first stop, we’d like to visit Palermo itself. I’m really struggling to find a parking spot outside the ZTL (since we don’t know what type of vehicle we’ll have) and that’s not too far to walk from the city center.
It’d also be great if the parking were monitored, since we’ll have all our luggage in the car for this first leg of the trip.
I hope I’m not asking for the impossible! If any of you have some great tips to share, I’d love to hear them.
Thanks for taking the time to read my message—it really means a lot!
Looking forward to your replies,
Alain
I’m planning a trip to Sicily, and we’ll be renting a car at Palermo Airport. For our first stop, we’d like to visit Palermo itself. I’m really struggling to find a parking spot outside the ZTL (since we don’t know what type of vehicle we’ll have) and that’s not too far to walk from the city center.
It’d also be great if the parking were monitored, since we’ll have all our luggage in the car for this first leg of the trip.
I hope I’m not asking for the impossible! If any of you have some great tips to share, I’d love to hear them.
Thanks for taking the time to read my message—it really means a lot!
Looking forward to your replies,
Alain
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to Norway for June 2026 and have some questions about the Arctic Route (E6) from Narvik to Alta: - Starting from Narvik, how far along this route is it worth going? - Are the landscapes really more stunning as you get closer to Alta? - How many days is reasonable for a round trip? - Side question: Can anyone recommend a car rental company in Narvik?
We’ve never been this far north before—this will be our first trip near the Arctic Circle.
Thanks in advance to anyone who can share advice or general tips about this region!
Jaunesoleil
Happy travels to all
I’m planning a trip to Norway for June 2026 and have some questions about the Arctic Route (E6) from Narvik to Alta: - Starting from Narvik, how far along this route is it worth going? - Are the landscapes really more stunning as you get closer to Alta? - How many days is reasonable for a round trip? - Side question: Can anyone recommend a car rental company in Narvik?
We’ve never been this far north before—this will be our first trip near the Arctic Circle.
Thanks in advance to anyone who can share advice or general tips about this region!
Jaunesoleil
Happy travels to all
Hi everyone, I’m asking for your help because I’m planning a 5-day trip to Scotland starting from Glasgow. I’d like to visit the Isle of Skye—my problem is, is it accessible without a car? And what can you do on this island?
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Vienna in 3 weeks for a 5-day trip! After reading a few travel journals and discussions about this destination, I still can’t quite figure out what the must-sees are. Your itineraries are so varied that it’s hard to narrow it down!
Ideally, we’d like to explore Vienna without feeling like we’re stuck in museums. If you have recommendations for little green oases, short urban walking routes, or addresses for charming cafés, we’d love to hear them!
Thanks in advance for your help! !
We’re heading to Vienna in 3 weeks for a 5-day trip! After reading a few travel journals and discussions about this destination, I still can’t quite figure out what the must-sees are. Your itineraries are so varied that it’s hard to narrow it down!
Ideally, we’d like to explore Vienna without feeling like we’re stuck in museums. If you have recommendations for little green oases, short urban walking routes, or addresses for charming cafés, we’d love to hear them!
Thanks in advance for your help! !
Hi everyone,
I bought a Trenord train ticket online from Milano Centrale station to Como. While I’ve been to Italy several times and taken trains before, this is my first time traveling with this company.
The app says the QR code will be available when the ticket becomes valid, which is at the train’s departure time. But I was wondering if there are turnstiles like the ones in French stations, and I’d like more details on how to use tickets with Trenord. I tried looking for information but couldn’t find everything I needed.
Thanks in advance! 🙂
I bought a Trenord train ticket online from Milano Centrale station to Como. While I’ve been to Italy several times and taken trains before, this is my first time traveling with this company.
The app says the QR code will be available when the ticket becomes valid, which is at the train’s departure time. But I was wondering if there are turnstiles like the ones in French stations, and I’d like more details on how to use tickets with Trenord. I tried looking for information but couldn’t find everything I needed.
Thanks in advance! 🙂
Hi there,
We’d like to spend a few days in Barcelona... the issue is accommodation, and we don’t know anything about it. My brother’s driving to a campsite up north, and his brother-in-law left at 5 AM when there are only two of us...
I just got back from my 7th trip to the US, where I know all my spots, so I’m a bit lost here.










