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Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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Gastronomy & Wine in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Douro Valley - 10 Days

Indulge your taste buds in this tour of Portugal's gastronomy and wine, starting in vibrant Lisbon, followed by a wine tasting tour in the charming city of Évora. Next, you'll explore Portugal's rural countryside with visits to a historic olive grove, a cork farm, and the humble Schlist Mountain Villages, plus take a cooking class among the ruins of Marialva and drive out to the gorgeous vineyards of the Douro River Valley. End your trip in Porto, where you'll watch the fishermen barter their daily catch and tour a sardine cannery.

Discover the charm of Portugal's iconic Pena Palace in Sintra

10 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Portugal, you can visit at least three regions—or add a few days in Spain. Foodies can join a cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef in Lisbon and enjoy wine tastings in Porto and the Douro Valley. Active travelers can kayak to Benagil Caves, take a food walk around Lisbon, and experience volcanic activity in the Azores. History and art enthusiasts will appreciate a private tour of Museo del Prado in Madrid, a visit to Sagrada Família in Barcelona, and a guided city tour in Lisbon.

Check out Praia do Camilo (Camilo Beach) when in Lagos, Portugal

1 Week in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Portugal, you can check out the must-see sites of Lisbon and Porto or opt for a beach and coastline-filled itinerary featuring the Algarve Coast. If you're a foodie, opt for a culinary tour of Portugal, complete with cooking classes and market visits, while hiking enthusiasts embark on a supported trek from Guincho to Sintra. Other options include a trip split between Lisbon and Lagos and a history-filled journey in northern Portugal.

Highlights of Portugal: From Lisbon to Porto - 8 Days

Discover Portugal's highlights on this weeklong tour, starting in the bustling city of Lisbon, where you can explore historical streets, eat traditional cuisine, and enjoy live Fado music. Visit the charming towns and monuments of Sintra, Óbidos, and Tomar, as well as the gorgeous Douro Valley Wine Region, for a river cruise and wine tasting. Visit one of Europe's oldest universities in Coimbra and head north to Porto, where you can watch fishermen barter their daily catch, tour a traditional sardine factory, and eat local delicacies.

Savor some of Italy's best wine tasting experiences in Chianti

Exploring Italian Wines in Tuscany & the Cinque Terre - 5 Days

Embark on a five-day Tuscan tour, savoring the region's delicious fresh produce and fine wines, strolling medieval piazzas in hilltop towns like Siena, Volterra, and San Gimignano, and concluding with a visit to the dazzling Cinque Terre for aperitivo and Ligurian cuisine with unbeatable sea views.

The historic Bryggen district along Bergen's picturesque wharf

Oslo to Bergen Winter Adventure - 6 Days

Prepare to discover Oslo and Bergen's charm and culture as you explore the city by public transport during a local-led tour of both cities. You'll travel by train from Oslo to Bergen, with a stop in Flåm, on one of the world's steepest and most beautiful journeys that winds past lush fjord landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and steep, snow-capped mountains⁠. In Flåm, you'll go on a fjord cruise past some of the highest peaks in the region—before heading to Bergen, where you'll discover the city's magical layout and history during a local tour—as well as go on a second fjord cruise past Mostraumen and finally to Modalen.

Highlights of Argentina: Buenos Aires, Mendoza & Iguazu Falls - 7 Days

Over seven days, you'll cover some of Argentina's most spectacular highlights. You'll have one day to explore the vibrant city of Buenos Aires before traveling to the famous wine region, Mendoza, where you'll taste an array of wines in the most spectacular settings during a Luján de Cuyo wine experience. You'll then travel high into the Andes and discover beautiful viewpoints, towns, and a hike to Quebrada del Durazno before heading to visit the famous Iguazú Falls from both the Argentina side and the Brazil side.

Cycling Through Transylvania's Saxon Villages - 7 Days

This Transylvanian cycling adventure starts in bustling Bucharest and takes you through several historical Saxon villages, as well as the medieval city of Brașov. As you pedal, enjoy views of rolling hills nestled under the Carpathian Mountains, stop at fortified churches, visit organic farms, and mingle with locals in unique heritage towns. You'll stay in charming guesthouses, family-run farms, and a refurbished castle, all while eating like a local with fresh, homemade food sourced from the region.

Cycling the Saxon Villages of Transylvania - 7 Days

This tour takes you on a cycling adventure through historic Saxon villages with fortified churches set under the shadow of the stunning Carpathian Mountains, starting in the bustling capital of Bucharest and the medieval town of Brașov. Cycle from village-to-village, sleeping in family-owned guesthouses where you can relax with some of the best, locally-sourced, homemade food in Transylvania. Stretch your legs a bit more with hikes into the mountains, horseback rides to alpine meadows, or wildlife tours in search of brown bears.

5 Days in Provence - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have just five days to spend in Provence, consider taking a road trip or a bike tour: both options allow you to pass through small villages and take in the region's famous scenery, stopping whenever you like to taste wines, tour castles, or snap photos of lavender fields. Alternatively, try a gourmet tour of Provence that features cooking classes and winery visits, or combine a few days in Provence with a short visit to the French Riviera. Find out more about your options with these five unique itinerary ideas.

Cultural India: Ancient Cities and Villages of Odisha - 14 Days

During this 14-day journey through the southern part of Odisha, you'll travel through cultural villages and historic cities, learning about local culture along the way. Head to Bhubaneswar, the capital of the Indian state of Odisha, where the Lingaraja Temple awaits you. Take a tribal market stroll through Rayagada where you'll meet the local villagers of Kutiya Khonds and learn about their culture. Lay on the sandy beaches of Golparpur, then see where Mother Teresa lived and is now buried in Kolkata.

Spend at least two days discovering Dubrovnik, Croatia's star attraction

How Many Days to Spend in Dubrovnik

Croatia is a fun and beautiful destination to explore whether you have two days or two weeks. Dubrovnik, also known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is easily the most popular city to visit in the country. With a bit of planning, you'll have a fantastic time and some unexpected experiences too. Whether you have one day or three, you'll not run out of things to do in and around Dubrovnik. Keep reading for advice on how many days to spend in Dubrovnik—and what to do while you're there.

Explore the Bolivian Amazon - 7 Days

Nature-loving travelers won't want to miss this weeklong excursion into the Bolivian Amazon. Begin your itinerary in the vibrant city of La Paz before heading to protected parks in the rainforest where you will meet indigenous guides and go birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing. End your trip with a river safari and a little relaxation at your eco-friendly lodge before your departure.

Grazing giraffes in Namibia's Hardap Region

Namibia Self-Drive Adventure - 14 Days

Perfect for first-timers to Africa, this two-week road trip explores Namibia's wild, beautiful, and safe environs. The adventure kicks off in Windhoek, where you'll drive through two deserts (Kalahari and Namib) known for epic dunes, rivers, canyons, and gorges. From here, continue west toward the Atlantic coast before heading north to meet nomadic tribes. Finish with several days at Etosha National Park—as well as a private reserve—for the ultimate game-viewing experience.

Madrid & the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, & Lanzarote - 16 Days

Combine Spain's historical culture with its unique island landscapes in this trip that takes you from tapas tours through Madrid's winding streets to windsurfing at some of the world's best beaches. Explore the Canary Islands by riding camels along sand dunes, hiking to the tallest peak, and traversing the lunar-like terrain of Timanfaya Park, plus perusing idyllic villages and noshing on exceptional local cuisine. Before heading back to Madrid, experience the artistic works of architect Manrique, take a tour of La Graciosa Island, and try your luck surfing or scuba diving in the warm waters of Lanzarote

Madrid & the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, & Lanzarote - 15 Days

Combining the historical culture of Spain's capital city with its rugged and unique landscape of the Canary Islands, this trip takes you from tapas tours in literary quarters to windsurfing at some of the world's best beaches. Traverse the islands by hiking to the tallest peak, walking the lunar-like terrain of Timanfaya Park, and riding camels along sand dunes, plus relaxing at renowned beaches, eating local cuisine, and exploring idyllic villages. Try your luck with surfing or simply spend hours lounging on white-sand beaches, then explore the creative works of famous architect and activist, Manrique, all before returning to Madrid for one last night perusing its monuments.

The harbor in Arrecife, Spain, remodeled by architect Caesar Manrique

Madrid & the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, & Lanzarote - 14 Days

After enjoying the splendor of Spain's buzzy capital city, with its endless tapas bars, historic sights, parks, and monuments, head to the dynamic Canary Islands, starting in Gran Canaria. Discover the island with a guided tour of all four coasts, followed by free days to further indulge in its historic cultural and renowned nature, including windsurfing, sunbathing, and hiking. Head to Fuerteventura and Lanzarote for idyllic villages and beaches, camel rides through sand dunes, a guided tour of the unique Timanfaya Park, and a hike to the islands' tallest peak, plus delicious, locally-sourced cuisine and an unforgettable experience with the works of the famous architect, Manrique.

Morro Jable Beach on the island of Fuerteventura

Madrid & the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, & Lanzarote - 13 Days

Start your 2-week trip in the Canary Islands by exploring the four dynamic coasts of Gran Canaria and spending a day within the historic significance of its seaside capital city. Discover other islands with trips to idyllic beaches and villages, guided tours through Timanfaya Park, hikes to scenic vistas, and camel rides along sand dunes, plus visits to the impressive works of the artist Manrique. End your trip in Spain's bustling capital city where you can peruse its historic streets in search of tapas and cañas, as well as its beloved parks, monuments, and museums.

A traditional street in Marrakesh's medina

How Many Days to Spend in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is Morocco's fourth-largest city and one of the country's major tourist spots. To see it, ideally, you'll want to allocate at least two to three days, although those with less time to spare can still enjoy the experience. Travelers who choose to stay for longer will have the opportunity to get to know the city and see it at a more relaxed pace. Read on for advice on how long to stay in Marrakesh.

Explore Cartagena's colorful Old Town on foot and horse-drawn carriage

How Many Days to Spend in Cartagena

To visit Cartagena is to step back in time to the days of conquistadores and colonialists. Even in a mere 24 hours, you could experience this spirit on a tour of Cartagena's historic Walled City, plus enjoy a carriage ride along its cobbled streets. With a couple of days, you could laze on white-sand beaches and tour its famous castles, and with close to a week, there are options for day trips to gorgeous Caribbean islands and protected national parks. Keep reading for all the details.

The Vergel Canyon in Torotoro National Park

Active Adventure in Bolivia - 7 Days

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, this 7-day itinerary showcases Bolivia's best national park as well as two of its most culturally vibrant cities. You'll begin with guided tours of Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Cochabamba before heading to Torotoro National Park for three days of caving, hiking, and swimming underneath waterfalls. Finish the trip in Bolivia's exciting capital of La Paz.

How Many Days to Spend in Arenal

Arenal Volcano National Park (along with the gateway town of La Fortuna) is a highlight of any Costa Rica itinerary. In an afternoon, you can get a feel for the park from one of its hiking trails or hot spring pools, but you'll need a few days to further take advantage of the views and adventure activities that make this region special. With four days or more, you can add world-class whitewater rafting and Indigenous culture excursions to your itinerary.

Spend three nights at Lake Atitlán, surrounded by three volcanoes

Guatemala Honeymoon Adventure - 15 Days

This 15-day Guatemala itinerary is perfect for newlyweds looking for a blend of relaxed romance and scenic adventures in Central America. Begin with a few days of exploration in colonial Antigua before heading to see active volcanoes, pristine lakes, and ancient Maya ruins. Along the way, you'll partake in fun guided excursions like cooking, chocolate-making, and cliff-jumping—with plenty of free time to enjoy sunsets and waterfalls on your own.

Highlights of Myanmar & Thailand - 22 Days

Adventurous travelers looking for an extensive trip in Southeast Asia will enjoy this 22-day itinerary that will allow you to see all of the best sites in Myanmar and Thailand. You'll begin your journey in the former colonial city of Yangon, Myanmar before heading off to see ancient some of the country's most famous temples and pagodas. Then, enjoy a few outdoor activities around Inle Lake before you jet off to Thailand and experience the exciting energy of Bangkok. End your active trip with a few days of rest and relaxation on some of the most beautiful islands in the world in Koh Lanta.

How Many Days to Spend in Lyon

Superb museums, UNESCO-listed neighborhoods, and the county's best gastronomy scene are just a few reasons why France's third-largest city is worth a visit. For a solid itinerary in Lyon, we recommend at least three days to explore the city's hills, rivers, bridges, and parks. Alternatively, you could squeeze in the top draws in a day or two or take your time and soak in the culture over a week or more. Let this local guide help you decide which trip length is right for you.

Petra in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By December, there’s no doubt that winter has arrived. Jordan is at its coldest, the rainy season has begun, and even the first flurries of snow can blanket the land. However, on most days the sun shines brightly in a deep-blue crystal-clear sky. And this is the quiet low season, making a visit to Jordan’s most popular attraction all the more personal.

Petra in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November marks the arrival of winter, with relatively high-elevation Petra now distinctly chilly, especially at night. The rainy season also begins at the end of November and continues through March, although chances of it raining on any given day are still slim. But the "Pink City" still holds plenty of charms, with great hiking to keep you warm, and a last chance to hike certain routes before increasing rains make them off-limits.

Petra in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October weather is as agreeable as any time of the year in Petra, with mild temperatures, although you may want to put a warm jacket back in your bag for cool evenings. And the first light rains of autumn often add a splash of much-needed green. Savvy travelers also know to come now, and the trails can crowded. But there are still fewer visitors than in springtime.

Petra in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The short-lived autumn arrives in September—a lovely time to visit Petra as temperatures fall, rain remains totally absent, and you can still take advantage of off-season prices. The end of the month is especially kind for hikers, with neither too hot nor too cold Goldilocks temperatures. But visitors numbers begin to surge.

View of monuments from ruins of ancient church, Petra

Petra in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer is at its peak, with August being the hottest--and very hot!--month, when colors get bleached out of the landscape. But don’t let this put you off. You get to explore Petra in virtual solitude, as the tourist hordes shun the heat. Plus, the dark desert nights provide a pitch-black canvas for watching the annual Perseid meteor shower.

Petra in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer is at its peak, with July being one of the two hottest—and very hot!—months. The spring wildflowers long ago faded, and colors get bleached out of the landscape by the hazy light. But you’ll be able to explore sun-soaked Petra in virtually tourist-free solitude, as visitors to Jordan thin to avoid the searing heat. And this is one of only two months to view the sensational Perseids Meteor Shower.

Petra in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer has arrived. Daily temperatures will continue to rise into August, the hottest (and very hot!) month, so June is a great time to visit Jordan’s most popular attraction before the broiling heat of mid-summer. By now, the gorgeous colors begin to get bleached out of the landscape by the hazy light. But you’ll be able to explore Petra in solitude.

Petra in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The transition month from spring to summer means warm (even very warm) temperatures. And rains? Not in May! The desert landscapes are still lush and ablaze with the last gasp of wildflowers--including the exquisite Jordanian black iris (the national flower). But Jordan’s number one attraction is still crowded, especially in the early part of the month.

Spring greenery enlivens the Monastery, Petra

Petra in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By April spring has arrived and with it, high season as visitors flock to experience Petra at the best time of year weather-wise. The Goldilocks temperatures are just right—neither too hot nor too cold. And the landscapes are briefly lush and ablaze with wildflowers. The down side is that Jordan’s most popular attraction is, well… Jordan’s most popular attraction!

Petra in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Spring is in the air, with plenty of warming sunshine. Temperatures are gradually rising and the winter rainfall is now but a rare trickle. The wadis are seamed with the first bloom of wildflowers—spears of flowering aloes, bursts of pick oleander, and masses of purple-black iris. But by the end of the month, Jordan’s high tourist season is well underway and you’ll have to share Petra with plenty of other tourists.

Petra in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As with January, Petra in February is still in the midst of its cold, somewhat wet—and occasionally, yet rarely, snowy—winter. Although temperatures and visitor numbers are rising, Jordan’s most popular attraction is still far less crowded than in spring and autumn. And while cold, most days are bright and sunny.

Petra in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

For a tourist-free experience in Petra, button-up and visit in January. Petra is in the midst of its cold, somewhat wet—and occasionally snowy—winter. But you can explore Petra without the crowds, rainy days are relatively few, and the infrequent and short-lived snows add a dramatic element.

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail, Photo Courtesy of Simon Desmarais, CC BY-SA 2.0

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Self-Guided Walking Tour - 4 days

Spend four days exploring the historic Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail in Ehime Prefecture on this self-guided tour. You'll meet white-clad pilgrims dedicated to walking the entire trail as you visit several of Ehime's iconic Buddhist temples and discover Shikoku's pilgrimage traditions. Relax in a hot spring bath after a visit to Matsuyama Castle and enjoy local hospitality in shukubo (pilgrim lodgings) and ryokan (traditional inns).

A cyclist looks to the Venetian-influenced city of Korčula Town

Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Mljet, & Šipan - 8 Days

This self-guided 8-day cycling tour starts in Croatia's Konavle, the rural countryside beyond Dubrovnik, before leading you through the rugged terrain of the Pelješac peninsula to your first Adriatic island, Korčula. You'll pedal amid olive groves, vineyard-covered hills, and along stunning coastal paths until it's time to venture to Mljet National Park to cover equally, if not more beautiful ground. You'll end your active holiday with two nights in the "Adriatic Pearl," enough time to explore the city as well as visit the nearby island of Šipan for one last day of riding.

Discover the Dalmatian coast and Adriatic islands on an exciting bike tour

Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour: Split, Hvar, Korčula, & Dubrovnik - 7 Days

Discover the Dalmatian coast from Split to Dubrovnik on this week-long self-guided cycling adventure. You'll warm the legs with a ride up Marjan Hill to look over the historic city of Split, ride alongside fields of lavender and ancient Greek ruins in Hvar's interior, and cross the length of Korčula to drink native wines and swim in the sea. Then it's back to the mainland with a ride over the ruggedly beautiful Pelješac peninsula to the historic saltpans of Ston before ending the trip with two nights in the "Adriatic Pearl," and a day to venture into the rural countryside beyond the city's gleaming streets.

How Many Days to Spend in Northern Italy

Italy is a place you can spend a lifetime getting to know, while still feeling like you’ve barely scratched the surface. This country rewards long periods of time and repeat visits, but even if you only have a few days, you can still get a sense of its many rich and varied regions. In as little as five days (or as much as three weeks), you can cover Northern Italy’s elegant cities, sweeping mountains, and seaside towns, seeing some legendary works of art and architecture and enjoying more than a few good meals.

How Many Days to Spend on the Amalfi Coast

Around five days should be more than enough time to soak in the wonders of the Amalfi Coast, one of Italy's most beautiful destinations, but even if you have a day or three to spare, you'll be able to see just why this region has been captivating visitors since Ancient Roman times. The Amalfi Coast isn't a place you rush through, and with a little planning, you'll be able to relax on its beaches, explore its secluded coves and grottos, wander its dreamy towns, and enjoy some incredible meals.

How Many Days to Spend in Florence

Once the center of the Italian Renaissance, Florence has evolved into a sophisticated city that holds firmly to its cultural past. Filled with world-class museums and galleries, beautiful churches, and former palaces, this is a city where you'll want to spend at least two or three days—enough time to hit most of the essential landmarks, shop for quality leather goods, and stuff your face with delicious Tuscan food.

How Many Days to Spend in Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia's capital, is known for its culture, art, and foodie appeal. Its compact historic center, dotted with small museums and churches, can be seen in just a few days. However, those who stay for longer will have the opportunity to get beneath the surface, relax, and enjoy the flavors of the city. Read on for advice on how long to stay in Zagreb.

Vietnam in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Both north and south Vietnam offer optimum dry and sunny conditions, although much of the north is now becoming quite cool. In Central Vietnam, the monsoon rains are coming to an end, with plenty of sun in the mix—perfect for beach lovers. And, yes, even Christmas is celebrated! There’s nothing much not to like about Vietnam in December, except that both the numbers of visitors and prices soar.

Vietnam in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Central Vietnam is still at its rainiest. But this is one of the best times to visit north or south Vietnam, which now bask in sunshine—perfect for beach vacations and active adventures. The high season is now in full gear with good reason: the north and south are enjoying some of the best conditions of the year.

Vietnam in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The skies finally clear in North Vietnam in October, and the summer monsoon rains gradually fade away in the south, making this a great month for getting off the beaten track in either region while rains sodden Central Vietnam. And there’s no cheaper month to get there.

Women burning incense in a Vietnamese temple

Vietnam in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Overall the wettest month of the year, as Central Vietnam’s autumnal monsoon season begins while north and south Vietnam are approaching the tail-end of their summer monsoon season. As rains lighten in the north, mountain trekking is once again possible. And there are still plenty of sunny days in the mix nationwide, while this is one of the cheapest months for travel.

Vietnam in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Things remain unchanged nationwide as north and south Vietnam endures the sultry monsoon wet season sauna, while Central Vietnam enjoys the last month of dry sunny weather before its monsoon begins. Shoulder season prices are attractive, so don’t let the rains put you off. There’s still plenty of fun in the sun to be had in August.

Vietnam in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July mirrors June and is a mixed bag weather-wise. Both north and south Vietnam are in the midst of the monsoon wet seasons, while the coastal lowland and offshore islands of Central Vietnam still bask in rain-shadow sunshine, and its beaches are the country’s main draw in July. International visitors are relatively few, but Vietnamese families are traveling en-masse.

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