It’s easy to follow the crowds in Croatia, but that doesn’t mean you should. Although the Dalmatian Islands, Dubrovnik, and Split rightfully receive many accolades, it can pay off to forge your own path—especially in crowded peak season. Try Istria's best seafood in a sleepy fishing village, find hidden culinary delights on an island known for nightlife, and encounter the country's past through historic architecture and monuments.
Eight days is a great amount of time for an introductory trip to Croatia. You can focus on a single region like the Dalmatian coast or the Istrian peninsula or you can cover country-wide highlights if you don't mind a fast-paced trip. Thanks to the country's relatively small size and international flight options to Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, you can start your trip in the north and work your way to the south. Learn more with these exciting itineraries below.
Croatia is a great place to travel with kids—this is a country full of walkable cities, kid-friendly lodging, and plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors. Give your kids a fun history lesson among the Roman ruins of Istria, or take a traditional fishing trip in the Dalmatian Islands. From Split to Dubrovnik, from national parks to beaches, here’s where to go and what to do with tykes in tow—and some itinerary ideas to help you start planning.
Some of Greece’s most famous tales have come from the sea, so why not get out on the water to create a story of your own? Choose between four different types of boats to embark on your own oversea island excursion.
Ten days in Iceland is perfect for completing the rightfully famous Ring Road on a self-drive adventure. Alternatively, you can focus on the popular Golden Circle and South Coast to reduce drive time and conquer hikes to waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. If you prefer to escape the busier south, consider summertime itineraries to the west and north for off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Or, opt for an Iceland winter road trip to experience the country's wonders blanketed in white.
Boasting 10% of the world's avian species, Costa Rica is a paradise for bird lovers. On this ornithological trip, you'll visit the top birding destinations in the country. Accompanied by an expert multi-lingual guide, you'll go off the tourist trail, venture down remote jungle paths, and into national parks to ensure you have the best vantage points in which to view these birds in all their glory.
Costa Rica has a way of igniting the adventurous spirit within. This is, after all, one of the world's most biodiverse countries loaded with rainforests, wildlife species, beaches, outdoor activities, and 28 national parks—3 of which are UNESCO-listed. If you're planning on exploring some (or all) of what Costa Rica has to offer, you'll likely want to consider renting a car. Read this driving guide for the inside scoop.
With two weeks in Italy, you can see many of the country's top sights in one trip—Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast—or spend your time exploring a particular region in depth, like Tuscany or Sicily. On these four unique itineraries, you'll take a pizza-making class in Naples, road-trip around Sicily, explore the wine-growing region of Chianti, or get a taste of several Italian cities, moving quickly between destinations on the country's network of high-speed trains.
Experience the best of Jordan from the northwestern tip in Umm Qais down to Aqaba at the Red Sea. Enjoy ten days visiting main attractions like the "Lost City" of Petra, the bustling capital of Amman, the salty Dead Sea, and the wilds of Wadi Rum. Along the way, you'll wander amid ancient Roman ruins in Jerash, discover the historic Ajloun Crusader castle, and look out onto the Judean Desert from atop biblical Mount Nebo.
Costa Rica's rainforest, volcanoes, and beaches are yours to explore on this two-week self-drive tour. Take in sweeping views of Arenal Volcano as you zip-line over the treetops, then enjoy a hands-on chocolate-making class. Next, it's on to the Pacific Coast for world-class yoga studios, pristine nature reserves, and breathtaking sunsets—the Nicoya Peninsula offers something for everyone.
Experience the best of Costa Rica's rainforest, volcanoes, and Pacific beaches during this 16-day self-drive adventure. You'll explore the jungle via suspension bridges and ziplines and even have a free day to go whitewater rafting or relax in the charming town of La Fortuna. Then, it's time to head westward to the Nicoya Peninsula, where you'll adjust to the laid-back vibes of three quintessential surf towns: Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa.
Indulge your senses on this 12-day tour of southern India, featuring the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Discover Tamil Nadu's cultural wealth as you explore its ornate Hindu temples, sacred cities, and French-colonial towns. Cross over the Western Ghats into biodiverse Kerala and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of tea and spice plantations, jungle, forests, and lakes, and rivers.
This complete 10-day tour covers Jordan and Israel and their main historic and cultural attractions. Begin in Jordan and explore the ancient Roman ruins in Jerash, sleep in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, and discover the centuries-old tombs in Petra. Cross the river Jordan for four nights in Jerusalem, trek through the Judean Desert, swim in the Dead Sea, visit Bethlehem, and drive along the Mediterranean coast from Tel Aviv to Northern Israel.
This 14-day itinerary through Egypt and Jordan takes you to places off the beaten path. Explore Siwa, an ancient and isolated urban oasis on the border of the Sahara, hike through the Dana Biosphere Reserve to one the world's best eco-lodges, and stroll through ancient alleyways in the village of Salt. Of course, there'll be plenty of time dedicated to visiting cultural and historical attractions like Cairo and Luxor, the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
Go off the beaten path on this 10-day itinerary covering Israel and Jordan's Holy Land. Explore the eclectic artist's colony of Old Jaffa in Tel Aviv, discover the remains of an ancient Roman stronghold in Umm Qais, and stay the night at the Feynan Ecolodge in the remote mountains of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. You'll also experience popular attractions of the region, including the Dead Sea, both "Little Petra" and Petra, and Wadi Rum.
This classic 10-day tour covers the highlights of Jordan and Israel. Begin in Amman and set out to discover Crusader castles and ancient ruins in Jerash and Ajloun, drive south to explore the "Lost City" of Petra, and sleep in a Bedouin-style tent in Wadi Rum. Cross the border into Israel and tour historic sites straight out of the Bible, Torah, and Quran in Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, and Jericho—the world's oldest city.
This 12-day honeymoon is perfect for couples who love exotic wildlife and natural scenery. Starting from the capital, you'll circle the island-nation exploring a boggling array of national parks, rainforests, ancient villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Buddhist relics. After each day of sightseeing with your private guide, you'll have quality time (alone) at your accommodations—a fun mix of resorts, beach hotels, and safari camps—for the ultimate romantic adventure.
This off-the-beaten-track adventure kicks off in Mexico City, where you'll learn the area's pre-Colombian history and visit mysterious temples built by the Aztecs and Mayans. From here, fly to the Riviera Maya to ramble in the colonial streets of Valladolid, dine on fresh cuisine, and chill out on the Caribbean Sea. Expect private guides and transportation throughout (except for your free day in Tulum).
This two-week China adventure is the ultimate introduction to the world's oldest continuous civilization—one that's modernizing at a staggering pace. Starting in Beijing, you'll experience the best of the capital before making your way to exhilarating Shanghai while taking scenic and cultural detours along the way, including a winter festival known for towering snow and ice sculptures.
This complete two-week itinerary features Israel's Holy Land in addition to significant historical and religious sites in Jordan and Egypt. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ as you explore Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Bethlehem, dive into the Crusader past and wander ancient Caesarea, Acre, and Haifa, cross the border into Jordan and explore the "Lost City" of Petra, and ride a ferry across the Gulf of Aqaba to Egypt to hike Mount Sinai. You'll float in the Dead Sea, sleep in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, and discover the beautiful Byzantine mosaics in Madaba.
This stunning road-trip itinerary encompasses urban sophistication, a wildlife safari, and one of the country's best wine regions—all in the span of 11 days. Kick off in Cape Town, where you'll have four days to explore the city's culture and hiking trails. From here, drive to a beautiful private game reserve that is home to the Big Five. Finish in the Franschhoek Valley to see some of the best wine estates and gardens in South Africa.
This incredible Italy itinerary packs a lot into five days but doesn't skimp on the luxurious details. Explore Venice to see wide city canals and ornate palaces and feast on fresh seafood, then head to Florence for a private tour of the Accademia Gallery with an art historian and a romantic sunset cruise on the Arno River.
This short itinerary is perfect for travelers who are short on time but love indulging in luxurious travel experiences. Explore the City of Water to see medieval palaces and a traditional gondola boatyard and view Michelangelo's "David" statue in Florence, then head to Rome for exclusive access to the Vatican and a private tour of the city sights.
Spend a captivating week exploring the artistic masterpieces and ornate architecture of Italy's most mesmerizing cities with a luxury tour that whisks you from elegant Venice to the art-filled streets of Renaissance Florence and, finally, the Baroque majesty of Roma. You'll feast in Michelin-starred restaurants, sip cocktails, and watch the sunset over the Colosseum before ending your tour in style with private access to the world-famous Vatican museums.
From the wide canals of Venice to the sunny lemon groves of the Amalfi Coast, this luxurious 8-day itinerary is Italy like you've never seen it before. Tour Florence's world-famous art museums with an art historian, learn to cook Italian food in Rome and discover ancient Roman history at the Colosseum. Round out your trip with a helicopter flight over Pompeii and a tour of the sunny Amalfi Coast.
Get exclusive access to world-famous historical sights, dine on incredible food, and experience Italy's renowned hospitality on this luxurious 9-day itinerary. Ride a gondola in Venice, go wine-tasting in Tuscany, and learn to make traditional Italian food in Rome. Round out your trip with a dive into ancient Roman history and two days on the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast.
If spending a week and a half exploring the best that Italy has to offer sounds like your dream vacation, this luxury-infused itinerary is your perfect match. Start in Venice, where citywide canals, ornate palaces, and famously fresh seafood leave you wanting more. Continue to Tuscany for world-famous art and medieval architecture, then head to Rome for exclusive access to the Vatican. End on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea to see Pompeii's ruins and the dramatic Amalfi coastline from a private helicopter.
From busy streets of Rome to the sunny beaches of the Amalfi Coast, this luxurious 11-day itinerary has everything you're looking for. Dine on fresh seafood and tour ornate palaces in Venice, see Florence's medieval architecture and Michelangelo's 'David', and discover ancient Rome on a private tour of the Colosseum. End your trip on the coast where old-world fishing villages, a luxury yacht trip to Capri, and a helicopter tour of Pompeii will leave you wanting more.
Spend 12 days indulging in Italy's finest artwork, cuisine, and scenery on this luxurious itinerary. Explore Venice on a private guided gondola tour, dine at 3-star Michelin restaurant in Florence, and go wine tasting in the scenic hills of Tuscany. Travel to Rome to see the Sistine Chapel before the crowds arrive then head to the Amalfi Coast for old-world fishing villages and a luxury yacht trip to the famed island of Capri.
Explore the best of Italy's culture and history on this luxurious 13-day trip. Begin with the City of Water to dine on famously fresh seafood and visit a gondola workshop, then head to Tuscany for world-famous artwork and a stay in a luxurious countryside Relais. Tour Rome on a private city tour and dive into ancient history at the Colosseum, then end on the Amalfi Coast for old-world fishing villages and a helicopter flight over Pompeii.
Experience Italy's cities, countryside, and coast over two weeks with this luxurious grand tour. Start in Venice to see ornate palaces and visit a traditional gondola workshop. Get an insider's look at Renaissance gems in Florence, then continue into Chianti for wine tasting and a hot-air balloon ride over Tuscany. Dive into the history of Rome with priority access to the Vatican and a private tour of the Colosseum, and end on the Amalfi Coast to tour lemon farms and cruise to the isle of Capri.
From metropolitan Rome to small-town Amalfi, explore Italy's cities and coast on this luxurious 15-day comprehensive itinerary. Start in Venice to tour grand palaces and dine on fresh seafood, then head to Florence for world-famous art museums and famous Tuscan wine. End the trip with exclusive access to Vatican City and three days on the Amalfi Coast for luxury yacht tours and a helicopter flight over Pompeii.
Experience the best of Provence and the French Riviera in 10 days. Visit Cannes, Nice, the hill-top villages of Luberon, Aix-en-Provence, and more regional highlights. Along the way, you’ll enjoy gourmet culinary tours, local culture, and charming boutique hotels.
Jewish history is of fundamental importance for Italian cultural heritage, and nearly every city in Italy can trace back their Jewish communities. Spend 9 days exploring the synagogues, ghettos, old cemeteries, and more to explore this rich culture. See the San Sabba concentration camp in Trieste, explore Venice's medieval ghetto and view ancient Hebrew texts in Bologna.
Over an immersive 16 days, you'll alternate between adventure and leisure in Costa Rica. Some days will be filled with culture in the capital of San José, others you'll spend whitewater rafting, and others will involve zipline excursions over the jungle canopy. If that's not enough, you'll also visit Costa Rica's largest active volcano and even make time for surf lessons.
Explore many of Costa Rica's off-the-beaten-path destinations on this 16-day self-drive tour. You'll travel to all corners of the country, from the surf town of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, to Arenal Volcano in the north, and to Pacific beaches and protected areas home to exotic wildlife like scarlet macaws. The final leg of this adventure will be a trip to the far south and the remote and beautiful Osa Peninsula.
This 13-day itinerary allows you to experience the full scope of Costa Rica's wonders. In almost two weeks you'll visit the capital of San José, the tropical jungles at Pacuare, the iconic Arenal volcano, the cloud forests of Monteverde, and many wide and inviting beaches, from the north of the country to the south. There are plenty of activities along the way, from white water rafting to soaring over the cloud forest canopy on a zip-line tour.
Perfect for first-timers, this 13-day itinerary covers an epic variety of landscapes and activities that only New Zealand could offer. Starting in Auckland, you'll head south, passing through glowworm caves, natural mud baths, and famous film sets. Stay a few nights in Wellington before continuing to the South Island for the country's highest peaks, incredible natural wonders (like Milford Sound), and—if you so choose—a range of adrenaline sports to amp up this Kiwi adventure.
Experience Jerusalem's ancient history and the beautiful nature of the Judean Desert on this short and sweet 3-day itinerary. Visit the Tomb of King David and stroll through an open-air market, see the Dead Sea Scrolls, and take in the views from the hilltop Masa fortress. End your trip on the Dead see to experience the rich minerals and world-famous salty water.
Eat and drink your way through the incredible cuisine of Northern Italy on this 7-day tour. Explore the 11th-century university and covered porticos in Bologna, indulge your taste buds with visits to prosciutto and parmesan producers, and stay in a quiet medieval town in the Emilia Romagna countryside. End the trip in the Valpolicella wine region for a full-day wine tour and cooking class.
Dive deep into Israel's history and religion on this packed 9-day itinerary. Walk through the Old City of Jerusalem and see the City of David, visit the lowest place on earth and float on the Dead Sea, explore the Judean desert, and tour ancient religious sites like the Mount of Beatitudes and Megiddo. Round off the tour with stops at Safed to learn about Kabbalah (Jewish Mysticism) and a free day in the beach city of Tel Aviv.
Italy is comprised of 20 different regions, each with its own identity and heritage yet all combined to form the Bel Paese (Beautiful Country) we know and love. While navigating these geographical divisions can be logistically challenging, travelers owe it to themselves see as much of the country as time and budget will allow.
This two-week tour of Jordan covers cultural highlights and lesser-known attractions. Start in Amman and travel the length of the country from the hills of Umm Qais down to Aqaba on the Red Sea. Along the way, you'll discover the ancient city of Petra, camp in Wadi Rum, and float in the Dead Sea. You'll also tour Crusader-era castles, hike in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and visit the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba.
Led by a local guide, this weeklong bike trip begins in Vietnam's majestic highlands—with views of coffee plantations and misty pine forests—and descends to the South China Sea. This is where you'll ride along the picturesque coast toward the UNESCO-listed ancient trade town of Hoi An while interacting with locals, relaxing on the beach, and dining on fresh seafood for an adventure rarely experienced by tourists.
On this 10-day adventure through Australia, discover four cities, along with several scenic day trips. Begin in Sydney to tour landmarks and areas like The Rocks, Sydney Harbour, and Bondi Beach, along with an excursion to the stunning Blue Mountains region. Then, enjoy a quick day in Cairns for an Indigenous experience, followed by two days in Gold Coast to tour the beaches and enjoy some thrills. The vacation ends in Melbourne to visit the funky pub scene, embark on a wildlife tour of Phillip Island, and take a guided road trip through Great Ocean Road.
From snorkeling with coral sharks to sleeping in a traditional cone-shaped hunt, this week-long itinerary is full of off-the-beaten-path adventures. You'll explore western Flores and the Komodo Archipelago, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides and rangers. Work your way through rugged terrain to secluded caves and remote villages, overnighting in local homes and breaking bread with locals. Then embark on a three-day boat trip through the Komodo archipelago that features jungle hikes, wildlife-viewing walks, and underwater excursions where you'll have the chance to snorkel with colorful fish.
This scenic itinerary starts with a self-guided road trip through exceptional villages, cities, and wine regions in the heart of Provence. Over the course of 9 days, you’ll explore Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Avignon, and the Rhone Valley with visits to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites as well as hidden gems. Finish the adventure in Paris with a mix of private tours and free time to explore on your own.
This nine-day adventure features the flat plains of Colombia's Llanos Orientales, the alpine tundra of the páramo, and colonial villages in the Andean highlands. Starting and ending your stay in the capital city of Bogotá, you'll alternate your time between venturing off the beaten path to traditional "fincas" of the Colombian savannah in search of native wildlife and wandering the charming streets of picturesque Spanish-era towns. You'll meet locals in Yopal, safari in Encanto de Guanapalo, hike the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, and visit a 17th-century convent in Villa de Leyva.
Explore North Tropical Queensland on this seven-day tour. Begin in Hamilton Island and snorkel, sea kayak, play a round of golf, or relax. Then, take a cruise to Whitehaven Beach and learn the area's history. Next, journey to Port Douglas to enjoy a leisure day, a Daintree Rainforest tour, and an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. The trip winds down in Cairns, with plenty of native animal exhibits to visit and a scenic ride up the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Epitomizing laid-back travel, Costa Rica has hundreds of hotels, but only a few make the list for luxury. With the help of local specialists, kimkim has narrowed down the best to these eight unique options that choose quality over quantity, simplicity over opulence. Pick one or more and make your next trip to the land of "pura vida" extra special.
