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20 things to do in Malaga, Spain
The Spanish city of Malaga is often overlooked, as travellers rush through its airport on their way to the beaches of the Costa del Sol. Yet there are so many fun things to do in Malaga, with its sandy Malagueta beach, charming historic centre, Moorish palace and Roman theatre, world class museums and plenty of delicious food.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, our Malaga travel guide covers the top things to see and other essentials for a fun visit. With so much packed into a small area, this city makes a perfect short break destination.

Picasso statue Malaga Spain

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

10 Top things to do in Malaga

If you are short of time in Malaga, here are our top things to see and do.
- Historic Centre – wander around the pedestrianised streets of the old centre, with its attractive and well restored buildings.
- Enjoy eating al fresco – the weather is mild enough to sit out year round in the many bars and restaurants, feasting on tapas and seafood or just sipping a coffee.
Dining al fresco in Malaga Spain © Heatheronhertravels.com
- Wander along the port – past the boulevard of Muelle Uno with its shops and restaurants, as far as the landmark Farola de Malaga lighthouse.
- Chill out on Malagueta Beach – swim, relax on the sand and eat seafood in one of the many Chiringuitos or beach bars.
Malagueta beach Malaga Spain
- Discover the Picasso connection – visit the Picasso Museum housing his artworks, take a selfie with his statue and visit the small museum of his birthplace.
- Explore the Alcazaba – a Moorish Palace set on the hill above the town, then climb up to the Gibralfaro fortress.
- Visit Malaga Cathedral in the heart of the old town – the roofop tour (if open) is a highlight.
Malaga Cathedral Spain
- Enjoy the many museums and galleries – there are numerous art galleries and museums, often housed in stunning palacios – our favourites are the Automobile and Fashion museum and the Carmen Thyssen Gallery.
- Caminito del Rey – if you make one day trip from Malaga, it should be to the Caminito del Rey, a walkway that clings to the side of sheer cliff above the river.
Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

Essential Planning for Malaga

Hotels: We recommend staying close to (but not necessarily in) the historic centre. Try Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad (budget), AC Hotel Malaga Palacio by Marriott (mid-range) or Palacio Solecio (luxury)

Attractions: Check availability for the Alcazaba and Picasso Museum, as tickets may get booked up at busy times.

Tours: Book this 2 hour city walking tour, if you’d like to get your bearings on the major Malaga sites.

Malaga port Spain

Now let’s take a look around the city of Malaga.

Malaga’s Historic Old Town

Much of central Malaga is pedestrianised, giving you even more chance to enjoy the historic centre with its narrow streets, shady squares and charming older buildings. Malaga’s main sites are concentrated in this very walkable old town area, so it’s the obvious place to start your visit to the city.

Old Town Malaga Spain

One of the main squares is Plaza de la Constitucion, with its elegant marble fountain and pretty surrounding buildings. From here, the wide boulevard of Calle Larios runs towards the port and is a great place for shopping, since many of the upscale brands are located here.

For a more local feel, wander around the narrow streets around Museuo Carmen Thyssen to find coffee shops and smaller boutiques. As you head towards Malaga Cathedral, the streets become busier, as this is the tourist heart of Malaga, nevertheless there are numerous pleasant restaurants and bars.

Old Town Malaga Spain

Close to the cathedral is the Roman Theatre and Picasso Museum, and many of the beautiful Palacios have been converted for use as hotels and museums.

This 2 hour city walking tour is a good way to get your bearings in the historic centre and see some of the main sites.

While Malaga’s Historic Centre can be packed in summer, it’s just as magical (and less crowded) in Spring and Autumn, when Malaga’s sunny climate allows for al fresco dining. At Christmas the city has a wonderfully festive feel, with light shows on Calle Larios and projections on the walls of the Cathedral.

Read about our visit to Malaga at Christmas and all the festive things you can do.

Best place to stay in the Old Town

Stay at the Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre

Muelle Uno and the Port

An essential part of the Malaga experience, is to stroll along the shaded boulevard that runs between the modern port and the Centre Pompidou. Here you’ll find plenty of terrace bars and rows of souvenir stalls, with a view of the large harbour.

It’s worth a stop at the coloured glass cube of the Centre Pompidou, to see its collection of modern art. Afterwards browse in the nearby street market for holiday fashions and souvenirs.

Muelle Uno Malaga Spain

Turn the corner to continue past Muelle Uno, with its tourist oriented shops and cafes, designed to please the cruise passengers who dock near here. After walking under the palm trees, where the swanky yachts moor up, you’ll reach La Farola Lighthouse, one of Malaga’s landmarks.

Muelle Uno Malaga Spain

From here, cross over onto Malaga’s main beach where you can stop for refreshments in one of the Chiringuito beach bars, and watch the city at play.

Malagueta Beach

Malaga’s main city beach of La Malagueta offers a broad stretch of sand, backed by grassy areas and palm trees. The promenade that runs behind the beach is a favourite place to stroll, cycle or roller-skate, since this path stretches the length of the beach and beyond.

La Malagueta beach, Malaga, Spain

There are a number of Chiringuito beach bars along the beach, where you can buy drinks and order seafood with the sand between your toes. Look out for their traditional charcoal grills, where fresh sardines are grilled on skewers or ‘Espetos’, putting out an appetising aroma.

Sardines on Malaga beach Spain

As a Blue Flag beach, the water is clean, shallow and normally calm here, for easy swimming. La Malagueta is well provided with facilities, such as sunbeds, toilets, showers, childrens’ play areas and summer activities.

Alcazaba Moorish Palace

Visit the Alcazaba, the beautiful Moorish palace on the hill, with fountains and courtyard gardens. Built in the 11th century by the Arab rulers of Malaga at the time, the Alcazaba was designed both for defence, and as the residence of Malaga’s governor.

You can take this guided tour of the Alcazaba including tickets.

Alcazaba palace Malaga Spain

Walk up the hill, through a series of protective gateways with high walls and watch towers to reach the inner courtyards and formal gardens. The small courtyards of the palace, with their ornamental pools, tiled decoration and shady porticos, were designed to stay cool during Malaga’s hot summers.

While smaller than the Moorish palaces of Seville and Grenada, the Alcazaba of Malaga is a beautiful historic monument that has been well restored, and well worth a visit.

Alcazaba palace Malaga Spain

The entrance and ticket office are just above the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba is open daily. You can also buy a combined ticket, together with the Gibralfaro Castle that sits a little higher up the hill.

More info: Alcazaba Malaga Website

Gibralfaro Castle

The Gibralfaro castle is set on the hill immediately above the Alcazaba, and can be entered with a joint ticket.

It is best reached along a paved path leading steeply up from the Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso, which are filled with bitter orange trees in fruit around Christmas. As you walk up the hill, there are some lovely views over the port, bullring and beach towards the sea.

Views of Malaga Spain

The castle was built in the 14th century as a garrison, and its strategic position at the top of the hill allowed it to protect the Alcazaba below. One of the main features of the castle are the thick defensive walls. You can walk along the top of the Bastion, to get wonderful views of Malaga town and the surrounding area. There’s also a small museum and a cafe/restaurant within the walls.

Gibralfaro castle Malaga Spain

For those that might find the walk up from the town a little steep, it is possible to access the castle by taxi or the No 35 bus that stops outside the entrance.

Tip: If visiting on a hot day, take your time on the walk up the hill and be sure to take some water.

Gibralfaro castle Malaga Spain

Roman Theatre

On the edge of the historic centre, the remains of the Roman Theatre date back to the first century BC, with a small museum to explain about its history. The theatre is set into the hillside and was discovered under another building in the 1950s, and gradually renovated in the 1960s.

Roman Theatre Malaga Spain

Well preserved Roman remains show a tiered seating area, orchestra and stage, which can easily be viewed from the plaza. To learn more, visit the small interpretation centre (free) and then walk through the site for a closer look, or enter past the Alcazaba ticket office, for a view looking down on the archaeological site from above.

Malaga Cathedral

Malaga Cathedral sits at the heart of the historic centre, and can be seen from almost every spot in the city. Dedicated to Our Lady of the Incarnation, the cathedral is one of the city’s most popular visitor attractions. It was built in the 16th century by the ‘Catholic Monarchs’, Ferdinand and Isabella on the site of a former mosque, after they reconquered Malaga.

Malaga Cathedral Spain

As you approach, you may notice that the cathedral has only one bell tower. The other was left unfinished due to lack of funds, giving it the local name of La Manquita or the one armed lady. There is a lot to see in the cathedral’s interior, with side chapels, stained glass windows, intricately carved choir stalls and a museum housing paintings and sculptures.

One of the highlights is a tour of the rooftop, with walkways that allow you to better understand the construction of the building. However, these tours are currently suspended due to roof renovation works.

Malaga Cathedral Spain

On our visit in December, we enjoyed visiting the famous Belenes or Nativity Scene in the cathedral, as well as watching the free light and music show that is projected against the tower of the cathedral every evening. Read about this and all the other things to do in Malaga at Christmas.

There is a fee to visit (unless you are attending morning mass) and an audioguide is included in the ticket price of €10.

Pedro Luis Alfonso Gardens

While the nearby Parque de Malaga offers a shady, green space close to the port, the Pedro Luis Alfonso Garden on the other side of the road is a smaller formal gardens offering a quiet space to relax.

Pedro Luis Alfonso Gardens Malaga Spain

The design is reminiscent of the Moorish gardens of the region, with geometric parterres, hedges and pools, planted with groves of shady orange trees. In between the hedges are some colourful floral plantings, and we enjoyed the fragrance of bitter orange fruit on the trees, when we visited in December.

Atarazanas Market

In the centre of Malaga, the covered Atarazanas Market in the centre of Malaga is a feast for the eyes. Colourful displays of fruit, meat and fish give you a sense for what’s fresh and in season.

The current market building dates back to the 19th century and is known for its attractive stained glass windows, depicting moments from Malaga’s history.

Atarazanas Market Malaga Spain

The market is also a good place if you want to shop for some Spanish foodie souvenirs at the deli or charcuterie counters. Look out for finely sliced jamon, which is sold in sealed packets, a staple of every Andalusian restaurant to nibble with a drink.

Atarazanas Market Malaga Spain

At the end of the market and just outside are stalls, bars and restaurants selling fried fish and other seafood dishes. This is a good place to stop for a snack or lunch, knowing that the produce will be fresh from the market.

Read about A mouthwatering walk around Atarazanas market in Malaga

Street Art in Soho

For a different perspective, wander around the Soho neighbourhood, which is close to the port. This area has been through a regeneration, and is now considered one of the most trendy areas of the city, with numerous bars and restaurants.

Street art in Malaga Spain

Known as the Barrio de las Artes (Neighbourhood of the Arts), Soho is a mecca for lovers of street art, with murals and smaller pieces from big names on many of the buildings.

The open air art gallery has QR codes by many of the pieces to inform you about the artists. For a downloadable street art map and more information about the project, visit the MAUS website (Malaga Arte Urbano Soho).

Street art in Soho Malaga Spain

Due to its proximity to the bus and train stations, historic centre and port area, Soho is also a well located place to stay, with boutique hotels and rental apartments. We recommend Room Mate Collection Valeria or Soho Boutique Colón.

Picasso Museum

The Picasso Museum is one of Malaga’s most popular visitor attractions, housed in a beautiful 16th century Palacio Buenavista. Over 200 works by Pablo Picasso are on display, a permanent collection that spans his whole artistic career and represents the breadth of media in which he worked.

Picasso Museum Malaga Spain © Heatheronhertravels.com

The museum also hosts changing exhibitions of other artists that have some connection to Picasso. At times the Picasso Museum can have long queues to buy tickets, so you may want to buy your tickets in advance here.

More info on the Picasso Museum website.

Picasso Museum Malaga Spain

Picasso was born in Malaga, and you can also discover more about his life at the Casa Natal Picasso museum, located nearby in the house where he was born.

Picasso Museum Malaga Spain

More Art Galleries in Malaga

Carmen Thyssen Museum

A beautiful art museum set in a 16th century palace, with art from the old masters to impressionists and early 20th century Spanish artists. The museum shop is a good place for gifts. Check the website for more information.

Carmen Thyssen Museum Malaga Spain

Pompidou Centre

This outpost of the Pompidou Centre in Paris is topped by a colourful transparent cube El Cubo, in the port area by Muelle Uno. It houses a collection of modern and contemporary artworks, with permanent collections and changing exhibitions. Check the website for more information.

Pompidou Centre Malaga Spain

CAC Malaga

The Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Málaga (CAC Malaga) is an art museum located close to the river and port, housing a collection of Spanish and international contemporary artists. CAC Malaga is currently closed for renovation, planned to reopen in 2026.

CAC Malaga Spain

Our favourite museums in Malaga

Malaga Museum

Malaga museum is set in the 18th century Palacio de la Aduana that was formerly Malaga’s Customs House. The port once extended in front of the building, but now, with the reclamation of land where Parque de Malaga stands, it is set some way back from the sea.

Malaga Museum, Malaga Spain

This art and history museum offers insights in Malaga’s past, with artworks by notable Spanish and Malaga artists, as well as archaeological collections from the region.

More information on the Museuo de Malaga website.

Malaga Museum, Malaga Spain

Malaga Glass and Crystal Museum

The charming 17th century mansions houses a collection of glass and ceramics from across the centuries. The museum is located on the northern edge of the historic centre. All visits are part of a guided tour, normally taking place on the hour, but there’s no need to book in advance.

More information on the museum website.

Malaga glass and crystal museum Spain

Automobile and fashion museum

The museum is in an old tobacco factory, La Tabacalera, and houses nearly 100 classic cars that were part of a private collection. Each car is paired with couture fashions from leading international designers since the 1920s, showing how trends in fashion and car design went hand in hand.

Automobile and Fashion Museum Malaga Spain

This was one of our favourite museums in Malaga, since I love fashion and Guy loves cars, the perfect couple’s experience! The museum is a little way south of the historic centre, but can be easily reached in a short bus ride.

More information on the museum website.

Automobile and Fashion Museum Malaga Spain

Eating out and restaurants in Malaga

Malaga enjoys a sunny climate all year round, and even in winter it’s often mild enough to sit outside on a sheltered restaurant terrace. Eating out is also affordable relative to other parts of Europe, so it’s common to see extended families or groups of friends eating out together.

If you’re in a large group or at weekends, you may need to reserve a table in advance. Otherwise, if a restaurant appears busy you could just wait or have a drink at the bar until a table becomes available.

Al Fresco lunch in Malaga Spain

There are endless bars and restaurants in Malaga, so I’d recommend walking around the pedestrianised streets of the old town, to see what takes your fancy. The most touristy areas are around the Cathedral and Plaza de la Constitucion, so if you want a more local experience, you may need to look for restaurants that are a few blocks away from these.

While I hesitate to make recommendations, because there are so many good restaurants, here are a few where we ate or were recommended by our friends who are Malaga locals.

Russian Salad in Malaga Spain

Recommended restaurants in Malaga

El Cenachero Centro (Calle Compania 16) – busy and atmospheric seafood restaurant on three floors close to the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Carmen Thyssen Museum Cafe (Calle Compania 10) – if you are looking for a quiet spot for lunch, this museum cafe serves a good value Menu del Dia at lunchtime.

O Mamma Mia (Plaza de las Flores 7) – a family run Italian pizza & pasta restaurant in a central but quiet square with outdoor terrace, a good bet if you need somewhere that’s family friendly.

L’Experience (Plaza Obispo 4 ) – While you are in prime tourist territory, there’s something magical about this tapas restaurant’s terrace overlooking the cathedral. There are plenty more nice looking restaurants in the streets around the Cathedral.

Seafood in Malaga Spain

If like me you are picky about your barista style coffee, head to Next Level Coffee (Calle San Juan 27) or Syra Coffee – takeaway only (Calle Martires 13).

Casa Mira (Calle Cister 8) – This Malaga institution serving ice cream, sweets and turon has several locations, but the one near the cathedral is especially nice and has a few tables outside for coffee or ice cream.

Turon ice cream at Casa Mira in Malaga Spain

For foodie souvenirs or picnic supplies, head to Atarazanas Market in the centre of Malaga or the food hall on the Lower Ground floor of El Corte Ingles.

There are numerous Chiringuito or beach restaurants serving seafood on Malagueta beach. We enjoyed lunch at Chiringuito Tropicana but there are several others, so take your pick of what looks busy and open.

Chiringuito on Malaga beach Spain

More things to do in Malaga

We’ve covered some of the top things to see in Malaga, including our favourite museums and art galleries. Here are a few more unusual things to do in Malaga, that are worth considering if you have more time.

Hammam Arab Baths

The Hammam Arab Baths is a great place for couples, a girl’s getaway, or on days when the weather isn’t being kind. Enjoy the modern Spa experience in a traditional Arab style Hammam, with hot and cold baths, steam rooms, massage and treatments. It’s tucked away in the historic centre, close to the Carmen Thyssen museum.

Book a 90 minute Hammam session with optional massage here.

La Concepcion Botanical Garden in Malaga

The beautiful La Concepcion botanical garden in Malaga covers 3.5 hectares of palms, water features and glasshouses, spread over the hillside overlooking Malaga. It’s particularly popular to visit around Christmas time, when there’s a festive light trail, Las Luces de la Concepcion.

The Botanical Garden is located a little outside the centre of Malaga, but there are good public transport options and shuttle buses to get there.

Light Trail at the Botanical Garden in Malaga Spain

Visit at Christmas lights

Christmas in Malaga is a special time to visit, when the city is buzzing with festive atmosphere. The pedestrianised streets of the historic centre are strung with sparkling Christmas lights and there are nightly free light shows, on Calle Larios and the Cathedral square.

The generally mild and sunny weather, wide range of shopping, fantastic restaurants and Belénes nativity scenes around the city, make this a great alternative to the chillier Christmas Market destinations.

Read my article about all the festive things to do in Malaga at Christmas.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

Where to stay in Malaga

If visiting Malaga for a short break, we recommend you stay in the Historic Centre or Soho neighbourhoods, close to all the main attractions. However there are many bars and restaurants in this area, so be sure to read the reviews to avoid places mentioning street noise.

A good budget option is to stay just across the river in the neighbourhoods of Marmoles, Alameda or Perchel Sur. These are an easy walk to the historic centre, yet well located for the bus and train stations. As these neighbourhoods are more residential there are many options for apartment stays, as well as some more budget hotels.

Old Town Malaga Spain

Hotels we recommend

Luxury – Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre.

Mid-range – AC Hotel Malaga Palacio by Marriott – a smart modern hotel that’s well located in Malaga’s central area.

Budget – Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad – a modern budget hotel on the edge of the historic area.

2 bedroom apartment – You Trip Malaga – this 2 bedroom apartment owned by our friend (where we stayed) is clean and modern, just a 10 minute walk from the historic centre.

Stay at the Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre

YouTripMalaga is a clean, modern 2 bedroom apartment 10 minutes from the historic center

Getting to Malaga

By plane

Most international visitors to Malaga arrive at Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, located 13km to the south-west of the city (25 mins by road).

From here, we recommend using the rail link (Line C1) from the airport to Maria Zambrano station, which takes around 15 mins. Alternatively, take the public bus Express Line 3 from outside Terminal 3, which takes around 25-45 mins depending on traffic, but may be more convenient as it has stops closer to the historic centre and port.

Gibralfaro castle Malaga Spain

By Train

If you have been travelling in Spain, there are good rail connections to Malaga from Madrid and other Spanish cities in the south, such as Seville, Grenada and Cordoba. Trains arrive to Malaga Maria Zambrano station, which is just outside the historic centre.

We normally use Trainline to work out train times and prices in Europe and you can use their app to book your tickets online.

If you want to visit Malaga as part of a wider trip by train around Europe, we recommend Byway Travel, who specialise in arranging no-fly holidays.

Malagueta beach Malaga Spain

By Bus

There’s a good network of inter-city buses in Spain, so if travelling around the country, you may find it convenient to arrive in Malaga by bus. There are many different bus companies, so we recommend checking the Malaga Bus Station website, to see which bus companies travel where, or alternatively use your favourite mapping tool to find the bus options.

Views over Malaga Spain

Getting around Malaga

Malaga has an excellent public transport system, and the historic centre is largely pedestrianised, so you don’t need to hire a car for use in the city. For public transport the options are shown below.

While most places in the historic centre are easily walkable, a bus is your best bet for longer journeys. The Metro and Suburban trains are useful for getting from the centre to the city suburbs.

By Metro

There are two lines, L1 and L2, which run from Atarazanas metro station (close to Atarazanas market and the port) and continue towards the west of the city. Both L1 and L2 run through El Perchal metro station, which is the Intercambiador (central station linking bus, metro and suburban trains). Check the metro map here.

Pompidou centre Malaga Spain

By Suburban train

The state owned train operator RENFE run the Cercanias (commuter) Malaga trains. There are two lines C1 and C2, both is which start at the central train station in Malaga, Maria Zambrano station. C1 runs south-west along the coast, stopping at the airport, and ends in Fuengirola. C2 runs west to Alora. Maria Zambrano station is also the Intercambiador, so you can connect here with metro trains and buses. Check the Cercanias / Suburban train map here.

By Bus

The bus service in Malaga is provided by the Empresa Municipal de Transportes (Municipal Bus Company). You can tap on and off the buses, using a debit card. Check their website for Lines and Schedules.

To find out the best transport options in real time when out sightseeing, I generally use the Citymapper app, which covers Malaga.

Malaga Spain

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com
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15/06/2025
38 Christmas Events in Bristol 2024

The lights are twinkling in the trees, the baubles are up and the Bristol Christmas Markets are in full swing. Yes, Christmas in Bristol is well and truly here! I love exploring my home town at Christmas and here are the top Christmas events in Bristol for 2024, to check out this holiday season.

Christmas in Bristol

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Bristol Christmas Market – Christmas in Bristol

Christmas Markets in Bristol

Christmas markets? You may have visited them in Germany, but did you know we have plenty in Bristol too?

1. Bristol Christmas Market

While walking through the Bristol Christmas Market in the Broadmead shopping area, I was definitely feeling the festive spirit.

At the centre of it all there’s the Jäger Barn Bar, where the shoppers of Bristol were having a drink in the bubble Iglus and ski gondolas, amid the Christmas baubles and wooden carved figures of giants, elves and reindeer. From Thursday through Sundays, the bar will feature live music from local performers.

Christmas Market in Broadmead Bristol

The 15 metre high big wheel offers stunning views over the Christmas Market. New for 2024 is the Christmas Express kid’s train ride and on Merchant Street is the Candy Factory Christmas themed escape room.

Bristol Christmas Market – Christmas in Bristol

The wooden chalets selling food and gifts stretch towards the Cabot Circus shopping centre. The 35 market stalls are open from 1 November – 23 December 2024 10am-7pm and the food stalls 10am – 10pm.

You may also enjoy: Visiting the Christmas Market in Bath

Bristol Christmas Market – Christmas in Bristol

But that’s not all! There are plenty more seasonal markets around Bristol for you to enjoy.

2. Castle Park Christmas Village

New for this 2024 is a Christmas Village in Castle Park, centred around the historic St Peter’s church, which will be illuminated with an evening light show. There will be classic funfair rides, like Dodgems, Walzer and Balloon carousel, as well as activities like the rollerblading, curling and traditional fairground games.

The Castle Park Christmas village will be open 5 Dec – 3 Jan, daily except Christmas Day.

Broadmead Christmas Market in Bristol

3. Corn Street Christmas Market

In the run up to Christmas, the outdoor markets along Corn Street will also take on a festive flavour. Enjoy the best of Bristol food, vintage and gifts, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 10 December, then daily until Christmas eve.

The regular street food markets also run Tuesday and Friday 11am – 2.30pm and the Farmer’s Market runs every other Wednesday 9.30am – 2.30pm. More info: St Nicholas Market website

Discover free things to do in Bristol – 20 things to do that won’t cost you a penny

Corn Street Market – Christmas in Bristol

4. Millennium Square – Vintage Winter Wonderland

There’s a Vintage Winter Wonderland with carousels and family friendly fairground rides in Bristol’s Millennium Square, near the harbour side.

The food stalls in Millennium Square sell everything from German Bratwurst and Cheesy Krakauer to Vegan street eats and hot Belgian waffles, so you won’t be going hungry!

Millennium Square – Christmas in Bristol

While the kids are having fun on the rides, the adults can enjoy the ski themed Après Bar. Mulled wine and cider will be flowing, with blankets to keep away the chills and live music on Thursdays and DJs at the weekend.

The Vintage Winter Wonderland is open in Millennium Square from 9 November 2024 to 5 January 2025.

Harbourside – Christmas in Bristol

Christmas shopping in Bristol

5. Christmas shopping in central Bristol

For shoppers working their way through the Christmas shopping list, the central Bristol shopping centres of Cabot Circus and Broadmead will have most of your needs covered.

In Broadmead, the Galleries shopping centre is hosting the Bristol Pop up Shop in The Galleries 14 Nov – 24 December 2024 with gifts from 100 of Bristol’s finest designers and makers – find it between Boots and Smiths.

I also enjoy shopping on Park Street, with its strings of lights, where there’s a winning mix of upscale high street brands, independents and vintage. One of my favourites is Diana Porter, if you want to splash out on unique and hand made contemporary jewellery, for that special Christmas gift.

Explore 10 cool things to do around Bristol Harbour

Cabots Circus – Christmas in Bristol

6. St Nicholas Market – Bristol’s indie traders

The indoor St Nick’s Market is a great place to stock on unique gifts from Bristol’s indie traders. In 2024 the indoor market will open Monday – Saturday 9.30 – 5pm with additional Sunday opening 10am – 5pm from 14 November until Christmas Eve.

St Nicholas Market – Christmas in Bristol

7. Clifton Village – stylish boutiques and cafes

For atmosphere, you can’t beat Clifton Village, where the elegant Georgian townhouses and stylish boutiques make for a charming atmosphere. There’s plenty of opportunity to shop for that party frock or pair of sparkly heels, so look out for tempting Christmas displays in all the shop windows.

Clifton Village – Christmas in Bristol

A 50 ft Christmas tree towers impressively over the Mall Gardens, with Community Carol singing and the Clifton illuminations being turned on from 6.00pm Weds 20 November 2024. Clifton Village is full of bars, cafes and restaurants, so it’s a great place to meet friends for brunch or a festive drink.

Clifton Village – Christmas in Bristol

Among my favourite places to get into the Christmas spirit are The Ivy with their festive menus (13 Nov – 2 Jan), East Village Vegan Cafe to brunch while you shop and The Dirty Bird for festive cocktails.

An Elf on the Shelf trail will be in Clifton Village between 23 November and 21 December. Grab a map and search out for hidden elves in the shop windows as you walk around the charming streets of Clifton.

For more info and a full list of events: DiscoverClifton.co.uk

8. Christmas Steps – Bristol’s Arts Quarter

If you’re looking for something a bit more arty in the centre of Bristol, explore the area around the aptly named Christmas Steps, where the Christmas lights will be sparkling and you can get a flavour of medieval Bristol.

The steps once led down to Bristol’s Harbourside where merchants ships from around the world unloaded their cargo onto the quayside and into sugar warehouses, like the one that is now Hotel du Vin.

Christmas Steps – Christmas in Bristol

Now the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter is home to 50 small independent businesses on the steps and Colston Street at the top,. It’s worth continuing up the steps to Perry Road for the art galleries and other creative businesses there.

At dusk capture those Dickensian vibes with a photo looking down from the top of the steps, then treat yourself to a gooey cake from Ahh Toots at the bottom.

More info: ChristmasStepsArtsQuarter.co.uk

Christmas shopping in Bristol

You may also enjoy: Bristol Gifts: 50 gifts that say you love Bristol!

9. Christmas Craft Markets in Bristol

To find original gifts that are unique and often made in Bristol, visit one of the many craft markets around Bristol in the run up to Christmas.

Bristol Beacon Fair- Christmas in Bristol

Bristol Beacon Made in Bristol Gift Fair 2024 – The fair takes place on Sat 23 Nov, Sat 7 Dec, Sat 14 Dec 10am – 4pm. Five floors of gifts by Bristol artists and makers.

Bristol Pop up Shop in The Galleries 2024 (On the Ground Floor between Smiths and Boots) – Daily from 14 November until 24 December – a huge range of gifts from 100 of Bristol’s finest designers and makers. The shop is run as a collective and staffed by the artists themselves.

Bristol Pop up Shop – Christmas in Bristol

St Nicholas Market 2024 – Open daily – an indoor market in the city’s old Corn Exchange with the largest collection of independent retailers in the city.

Prior Shop Sustainable Design Workshops 2024 – Specialising in sustainable Bristol designers, the Prior Shop in Quakers Friars is hosting several workshops in December, including making Christmas wreaths, festive scented candles and Christmas tree decorations.

Estate of the Arts Winter Fair 2024 – Maker’s stalls among the artists studios in Bedminster on 23rd and 24th November 2024, with hot food and live music.

Future Leap Festive Market 2024 – Sustainable Pop-up Christmas market at 1-3 Gloucester Rd on Sat 30 November, Sat 7 December, Sat 14 December and Sat 21 December 2024 10am – 5pm.

Better Christmas Market 2024 – In the undercroft at St Mary Redcliffe, as part of the Treefest event, an arts and crafts market is being held, with carols, workshops, food and mulled wine. Treefest is a festive display of Christmas trees, each decorated by a different charity or community group. Thurs 5 – Sun 8 Dec 2024

Bristol Beacon Market – Christmas in Bristol

10. Shop for Vintage partywear in Bristol

For some fun party wear, why not shop vintage in Bristol this season? Much of the sparkle we wear during the festive season only gets worn once or twice, so it makes sense to save money and the planet by shopping in Bristol’s many vintage shops.

Good locations to shop, with a range of vintage, dress exchange and upmarket charity shops include Park Street, Broadmead, Gloucester Road and Clifton Village.

Sparks – Christmas in Bristol

Sparks Bristol – the old Marks & Spencer in Broadmead has been transformed into a hub of sustainability in the heart of Broadmead. They have a great selection of vintage clothing, as well as departments for ethical, sustainable and Bristol made gifts.

Vintage personal styling sessions – Meg from Clothmod (She has a stall in Sparks Bristol) runs a 2 hour vintage styling session at Clothing X change in Bristol Broadmead, to help you choose outfits that create your own unique look. There are options to book individual places at her group events, or a session that’s just for you and your friends. Book tickets here.

Ashwell and Co Bristol

Ashwell & Co – tucked away in the side streets of Clifton, this vintage boutique is just the place to shop for beautiful outfits or accessories with your girlfriends, then indulge in their Christmas afternoon tea.

Foodie ways to get festive in Bristol

11. Sweet treats in Bristol

It seems that minced pies and mulled wine are everywhere and now is the time to savour them, before the Christmas flavours are swept away with the diet books and clean eating of January.

Look out for seasonal flavours, like gingerbread and gorgeous gelato cakes at my favourite gelataria Swoon on College Green.

Recently opened Knoops on Park Street offers endless variations of hot chocolate, with ginger marshmallows and seasonal spice blends.

Also on Parks Street, indulge in a warming hot chocolate at Mrs Potts or book for their Christmas Pudding Club on 13 and 14 December 2024.

Swoon Gelato – Christmas in Bristol

If you’re in Clifton Village, the Bar Chocolat Cafe is a cosy space to sip your hot chocolate while browsing for chocolates to gift or enjoy at home.

Over on North Street Bedminster, stock up on festive chocolate stocking fillers at Zara’s chocolates, while sipping a hot chocolate to take away.

Zara’s Chocolates Bristol Photo Zara’s chocolates

12. Festive Pies in Bristol

For something that will warm away the winter chill, Bristolians love to head for Pieminister who have several branches around the city, serving their award winning pies. Find their two restaurants on Broad Quay or on Stokes Croft, with the Festive Christmas pie flavours available from mid November.

There’s also a food stall at St Nicholas Market, where you can buy the pies to take away, or eat at their tables in the market.

Festive pies from Pieminster Bristol Photo Pieminster

Christmas pie favourites include Mistlemoo (steak and port), The Cracker (turkey and cranberry) or Christingle (veggie parsnips, chestnut and cheese). If you’re eating Vegan, they have you covered with The Good Elf, with vegan “turkey”, cranberry and port.

Read about 20 fun things to do in Bristol with your friends

13. Christmas cocktails in Bristol

For a cheeky post shopping drink, head to Dirty Martini. At this stylish cocktail bar on Corn Street the Happy Hour Martinis and selected cocktails are half price. They have some fun Christmas cocktails too, like the Christmas Martini with cranberry juice and orange bitters or Santa’s punch, with rum and pomegranate.

Dirty Martini – Christmas in Bristol

Also just off Corn Street is Brozen, who specialise in unusual frozen cocktails using alcoholic sorbets that are frozen individually using liquid nitrogen.

Or head to Welsh Back, where the The Granary has a late night Granary Club cocktail Bar as well as serving an all day menu in its upstairs restaurant. They are also offering a Breakfast with Santa event on Sat 8 Dec 9.30 – 11am, with a family breakfast, Santa Singalong and present for the kids.

Christmas drinks in Bristol

14. Bristol made drinks to take home for Christmas

No self respecting West County Household would be without their cider at Christmas. You can order in from the Bristol Cider Shop for a drink on Christmas afternoon in front of the telly.

They have a cider advent calendar, cider tasting kit and plenty of other gifts for cider lovers. Everything can be delivered in the UK and gift subscriptions are also available.

Bristol Cider Shop Photo: Bristol Cider Shop

Check out things to do in Bristol Old City – what to see and where to eat

6 O Clock Gin – Christmas in Bristol

Also look out for the floating gin bar from 6 O’clock Gin at the Glass Boat, which is moored by Bristol Bridge. In addition to the bar area, there’s a shop selling the locally produced gin in distinctive blue glass bottles, with mini sizes that are perfect for stocking fillers.

They have seasonal flavours too, so try the Spiced Orange and Cranberry or the Damson Gin, for a Christmas treat.

6 O Clock Gin – Christmas in Bristol

15. Food markets in Bristol for Christmas

In the run up to Christmas, the Finzel’s Reach Market is the place to try local street food, with markets on Wednesdays and Fridays offering a huge range of street food over the lunchtime period (11am – 2pm).

Feast on globally inspired street food inspired by Sri Lanka, Asia and BBQ, or stock up for your Christmas table with local beers and ciders as well as artisan sausages and cheeses.

Finzel’s Reach – Christmas in Bristol

Another wonderful foodie spot is Wapping Wharf, with plenty of choice from Bristol’s finest independent restaurants and food retailers. To launch the Christmas season, they have an event on Thursday 28 November 5.30-8pm, with Father Christmas and live music from the Ambling Band.

Many of the restaurants will be showcasing their Christmas drinks and dishes, from Festive bagels and Turkey Schnitzel Burgers to mulled wine and cocktails.

Christmas Light shows in Bristol

16. Christmas Carol Drone Light Show

The Christmas Carol Drone Light Show, brings to life Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic in the night sky with a 45-minute animated drone light show display, narrated by Matt Lucas.

It’s taking place at the Seat Unique Stadium off the top end of the Gloucester Road on Thurs 19, Fri 20 and Sat 21 December 2024 – book tickets here.

The event is family friendly, with the venue opening 2 hours before the show for a festive funfair and refreshment stalls.

Christmas Carol Drone Show Bristol

17. Luxmuralis: In the beginning at Bristol Cathedral

In the run up to Christmas, the interior of Bristol Cathedral will be transformed with an immersive sound and light artwork. This year’s experience is themed on a reimagined Nativity story and is suitable for all the family.

Luxmuralis: in the beginning is taking place on Monday 25 to Friday 29 November 2024 and you can book tickets here.

Note that as an immersive experience, the sound levels can be very loud, but the sessions prior to 6pm will be at reduced volume. We attended a session at 5pm and the sound level was perfect for us!

Luxmuralis at Bristol Cathedral

18. More Light Trails near Bristol

Other Christmas light trails within an hour’s drive of central Bristol include:

Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park 2024 – A family focussed Christmas Nights Light Trail around the park through twinkling displays and sparkling trees, with live music in the bar every night. The light trail is from 6 – 31 December 2024. In addition the Avon Valley Christmas Experience offers a day of fun, with timed Christmas show, visit to Santa’s toy factory, gingerbread kitchen and Elf Express miniature railway. Christmas Experience selected dates from 30 Nov – 24 Dec.

Old Down Estate Illumination Trail 2024 – The Festive Illumination trail guides you around Old Down Estate, with music, colour and interactive areas along the way. There’s a festive village, where you can toast marshmallows, sip mulled wine and feast on loaded roasties. Dates from 24 November – 24 December 2024.

Westonbirt Enchanted Christmas Photo Johnny Hathaway

Westonbirt Arboretum 2025 – A brand new Christmas light trail with a million twinkling lights, seasonal sounds in the air and illuminations in the forest. Discover luminous birds roosting in the branches, colourful neon trees, sparkling tunnels of light and the arboretum filled with all the colours of the rainbow. There’s a Christmas village of street food vendors offering festive treats. Selected evenings from 28 November – 31 December 2025.

Longleat Festival of light 2025 – This year’s festival of light features features a “Journey Through Time” from the age of the dinosaurs to historic events and mythology. 800 lanterns are set against the historic backdrop of Longleat House. There’s also a 15 metre high singing Christmas tree, Santa’s train and a light projection on the facade of Longleat House. Selected dates from 8 November until 11 January 2025.

Sudeley castle Spectacle of Light 2025 – An illuminated trail around the beautiful castle grounds, with a chance to meet characters from the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. There’s festive food available on the castle terrace, with hot chocolate, donuts and spiced mulled wine. Dates from 21 November – 30 December 2025.

College Green – Christmas in Bristol

Christmas in Bristol with the family

19. SS Great Britain Victorian Christmas

Bristol’s leading visitor attraction, SS Great Britain, is a great choice to keep the family entertained over the school holidays.

Celebrations kick off on 26 November 2024 with the Christmas Light Switch On 4.30-6pm, when the 20ft Christmas tree in Brunel Square will have its lights switched on. This free event is just outside the main SS Great Britain site.

Look out for the Victorian Christmas weekend on 7/8 December 2024 (included in the SS Great Britain ticket). The dockside will be transformed into a festive winter wonderland with local bands and choirs, “Ragged Victorian” characters and falling snow.

You can meet Old Father Christmas, dressed in his traditional green robes, as well as make a Victorian Christmas card or enjoy some festive food.

SS Great Britain Victorian Christmas

Other events include festive lunches in the First Class Dining room and a Christmas Wreath Workshop on 1 December. More info: SS Great Britain Website

20. Wallace and Gromit Christmas Experience

New for 2024, the historic Friary Building at Quakers Friars has been taken over by Wallace and Gromit: A Cracking Christmas Experience. During this 30 minute, family friendly experience, you can immerse yourself in hands on activities at Wallace’s Christmas workshop and help him save Christmas.

Wallace and Gromit – Christmas in Bristol

This is partly a performance, with puzzle solving, cheesy jokes and festive Christmas themed inventions, and partly an interactive play session.

Wallace and Gromit – Christmas in Bristol

After you’ve helped Wallace save Christmas, relax in the Wallace and Gromit cafe and have a souvenir photo taken with Wallace and Gromit. The experience runs on select days 16 November to 24 December and you can buy tickets here.

21. Retro-Mega-Mas at Wake the Tiger

Wake the Tiger ‘Amazement Park’ is one of those difficult to describe but truly original Bristol experiences. An old paint factory has been transformed with 40 colourful and immersive spaces. It’s a bit like walking through the film set of a sci-fi film and trying to imagine the story behind this lost and dreamlike world.

Wake the Tiger Retro Mega Mas

For the festive season, this experience has been layered with surreal retro objects, vibrant nostalgic toys and robots singing classic Christmas songs. The whole thing can be enjoyed by any age and is perfect to capture those social media moments.

Retro-Mega-Mas is taking place 9 November 2024 – Mon 6 January 2025 – book tickets here

22. Elf on the shelf in Bristol

The giant Elf on the Shelf trail returns for 2024, with the Scout Elf appearing at locations around Bristol between 22 November – 24 December 2024. More information on locations here

Snap a selfie with one of the Scout Elfs around Bristol and post it on your socials, tagging @redcliffeandtemplebid or @bristolbid for a chance to win a prize of a £500 Love Bristol gift voucher.

23. Sail with Santa from Bristol Ferry

On weekends in December Bristol Ferry are offering a Sail with Santa experience. Together with Santa’s elves, you’ll sail around Bristol Harbour on the search for Santa.

Once you’ve found him, Santa will climb on board with gifts for the little ones to continue the trip with you. The experience includes a gift for the children, festive snacks and a drink for the grown-ups.

Sail with Santa Bristol Ferry

24. More Bristol holiday activities 2024

Bristol City Museum & Art Gallery – Bristol’s free city museum is one of the best for pre-school and primary school age children. All areas are buggy friendly, with a large ground floor cafe area alongside the Curiosity play area for under 5’s. There are free drop-in family activities throughout December as well as Special Event days. More info: Bristol Museums Website

M-Shed – This free museum on the harbour side, is a great place to visit with the family over the Christmas holidays. It features personal stories and objects that highlight Bristol’s past and present. More info: M-shed website

Bristol Aquarium – During the school holidays look out for Fishmas Families events (Sat 21 Jan – Sun 5 Jan) where children can meet Charlie the clownfish to receive a gift and pass a message on to Santa Claus. There’s a winter trail around the Aquarium and some festive family crafting activities. More info: Bristolaquarium.co.uk

We the Curious (formerly At Bristol) – Bristol’s hands on science centre offers two floors of interactive experiences for all ages. It’s the ideal place for a day out during the Christmas holidays, where you can play, discover or create, mess around in the Rainbow Restaurant or make music in the Studio. Check their website for what’s on: Wethecurious.org

Bristol City Museum – Christmas in Bristol

A Theatrical Christmas in Bristol

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to the panto or Christmas show. Preferably with lots of cheesy Bristol jokes that likely only us locals will understand. In Bristol there are numerous entertaining and thought provoking theatrical shows, including many that are suitable for younger children.

Bristol Old Vic – Christmas in Bristol

25. Christmas shows at Bristol Old Vic

We really enjoyed our night out to see the performance in the magical setting of Bristol Old Vic, where the beautifully restored Georgian theatre is married with a creative modern extension housing the foyer and bar (a G&T paired with a Pieminster pie for me!)

Bristol Old Vic – Christmas in Bristol

For 2024 Bristol Old Vic is staging The Little Mermaid over the Christmas period from 5 December 2024 to 11 January 2025.

Sereia, the Little Mermaid lives in the Southern Waters with her friends the sharks, rays, seahorse and anemones. But her friend Coral is bleached white and sickening.

The Little Mermaid (Bristol Old Vic) – photo by Johan Persson

It seems that Coral’s estranged sister Inky Slick is to blame as the pipeline sunk by the Open Tide corporation is leaking. Can balance be restored in the Southern Waters?

The Little Mermaid won’t give up on her friends and after meeting DJ-to-the-fishes Kai, she gives up her tail to live on land and enlist Kai’s help.

We loved the way that aerial acrobatics, dance and music are used to convey the underwater world of the Southern Waters, as the Little Mermaid and her friends swim above the stage. While definitely not a Panto, this production of The Little Mermaid has plenty of comic moments with a few Bristol references sprinkled in.

The Little Mermaid (Bristol Old Vic) – photo by Johan Persson

We were in awe of the supremely talented cast, who played all the parts with comedy and song, switching from fishes to oil barons. The costumes are fantastically imaginative and the two on stage musicians seemed to play a different instrument in each scene.

We can highly recommend Bristol Old Vic’s production of The Little Mermaid, with its feel good message of hope and strong eco theme (as you’d expect in Bristol!)

Little Red Bristol Old Vic

Also at Bristol Old Vic in their Weston Studio for 2024, but aimed at younger audiences, is Little Red. Join Little Red in the deep dark woods for music, adventure and overcoming the monsters in a modern re-telling of the classic tale of Little Red Riding Hood.

The bar and foyer of Bristol Old Vic cleverly fuses the old and modern parts of the theatre, creating a great space to meet friends for a pre-performance drink and a pie from Pieminster.

26. More Bristol theatre shows

The Hippodrome’s Christmas shows are always worth seeing. Their 2024 panto is Goldilocks and the Three Bears featuring some well known TV and comic personalities. Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner but, with the help of the Three Bears, the Big Top can be saved from ruin! From 5 Dec 2024 – 5 January 2025

Bristol Hippodrome Goldilocks and the three bears

Tobacco Factory Theatre offers Hansel and Gretel, an adaptation of the famous fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. Lost in the dark forest, Hansel and Gretel come across a tiny gingerbread cottage, decorated in sugar and chocolate – but what’s inside? From 28 November 2024 – 19 January 2025 in the Factory Theatre ( suitable for children aged 5+)

Also at the Tobacco Factory for 2024 is a comic take on A Christmas Carol, starring Craig Edwards as the mean and miserable Scrooge. 9 December 2024 to 5 January 2025 in the Spielman Theatre, suitable for children aged 12+.

For younger children (aged 2+) Me… is the story of a cute baby penguin, told with puppets amid the shimmering stars and glistening snow. 5 December 24 – 5 January 2025 for daytime performances in the Spielman Theatre.

The Redgrave Theatre in Clifton is running a classic pantomime of Jack and the Beanstalk for 2024. Expect audience participation, sing-alongs, jokes and dazzling costumes. 11 December 2024 – 5 January 2025. There are also a few shorter runs of festive productions through late November and December – check the website for details.

The Wardrobe Theatre in Old Market is running Snow Baby, a magical children’s Christmas show with puppetry, storytelling and original music. Runs 20-30 December 2024 (suitable for children aged 3-8 and their families)

A musical Christmas in Bristol

27. St Georges Bristol Christmas concerts

We always try to fit in a visit to St George’s Brandon Hill for one of their concerts in the week before Christmas, from the community choirs where we often have a friend performing. The choirs are pleasingly colour coordinated, often looking as if they’ve chosen all the colours from the Quality Sweets tin.

The music is a mixture of reworked pop favourites, carols and foot-tapping Christmas oldies. There are some comic moments and high jinks thrown in, often led by choirmaster David Ogden.

St Georges – Christmas in Bristol

For Christmas 2024 look out for City Voices, Gasworks Choir and City of Bristol Choir, as well as more traditional carol services and choral Christmas concerts at St George’s in December.

28. Bristol Beacon Christmas events

Following their reopening last year Bristol Beacon is now running a full programme of events for 2024. In the run up to Christmas there’s a huge range of performances from rock and pop to comedy and classical.

Look out for their Christmas themed events, such as a film screening of The Snowman, with live orchestra. Check the website for details of seasonal performances and markets.

29. Christmas at the Spiegeltent

During the Christmas season, the Spiegeltent big top is erected on the Harbourside, with a Christmas at the Spiegeltent programme of cabaret and musical entertainment. Their dinner and cabaret events are popular for groups of friends or work colleagues, who want to celebrate with a Christmas party atmosphere.

Christmas at the Spiegeltent Bristol

However, the programme includes many more cabaret based events that are family friendly. You can also enjoy live music (Bridgerton in concert by Candlelight) musical film screenings (Cary Grant’s To Catch a Thief) and kids discos.

Christmas in Bristol with the animals

Away in a manger and all that! Animals are a big part of the Christmas story so a visit to some of Bristol’s animal attractions at Christmas seems quite appropriate.

30. Christmas at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm just outside Bristol have plenty of Christmas activities in December. Meet Santa in his library, come for one of Santa’s storytelling sessions or dress up as a Nativity character in the Home Educator’s session.

There are Christmas Markets on 30 November – 1 December and a Brass Band performing holiday classics on 1 December. Wonky Christmas trees are on sale in the Farm shop and festive treats can be found in the Food Barn.

Sheep at Noahs Ark Farm

There’s an impressive amount of space for the animals around the zoo as well as the range of activities in the play areas and animal experiences. The regular programme includes daily talks and you can see giraffe, rhino and lions at the zoo, as well as plenty of smaller domestic and farm animals.

Elephant at Noahs Ark Zoo Farm

31. Christmas at Bristol Zoo Project

Bristol Zoo Project – Bristol Zoo has moved to the Wild Place site is on the northern edge of Bristol. For Christmas 2024, they have a festive family art trail, featuring Shaun the Sheep from Aardman animations (9 Nov – 12 Jan). On Sat 7 December 10am – 2pm there’s also a Festive Thank You event, with carols, market stalls and craft activities.

Bristol Zoo Project – Shaun the Sheep

During the school holidays, you’ll find wildlife encounters with lemur, giraffe, cheetah, zebra, bears, wolves and eland in large and natural enclosures. The conservation themed outdoor play area Explorer’s Basecamp is also open, with something for all ages and abilities. Check the website for details of animal talks and feeding times, with refreshments available in the Courtyard Cafe.

32. Bristol City Farms for free family activities

If you’d like to take the kids to the farm over the Christmas holidays St Werburgh’s City farm is open daily 9am-4pm (free) and there’s a winter fair Sunday 1 December 2024.

Windmill Hill City Farm is open daily 9am-4pm (free) and has the Windmill Hill Market on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December 2024 as well as some other seasonal family events.

A spiritual Christmas in Bristol

There’s plenty of fun and celebration at Christmas, but in our household we try not to forget the spiritual part of the holiday. We like to go to Midnight Mass with our extended family and fit in a carol service during Advent.

Bristol Cathedral

33. Bristol Cathedral Christmas Events 2024

Bristol Cathedral – The beautiful cathedral on College Green is even more special during Advent when there are Advent services on all the Sundays in December.

Throughout December the cathedral holds carol services including Advent Carols (1 Dec) Carols by Candlelight (13 & 14 Dec), Shoppers’ Carols (17 Dec), Toddler’s Carols (18 Dec), Festival of lessons and carols (20 Dec) and Family Carol Service (22 Dec). There are also the usual evensong, Christmas eve and Christmas day Eucharistic services of Christmas.

New for 2024 is the “Beer and Carols” (Thurs 19 Dec) on College Green, outside the Cathedral. This informal event sees the Cathedral Choir accompanied by the band of St Nicholas Church performing all the carol classics, with the audience invited to join in. There’s a pop up bar with drinks from Bristol Beer Factory, so you can have a pint with a sing along.

Just across College Green on Park Street is the beautiful Lord Mayor’s Chapel, a hidden gem of Bristol’s history, which is open to visit on Thursday and Saturday, with services every Sunday.

34. John Wesley’s New Rooms

John Wesley’s New Rooms are a treasure, tucked away in the centre of Bristol’s Broadmead area. The Grade 1 listed building is the oldest Methodist preaching house, founded by the preacher John Wesley. Wesley, together with his brother Charles, started the Methodist Christian movement in the 18th century.

In the rooms above the chapel, the old preacher’s lodgings have been transformed into a fascinating museum about the life of John Wesley in Bristol and the times he lived through, including the abolition of slavery.

John Wesley New Rooms Museum Bristol

Christmas activities at the John Wesley New Rooms include lunchtime carols at 1pm on 11 Dec and evening carols at 6pm on 11 Dec.

The Charles Wesley House nearby on Charles Street, is where Charles Wesley lived and wrote many of his famous hymns like “Hark the herald angels sing”. The Georgian house is currently undergoing renovation but there’s a digital Christmas tour available to view online.

35. St Mary Redcliffe

Most churches in Bristol will have Christmas Carol services as well as the Christmas religious services, so check what’s on at your local church.

At St Mary Redcliffe, activities include a Nine lessons and Carols (14/15 Dec), Family Christingle Service on 22 Dec and Salvation Army Carol service on 17 Dec.

There are also several ticketed Christmas concerts, like the Nadia Eide Christmas Concert (2 Dec), Christmas Star Concert (12 Dec) and Vivaldi Four Seasons by Candlelight (21 Dec).

Within St Mary Redcliffe the Treefest (5-8 Dec 24) is a festive display of Christmas trees, each decorated by a different charity or community group. There’s music, refreshments and a Christmas market too.

36. Christmas gifts from Bristol

We Bristolians love to support our independent businesses. There is so much creative stuff going on around the city that it’s easy to spend your money locally, rather than sending it to the online giants.

Love Bristol Gift Card – the ideal gift for the West Country lad-or-lass-about-town. Spend the gift card at over 160 different food, drink, shopping, accommodation and attraction venues around Bristol City Centre.

Love Bristol gift card – Christmas in Bristol

Yuup – the place to find unusual Bristol experiences that are ideal for gifting. This is perfect for those who don’t need more “stuff” in their life but would appreciate a fun activity they can enjoy together.

There are lots of festive pre-Christmas activities too, such as wreath making, Christmas card printing or chocolate workshops.

Food Tours of Bristol – Yuup

On my gift list for experiences to try after Christmas are:

Food Tours of Bristol – They run mouthwatering food tours in Wapping Wharf and Broad Street in Bedminster.

St Nicholas Market and Blitz experience – this unique tour takes you into the cellars under St Nicholas Market.

Blitz Experience Tour Bristol – Yuup

Bristol’s Quirkiest Corners Tour – run by the highly knowledgeable Martin Booth, editor of Bristol 24/7. I can personally recommend this walking tour which we tried last year. Even Bristol locals like us discovered plenty of hidden corners that were new to us.

Balloons at Bristol Balloon Fiesta

Both Bristol Balloons and Bailey Balloons offer flights or gift vouchers from £169. If you want to get a feel of what it’s like to drift over Bristol in a balloon, read my article about the Bristol Balloon Fiesta.

37. Charity giving at Christmas

While it’s lovely to celebrate Christmas with gifts for our loved ones, I also try to make some charity donations at this time of year. Bristol suffers from a big issue of homelessness and if you’re out and about in the centre you’ll probably observe this.

However you can help spread good cheer, through the instant payment donation points you can see around Bristol city centre. Whenever you’re out shopping and see one, consider making a donation. It helps local charities make Christmas a better time for those who, like baby Jesus on that first Christmas, don’t have a place to go.

Charity Giving at Christmas

To donate online, my favourite local Bristol charities supporting the homeless over Christmas are Caring in Bristol, St Mungo’s Bristol and The Salvation Army.

Also follow the work on instagram of Natacha @thebeautyofcaring_cic who provides beauty treatments in Bristol for vulnerable men and women. You can contact her to support her work via instagram.

38. Christmas Events around Bristol

While most of the things I’ve mentioned are within the central area of Bristol, there are some other fun Christmas activities that are just outside Bristol. Some of the best light trails and Christmas activities include:

Westonbirt Arboretum – Christmas light trail with a million twinkling lights, seasonal sounds in the air and illuminations in the forest. Dates from 29 November – 31 December 2024

Tyntesfield – This National Trust house is decorated in Victorian Winter fashion. There are carol concerts in the chapel, craft making sessions and Christmas trails. New for 2024 is a carousel in front of the house and a Dickensian street scene in the chapel courtyard. Open daily in December except 24 / 25 Dec.

Tyntesfield Christmas

Wookey Hole Winter Wonderland 2024 – The caves are decked with over 100,000 lights, with tickets including a Santa’s grotto and Christmas theme circus show. The winter wonderland takes place on weekends from 23 November and daily from 21 December – 24 December 2024.

Longleat Festival of light 2024 – This light trail features a “Journey Through Time” from the age of the dinosaurs to historic events and mythology. 800 lanterns are set against the historic backdrop of Longleat House. Dates from 9 November until 5 January 2024.

Mendip Activity Centre 2024 – The toboggan slope is decked out with fairy lights, with twilight tobogganing from 8 November until 5 January. There’s also a woodland walk to a magical grotto, to find toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate.

Christmas at Stourhead 2024 – The National Trust estate is lit up with festive illuminations, sparkling tunnels of light and trees lit up in jewel like colours. Dates from 29 November – 1 January.

Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park 2024 – A family focussed Christmas Nights Light Trail around the park with twinkling displays, sparkling trees and live music. There are many other family activities including a Santa show, gingerbread kitchen and Elf Express miniature train. Dates from 30 Nov – 24 December.

Sudeley Spectacle of Light

Sudeley castle Spectacle of Light 2024 – An illuminated trail around the beautiful castle grounds, with a chance to meet characters from the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. Dates from Dates from 22 November – 30 December 2024.

Old Down Estate Illumination Trail 2024 – The Festive Illumination trail guides you around Old Down Estate, with music, colour and interactive areas along the way. Dates from 24 November – 24 December 2024.

Where to stay in Bristol for your festive break

There’s still time to book a cheeky weekend in Bristol to get into the Christmas spirit, eat some great food and shop for unusual and thoughtful gifts. If you’re looking for a hotel in Bristol, read on for my recommendations;

Corn Street Market – Christmas in Bristol

Best budget accommodation with character in Bristol

If you want stylish accommodation that won’t break the bank, these are the places we recommend for best value, with rooms typically £100 – £120.

Brooks Guest House (Old City) – A boutique guest house in St Nicholas Market with cosy, contemporary rooms, centrally located in the heart of the Old City. Excellent value for stylish guest house accommodation.

Stay at the Brooks Guest House – a small boutique hotel in the heart of Bristol Old City

Rodney Hotel (Clifton Village) – The hotel is in a mellow stone Georgian building, in the heart of picturesque Clifton Village. The rooms can be small and the decor a little dated, but this is reflected in the price, and you can’t beat the location.

Stay at the Rodney Hotel – centrally-located in the historic village of Clifton

Beech House (Clifton) – If you prefer the flexibility of self-catering accommodation, Beech House is an excellent choice. It’s within walking distance of both the city centre and Clifton Village. The decor is stylish and contemporary and there are a choice of small apartments, with the studios offering good value for money.

Stay at the Beech House – stylish boutique apartments conveniently located in Clifton

Best Hotels for friends in Bristol

If you are visiting Bristol with a group of friends, these hotels offer stylish accommodation with plenty of facilities and room options. With plenty of rooms to fill, these hotels operate variable pricing so check different dates for the best rates.

The Bristol (Harbour side) – The perfect harbourside location with a 1960’s modernist facade and boutique-style rooms that overlook the waterfront. Ideal for both weekend and business travellers.

Clayton Hotel (Old City) – a modern, contemporary hotel with 255 rooms, behind the facade of the historic Everard’s print works. Located in the heart of Bristol’s Old City.

Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel (Old City) – This grand Victorian hotel with 186 rooms has been renovated in contemporary style, decorated with artworks from the city’s street art scene.

Best luxury hotels in Bristol

If you are travelling as a couple and want to treat yourself, these are the places we recommend for a touch of luxury and individual service.

Artist Residence (City Centre) – Located minutes from the city centre in a historic Georgian square. Rooms are individually designed in eclectic, boutique style and full of artworks.

Stay at the boutique Artist Residence hotel located in an old boot factory in the heart of the city

Harbour Hotel and Spa (Old City) – a luxurious hotel and spa, that was formed out of two iconic bank properties in the heart of Bristol’s Old City. The decor is quirky and contemporary, there’s an excellent seafood restaurant in The Jetty. An underground spa features some of the old safe doors in what was formerly the bank vaults.

The Avon Gorge Hotel (Clifton Village) – Overlooking Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge, in Clifton Village, this historic hotel has been renovated in contemporary style.

Stay at Bristol’s historic Avon Gorge Hotel overlooking the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Or, check out more hotels in Bristol to plan your pre-Christmas break.

More information on visiting Bristol

For lots of information on visiting Bristol check out the official tourism website of Visit Bristol.

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Explore the free things to do in Bristol – 20 things to do that won’t cost you a penny

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Thanks to Visit Bristol for hosting* some of the activities mentioned in Bristol

* More info on my policies page

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27/05/2025
10 festive reasons to spend Christmas in Malaga
Christmas in Malaga is a time when the city is buzzing with festive atmosphere. The pedestrianised streets of the historic centre are strung with sparkling Christmas lights. Restaurants are full to bursting as friends gather for an al fresco lunch or dinner, enjoying the mild temperatures and sunny days. Discover a different kind of Christmas experience in Malaga, with free light shows, sweet Turon and sardines on the beach.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

Here are our 10 festive reasons why you should consider visiting Malaga at Christmas time.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

10 festive things to do in Malaga at Christmas
1. View the Christmas lights – especially the free daily light show on Calle Larios
2. The Cathedral light show – free light show with music and video projections on the cathedral tower
3. Botanical Garden light trail – a magical light trail through the Botanical Gardens
4. Festival of lanterns – a trail of colourful Chinese lanterns in Parque del Oeste
5. Nativity scenes or Belénes – on display in churches and public buildings around Malaga
6. Christmas markets – two big markets in Malaga, with smaller markets throughout December
7. Christmas shopping – there’s a huge range of shopping for elegant outfits and gifts to take home
8. Christmas feasting and eating out – discover Malaga’s Christmas food specialties and eat out in the many excellent restaurants.
9. Eating Sardines on the beach – enjoy an al fresco lunch in one of the Chiringuitos that line the beach.
10. Sightseeing in the sunshine – there’s so much to see with generally mild and sunny weather in December.
Christmas in Malaga

1. The Christmas lights in Malaga

If you are used to the Christmas markets of Germany and Austria, you might need to reset your expectations when visiting Malaga at Christmas. With the weather balmy rather than snowy, in Spain the focus is less on markets and more on Christmas lights and light shows in public spaces, that you can enjoy while socialising outdoors.

Every street seems to have a different set of colourful Christmas lights, with the most impressive being on the main shopping boulevard of Calle Larios.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

Christmas lights in Malaga generally go up around the last weekend of November, being taken down after 6 January when the Three King’s parade marks the end of festivities.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

Each evening, the lights are turned on throughout the city promptly at 6pm, leading to a collective Ahhh… moment in Malaga.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

On Calle Marques de Larios, the lights sparkle silver and gold on pillars, with angels hovering overhead. The boulevard hosts a popular daily light show at 6.30pm, 8pm and 10pm, with lights turning on and off in time to a sound track of festive music.

Make sure you see the (completely free) light show on Calle Marques de Larios when visiting Malaga, although be aware that at weekends it can be very crowded.

Stay at the Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre

2. The Malaga Cathedral light show

Almost more impressive than the Calle Larios light show, is the one on Malaga Cathedral. The video-mapping sound and light show is projected on the facade of the cathedral’s bell tower, and can be viewed from the square of Calle de Molina Lario.

Light show Malaga Cathedral Spain

The light show takes place three times each evening at 7.30pm, 8.30pm and 10pm, with the timings making it easy to see it right after the Calle Larios light show.

Light show Malaga Cathedral Spain

When we visited, the Cathedral light show was on the theme of Manto de Estrellas (Mantle of stars). It included plenty of colourful and fun moments, with music, voiceover and cute cartoon like characters running up and down the facade.

Light show Malaga Cathedral Spain

Even though part of the show had voiceover in Spanish, it didn’t really matter for us English speakers, since the music and light projections didn’t need any translation.

3. Botanical Garden “Las Luces de la Concepcion” light trail

One of the best known and established light trails in Malaga is held each Christmas at the La Concepcion Botanical Gardens, located on the northern edge of Malaga.

After dark the botanical garden is transformed into a magical trail, meandering through different Christmas themed zones. From the Polar express train with its cheery engine driver to the slightly scary Grinch’s hideout in the bamboo thicket, we progressed up to the Christmas Mansion with a musical video light projection.

Light Trail at the Botanical Garden in Malaga Spain

The Las Luces de la Conception light trail then took us up the hill through the candy cane grotto to a pavilion at the highest point of the park, where we could see the lights of Malaga city in the distance.

Light Trail at the Botanical Garden in Malaga Spain

The “Lights of the Concepcion” trail at the Botanical Garden takes place between end of November and 6 January each year from 6.30pm – 10.30pm. It takes at least an hour to walk around the light trail and there are steps in a few places.

The cost of the timed tickets for adults was around €15.50. To ensure entry, these should be purchased online in advance, although if there’s availability they can also be purchased at the entrance.

Heather at the Light Trail in the Botanical Garden Malaga Spain

Getting to the Botanical Garden light trail

The Botanical Garden is located a little outside the centre of Malaga, so you’ll need to find transport to get there. We were driven by a friend and used the paid car parking, which can be quite crowded on weekends.

In general it’s better to use the public transport options available to get to the Botanical Garden. The tourist bus makes a round trip from Malaga train station and historic centre to the Botanical Garden (cost €5) or take the EMT Line 2 bus to Ciudad Jardin, from where a free shuttle bus runs to the Botanical garden during the light show opening hours.

Light Trail at the Botanical Garden in Malaga Spain

4. The Chinese lantern trail

We really enjoyed our visit to the Festival of Lanterns (Festival de las Linternas) in Malaga, located in a park that’s a little to the west of Malaga centre. The light trail has 600 Chinese style lanterns arranged in colourful groups on the grassy areas of the park.

Chinese Lantern Show in Malaga

Although you can’t touch the lanterns, you can get close enough to see all the details of lantern groups, ranging from pandas and snakes, to mushrooms and exotic flowers.

In the centre of the park is a lake with an enormous Chinese dragon, reflecting pretty colours in the water. There’s a soundscape of music to accompany each section of the light displays, changing as you move through the trail.

Chinese Lantern Show in Malaga

At the furthest end of the lake from the entrance was an area of food kiosks and a small stage, where we watched a show of Chinese circus performers and acrobats. The stage shows are held at 6pm, 7.15pm, 8.30pm and 9.45pm.

However, other than the stage performances, the lantern displays are static and you have to walk around to see them. Paths are flat, so the whole show is pushchair and wheelchair friendly.

Chinese Lantern Show in Malaga

You can book tickets for the Festival of Lanterns online, although we just paid at the entrance on Calle Francisco de Cossío. Tickets start from €15 weekdays and €20 weekends. The festival runs from end of November until 12 February, which is longer than the other Malaga light shows, as it also covers the Chinese New Year.

Chinese Lantern Show in Malaga

Getting to the Festival of Lanterns

The Chinese lantern festival is located in Parque del Oeste to the west of Malaga city centre and you can easily get there by public transport. Take Metro Line 2 to the La Luz-La Paz station and then walk 15 minutes to the festival entrance on Calle Francisco de Cossío. Alternatively EMT bus lines 7 and 15 stop 400 metres from the park entrance.

5. Visit the Nativity scenes or Belénes

Aside from the light shows in Malaga, a big part of Christmas in Malaga is the nativity scenes or Belénes on display around the city. These displays can be found in around 70 locations, such as churches, museums and other public places, the idea being that you pop in to have a look as you walk around Malaga.

Belenes at the Malaga Museum in Malaga Spain, featuring the lighthouse

The huge range of figures on display in the Belénes show not only scenes from the birth and early life of Jesus, but also street scenes, markets, house interiors and water features. They are a Spanish version of what daily life might have been like at the time of Jesus’s birth.

Belenes in Malaga Spain

There are published maps of all the Belénes in Malaga provided by the City Hall, so you can easily locate them as you walk around the city. To find the latest year’s map just search online or ask at the Malaga Tourist Information.

Belenes in Malaga Spain

Our favourite Belénes

Malaga Cathedral – this is one of the best known and at certain times there might be a queue. It’s a really long Belénes that you file past, with lots of details to look at.

Patio del Ayuntamiento – the Town Hall facing Paseo del Parque. Don’t be put off by the security checks, there are clear signs to direct you inside to the Belénes and it’s considered one of the best.

Museo Carmen Thyssen – this was a charming smaller nativity scene in the courtyard of the museum, you can enter to see it without paying if you ask at the desk.

Malaga Glass and Crystal Museum – although it’s a bit out of the way, the Belénes is particularly nice, set in the mansion’s courtyard and made of Lladro porcelain figures.

Belenes in the Glass Museum – Malaga Spain

Cofradia de Estudiantes – this is located near the Roman Amphitheatre and we enjoyed walking around the Belénes as well as looking at the huge float that is used in the Easter parades.

Malaga Museum – If you walk through the courtyard of the museum, there was an exhibition of smaller Belénes from Malaga, and one that featured the city’s landmark lighthouse.

Should you wish to buy your own nativity figures to make a scene at home, they are often on sale in the Christmas market on Paseo del Parque, or there’s a permanent shop selling them called Nazareno de Malaga (Calle Carreteria 2).

6. Christmas markets in Malaga

Don’t come to Spain expecting the kind of Christmas markets that you find in Germany and Austria. Indeed, I’d say that Christmas Markets in Malaga are less of an attraction, compared to the Christmas light displays and feasting al fresco with friends.

Nevertheless there are a couple of markets that run through December and until the Feast of 3 Kings (6 January).

Christmas Market Malaga

Paseo del Parque – the biggest Christmas market in Malaga, close to the historic centre, with a long row of around 90 stalls selling gifts and crafts.

Malaga Port / Muelle Uno – a long row of stalls on the promenade that runs parallel with the Park, and another cluster of stalls near the Pompidou Centre. These stalls are here all year round, but take on a more seasonal flavour in December.

Muelle Uno Christmas Market Malaga

I found both of these markets somewhat uninspiring, with a commercial feel and only a sprinkling of authentic local craft stalls. One exception is the stalls we saw selling nativity figures, which are a big feature of Christmas in Malaga, as people display nativity scenes in their homes and churches.

If you’d like to buy figures to make your own Christmas nativity scene (every year we put out the one we bought at a craft market years ago), this would be a good place to look for one.

Nativity scenes in the Christmas Market Malaga

In addition you may find smaller craft markets being held on certain weekends before Christmas. We heard about one-off Christmas fairs in Plaza de la Merced, Calle Tomas Heredia in Soho and the English Cemetery, but didn’t manage to be there on the right days.

Sabor a Malaga

This 6 day outdoor food market is held in the first or second week of December on Paseo del Parque, and unfortunately we just missed it. Expect to find stalls that showcase the best produce from Malaga and the surrounding regions, such as cheese, charcuterie, wine, honey and olive oil. More information on the Sabor a Malaga website.

7. Christmas shopping in Malaga

While I prefer to spend my holiday money on experiences rather than shopping, I have to confess I did enjoy looking around the shops in Malaga. As the capital city of the Malaga region, there’s a huge range of high street and independent shops in the pedestrianised Old Centre.

Spanish women enjoy dressing up when they go out and there’s plenty of choice and quality if you are looking for an elegant outfit that you might not find at home. There’s something about shopping in beautiful and traffic free surroundings, that makes it more of a pleasure to browse for fashion.

Christmas shopping on Calle Larios in Malaga Spain

Calle Larios is where you’ll find some major upscale brands and the streets on either side also have a wide range of fashion stores. Across the river in the newer part of town, El Corte Ingles stocks a huge range of Spanish and international fashion brands.

If you want to find some smaller and uniquely Malaga items for Christmas gifts, you might find them in the Museo Carmen Thyssen shop or the Temporanea Concept Shop, which sells artisan souvenirs from Malaga.

Christmas decorations at AC Hotel Malaga Palacio in Malaga

8. Christmas food and eating out in Malaga

One of the joys of Malaga at Christmas is the festive atmosphere from packed bars and restaurants in the old town, where the weather is normally mild enough for people to sit outside in the covered restaurant terraces.

Sweet treats in Malaga at Christmas

Turon is an almond based soft nougat that’s a speciality of Malaga and an indispensable part of the Christmas festivities. There are numerous shops selling it, but the most authentic and best is considered to be Casa Mira, which has branches on Calle Larios and Calle Cister near the cathedral.

Both these branches sell their own ice cream, and I can vouch that the Turon flavour ice cream is particularly delicious! While Turon is sold all year round, there are some other sweet treats that are just for the Christmas season.

Turon ice cream at Casa Mira in Malaga Spain

More traditional sweets in Malaga
- Mantecados – round shortbread cookies that come in different flavours individually wrapped in a paper twist.
- Polvorones – similar to Matecados, a small crumbly shortbread cookie that’s dusted with sugar.
- Borrachuelos– a deep fried pastry filled with a fruit or pumpkin puree, served as a desert around Christmas time.
- Roscos de Vino – a small ring shaped donut that’s cooked in wine then dusted with sugar.
- Roscón de Reyes – a ring cake filled with cream that’s served for the feast of the Three Kings on 6 January.
Turon at Casa Mira in Malaga Spain

Roasted chestnut stalls also pop up in the streets around Christmas time, with the chestnuts roasted over an open brazier, then served peeled ready to eat in a cone of paper.

Roast chestnuts in Malaga Spain

Al fresco feasting in Malaga

One of the lovely things about Malaga in the run up to Christmas, is that the generally mild weather allows plenty of al fresco dining. At lunchtime, when the sun is out, the restaurant terraces are packed with friends enjoying a meal out together.

Dining out in Spain is more affordable than many parts of Europe, and the atmosphere of locals gathering for a lunch with family or work colleagues is very festive.

Just bear in mind that at weekends or for larger groups you may need to reserve a table, or otherwise ask if you can be seated at the bar until space becomes available.

This is the time to take advantage of Malaga’s excellent and affordable seafood, which is considered a big part of the Christmas feasting in Spain.

Al Fresco lunch in Malaga Spain

There are endless bars and restaurants in Malaga, so I’d hesitate to recommend any particular ones. Instead I’d suggest that you meander around the pedestrianised Old Town, looking for some of the quieter side streets that are a few blocks from the Cathedral and Plaza de la Constitucion.

Here you’re more likely to find the restaurants that locals favour because the food is excellent and the prices more moderate. If you push me I’ll mention a few that looked nice or were recommended by our friends who are Malaga locals.

Russian Salad in Malaga Spain

Recommended restaurants in Malaga

El Cenachero Centro (Calle Compania 16) – busy and atmospheric seafood restaurant on three floors close to the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Carmen Thyssen Museum Cafe (Calle Compania 10) – if you are looking for a quiet spot for lunch, this museum cafe serves a good value Menu del Dia at lunchtime.

O Mamma Mia (Plaza de las Flores 7) – a family run Italian pizza & pasta restaurant in a central but quiet square with outdoor terrace, a good bet if you need somewhere that’s family friendly.

L’Experience (Plaza Obispo 4 ) – While you are in prime tourist territory, there’s something magical about this tapas restaurant’s terrace overlooking the cathedral. There are plenty more nice looking restaurants in the streets around the Cathedral.

Seafood in Malaga Spain

If like me you are picky about your barista style coffee, head to Next Level Coffee (Calle San Juan 27) or Syra Coffee – takeaway only ( Calle Martires 13).

Casa Mira (Calle Cister 8) – This Malaga institution serving ice cream, sweets and turon has several locations, but the one near the cathedral is especially nice and has a few tables outside for coffee or ice cream.

Markets and foodie souvenirs in Malaga

While we were keen to enjoy Malaga’s buzzing restaurant scene, we enjoyed a walk around the covered Atarazanas Market in the centre of Malaga. It’s a feast for the eyes with colourful displays of fruit and veg, where you can get a sense for what’s fresh and in season.

The market is also a good place if you want to shop for some Spanish foodie souvenirs. Look out for finely sliced jamon, which is sold in sealed packets to take any home for your own Christmas table.

Mercado de Atarazanas Malaga Spain

Another excellent place for upscale food shopping is the food hall on the Lower Ground floor of El Corte Ingles. Because it’s a supermarket that has extra deli and specialty food counters, this a good place for a no-pressure wander, although it’s a bit of a walk from the main tourist centre of Malaga.

9. Sardines on the beach in Malaga

The Chiringuito or beach restaurants are a classic fixture on the beaches of southern Spain. But the good news is that this sand-in-the-toes seafood experience is not just reserved for the summer months.

Even in December we found it warm enough to sit on the semi-covered terrace of Chiringuito Tropicana overlooking Malagueta beach for lunch. There are several Chiringuitos set on the sand or beach promenade of Malaga beach, so take your pick of what looks busy and open.

Heather enjoys fish soup on the beach in Malaga Spain

Unfortunately the beach was not looking its very best when we were there. During our lunch, the bulldozers drove up and down, cleaning and moving sand around after the autumn’s heavy rainstorms. But we still had a grandstand sea view and plenty of fresh air, as we soaked up the warm sun on our face.

Sardines on the beach in Malaga Spain

The chiringuitos specialise in seafood, but they are pretty relaxed if you just want to order a few light dishes. We tried the local specialty of sardines, grilled over charcoal in an old wooden boat beside the restaurant. I also ordered a bowl of warming Sopa de marisco (seafood soup), full of flavour with chunks of fish, clams and prawns.

It’s one of the joys of the Malaga’s mild climate, that even in December, you can sit by the sea enjoying freshly grilled sardines!

YouTripMalaga is a clean, modern 2 bedroom apartment 10 minutes from the historic center

10. Glorious weather for sightseeing

While I can’t guarantee the weather, the climate of Malaga is generally mild into December, often with clear blue skies and temperatures up to 18 degrees celcius on sunny days. That makes ideal weather for sightseeing, although there’s also plenty to do in Malaga if it rains.

Fine weather sightseeing in Malaga

If the weather is good you can enjoy outdoor activities like:

Views over Malaga Spain
- Stroll around the port area, past shops and restaurants on Muelle Uno, to La Farola Lighthouse, then round the point onto Malaga’s main beach where you can stop in a Chiringuito for refreshments.
- Stroll through the Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso filled with trees laden with bitter oranges fruiting around Christmas. Then walk up the hill to the Gibralfaro castle, with lovely views on the way.
- Visit the remains of the Roman Theatre, with its small museum to explain about its history.
Roman Ampitheatre in Malaga Spain

Indoor sightseeing in Malaga

If the weather is too cold or rainy, there are still plenty of indoor highlights.
- Picasso Museum – 200 works by Pablo Picasso, who was born in Malaga, set in a 16th century Palace. Buy your tickets here.
- Carmen Thyssen Museum – a beautiful art museum set in a 16th century palace, with art from the old masters to impressionists and early 20th century Spanish artists. The museum shop is a good place for gifts.
- Malaga Museum – set in an 18th century palace that was once Malaga’s Customs House, now an art and history museum to give you insights in Malaga’s past.
- Malaga Glass and Crystal Museum – a collection of glass and ceramics set in a charming 1700s mansion.
- The Hammam Arab Baths – Enjoy the modern Spa experience in a traditional Arab style Hammam, with hot and cold baths, steam rooms, massage and treatments.
Orange trees in Malaga Spain

Where to stay in Malaga for your Christmas break

If visiting Malaga in winter, we recommend you stay in the Old Town or Soho neighbourhoods, close to all the Christmas activities. However as there are many bars and restaurants in this area, just check what is around your accommodation, and read the reviews to avoid places mentioning street noise.

Luxury – Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre.

Mid-range – AC Hotel Malaga Palacio by Marriott – a smart modern hotel that’s well located in Malaga’s central area. Also the Christmas decorations were impressive!

Budget – Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad – a modern budget hotel on the edge of the historic area.

2 bedroom apartment – You Trip Malaga – this 2 bedroom apartment owned by our friend (where we stayed) is clean and modern, just a 10 minute walk from the historic centre.

Stay at the Palacio Solecio – a small luxury hotel in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre

YouTripMalaga is a clean, modern 2 bedroom apartment 10 minutes from the historic center

The Three Kings Parade in Malaga

The feast of the Three Kings on 6 January is a big event in Malaga. Through the city centre there’s a procession of floats with each of the three kings on a separate float, surrounded by their courtiers. This is the last day of the Christmas festivities and after 6 January the Christmas lights are turned off and taken down.

Christmas wreath in Malaga Spain

Public holidays over Christmas in Malaga

If you are visiting Malaga over the Christmas period, be aware that 25 December, 1 January, 6 January (Feast of the 3 Kings) are public holidays. On these days all shops and visitor attractions will be closed, with many shops closing early the day before a public holiday. Light shows don’t take place on 24 December and 31 December.

Bars and restaurants are also generally closed, so if not visiting friends and family, you should make sure that you have stocked up on everything you need for your festivities. Some larger restaurants may be open, but you will need to have reserved these in advance.

Christmas lights in Malaga Spain

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25/05/2025
One day in Sydney – an itinerary for first time visitors
If you only have one day in Sydney Australia, and want to see the highlights, we’ve created this 1 day itinerary to give you a taste of this very walkable city. We’ll explore Sydney’s history, enjoy waterfront views at the Sydney Opera House, dip into some art and culture and enjoy the relaxing green space of the Botanic Garden.

Sydney 1 day itinerary

For those with an additional day or two, or anyone wanting more time at the beach, we also have some day trip ideas. Just a short bus or ferry ride from the city centre, you can dip into Sydney’s beach lifestyle at Bondi Beach, Manly or Watsons Bay.

If you are visiting Sydney for the first time, whether on a cruise or as part of a wider tour of Australia, this 1 day Sydney itinerary offers something for everyone.

Bondi Beach Sydney

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Let’s start our day in Sydney at Circular Quay. Not only is this where the cruise ships dock, but all the harbour ferries come and go from here and it’s centrally located on bus and train routes.

Keen to see Sydney?

Here’s a quick version of the Sydney highlights in one day. All the attractions mentioned are free to visit, although of course you’ll need to budget for refreshments and any booked tours. We also have a short and printable version of this itinerary to download below.
- The Rocks – an historic neighbourhood where the colony was founded. (1 Hour)
- Coffee break at Museum of Contemporary Art ground floor cafe
- Sydney Opera House – Sydney’s most iconic cultural attraction (1 Hour)
- Royal Botanic Garden – 30 hectares of lawns, trees and themed gardens (1 hour)
- Lunch break at Farm Cove Eatery in the Botanic Garden
- Option to head to the beach at Bondi, Manly or Wilson Bay for the afternoon or alternatively stay in central Sydney
- Art Gallery of New South Wales ( 1 hour) – a free art gallery of indigenous and other Australian artworks – or alternatively
- Hyde Park Barracks (1 hour) – a free museum dedicated to the experiences of the convicts who helped found Sydney
- MacQuarie Street – (30 mins) – walk past some of Sydney’s imposing 19th century government buildings
- Martin Place (Central Business District) – (30 mins) – soak up the buzz of Sydney’s business district
- Ice Cream at Messina Gelato
- Walk back to Circular Quay – admiring the varied architecture along George St or Pitt St (30 mins)
- Sunset drinks at the Opera Bar, Sydney Opera House
Circular Quay and CBD Sydney

The early history of the Sydney area

Before we visit the areas that formed the first colony in the early 19th century, we need to acknowledge the Gadigal clans of the Eora Nation who lived here before those English settlers arrived. These aboriginal people lived in family clan groups all around the Sydney Bay area, living from harvested plants, fish and seafood that were plentiful in the area.

Australia Museum, Sydney Australia

Many place names in Sydney originate from aboriginal descriptions, and indigenous rock carvings can be seen around the Sydney Bay area.

A few aboriginal men such Benelong and Bungaree acted as mediators and interpreters between their culture and the early settlers – they are remembered in place names around Sydney. However, over time the Gadigal territory around Sydney was taken over by the new colony, and conflicts often arose between the two cultures.

Indigenous art in the Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Australia © Heatheronhertravels.com

You can discover some of the stories behind these early contacts in the Cadi Jam Ora Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden and the Yiribana Gallery in the Art Gallery of New South Wales, as well as in other museums around Sydney.

The Rocks

The neighbourhood known as The Rocks is a grid of streets to one side of Circular Quay, named after the rocky cliffs that you’ll see as you walk through the area. This was the commercial centre of the earliest colony, with warehouses for stores and close packed houses.

The Rocks, Sydney Australia

Water was supplied from The Tank stream that ran through the area into Sydney Bay. Later, a road (now Argyle street) was hewn through the sold rock, known as ‘The Cut’, which allowed the colony to expand.

Today the area is less residential and more of a tourist hub, with art galleries and souvenir shops. Since cruise ships dock right alongside this area, it can be crowded in high season. Nevertheless, we found the area charming, and care has been taken to promote high quality Australian souvenirs and crafts in the shops here.

We recommend spending an hour looking around ‘The Rocks’ – here’s what to look out for;
- The Museum of Contemporary Art is worth visiting on another day, but for our 1 day in Sydney we recommend a coffee stop in the pleasant terrace cafe.
Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney Australia
- Walk past Cadman’s cottage and the warehouse buildings of Campbell’s Stores, now housing restaurants. In front of you is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, another landmark of the city.
Cadman’s Cottage, Sydney Australia
- Skirt back to Playfair Street, a pedestrianised area where there are many 19th century buildings, now housing galleries and craft shops. The Rocks Market with craft stalls is held here at weekends. There’s more shopping and some street food stands in the adjoining Rocks Centre.
Campbell’s Storehouses, The Rocks Sydney Australia
- Stop at The Rocks Discovery Museum (free) located in one of the older buildings, to learn about the area’s history.
Rocks Discovery Centre, Sydney Australia © Heatheronhertravels.com
- At The junction of Playfair Street and Argyle Street, look right to see how the road was cut through the rock, now running under the highway leading to the Harbour Bridge.
The Cut, Argyle St, Sydney Australia
- Continue your stroll down some of the narrow lanes, such as Nurses’s Walk to soak up the area’s atmosphere.
Coffee Stop: We recommend the ground floor cafe of the Museum of Contemporary Art for a coffee in the shady open air terrace with views of the harbour.

Cafe at Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney Australia

Now walk past the ferry piers at Circular Quay and along the Eastern Pontoon to the Sydney Opera House.

Sydney Opera House

The Opera House is Sydney’s best known landmark, sitting on the prominent Bennelong Point overlooking the harbour. It was intended to build Sydney’s reputation as a world class centre for culture and the performing arts, replacing a tram depot that previously stood on this spot.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

After an international design competition in 1957, the design of Danish architect Jorn Utzon was chosen, with shell-like roof structures housing two large concert halls, a restaurant and smaller performance spaces.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

The actual construction caused an engineering conundrum and Utzon was forced to resign from the project. Eventually the building was completed by an architectural team led by Peter Hall and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Sydney Opera House is a magnet for visitors, who swirl around the different levels of the building to take their photos. But to see the interiors you’ll need to book a tour, which is worth planning ahead as they are often booked up on the day.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

We recommend spending an hour here on our 1 day Sydney itinerary, so here’s what to look out for;
- View the building’s exterior from all angles and levels. You can walk up the steps on the land side, walk around on the harbour side and explore the different levels of terraces housing bars and restaurants.
Sydney Opera House, Australia
- Walk up the steps to enter the foyer and get a sense of the interior, which is as much as you’ll see inside without taking a tour. Here you’ll find the ticket sales counters, a small gift shop and a kiosk cafe, with some seating in the Lounge area.
Foyer at Sydney Opera House, Australia
- Back on the ground level, there’s a passage under the steps leading to a bar by the Midden by Mark Olive restaurant, where there are sometimes photographic exhibitions.
- Head down the steps or escalator to the lower ground level visitor centre. There’s a small gift shop and some exhibition space about the building of the opera house. Tickets are also sold here for the opera house tours, although these are often sold out on the day so better to book ahead.
Sydney Opera House, Australia
- On this lower ground level is the House Canteen, with Asian inspired all day dining and the Opera Bar, which we recommend for a sunset drink.
Opera Bar at Sydney Opera House, Australia
- Check back at dusk when there are often colourful light projections onto the sails of the opera house – while we were there there was a daily Baud Gili projection taking place several times after sunset.
Take a tour of Sydney Opera House, Australia
- We highly recommend taking a tour of Sydney Opera House if you have more time another day, to see the stunning interiors of the Opera House. On our tour, we really enjoyed the sculptural quality of the building, stories of its construction and close ups of the distinctive roof tiles and structure.
Close ups of the roof tiles at Sydney Opera House, Australia
- We also booked tickets for a ballet performance of Nijinsky, which was a fun evening, offering another way to experience the Opera House from the inside. If you are Sydney for a while, check what’s on, as it’s a memorable experience.
Find more information on the Sydney Opera House website.

Heather attending a performance at Sydney Opera House, Australia

Now walk through the Opera House Gate into the Botanical Gardens.

Botanic Gardens of Sydney

We recommend spending up to an hour in the Botanic Gardens and having lunch there – it’s a calming oasis after the crowds around the Sydney Opera House. The 30 hectare garden overlooks Farm Cove and was the site of the first farm planted, to sustain the European colony.

Heather in the Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

After entering from the Opera House Gate, follow the path slightly up hill to get a glimpse of Government House through the railings, which is the office and residence of the Governor of New South Wales.

Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

Tip: If you want to have a picnic in the Botanic Garden, a great place is the Bennelong Lawn, tucked between Government House and the Sydney Opera House, where you can sit under a shady tree looking down over the Opera House.

Best place for a picnic – Bennelong Lawn, Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

There are a number of ‘gardens within gardens’ in the Botanic Garden of Sydney, as well as plenty of lawns and shady trees to sit and relax. We recommend wandering around for an hour, making your way up through the garden, in the direction of the exit opposite the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Our favourite garden spots were:

Succulent Garden, Botanic Garden Sydney Australia
- The Succulent Garden – a walled area with cactus and other sculptural succulents
- Palace Rose Garden – with a pergola of climbing roses as well as beds of bush and species roses
- The Palm Grove – full of colourful kaffir lilies in springtime
- The Calyx – a modern glasshouse with a living green wall that hosts exhibitions and events
- The Herb Garden – a formal garden with aromatic plants
- Cadi Jam Ora – with boards telling the stories of first encounters between the Gadigal people and the European settlers
Cadi Jam Ora Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

Lunch stop: We recommend a relaxed light lunch in the ground floor Farm Cove Eatery, within the Botanical gardens. If you prefer a more formal table service lunch, try the Botanic House restaurant by Luke Nguyen on the upper floor, offering an upscale Asian fusion menu.

More information on the Botanic Gardens of Sydney website.

Botanic House restaurant, Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

After lunch it’s time to enjoy one of Sydney’s outstanding museums and galleries. We have two recommendations for you, both of which are free. You should allocate at least an hour to each of them, so it’s better to choose one or the other, as you probably won’t have time for both.

Art Gallery of New South Wales

The gallery is a haven for art lovers, with the focus on Australian art and photography and a strong collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. We especially recommend the newer glass wing, where you can see some Aboriginal art in the Yirbana Gallery.

Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Australia

The Art Gallery campus comprises two connected buildings, the original 19th century sandstone classical facade, and the newer glass pavilions named Naala Badu.

Naala Badu Wing, Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Australia

If you are short of time, I’d enter the glass pavilions first, as this is where the Yirbana Gallery is located. The gallery, meaning ‘This way’ in the language of the Eora people, houses the collection of Aborigonal and Torres Strait Islander art, and is one of the highlights of the whole museum.

Indigenous art in the Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Australia

The galleries of the 19th century building also offer beautifully displayed collections of Australian and European art. I enjoyed the way that art from different eras was mixed together in the galleries, based on themes, rather than centuries, which give the galleries a lively and contemporary feel.

More information on the Art Gallery of NSW Website.

Art Gallery of NSW Sydney Australia

After spending around an hour here, walk across the Domain, an open green space, to Hyde Park Barracks Museum.

Hyde Park Barracks Museum

If you are interested in the early beginnings of Sydney as a colony, the Hyde Park Barracks Museum covers the convict history of those who were deported from England to build a new life here.

Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Australia

The classically proportioned sandstone building, by convict architect Francis Greenway, is beautiful in its own right and was built by convict labour in 1819. It originally housed convicts who slept in cramped rows of hammocks. Later the building provided accommodation for newly arrived female immigrants until they could find work.

Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Australia

The rooms are based on different themes and take you on a journey from the first arrival of the convicts after a long sea journey, to the work they were set to do and the expansion of the new colony.

It’s a relaxing museum to visit, since you are provided with an audio guide and headphones, that automatically start their commentary as you pass through each room.

Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Australia

If you’ve spent your time at the Art Gallery of New South Wales (you probably won’t have time to do both museums), you can still admire Hyde Park Barracks from the outside.

More information on the Hyde Park Barracks Museum Website

Then walk down Macquarie Street to see some of the 19th century historic buildings, from the early days of the colony, as you make your way back to the starting point at Circular Quay.

Macquarie Street

Named after Lachlan Macquarie, one of the early governors of New South Wales, Macquarie Street was set out in the 1800’s. It was intended as a ceremonial route from the harbour, with a number of imposing public buildings. Many were designed by a convict architect, Francis Greenway and are still used today for government or civic purposes.

Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Australia

Spend half an hour walking along the street, to admire the architecture of these imposing buildings as you head towards Martin Place.

Hyde Park Barracks – Built to house convicts and later accommodation for newly arrived female immigrants, now a museum.

St James’ Church – across the street from Hyde Park Barracks, with an elegant exterior and steeple. The interior is quite simple, but there’s a beautiful modern stained glass window in the side chapel.

St James Church Sydney Australia

The Mint – formerly a wing of the Sydney Hospital, later used as a mint, to process the gold discovered in Australia. The building has been beautifully restored and houses a small coffee shop and some limited exhibits, with museum offices at the back. You can walk through the portico to see the courtyard space behind.

The Mint Macquarie Street Sydney Australia

Sydney Hospital – this is a working hospital and the current building stands on the site of the original Sydney Hospital, which was built with two wings, now the Mint and the Parliament Building. At the front is a replica of Il Porcellino, the brass boar statue that stands in Florence, Italy.

Sydney Hospital Sydney Australia

Parliament House – a mirror image of The Mint, this now houses the State Parliament of New South Wales, however tours need to be booked in advance.

State library of NSW Sydney Australia

A little further is the State Library of New South Wales, but our route now takes us across the road from the Parliament Building, and down the hill to Martin Place in the Central Business District.

Central Business District (CBD)

Cross the road and head down the hill into Martin Place and the Central Business District (CBD). Depending on where you are staying, you may want to catch the train or bus from Martin Place back to your accommodation.

Martin Place, Sydney Australia

It’s a 10-15 minute walk back to Circular Quay from here, but if you prefer, hop on a 333 bus from Martin Place or the light railway (tram) from Wynyard stop, to take you back to Circular Quay.

If returning on foot to Circular Quay, you could now walk back along Pitt Street or George Street through the Central Business District, soaking up the atmosphere of suited office workers catching an after work drink or heading home.

Central Business District, Sydney Australia

It’s fun to observe the different ages and styles of architecture, with a mixture of 19th century buildings and sleek modern office complexes.

Messina Gelato Sydney Australia

Ice Cream Stop: We highly recommend the amazing ice cream at Gelato Messina (25 Martin Place)

Aperitifs at The Opera Bar, Sydney Opera House

Finish your day with an early evening drink at The Opera Bar, set on the lower concourse of the Sydney Opera House. When the weather is fine, the atmosphere is buzzing and there’s often live music to accompany your sunset drink with a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Opera Bar at Sydney Opera House, Australia

It’s a fine way to end your day in Sydney.

Opera Bar, Sydney Opera House, Australia

Spend a second day in Sydney?

If you have a second day in Sydney or just want to pack in some beach time, we have three different options, for excursions to Bondi Beach, Watsons Bay or Manly.

Each of these excursions warrant a full day. However if you don’t mind a packed itinerary, you could spend the morning in central Sydney visiting the Rocks, Sydney Opera House and Botanical garden. Then make a shorter excursion to spend the afternoon in Bondi Bay, Watson’s Bay or Manly.

Heather at Pavilion on Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

A day at Bondi Beach

Bondi is Sydney’s best known surf beach and has something for everyone. It’s a huge beach but can get very busy in summer and at weekends.

Things to do in Bondi Beach
- Chill out, sunbathe, swim and people watch on the broad expanse of sand at Bondi Beach. This is known as a surfer’s beach and you can book lessons with Lets go surfing or one of the other surf schools that operate here. If you go swimming, check the height and strength of the waves and only swim between the red and yellow flags that are surveyed by lifeguards.
Swim between the flags – Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
- Icebergs – Bondi’s famous ocean pool is located at the south end of the beach and is a good place to swim if you find the crashing surf a little too challenging. There’s an entrance fee (10 AUD when we were there) and a cafe inside. Upstairs is the Bistro, which is technically a member’s club but they welcome all visitors as long as you have an ID and sign in at the entrance.
Icebergs, Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
- The Pavillion – this seafront pavilion has been fully renovated as a cafe, arts and community hub. Inside, it’s a 1930s beauty with great views from the first floor balcony, which serves drinks in summer. There’s an art exhibition space, information centre and green shady courtyard, with regular music and theatre events. The two cafes Glory Days and Surfish are great to hang out in the day, with Promenade Restaurant for chilled lunches, evening drinks and dining.
Pavilion on Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
- Brunch on Bondi beach – Australians love coffee culture and brunch is an art form, nowhere more than Bondi Beach. The cafes in front of the pavilion (Glory Days and Surfish) are great for daytime coffee and snacks with a sea view. But if you want to brunch like a local, head to Speedo’s or The Depot, both at the north end of the beach. There are numerous other great places that are further from the beach, such as Blackwoods, but they are set in more residential areas.
Brunch at Blackwoods Bondi, Sydney, Australia
- Check out the murals along the beach – Between Bondi Pavilion and the Skate Park, the wall backing the beach promenade has a series of murals, many with a beach theme.
Bondi Beach Murals, Sydney, Australia
- Shopping around Campbell Parade – Many of the top swimwear and fashion brands have branches at Bondi Beach, and you’ll find them along Campbell Parade, Gould Street and Hall Street.
Lifeguard mosaics Campbells Parade, Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
- Hang out at the Bondi weekend market – it’s held at Bondi Beach Public School on Campbell Parade on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday is for food stalls and farmer’s market, Sunday for crafts and vintage.
Bondi Beach Market, Sydney, Australia
- Walk some of the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail – Even if you only have an hour or two to spare, you could make it as far as Tamarama beach or Bronte beach where there’s a lovely ocean pool.
Bondi to Clovelly walk, Sydney, Australia

Getting to Bondi Beach

Bus: From Circular Quay or Martin Place take the 333 bus all the way to Bondi Beach. Journey time around 40 mins.

Train + Bus: From the centre take the train to Bondi Junction. From Bondi Junction bus station (right above the rail station) take the 333 or 380 bus to Bondi Beach. Journey time 45-60 mins.

North Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

Refreshment stops in Bondi Beach

There are numerous good options – these were our favourites.

Drinks on the beach – Surfish or Glory Days

Brunch – Speedos or The Depot

Dinner – Promenade, North Bondi Fish or Rocker

Cafes at The Pavilion on Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

A day in Manly

Manly is another popular surf beach and you get the bonus of a ferry ride to get there, seeing Sydney Harbour from the water on the way.

Things to do around Manly
- From Manly wharf where the ferry stops, follow the crowds along The Corso, a pedestrianised boulevard, to reach Manly’s main surfing beach.
Manly Beach Sydney Australia © Heatheronhertravels.com
- Manly beach is known for its rolling surf and you can book a lesson with Manly surf school. Due to the strong waves and rip currents, you should only swim between the red and yellow flags which are patrolled by lifeguards.
Manly Beach Sydney Australia
- To find calmer waters, walk along Marine Parade at the south of the beach, past the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic reserve which is a good spot for snorkelling. A little further is the Fairy Bower sea pool where you could take a dip, then continue to Shelly Beach, which is a more sheltered beach for swimming.
Fairy Bower Pool Manly Sydney Australia

Shelly Beach Sydney Australia
- Walk up onto the headland above Shelly beach, for a bird’s eye view of the surfers hanging offshore ready to catch the waves.
Surfers at Manly Sydney Australia
- For a longer circular walk continue from the Shelly beach car park on the Shelly Beach to Barrack Precinct walk. The trail takes you over the headland, past Old Quarry Swamp and we ended up at Collin’s beach. From here, follow the coast path around to Little Manly beach and return to the Manly ferry wharf. This walk takes 2-3 hours.
Heather at Old Quarry Swamp above Manly Sydney Australia
- With a whole day to spend, you could make the Manly Cove to Spit Bridge coastal walk, passing numerous small beaches and rocky swimming places. From Spit bridge, return by bus to Manly, or catch an Uber back to central Sydney.
Heather on the Manly to Spit Bridge Walk Sydney Australia
- If you just have an hour to spare you could walk from Manly ferry wharf and Manly Cove to the next bays of Delwood beach and Fairwood beach for some swimming off the rocks. Being on the Sydney Bay side, you don’t get the crashing surf of the main Manly beach.
Fairlight Beach Manly Sydney Australia

Getting to Manly

From Circular Quay take the ferry to Manly. Ferries normally run at least 3 times an hour. Journey time 25 mins

Ferry to Manly Sydney Australia

Refreshment stops in Manly

Brunch in Manly Sydney

The Bower near Shelly beach – coffee and brunch with a view of the ocean

The Boathouse on Shelly Beach – brunch and lunch on the beach

Manly to Spit Bridge Walk Sydney Australia

A day at Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay has some nice beach areas, but it’s mainly known as a relaxing place to eat fish and chips and take some short walks up onto the headland at the mouth of Sydney Bay.

Things to do around Watsons Bay
- Eat fish & chips at Doyles. They have a busy sit down restaurant, but we preferred to order from the takeaway counter next to the ferry pier and use the seating area behind it, which offers the same view over the water. Tip: If you don’t like too much fried food, they have plenty of healthier seafood options.
Fish & chips at Doyle’s Watson Bay
- At the end of Marine Parade, walk past all the pretty cottages in Cove Street, to arrive at Camp Cove Beach, with its cute beach kiosk cafe (try their fresh orange juice). The beach is sheltered, with calm water for swimming.
Camp Cove Sydney Australia © Heatheronhertravels.com
- From Camp Cove Beach, walk up onto the headland past the canons, to the Hornby Lighthouse.
Heather at Hornby Lighthouse Watsons Bay Sydney Australia
- From the Watsons Bay ferry wharf, walk across Robertson Park and up onto the walking trail at Gap Bluff. Here you’ll see the contrast between the calm waters on the harbour side and the crashing waves on the ocean side, where the tragic wreck of the Dunbar in 1857 is marked by its salvaged anchor.
Gap Bluff Watsons Bay Sydney Australia
- If you have a whole day to spend, you might like to hike the coastal path in the direction of Rose Bay, past a succession of lovely coves and beaches. Even if you only have half a day, you could fit in swims at Kutti Beach, the Parsley Bay wharf and arrive at Shark Beach, before retracing your steps.
Heather at Shark Beach Sydney Australia

Getting to Watsons Bay

From Circular Quay take the ferry to Watsons Bay. Normally runs 2 times an hour. Journey time 30 mins. Tip: As the ferries are not as frequent later in the day, be sure to check the afternoon ferry times for your return trip.

Watsons Bay Sydney Australia

Refreshment stops in Watsons Bay

Doyles – restaurant or takeaway for fish & chips or seafood

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel – for sunset drinks

Camp Cove Kiosk – for coffee, orange juice and snacks

Watsons Bay Tea Rooms – for drinks and light meals

Camp Cove Sydney Australia

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21/05/2025
How to Decide Which One to Choose

Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most popular Greek islands; both are easy to visit, close to each other and well connected to Athens, which explains why most people visit them together. But if you can see only one and need to decide between Mykonos vs Santorini, you’ll most likely face a difficult decision.

Mykonos vs. Santorini

Which island is more accessible? Which one has a more romantic vibe? Is one island more fun to explore than the other? These are all good questions to ask if you have to decide whether to include Mykonos or Santorini into your Greek islands itinerary.

Most people who have been to both have a strong preference for one or the other (including us!). But the truth is that having to choose between Mykonos vs Santorini is really difficult. Both islands are beautiful, yet very different.

Here is my advice to help with your difficult choice.

Choose Mykonos If…

… You Like to Party

Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The island has become a hotspot for beach clubs, and glamorous beach parties. Whether lounging by the beach, enjoying a world-class meal, or dancing the night away at an exclusive club, Mykonos offers a dynamic blend of relaxation and excitement that attracts travelers from around the world.

The main square in Mykonos

… You Plan to Spend More Time at the Beach

When it comes to beaches, Mykonos has more sandy shores than Santorini. Beyond a handful of wilder shores such as sleepy Agios Sostis, the best beaches are in the south. From Platis Gialos to Paradise, you’ll have more laid-back beaches, while beaches like Psarou and Super Paradise are more for see-and-be-seen beach clubs.

Beautiful, quiet beach in Mykonos

… You Like More Peace and Quiet

Despite having a reputation for a party island, Mykonos seemed quieter, more peaceful, and overall less hectic than Santorini. Except for Mykonos town, which swarms with people at any time of day, if you stay in one of the many beautiful resorts on the island you’ll be able to enjoy some quiet time.

Sunset in Mykonos

Choose Santorini If…

…You Are Looking for a Romantic Location

Santorini is famous for being an idilic island with one-of-a-kind views, amazing sunsets and unique architecture. If you are looking for a stunning place to spend your honeymoon or a romantic weekend, this is the island to choose.

Beautiful view of the caldera in Santorini

The island’s unique architecture, whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and luxurious amenities, create a very romantic atmosphere. The combination of these factors makes Santorini a popular destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway or honeymoon.

… You Seek to Take Great Photos

Due to its unique and visually striking landscape, abundant natural light and vibrant colors, Santorini is an ideal place for taking stunning photos. The iconic whitewashed buildings, dramatic cliffs, and volcanic caldera offer endless opportunities for captivating images.

… You Like Spectacular Views

I think Santorini is one of those places that you don’t find anywhere else on earth. The island offers stunning views of the caldera, romantic sunsets, and a more relaxed atmosphere. One of my favorite memories was finding a quiet restaurant in the outskirts of Fira and just sitting there soaking up the view of the shimmering water in the caldera.

Spectacular views in Santorini

… You Want to See Minoan Ruins

If you have an interest in prehistoric ruins, Santorini offers quite a few interesting sights. The most important one is Akrotiri archeological site, which might not look as impressive as the Parthenon, but it’s mind-blowing if you consider it is 3600 years old.

Akrotiri archeological site

Once a Minoan Bronze Age settlement, Akrotiri was preserved by a volcanic eruption that covered the town in ash around 1600 BCE. This eruption effectively sealed the site, creating a time capsule that has allowed for the remarkable preservation of buildings, streets, and artifacts, offering a unique glimpse into Minoan life.

There are also the classic greek ruins of Ancient Thera, which are worth exploring.

Mykonos vs Santorini: Accessibility

… From the Mainland

Both Mykonos and Santorini are easily accessible from Greece’s mainland, either by plane or by ferry. although Santorini is slightly farther away from Athens than Mykonos, there isn’t much of a difference when it comes to flight times (about 50 minutes from Athens). However, if you decide to go by ferry, expect a longer ferry ride from Athens to Santorini (5-8 hours).

Ferryboat between the islands

… Accessibility Within Each Island

When it comes to traveling within each island, Mykonos and Santorini differ quite a bit. If you travel by car you’ll find it easier to drive in Mykonos than in Santorini, which is perched on a cliff. Also, although both islands have an extensive bus system, it’s much easier to take busses and taxis in Mykonos than in Santorini – where transferring is necessary every time. Transfers in Santorini take place in the town of Oia and the time you spend on a bus starts to add up.

Donkeys are often used for moving people from the coast to the elevated villages in Santorini

Also, due to the challenging terrain in Santorini, donkeys and mules are often used for moving people and supplies from the coast to the elevated regions where most villages are located.

Mikonos vs Santorini: Costs

In terms of costs, both islands are tourist hotspots so it’s no surprise that Mykonos and Santorini are both very expensive. When it comes to lodging, depending on the type of accommodation you choose you’ll pay more in Mykonos for a luxury hotel than in Santorini. However, both islands are renowned for their outrageously expensive prices for food and drinks.

Expensive boutiques in Mykonos

Nonetheless, you don’t have to break the bank to visit Santorini or Mykonos mainly because both island are relatively small and you won’t need to stay longer than 3 nights on either one of them. Besides, unless you want to eat in one of the prime location restaurants like Oia and Paradise Beach, it’s easy to find more affordable alternatives outside these areas.

Main beach in Mykonos town

Mykonos vs Santorini: Crowds

As a general observation, both Santorini and Mykonos are very crowded islands. But although much smaller, Mykonos feels less congested than Santorini, especially outside the main towns. But even Mikonos town, the island’s biggest attraction, seems less crowded because it’s wider and has many alleys, piazzas and places to visit.

Oia Town

Santorini on the other hand, is famous for its iconic caldera views and unique architecture. Unfortunately, these qualities attract huge crowds, especially during the summer months or when cruise ships dock here as well. The island’s two big attractions – Fira and Oia – hang up on the mountain side and the only way of visiting them is by walking the narrow strip at the top of the Santorini caldera.

So Which One to Choose: Mykonos, or Santorini?

Between the two, my preferred island was Mykonos – but Santorini is one of those places that you don’t find anywhere else on earth. So deciding which one would be a better choice for you depends on what you hope to get out of your vacation. I hope this guide can help you get an idea of these two islands!

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10/05/2025
Thames Path National Trail – Henley to Kingston Days 9-12

From Henley to Kingston the Thames Path National Trail offers a blend of rural to urban landscapes, as the river flows steadily towards the outskirts of London. You’ll pass the prosperous riverside towns of Henley and Marlow, known for their rowing traditions and ornate Edwardian boathouses.

This is the Thames as depicted in 19th century literary classics such as “Three Men in a Boat” and “The Wind in the Willows”. As the railways developed westwards from the 1850s, this stretch of the Thames came within the reach of Londoners for day trips, when regattas and rowing boats were all the rage.

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Days 9-12 – Henley to Kingston

Rather than walking the whole of the Thames Path in one go, we chose to break this long distance trail into sections of one or two days. Walking with my sister, it took us a year to complete, snatching a couple of days walking whenever we could.

The whole trail takes 15 days, but to make it more manageable I’ve decided to break it into four separate articles, each covering 3-4 days of the Thames Path walk.

And you can read about our final day here:

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – Kingston to Woolwich – Days 13-15

This section of four day’s walking could easily be managed over a long weekend. Alternatively you could just pick one of the legs for a day’s walk – our favourites were Day 10 Marlow to Windsor or Day 12 Chertsey to Kingston.

While we walked from the Source towards London, you can walk any of these stages in either direction.

Henley on the Thames Path National Trail

Essential planning for Days 9-12 – Henley to Kingston

If you are walking sections 9-12 of the Thames Trail over a 4 day period, here are the planning essentials.

Book the train to Henley for the start of the walk – it can be reached on the GWR line or the Elizabeth line from London, changing at Twyford. We recommend Trainline for easy rail bookings.

Book the train from Kingston at the end of Day 12 – there are direct trains to London Waterloo. We recommend Trainline for easy rail bookings.

Guidebook – buy the Trailblazer Thames Path Guide – this is the one we used and found it excellent for walking in either direction. While a guidebook is not essential, we enjoyed using this one as it added additional information and context to our walk.

I’ll be publishing further articles in this Thames Path series very soon. In the meantime, if you have questions about our walk on the Thames Path National Trail, feel free to email me at heather(at)heatheronhertravels(dot)com

Day 9 – Henley to Marlow

This is an attractive stretch of the Thames Path, passing pretty villages and scenic riverside spots. However, with Temple foot bridge closed, it required some frustrating detours away from the river, walking along a busy road.

Before setting off, we recommend checking whether the Temple foot bridge has re-opened and be alert for detour signs.

Temple Island Henley Thames Path National Trail

Leaving Henley behind

Leaving the attractive town of Henley behind, the Thames Path crosses the bridge to the south bank. Just beyond the bridge you’ll pass Britain’s oldest rowing club, The Leander Club, which is now a hotel.

A paved path runs through well maintained water meadows beside the river. It’s on these grassy lawns that the marquees will be pitched during the Henley Royal Regatta, which is held each July. The pretty classical pavilion on Temple Island is used as a marker during the famous regatta.

As the river curves at Remenham, the path continues to hug the bank until you reach Hambledon lock, where races start during the Henley Regatta.

Remenham on the Thames Path National Trail

Here it’s possible to cross the river on top of the weir to reach Hambledon Marina. The benches at Hambledon Lock made a pleasant place to stop for our picnic lunch.

Hambleden Marina Thames Path National Trail

Warning – diversions!

At this point you should be aware that the Temple foot bridge at Temple Lock is closed for survey and repairs. In October 2024 when we visited, the sign said it had been closed since May 2024, so there did not seem to be any urgency to reopen. This leaves you with a couple of detour possibilities:

Temple Mill Lock Thames Path National Trail

Option 1 (recommended) – south bank via Hurley and Bisham

Do not cross the Hambledon Weir, but stay on the south bank of the Thames until the village of Aston.

Here the path turns away from the river along ferry lane, towards the Flower Pot Hotel. It was once used by boatmen manning the ferry that provided a river crossing at this point.

The path now crosses the fields close to Culham Court, then returns to the river with a view of the 13th century Medmenham Abbey on the opposite bank.

Continue through a wooded area of riverbank until you reach an area of mobile homes overlooking the river, part of Hurley Riverside Park.

Thames Path at Hurley

At Hurley Lock the river divides among a group of small islands. A campsite and summer tearoom are located on one of them, reached by a wooden bridge.

It’s worth taking the lane into Hurley Village, to look at the Saxon church of St Mary the Virgin. This was originally the chapel of a Benedictine Priory, the remains of which are now private houses.

Hurley is a good place to stop for lunch as there are a couple of pubs, including The Old Bell, which was the priory’s guest house. A little beyond Hurley, the Thames Path would normally switch to the north bank, over the arched Temple foot bridge.

Bisham Thames Path National Trail

However, with this bridge currently closed, you will need to follow the lane to Bisham with its pretty riverside church, then walk along the busy road until you reach the bridge at Marlow.

Marlow Bridge Thames Path National Trail

Option 2 – north bank via Medmenham and Harley Golf course

As we were walking in the opposite direction from Marlow to Henley, we reached the Temple foot bridge, only to find it was closed. Rather than returning to Marlow and retracing our steps on the south bank, we decided to take a detour to the path.

Footpath near Marlow on Thames Path National Trail

This took us around the Harleyford Golf course, where we stopped for coffee. We then followed the road, before rejoining the river at Medmenham.

Here we found a riverside path along the northern bank for much of the way to Mill End. Then a short walk along the road took us to Hambledon Marina.

Hambleden Weir Thames Path National Trail

At Hambledon we were able to cross the river on the impressive footbridge across the Hambledon Weir and Hambledon Lock. This enabled us to rejoin the Thames Path on the south bank.

Of course, if you are walking from Henley to Marlow, you’ll need to follow these directions in reverse.

Henley Thames Path National Trail

Day 9 – Distance and timings

Henley to Marlow is aprox 8.5 miles / 14 km and took us 5 hours to walk, although this included some detours. As this is one of the shorter stages, you should have time to explore Henley and Marlow, both of which are attractive riverside towns.

Morning mist on the river at Marlow Bridge – Thames Path National Trail

Day 9 – Where to stay

Henley: For budget options try The Catherine Wheel (traditional pub) or RIOSHOUSE (contemporary no-reception rooms). For more luxurious options, look at The Relais ( the former historic Red Lion Inn) or Hotel du Vin. All of these are well located in the centre of Henley, close to the many shops and restaurants.

Marlow: There are a few places to stay in Marlow, although not as much choice as Henley. We recommend The Chequers Marlow, for boutique style in the centre of town or the Premier Inn for a budget choice.

The Chequers is a boutique style inn with rooms, located in the centre of Marlow

Day 9 – Where to eat

Both Henley and Marlow have a wide range of places to eat in the centre of town, as well as shops to stock up on picnic supplies.

On the walk between Henley and Marlow, The Flower Pot pub at Aston serves traditional pub food. Perhaps a better place to break for lunch is Hurley, where the Thames path crosses the river on a footbridge.

At the campsite on Hurley Lock is a tea room that’s open in the summer months. Within the village of Hurley are two pubs that both serve lunch as well as a village shop. The Old Bell at Hurley offers a more upscale menu. Alternatively, The Rising Sun is a traditional pub serving Indian food as well as pies and pub dishes.

If you are forced, as we were due to the closure of Hurley Bridge, to walk on the north bank of the Thames, you could try Harleyford Golf Club, which serves drinks and snacks to non-members.

Henley on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 9 – Transport for this stage

Henley has a railway station, which is on a branch line connecting to Twyford. At Twyford you can change to the GWR Bristol to London line or the Elizabeth Line into London. Marlow also has a railway station, which can be reached from London by changing at Maidenhead.

The number 800 and 850 buses run between Henley and Marlow, so you could park in either town, take the bus and then walk back on the Thames path. For this stage, we parked in the Southfields Car Park (24 hrs) at Henley and took the 850 bus from Henley to Marlow, then walked on the Thames Path back to Henley.

Day 10 – Marlow – Maidenhead – Windsor

This was one of the most enjoyable stretches of the Thames, with a series of picturesque riverside towns and villages. A towpath follows the river closely, with a chance to admire the elegant Edwardian mansions and boathouses.

It was this stretch of the Thames that inspired classics of English Literature like ‘The Wind in the Willows’ and ‘Three men in a boat’.

Bourne End – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Leaving Marlow behind

We were sad to leave the pretty town of Marlow behind, as we skirted behind the church with glimpses down the lane of Marlow weir. The path took us through open water meadows beside the river, to Bourne End, with its small marina and sailing club.

Cows near Cookham – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Here we crossed over the steel footbridge to continue on the opposite bank. The herd of cows we passed wallowing in the river, could have been straight out of a Turner painting.

A stretch of grazing meadow, managed by the National Trust, lead us into the village of Cookham.

Bourne End – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Stanley Spencer and Cookham

This prettiest of villages, with its 12th century church, was the home of the 20th century artist Stanley Spencer, who lived here until his death in 1959.

Cookham church – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

He is known for setting his religious and rural paintings in locations around Cookham, using the faces of real people he knew. The small Stanley Spencer Gallery in the heart of the village, is well worth a visit, with changing themed exhibitions of his work.

Stanley Spencer Gallery Cookham – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Heading out of Cookham, the path runs opposite the stately home of Cliveden, now a luxury hotel. It was the home to the Astor family, who were known for their lavish parties. The house also featured in the Profumo scandal, which rocked the government in the 1960s.

Cliveden Boathouse – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

The house is out of sight from the riverbank, but the gardens run by the National Trust and their attractive Edwardian boathouses, can be admired from the opposite bank.

Maidenhead – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Arriving in Maidenhead

Arriving in Maidenhead, we took a break for our picnic lunch at Boulter’s Lock. At this attractive location, a footbridge crosses to Ray Mill Island and over the river to the Taplow side.

Ray Mill Island Maidenhead – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

The path follows the road for a short distance to Maidenhead Bridge. We crossed to continue the path on the other side, passing under the Victorian brick railway bridge, expertly engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Ray Mill Island Maidenhead – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

The riverside path leading down to Bray offered views of the river on one side and a succession of elegant riverfront houses on the other.

Beyond Bray we passed under the M4 motorway, the roar of traffic slightly spoiling the peaceful atmosphere. Visible on the map but out of sight for walkers was the manmade Dorney Lake, used for rowing practice by nearby Eton College.

Eaton meadows – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Approaching Windsor

Beyond Boveney Lock, the path took us under the mainline railway bridge and through the meadows past the exclusive private school of Eton College. By now we could glimpse the views of Windsor Castle rising above the town.

Boveney Lock – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

It was originally built as a fortress by William the Conquerer and is one of the main residences of the English Royal Family. The famous chapel has been a location for many royal marriages. Crossing the bridge took us into the historic town of Windsor, the end of this day’s walk.

Windsor Bridge – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 10 – Distance and timings

Marlow to Windsor is aprox 13.5 miles / 21.7 km and took us 7 hours to walk, including lunch and rest stops as well as a visit to the Stanley Spencer Gallery.

If you want to plan in a rest day, Windsor Castle is a major heritage attraction and well worth a visit, but you’d need at least half a day to do it justice.

Cliveden – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 10 – Where to stay

Marlow: There are a few places to stay in Marlow. We recommend The Chequers Marlow, for boutique style in the centre of town or the Premier Inn for a budget choice.

Windsor: There are a number of hotels and guest houses in Windsor to suit every budget. As prices vary widely with demand, we suggest comparing all Windsor hotels for your dates. One good mid range option is the Holiday Inn Express.

Windsor Bridge – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 10 – Where to eat

Both Marlow and Windsor have a wide range of places to eat, as well as shops to stock up on picnic supplies. On the walk you can find places to eat at:

Maidenhead – At Boulter’s Lock cross the footbridge onto Ray Mill Island, which is a pleasant place for a picnic, with a seasonal cafe. You could also get lunch or coffee at the attractive Boathouse pub. A little further, Jenner’s Riverside Cafe is in the Riverside park, or the Thames Riviera Hotel is by Maidenhead bridge.

Cookham – Try the tea and cake at the Teapot tea shop, or a pub lunch at The Ferry or The Crown pubs.

Tearoom at Cookham – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 10 – Transport for this stage

Marlow has a railway station, which can be reached from London by changing at Maidenhead. Windsor also has a railway station, which can be reached on a direct train from London Waterloo, or via the Elizabeth line with a change at Slough.

If you need to travel between Marlow and Windsor, the time by road is 20-25 minutes. However there are no direct bus connections and the route by train takes around 1 hour, requiring 2 changes, due to each station being on different branch lines.

Because we had 2 cars, we left one car at each end of the trail and drove back to recover the second car at the end of the day.

Maidenhead – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 11 – Windsor – Staines – Chertsey Bridge

Although it has some attractive stretches around Runnymede, this part of the Thames starts to feel quite developed, as you enter the orbit of the M25 motorway that encircles London. This was not one of our favourite stretches, although it could have just been that the grey skies and drizzle dampened our enthusiasm!

The path out of Windsor follows a loop in the river, and beyond Victoria Bridge offers fine views of Windsor Great Park and castle on the opposite bank. At Old Windsor there’s a lock and the path follows a canal that cuts off the loop in the river.

Old Windsor lock- Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Runnymede Meadow

Between Windsor and Staines lies the Runnymede meadow, bounded on one side by the wooded slopes of Cooper’s Hill. This is the location of an historic meeting in 1215, between King John and his barons.

It’s considered a turning point in English history, since the king was forced to accept limits on his powers, enshrined in a document known as the ‘Magna Carta’.

Sculptures at Runnymede – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Runnymede Meadow is managed by the National Trust, with some outdoor sculptures and a tea room near the road.

Tearoom at Runnymede – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Staines

The town of Staines has a less affluent feel compared to the elegant riverside towns of Marlow, Henley and Windsor upstream. It’s close to Heathrow Airport and surrounded by reservoirs that supply London with drinking water, although you won’t necessarily see them from the Thames Path.

Staines Bridge – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

The riverside at Staines seems to have a strong affinity with swans, and we saw several swan related sculptures in the riverside park. There’s also a stone marker to show that this was the furthest point of the river over which the city of London had any jurisdiction.

The Swanmaster by Diana Thomson at Staines – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Beyond Staines, the landscape becomes decidedly suburban, with modern houses lining the banks. The path passes the village of Laleham and under the M3 Motorway bridge, with its accompanying roar of traffic.

Soon after Chertsey weir you’ll arrive at Chertsey Bridge, although the town and station is around 20 minutes walk from the river.

Chertsey Bridge – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 11 – Distance and timings

Windsor to Chertsey Bridge is aprox 11.5 miles / 18.4 km and took us 6.5 hours to walk, including lunch and rest stops.

Chertsey – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 11 – Where to stay

Windsor: There are a number of hotels and guest houses in Windsor to suit every budget. As prices vary widely with demand, we suggest comparing all Windsor hotels for your dates. One good mid range option is the Holiday Inn Express.

Chertsey Bridge: The best option by Chertsey Bridge is The Bridge Hotel, a stylish and comfortable riverside pub. Alternatively, try the Crown Hotel or Old Swan Hotel, which are 20 minutes walk from the river in Chertsey town.

Penton Hook Lock – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 11 – Where to eat

Windsor has a wide range of places to eat, as well as shops to stock up on picnic supplies. At Chertsey there are a couple of pubs near the bridge, but the nearest convenience store is a 10 minute walk from the river.

On this stretch, look out for:

Runnymede – The Magna Carta Tea Room is run by the National Trust. A little further on, the Runnymede Pleasure Ground is a good place for a picnic, with benches overlooking the river and there’s a cafe there too.

Bell Weir Lock – The impressive Thames Hotel and Spa has a restaurant with terrace overlooking the river.

Staines – there are several coffee shops, pubs and restaurants close to the river. We enjoyed a coffee at Nostrano Lounge, within the pedestrianised shopping area.

Bell Weir Lock – Hiking on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 11 – Transport for this stage

Windsor has a railway station, which can be reached on a direct train from London Waterloo, or via the Elizabeth line with a change at Slough.

Chertsey also has a railway station, although it is 30 minutes walk from Chertsey Bridge where the stage ends.

If you need to travel between Windsor and Chertsey, the time by road is 20-25 minutes. However there are no direct bus connections and the route by train takes around 1 hour, requiring a change at Staines.

Because we had 2 cars, we left one car at each end of the trail and drove back to recover the second car at the end of the day. At Chertsey Bridge, there is a small free car park right by the bridge.

Day 12 – Chertsey to Kingston

This is one of the prettiest stretches of the Thames, a blend of suburban and countryside, before the scenery starts to become more built up at Kingston. At Shepperton several branches of the river converge, with a seasonal ferry to take you from one bank to the next.

Nauticalia Ferry at Shepperton Lock – Thames Path National Trail

Between the tree lined banks, is the D’Oyly Carte Island, once the home to the manager of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company, where you can take tea by the river surrounded by willows.

I can remember performing in a school performance of the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, The Mikado which was first staged by the D’Oyly Carte Company. “On a tree by the river a little tom tit sang willow, tit willow, tit willow” – perhaps inspired by this very location.

D’Oyly Carte Island at Shepperton – Thames Path National Trail

Passing the modern Walton Bridge brings you to the old ferry point of Walton Wharf with its two riverside pubs. The straight ‘Walton mile’ of river was used for Regattas in the late 19th century.

At Sunbury Lock a large island conceals the opposite bank and there is a seasonal ferry. Large reservoirs are so well concealed by high banks beside the towpath that you’ve really no idea that they are there.

Sunbury Lock – Thames Path National Trail

Hampton

At Hampton, a pretty view across the river opens up, towards the church tower and the domed “Garrick’s Temple”. It was built for the Shakespearean 18th century actor Richard Garrick, who lived in the house behind it.

Garrick’s Temple Hampton – Thames Path National Trail

By Molesey Lock you’ll pass rowing club boat houses and it’s time to cross the river at Hampton Court Bridge, leading to the Tudor palace set in its park.

There’s just a glimpse of Hampton Court Palace through ornate gilded gates, before the towpath follows the bend in the river alongside the palace’s park, to Kingston Bridge, where this stage ends.

Gates of Hampton Court – Thames Path National Trail

Day 12 – Distance and timings

Chertsey to Kingston is aprox 11 miles / 17.7 km. Allow around 5 hours plus stopping time. If you want to stop at Hampton Court Palace, you could afterwards take the bus to save time, rather than walk to Kingston. Hampton Court Palace is a major attraction that will easily take several hours to see properly.

Day 12 – Where to stay

The White Hart Hotel is on the Hampton Wick side of Kingston Bridge, or walk into Kingston Town for other budget hotel options

Day 12 – Where to eat

There are numerous attractive stops for food and drink along this stretch of the river including:

Shepperton Lock – The Ferry Coffee Shop at the ferry crossing on the north bank. On the south bank is D’Oyly’s, a cafe with outdoor seating overlooking the river, on the D’Oyly Carte Island which is accessed by a foot bridge.

Walton on Thames – at Walton Wharf, The Anglers and The Swan are busy pubs serving food, with decks overlooking the river. You can also find shops for picnic provisions, including a Sainsbury’s supermarket, in Walton on Thames village.

Riverside Pubs at Walton Wharf Thames Path National Trail

Hampton Court – there are numerous pubs and restaurants on the south bank near the bridge and the Mezzet Box is a small outdoor cafe right by the river, tucked next to the bridge.

Kingston – There are numerous restaurants and cafes on the south bank of the river, when you cross Kingston Bridge and plenty of shops, including a Waitrose supermarket, in Kingston Town Centre.

Day 12 – Transport for this stage

There is a train station at Chertsey, but it’s quite awkward to get to, so we started our walk at Shepperton Lock instead. On this part of the walk it’s handy to look at the network map for South West Railway, to easily work out the train connections.

We took the train to Shepperton station and walked 30 mins to Shepperton Lock, where the Nauticalia pedestrian ferry takes you across the river from the north to the south bank. The ferry runs daily in summer and weekends in winter, check the timetable here.

An alternative station on this leg of the walk is at Hampton Court Palace. On arrival at Kingston Bridge the nearest stations are Hampton Wick or Kingston. If you are stuck at any point, local buses are often the most direct way to get around. We recommend the TFL Go app to plan bus and train routes in and around London.

More articles about the Thames Path National Trail

I’ll be publishing more articles in this Thames Path series very soon. In the meantime, if you have questions about our walk on the Thames Path National Trail, feel free to email me at heather(at)heatheronhertravels(dot)com

Resources for hiking the Thames Path National Trail

Train bookings – to get you to the start and end of this section of the walk, we recommend Trainline for easy rail bookings.

Book accommodation: to book hotels online and conveniently have all your bookings in once place, we used Booking.com but if you prefer you could also use Expedia.

Guidebook – we used and recommend the Trailblazer Thames Path Guide – this is the one we used and we liked the easy to follow maps and the fact that it’s just as easy to follow for walking in either direction.

The Thames Path National Trail website is a useful source of information about the trail as a whole.

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23/04/2025
Best things to do in Andros Greece
The Greek island of Andros has a charming and authentic atmosphere, a world away from the busier Cyclades islands nearby, such as Mykonos and Santorini. Read on for our travel guide, with all the best things to do in Andros; where to eat, recommended hotels and practical tips on how to get around if you want to go car-free. This is a place where you can relax and enjoy the many beaches, go hiking on well marked trails and swim under waterfalls in a hidden river valley.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

An Introduction to Andros

Andros became wealthy in the 19th and 20th century, when many families owned merchant ships and the island prospered from maritime trade. Local men were employed as sailors and sea captains, returning from their voyages to build beautiful houses with their earnings.

You’ll see signs of this wealth in the attractive “sea captain’s” houses of the island capital Chora, and the sophisticated museums and galleries founded by wealthy shipping families.

The atmosphere here is laid back, with a culture that’s unspoiled by mass tourism. But you can find excellent restaurants, luxury hotels and stylish places like the Kourtesis winery that will appeal to the discerning independent traveller.

Chora Andros Greece

Why visit Andros?

Each Greek island has its individual character, but you’ll probably enjoy Andros if:
- you enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday.
- you’re interested in discovering authentic Greek island life, rather than glitz and glamour.
- you enjoy hiking, beaches and nature.
- your idea of nightlife is a relaxing meal in the town square or a nightcap overlooking the sea.
- you’re happy to travel by ferry from Athens or neighbouring islands since there is no airport.
- you want an island that makes an easy add-on to Athens, since it’s just 2 hours by ferry.
The main places to stay in Andros

Most visitors will stay in one of the four main towns and resorts – you can check out our full list of recommended hotels in Andros later in the article.

Gavrio – the main ferry port on Andros, with shops and restaurants that cater for ferry passengers. Since Andros has no airport, it’s likely you will pass through Gavrio, but most visitors choose to stay elsewhere, since there’s no beach.

Chora Andros Greece

Chora – as the island’s picturesque capital and original harbour, much of the island’s former wealth was concentrated here. There are beaches on both sides of the town, plenty of accommodation, restaurants and a few museums. This is the best place to stay if you visit in shoulder season, since more places are open all year round.

Batsi – a popular holiday resort with a broad beach, small marina and plenty of holiday accommodation and restaurants. This is where holiday companies are likely to send you, and in high season the beach here is more protected from the Meltemi winds, although Batsi is quieter in low season.

Korthi – the quietest of the holiday resorts, especially in low season when not much is open. It’s further to get to from the ferry, requiring a drive on winding roads, and has a sleepy, relaxed atmosphere. This where the locals go to get away from it all!

The Meltemi winds

During July and August, Andros and neighbouring Tinos are known for the Meltemi winds that blow from the north. Although we did not experience them on our visit in September, they can be quite strong in summer, affecting the sandy beaches, making the sea rough and boat trips difficult.

Since the north of the island is more affected, on windy days it may be better to head to the more protected beaches on the south side of Andros, or stay by your hotel pool.

Chora Andros Greece

Things to do in Andros

With no airport, Andros is popular with independent travellers from Europe and the USA. It’s also a well known weekend destination for Greeks coming from Athens, which is only 2 hours away by ferry.

The main things to do in Andros include hiking and outdoor activities, swimming on the many beaches, visiting some of the island’s museums and enjoying the charming and authentic atmosphere of Chora.

Chora Andros Greece

Chora

As the island capital of Andros, Chora is centre of the island’s cultural life. The name ‘Chora’ literally means country, and is commonly used on Greek islands to denote the main town.

Since most of the old town is pedestrianised, it’s a charming place to visit and a good place to base yourself on Andros. The town’s car park is on the edge of the pedestrianised area, but it can get crowded in summer.

Our recommended hotel in Chora is Anemomiloi Andros Boutique Hotel where we stayed.

Things to do in Andros Chora

Andros Chora Greece
- Wander through the old town, with its cobbled lanes and charming churches, admiring the neo-classical sea captain’s houses.
- Head down to the furthest end of town to the Square of the Unknown soldier. The large statue located there commemorates all the sailors who sailed from Andros and never returned.
- From this spot you can also see the ruins on a small island of the 13th century Venetian fortress. It’s possible in calm weather to cross the stone arch and climb up to the fortress for some nice photos. However the bridge is somewhat precarious, so I wouldn’t do it without a local guide. From here you can also see the Tourlitis lighthouse perched on a rock.
Venetian fort Andros Chora Greece
- Swim from either of the two beaches that lie on either side of the high ground on which Chora is built. Paraporti beach is backed by dunes for a wilder feel, while Neimporio offers several cafes and sunbeds for hire. When the sea is calm, you can also swim off the rocks in the old town.
- Chora is a good place to explore the food of Andros, with plenty of delis and bakeries selling local specialties and numerous excellent restaurants.
- Most of the museums in Andros are located in Chora. Be sure to visit the Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art, Archaeological Museum of Andros and the Petros and Marika Kydonieos Foundation. There are a few others that weren’t open when we visited such as the Maritime Museum, Digital Museum and the folk museum inside the Paradise Hotel.
More things to do if you are based in Chora
- If you are interested in some fun excursions to the river pools for swimming, wineries, monasteries or boat trips to less accessible beaches, call in at Explore Andros, who have their offices in the Fresco cafe in Chora.
- It’s easy to use Chora as a base for hiking in Andros, and this is where we stayed. There are numerous trails that lead out from the town, or you can get a taxi to the furthest point of the trail and hike back into Chora.
View of Paraporti beach from Chora – Andros Greece

Batsi

This popular resort town (written in Greek as Mpatsi) is spread around a protected bay with broad sandy beach. Even if you are not staying here, Batsi is worth visiting for the day.

There’s a large car park in the centre of town behind the beach, and a one way system on the roads. You’ll enter the town from the north side of the bay and exit at the south side.

Our recommended hotel in Batsi is Hotel Chryssi Akti.

Things to do in Batsi
- Walk along the seafront promenade to the marina area, noticing some of the older style sea captain’s houses from the mid 19th century.
- Relax or swim on the main beach, where there are sun beds and a beach bar in front of the Chryssi Akti Hotel. At the north end of the bay, there’s the smaller Kolona beach, with a beach bar, which we preferred. Being on the south side of the island, Batsi offers one of the more protected beaches when the Meltemi winds are blowing.
Batsi Andros Greece
- Chill out in one of the cafes or restaurants that overlook the marina. For dinner, both Stamatis Taverna and Oti Kalo have good reputations.
- Just south of Batsi is the Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis. This contains the findings from the island’s original capital of Paleopolis. There’s a path (Route 9a) from here down to the sea where the ancient town dating back to the 6th century BC was located. Some remains of the Paleopolis port are visible under the sea.
- There are some hiking trails that lead out from Batsi – Route 11a over the Petalo mountain ridge and into the Arni valley, Route 11 that skirts high ground above the coast and Route 16a to the Agios Petros monastery.
Batsi Andros Greece

Korthi

This is the quietest of the main seaside towns on Andros, although quite a few people live in the more rural area behind it. You can park along the seafront promenade. Things to do in Korthi include:

Korthi Andros Greece
- Walk along the seafront promenade and explore the more sheltered pedestrianised lanes that lie one block behind.
- Enjoy an excellent lunch at the best restaurant in town, Sea Satin Nino, which is owned by a well known local chef and is open all year round.
Sea Satin Nino Korthi Andros Greece
- Swim on the beach that lies on the south end of the promenade. Due to the sweeping bay and bowl of mountains enclosing it, this is one of the more protected beaches on a windy day.
- Hike over the headland at the north end of the bay to one of the most famous beaches, Grias To Pidima.
- On the drive between Chora and Korthi, you might like to park the car and walk around the pretty hillside village of Kochylos, which is set above Korthi.
Korthi Andros Greece

Hiking in Andros

Andros is unusual on the Greek islands in offering some great opportunities for hiking. Traditional kalderimia or mule paths between villages, have been restored and signposted by a group of volunteers through the Andros Routes organisation.

Hiking in Andros Greece – Syneti to Chora

The landscape of Andros is relatively mountainous with elevations of up to 1000 metres. Springs and rivers tumble down the hillside to the sea, creating walking routes with beautiful views, green wooded valleys and sheltered beaches for swimming.

Apikia – Hiking in Andros Greece

There are a total of 240km easy to follow hiking trails, with maps available of all the hiking routes. Andros offers walking for every level of fitness, from easy circular routes and scenic day hikes, to a 100km long distance trail that crosses the island.

Stone bridge Achla River – Hiking in Andros Greece

In spring and autumn, the warm sunny days make Andros the ideal place for an active holiday. Read about all the hiking we did in Andros in my detailed article – there’s also a 7 day hiking itinerary that you can follow.

Hiking in Andros – the Andros Routes walking trails.

Enjoy the Beaches of Andros

There are many lovely beaches in Andros, although in my opinion they are not the most accessible, compared to other Greek islands I’ve visited. Many require a hire car, with access via narrow, rocky and winding roads and with limited parking spots when you arrive.

If you are not used to driving on the Greece islands (which can be a little hair-raising) you might want to either take a boat trip to visit the northern beaches, or else enjoy the beaches that are within easy distance of the main towns like Chora, Batsi and Korthi.

If you are hiring a car with the intention of visiting as many beaches as possible, you should consider hiring a four wheel drive vehicle. This will make it much easier to access the beaches on dirt roads, also you may not be insured if you take a normal hire car on the dirt roads.

Paraporti beach – Hiking in Andros Greece

Beaches near Chora

Paraporti Beach – a broad sandy beach just below Chora backed by a nature reserve and dunes.

Neimporio Beach – located on the other side of Chora, this beach is a mix of sand and pebbles. It’s backed by a range of cafes and holiday accommodation, with sun beds for hire.

Gialia Beach – Piso Gialio Beach – if you hike or drive over the headland from Neimporio you’ll reach Gialia beach, with clear turquoise water. There’s a seafood restaurant here that runs sea kayak tours. Just over the rise is Piso Gialio beach, with a beach bar in summer.

Gialia Beach Andros Greece Photo

Syneti Beach – we visited this lovely cove below the village of Syneti on one of our hikes. There’s a small parking area at the beach, or get a taxi to drop you off here, have a swim and then hike back to Chora.

Syneti beach – Hiking in Andros Greece

Beaches near Korthi

Milos Beach – this is the main beach of Korthi and is located at the southern end of town. At the other end before the marina is another small beach area called Limanaki and beyond the marina an area called Vintsi beach.

Vintsi beach Korthi Andros Greece

Grias To Pidima – The stone pillar rising from the sea gives it the name that translates as “Old Lady’s Jump”, since the pillar is supposed to resemble an old woman who jumped from a cliff to escape from the Ottomans.

You can hike over the headland from Korthi to get there. It’s also possible to drive on a narrow stony track from Korthi, but we found it a bit scary since the road is quite rough with only a few passing places.

Grias To Pidima beach Andros Greece

Beaches near Batsi

Batsi beach – the main beach of Batsi stretches the whole length of the bay, with shallow water. There are sunbeds and a beach bar in front of the Chryssi Akti Hotel.

Batsi beach Andros Greece

Kolona Beach – we preferred this smaller cove to the main beach at Batsi. You can easily walk from Batsi or there’s a parking area. This beach has a bar with a few spots of natural shade provided by the rocks.

Kolona Beach Batsi Andros Greece

Beaches near Gavrio

Agios Petros, Kypri, Golden Sand – These beaches are located between Batsi and Gavri and are among the most accessible on Andros, since they are on a flat stretch of coastline right beside the main road.

Kypri beach has a watersports centre operating in summer, with windsurfing, SUP, waterski and wakeboarding. The buses to Gavrio also pass by these beaches, so you can ask the driver to drop you off here.

Beaches in the north of Andros

Achla beach – This is a lovely sandy beach that can be visited on a boat trip from Chora. It’s a long drive from anywhere, with the final section on a winding dirt road. You could park by the Agios Nikolaos Monastery and hike there and back (1 hour each way) on Andros Route 6.

In the north east of the island are a number of sandy coves, such as Zorkos, Vitali and Lefka, that are reached by mountain roads from Gavrio or Batsi. As they face north they will receive the full force of any Meltemi winds in summer, so are best visited on calmer days.

Monasteries in Andros

Like the neighbouring island of Tinos, Andros has several centuries old monasteries that may be visited. It’s popular among the Greeks to organise pilgrimage trips on both islands. We noticed some large coach parties on the ferry who were clearly pilgrims, often older ladies dressed in black or sober colours.

A few tips for visiting monasteries in Greece
- It’s respectful to wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders for both men and women. For tourists, some monasteries provide wraps at the entrance, or you could carry a light wrap to cover your legs if wearing shorts. Other monasteries may not let you in unless you are correctly dressed.
- While monasteries are generally free, it’s normal to make a small donation or to pay a euro or two for a candle that you then light in the church. The monks may offer you a traditional loukoumi sweet at the end of the visit.
- Be cautious about taking photos within the walls of the monastery. In particular it’s not normally allowed to take photos within the monastery’s chapel, where the most valuable icons and treasures are kept. If in doubt, check with your guide or a monk what is permitted.
We visited a couple of monasteries during our visit to Andros, although there are several around the island.

Panachrantou Monastery in Andros Greece

Panachrantou Monastery

Panachrantou is located on the mountain above Chora and the road up to it is narrow and winding. We took a taxi up from Chora (glad we didn’t have to drive ourselves), then hiked down along Andros Route 1.

Panachrantou is one of the largest monasteries on Andros and has been well restored. The battlements give it the air of a castle and you can walk onto the terrace for amazing views towards Chora.

This monastery is said to have been founded in the 1st century after two monks saw lights shining from a cave and found a beautiful icon of the Virgin Mary. We were shown around by a friendly monk after he had swept the courtyard and chased away the peacocks, then he unlocked the chapel to let us look at the icons inside.

Panachrantou Monastery in Andros Greece

Agios Nikolaos Monastery

We visited this monastery as part of our river trekking excursion with Explore Andros, as we left the car outside the monastery before continuing along hiking route 6. At the entrance, wraps were available for visitors and a lady opened the church to show us the beautiful icons with silver lamps hanging from the ceiling.

By tradition the monastery is thought to have been built in the 8th century and is renowned for a miraculous icon that streams tears of fragrant myrrh.

If you’d like to visit more of the mountain monasteries of Andros, Explore Andros offer this Monasteries of Andros half day tour.

Agios Nikolaos monastery – Hiking in Andros Greece

Other Andros monasteries that we didn’t get a chance to visit include Santa Marina Andros monastery near Apikia and Zoodochos Pigi monastery between Batsi and Gavrio.

Mountain villages of Andros

One of the charms of Andros is that it has areas of up to 1000 metres, with villages on the higher slopes offering a “mountain village” atmosphere more typical of northern Greece. It’s from these higher slopes that water springs, feeding irrigation channels, streams and rivers that flow to the sea.

Spring at Menites – Hiking in Andros Greece

Menites

The best known of the traditional villages, with a couple of pleasant cafes to rest in the shade. It’s famous for the pure springs that are channelled through lion heads into a stone trough, so fill up your water bottle here.

We walked to Menites on the Route 1 hiking trail. You can also park on the road into the village and walk a circular trail around the village, where you can see the irrigation channels and streams.

Stenies

On arriving at Stenies, leave you car in the small parking area opposite the taverna. Then you can walk around the village on traditional stone paths and steps to admire the older houses. Look out for the original village laundry that is fed by a spring.

Stenies Andros Greece

Apikia

We had a look around this village near Chora before hiking back on Route 2. There’s a beautiful marble fountain with lion’s head for the Sarizia spring, renowned for its pure water that is bottled nearby.

The small seasonal restaurant has a terrace overlooking the valley below. You can also make a short walk from the village on Route 2a to see the Pythara waterfalls and pools nearby.

Apikia – Village in Andros Greece

Foros Caves

We very much enjoyed our visit to the Foros Caves, located not far from Chora. Parking by the road, we walked 300m up the hill to the cave’s entrance, where one of the volunteer guides was waiting at the cave entrance.

Foros Caves Andros Greece

We were provided with a helmet and flashlight, with all backpacks being left at the cave entrance. Descending the metal staircase, we entered a chamber full of stalactites and stalagmites. The tour took us through several named chambers, while the guide pointed out different rock formations and told us more about the cave.

There were times when we had to stoop quite low to avoid bumping our heads on the hanging rocks. It was an interesting visit and one that could be combined with some hiking on Andros Routes 18 / 18a.

Tours take place every hour in high season but it’s recommended to ring ahead and book, especially in low season.

River pools and waterfalls in Andros

One of our favourite moments of the holiday was the excursion to the Gerolimni waterfall that we booked through Explore Andros. We parked at the Agios Nikolaos Monastery and walked down to the Achla river along hiking route 6. After a while the marked trail diverged and the guide took us further along the river picking our way over boulders and tree trunks.

Gerolimni waterfall – Achla river – Hiking in Andros Greece

Half an hour later we found the natural swimming pool, fed by icy water from the spring at Vourkoti mountain village. The water was cold enough to take your breathe away, but we really enjoyed a refreshing swim there, before returning via the same route.

Gerolimni waterfall – Achla river – Hiking in Andros Greece

Pytharas Waterfalls

For a more accessible waterfall visit, you can visit the Pytharas waterfalls, which are on a marked trail from Apikia village. There are lots of shallow pools among the rocks, but none seemed deep enough to swim.

The flow of water over the rocks was down to a trickle when we visited in October, but I imagine there would be much more water gushing down in the springtime.

Pytharas waterfall – Hiking in Andros Greece

Culture and museums in Andros

Most of the cultural institutions of Andros are located in the capital of Chora, which has a theatre and seasonal outdoor cinema.

Museums in Chora

Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art – sister to the museum in Athens and world class in terms of the building and exhibitions. We visited the temporary exhibition of the work of the photographer Martine Franck in the museum’s New Wing.

But we didn’t manage to see the original part of the museum that houses the work of Andros sculpture Michalis Tombros, so not sure if it was closed or we just missed it.

Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art Andros Greece

Archaeological Museum of Andros – another museum that is much bigger than it appears from the outside, with archaeological finds from Andros. There are statues and tombstones from Roman and Byzantine times, and useful background on some of the excavated settlements of Andros.

A highlight is the well preserved “Hermes of Andros” statue, found in the island’s ancient capital of Paleopolis.

Archaeological Museum of Andros Chora Greece

Petros and Marika Kydonieos Foundation, Chora – easy to miss as you drive into Chora, but worth popping in, this gallery holds free art and cultural exhibitions.

Petros and Marika Kydonieos Foundation, Chora Andros Greece

Maritime Museum of Andros – this museum is in the oldest part of Chora by the Square of the unknown sailor, with exhibitions relating to the seafaring traditions of Andros. Unfortunately it was closed for renovations when we were there, with no indications of when it might reopen.

Other museums in Andros

Olive Oil Museum at Ano Pitrofos – An old olive oil mill that has been made into a museum showing how the oil is produced. Unfortunately when we visited in September, the museum had closed for the season.

Agadaki Estate and Botanical Garden – we passed this tranquil botanical garden on our hike from Apikia to Chora, as it’s just a short walk from the village. The lovely grounds are planted with olive trees, native trees and aromatic plants.

In the restored farmhouse is an exhibition about the projects to preserve Andros’s unique habitats and alder forests. Downstairs is a small folk museum with old farming tools on display.

Agadaki Estate Botanical Garden – Hiking in Andros Greece

Local food

In Andros you’ll find all the favourite Greek dishes, but here are a few island specialities.

Fourtalia – also known as Andros omelette and served in traditional cafes. This thick tortilla style omelette includes potatoes and slices of the local pork sausage.

Fourtalia omlette Andros Greece

Fish and seafood – there’s plentiful seafood in the restaurants on Andros, especially those that are near the sea. In Chora, we loved the seafood at Ta Binelikia and Nona’s near Neimporio beach, both of which have terraces overlooking the sea.

The freshest locally caught fish are generally displayed whole on ice and sold by weight, so check with the waiter what’s available that day.

Seafood in Andros Greece

Another traditional Andros dish that we saw on restaurant menus was “Rooster in wine sauce”, the Greek equivalent of Coq au Vin.

Traditional sweets in Andros

There are a few local sweets that are traditional for Andros and can be found in the specialist shops in Chora.

One of the best known is Zaris Patisserie, which has a lovely shop beside the road as you drive out of Chora, or there are several traditional patisseries on the main street in Chora.

Sweets in Andros Greece

Amygdalota – an almond paste like marzipan, that’s made into a ball and dusted with icing sugar.

Kaltsounia – made from walnuts and honey in a sticky ball that’s dusted with icing sugar

Pastitsakia – a small round cookie like a macaron made from almonds and egg whites.

Sweet spoon – local fruit such as orange peel, sour cherries or walnuts that have been preserved in sugar syrup. They are served on a small spoon and would traditionally be offered with Greek coffee when guests visit your house.

Wineries in Andros

The Kourtesis wine estate is located in the hills above Chora, close to the village of Stenies. This boutique winery has beautifully restored old stone buildings, where tastings and events are held overlooking the vineyard. Local Cycladic grape varieties are used to make the organic wines, which you can also try in local restaurants.

Kourtesis wine estate Andros Greece

We had a lovely tasting in the vaulted room next to the winery, accompanied by local cheese, charcuterie and the estate’s own olive oil. The Kourtesis Winery can be visited by appointment, so call or email ahead to request a wine tasting and estate tour.

Alternatively, you can take one of the wine tasting tours arranged by Explore Andros, that provide transport and include a visit to the nearby waterfalls.

Kourtesis wine estate Andros Greece

Anyone with a detailed interest in the wines of Andros should contact Explore Andros to arrange a bespoke tour, since there are other wineries in Andros to visit, such as the Stratis vineyards.

Restaurants in Andros

We stayed in Chora where there’s a wide range of excellent restaurants, and tried a few other places while we were driving around the island.

Fresco Chora Andros Greece

Restaurants in Chora

Fresco – a cafe with a healthy theme, for juices, smoothies, salads and brunch. The owners also run the Explore Andros tour company so you can arrange your excursions, transfers and car hire here too.

Ta Skalakia – a charming traditional taverna where you can eat home cooked dishes outside on “The Steps” that give it the name. Be sure to look at the interior that’s full of vintage memorabilia.

Ta Binelikia – an excellent and well priced seafood restaurant near Neimporio beach, with a terrace overlooking the sea.

Endochora – an upscale restaurant serving modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with stylish interiors.

Ta Skalakia Chora Andros Greece

Restaurants in Batsi

We only had coffee here and didn’t get a chance to try any of the restaurants, but the ones we heard most recommended were Stamatis Taverna and Oti Kalo.

Restaurants in Korthi

We had an excellent lunch with professional service on the terrace of Sea Satin Nino, where the chef – owner has a good reputation locally. It’s set one block back from the seafront and is open all year round, with stylish interiors.

Sea Satin Nino Korthi Andros Greece

Where to stay in Andros

Recommended hotels in Chora

Anemomiloi Andros Boutique Hotel (we stayed here) – a stylish boutique hotel with swimming pool on the edge of Chora town. They offer a good breakfast but there’s also a small kitchenette in the rooms.

The hotel is attractively designed with different level rooms overlooking a central courtyard or countryside views. The family who own the hotel also run Explore Andros.

Archontiko Eleni (we stayed here) – this small hotel in a neo-classical townhouse, is a good value option with elegant traditional style. It offers breakfast and is well located by the main square, a short walk from all the restaurants and shops.

With only 8 rooms the hotel feels like staying in someone’s rather grand home. This is a good option if you visit in low season, as it’s open year round and has a more cosy feel than some other places.

Castel Abaso Boutique Apartments – a stylish self catering option in the oldest part of Chora, with 3 separate apartments, two of which have private roof terraces. This part of Chora is entirely pedestrianised and quiet at night, so it’s a good option for those who don’t have a hire car.

These apartments are popular with couples, families or small groups who want to have a bit more space, while being a few steps away from the restaurants and amenities of Chora.

If you want to treat yourself to a bit more luxury, try Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel in the old town or Golden Vista Suites with private pools overlooking Neimporio Beach near Chora.

Other recommended hotels

In Batsi, we recommend Hotel Chryssi Akti, which is well located in the centre of the town opposite the beach, but there’s a wide range of accommodation in Batsi. If you don’t mind being a little bit outside Batsi, the Aneroussa Beach Hotel is a lovely hotel set on the cliffs with a private beach just below.

In Korthi there are only a few studio or apartment options – check out the accommodation in Korthi here. Gavrio also has a limited range of accommodation, since it is the island’s main ferry port – check out accommodation in Gavrio here.

Getting around Andros

Most advice about Andros seems to be to hire a car to get around. However these days I’m trying to travel more sustainably, so I decided to explore the options for getting around without a car first.

If you are planning to go car-free on Andros for some or all of the time, I’d recommend basing yourself in Chora, the picturesque island capital. Not only does Chora have 2 beaches and a wide choice of shops and restaurants, but also the best transport links.

By Bus

The KTEL public buses in Andros are designed mainly to take people to the ferry, running between the towns of Batsi, Chora, Korthi and Gavrio port. There are a couple of buses a day on each route, timed to arrive / leave Gavrio around the ferry arrivals. In high season (May – September) the buses are more frequent.

So if you want to use the buses for sightseeing, you could take a bus in the morning and return on the afternoon bus. For example, it could be possible to to do a day trip from Batsi to Chora, Chora to Batsi or Chora to Korthi.

Buses are not ideal for taking you to the beaches, as most aren’t on a bus route, unless you are prepared to do a bit of additional hiking. It’s also an option to take the bus one way and use a taxi to return.

Despite all these limitations, the bus fares are affordable (€3-4) and it’s worth checking the KTEL Andros bus timetable to see what’s possible. If relying on the bus, you might want to check timings at the nearest bus station or stop, as we found there were sometimes variations to the published timetable.

By Taxi

If you don’t want to drive, taxis are another good option, especially if you can take a taxi one way and use the bus or hike the return journey. For instance we took taxis from Chora to the furthest point of a hiking trails, then hiked back into Chora.

Based on our experience, these taxi rides of 15-30 minutes normally cost €20-30. There seemed to be agreed fares on popular routes, rather than a meter being used. So you can ask the taxi driver what the fare will be in advance.

In Andros there are taxi ranks in Chora (near the bus station), Batsi (near the harbour) and Gavrio (by the port). We are not sure if there is an official taxi rank in Korthi, but in any case most bars, restaurants or hotels can call you a taxi.

Hiring a car

Most of the hire car companies are based in Gavrio Port. As you’ll almost certainly arrive by ferry, it makes sense to pick up your hire car at Gavrio Port and return it there as you depart Andros. We recommend searching on Rental Cars to see what’s available.

Search with Gavrio Port, Andros as your pick up location and look for car hire that’s located close to the port. As always, check the reviews and scores before booking, rather than just going for the cheapest option.

If you prefer a more personal service, or want to use a car for only part of your stay, we can recommend Explore Andros who we hired our car from, which was brought to our hotel.

Transfers to / from Gavrio port

On arrival in Andros by ferry at Gavrio Port, you may want to arrange a taxi transfer from the port to either Batsi (15 mins) or Chora (45-60 mins), depending on where you are staying. These are often minivan taxis, large enough for groups or families and we booked ours through Explore Andros.

When reserving accommodation, your hotel will often offer to book a transfer for you. But if you arrive without any pre-booked transfer, there are also taxis at the taxi rank in Gavrio port.

Alternatively, the KTEL public buses (see above) run from Gavrio port to Batsi, Chora and Korthi and are timed to leave soon after the ferry’s arrival.

Getting around on foot

Andros is particularly known for the Andros Routes hiking trails, which cover many parts of the island.

Read my article about hiking in Andros, with a 1 week itinerary you can follow or options for day walks.

Of the 2 weeks I spent on Andros, one week was spent hiking and we did not use a hire car for this week. Instead, we used a mixture of taxis, day tours and lifts to get us to the start of each day’s walk, then hiked back to Chora along the well signposted trails.

Even if you just want to do a couple of days hiking and relax for the rest of the time, you probably don’t need a car for these hiking days. There are a few shorter circular routes, but most of the longer and more scenic hiking routes are one way.

Andros Chora Greece

Guided Tours in Andros

If you don’t have a hire car, another excellent option for visiting many of the cultural or difficult to access places in Andros, is by booking a guided day tour. We booked a couple of tours through Explore Andros, which were excellent.

Best of Andros full day tour – a taste of the island highlights, starting in Chora, with waterfalls, a monastery and visits to a pretty mountain village.

Andros wine tasting – visit to the Kourtesis winery and nearby Pythara waterfalls – Half day tour

River trekking – along the Achla valley with swimming under the Gerolimni waterfall * highly recommended*

Monasteries of Andros – half day tour – visiting three different monasteries in Andros

Luxury boat tour – from Chora to the northern beaches of Andros, which will save you a long tiring drive.

How to get to Andros

Ferry to Andros

There’s no airport on Andros, so most visitors fly into Athens or Mykonos airports, then take the ferry. Ferries run from the Athens port of Rafina to Andros and then on to neighbouring Tinos and Mykonos.

They return from Mykonos by the same route, stopping at Tinos, Andros and then Rafina.

Ferry at Gavrio Port Andros Greece

Ferries run several times a day from Rafina port near Athens, with Fast Ferries or Golden Star Ferries and the journey time is 2 hours. There’s also a slightly more expensive Seajets ferry from Rafina to Andros which takes 1 hour 10 mins.

From Mykonos, the ferry time is 2 hours 25 mins. When we travelled the one way ferry ticket from Rafina to Andros was from €25 per person for a foot passenger.

Where to buy ferry tickets for Andros

Although you can buy ferry tickets at the port, we found it easier to book online in advance using a service like Ferryscanner. You’ll receive a ticket with bar code by email so that you can go straight on board the ferry. Check the ferry fares, timetables and book your ferry here.

Ferry at Gavrio Port Andros Greece

How to get to Rafina port

To reach Rafina from Athens Airport, you can take a taxi (30 mins) or a regular KTEL Attikis bus (30 mins) – find the timetable here. The airport bus stop is opposite the Sofitel Hotel, leaving the arrivals hall by Exit 3.

Ferry at Gavrio Port Andros Greece

To reach Rafina port from central Athens you have a few options.

Option 1: take the KTEL Attikis bus from Nomismatokopio Station in Athens to Rafina (60 mins).

Option 2: take Line 3 of the Athens Metro to Athens airport and from there take the bus or a taxi to Rafina.

Option 3: the most expensive option, but economic if there is a group of you, is to arrange a taxi from any point in Central Athens to Rafina (60 mins).

Ferry at Gavrio Port Andros Greece

Read Next

Want to see more of Andros? Check out my article about Hiking in Andros on the scenic Andros Routes hiking trails.

More places to visit in Greece

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Most of this trip was self-funded but some of the experiences and accommodation were kindly provided by Explore Andros.

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com
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21/04/2025
Level8 Creator Carry-on – the Best Luggage for Modern Travel
Every traveler should have a good carry-on. Even if you only fly occasionally, having a reliable one on hand allows you to bypass the check-in and worry less about your baggage getting lost. But what makes a high-quality carry-on?

As someone who hasn’t checked a bag in the past ten years of travel across the U.S. and abroad, I’ve thought a lot about what makes a good piece of carry-on luggage. And if you ask me, it’s about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design. After testing quite a few carry-ons over the years, I came across one that beats all the ones I had before: the Level8 Creator Carry-on.

Level8 Creator Carry-on

Why the Level8 Creator Carry-on Stands Out

The best carry-ons should be both spacious and easy to keep organized, with handy pockets and compartments. I prefer a carry-on that also looks good and the Level8 Creator Carry-on meets all these requirements.

In terms of features, the Creator has some that sets it apart from the rest of the suitcases:

Built-in USB-A&C ports
- Wide-handle: this suitcase offers an adjustable telescopic wide trolley handle. This revolutionary design is ultra-sturdy and provides enhanced stability. It also has the advantage of creating more interior space for packing.
- Quick-Access Laptop Pocket: Front sleeve with an independent laptop compartment for easy access.
- Built-in USB-A&C ports: this feature keeps you powered up on the go. (Power bank not included)
- Durable Design: premium German Makrolon® polycarbonate, which is lightweight and built to last.
- YKK dual-layer zipper: provide better protection against water and dust.
- TSA-approved lock: this not only ensures the security of your belongings, but also saves you from the inconvenience of having your lock permanently damaged during a routine security inspection.
- 360° smooth spinner wheels: this system with precision ball bearings ensures smooth handling and lasting durability, no matter the terrain. The wheels are not only smooth, but also very quiet.
- Eco-Friendly Interior: Fully lined with 100% RPET recycled polyester features a divider and dual zippered compartments for smart packing.
- Dual zippered compartments and a divider for better packing. The front sleeve includes a mesh pocket and an independent laptop compartment, making organization effortless and your essentials easily accessible.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Lifetime warranty that covers functional aspects including shell, wheels, handles, and zippers.
Quick access laptop pocket

My Personal Opinion About the Level 8 Creator Carry-on

Pros
- The LEVEL8 Creator carry-on, as well as the Level8 Adventurer, both have the wide handle which is a grea feature.
- I also like the robust construction and organization features, particularly the zipless openings and compression straps.
- The spacious interior and smooth wheels are also a big plus.
Smooth wheels
- I love the sleek design and modern look of the Creator Carry-on.
- The suitcase comes with a sturdy computer sleeve which allows you to carry your computer in your hand if you choose to.
Computer sleeve

Cons
- Price wise, the Level8 Creator carry-on is on the expensive side. Nonetheless, it’s a good value for the money and a good investment. Besides, these days Level8 offers a big 15% discount for many of its suitcases, including the Creator.
- Due to its sturdy construction it is also a little heavier (10.1 lb) than other Level8 carry on, like the Pro Carry-on spinner or the Adventurer, which are only 9.1. This may be an issue with some airlines carry-on allowance.
While it might not be ideal for all airlines’ carry-on size restrictions, its robust construction, spacious interior, and organized features make it a worthwhile investment for many travelers.

Level8 Creator Carry-on

Don’t Miss the Packing Cube Travel Set!

If you want to pack even smarter, you can complete your Level8 Creator carry on with the 4-piece Packing Cube Travel Set. These are good for garments, gadgets, or grooming essentials and will make your packing way more efficient. A great way to keep your belongings dry and organized.

The packing cubes are made of a two-tone polyester that fights mildew and repels water and have detachable rubber patches for quick identification. The cubes dimensions are as follows:

Level8 packing cubes set

Dimensions:
Garment Cube: 18″L x 12″W x 4″D (46 x 31 x 10 cm)
Journey Cube for Worn Attire or Footwear: 12″L x 9″W x 4″D (31 x 23 x 10 cm)
Electronics Cube: 9″L x 5.9″W x 3.9″D (23 x 15 x 10 cm)
Grooming & Beauty Essentials Pouch: 9″L x 5.9″W x 3.9″D (23 x 15 x 10 cm)

Note: Level8 Group provided me with this suitcase for a review. However, the opinions expressed in this article are based on my own experiences with this piece of luggage.
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19/04/2025
Thames Path National Trail – Kingston to Woolwich Days 13-15

The final section of our hike on the Thames Path National Trail brought us into London and the end of our 15 day walk. Over these last three days, the trail took us through the leafy suburbs of Richmond and Kew, past the historic landmarks of central London, ending in the old industrial area of London’s Docklands at Woolwich.

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Days 13-15 – Kingston to Woolwich

I walked the Thames Path National Trail in stages with my sister, usually a couple of days at a time. While the whole trail takes 15 days if you walk it consecutively, in the end it took us around a year to complete.

As you’ll see from the photos, Day 13 of the walk was done in the sunny days of June, but we did not complete Days 14 and 15 until the somewhat more chilly days of December!

I’ve written about the trail in four separate articles, each covering 3-4 days of the Thames Path walk, which you could do in a long weekend.You’re reading the last of the four articles describing Days 13-15 on the London section of our walk.

If you haven’t already done so, you can read about the previous walks below:

This section of three day’s walking could easily be managed over a long weekend. Alternatively you could just pick one of the legs for a day’s walk. Our direction of travel was from the Thames source in Gloucestershire towards London, but you can walk any of these stages in either direction.

Views towards Richmond Hill – Thames Path National Trail

Essential planning for Days 13-15 – Kingston to Woolwich

If you are walking sections 13-15 of the Thames Trail over a 3 day period, here are the planning essentials.

Transport – as these walks are within London, there are numerous transport options by bus, underground or overground train to get to the start or end of each day’s walk. You can tap on and off all London transport using a debit card or an Oyster card. If arriving from outside London, we recommend Trainline for easy rail bookings.

Book accommodation: For the night before starting the walk at Kingston (if required) – White Hart Hotel | Day 13 Putney – mk hotel London | Day 14 Tower Bridge – The Tower Hotel | Day 15 Woolwich – Ibis Hotel in Greenwich (if required).

Because of the excellent transport links in London, you could also stay anywhere close to the river and return to the same hotel each evening – check options for all hotels in London. A well located hotel to stay for all legs of this 3 day walk is The Tower Hotel at Tower Bridge.

Guidebook – buy the Trailblazer Thames Path Guide – this is the one we used and found it excellent for walking in either direction. While a guidebook is not essential, we enjoyed using this one as it added useful context to our walk.

Syon House – Thames Path National Trail

Day 13 – Kingston to Putney

From Kingston bridge we noticed a much more built up riverside landscape than we had seen on earlier sections of the walk. Attractive 18th and 19th century riverfront houses were now backed with large apartment blocks and high rise buildings.

Kingston itself is a busy shopping town, coming as a bit of a shock after the previous tranquil stretches of river bank. But once you cross Kingston Bridge to the southern bank, the town’s bustle is left behind and you reach a greener part of the river.

Approaching Kingston – Thames Path National Trail

At Teddington Lock, we crossed the iron bridge to the northern bank, for a refreshment stop at the Flying Cloud Cafe, before returning again to continue on the path.

The towpath is bordered by Ham Lands nature reserve which continues to the 17th century mansion of Ham House (National Trust). It’s worth a short detour from the river to admire the house’s decorative red brick frontage.

Heather at Teddington Lock – Thames Path National Trail

Day 13 – Approaching Richmond

Soon the river bends, bringing Richmond Hill into view, passing Petersham meadows and the boathouses on the path up to Richmond Bridge. On a sunny day, the riverside at Richmond is buzzing and it’s become rather a trendy spot (I know it well having grown up here!)

Approaching Richmond Bridge – Thames Path National Trail

Things calm once you pass the railway bridge at Richmond weir and follow a surprisingly secluded and shady stretch past Old Deer Park and then Kew Gardens. On the opposite bank is a view of Syon House and the wharf at Isleworth, making a pretty scene backed by the 15th century church tower.

Isleworth Wharf – Thames Path National Trail

Day 13 – Kew Bridge

At Kew Bridge we took a brief break to watch the cricketers on Kew Green before continuing along a developed stretch of the river to Mortlake, famous in the past for its breweries. Just after Chiswick Bridge, we ordered a coffee at the White Hart in Mortlake, an excellent riverside pub with a terrace overlooking the river.

Kew with views of Brentford – Thames Path National Trail

The iron spans of Barnes Railway bridge come into sight and the river curves back on itself, passing the Barnes wetland centre that was created from the old Barn Elms reservoir.

Hammersmith Bridge – Thames Path National Trail

Hammersmith Bridge, with its imposing Victorian pillars and urban skyline in the background, is a sign that you have reached London proper.

Boat Houses at Putney – Thames Path National Trail

Approaching Putney Bridge, look out for the row of boathouses, belonging to all the London schools who launch their rowing boats from this public slipway.

Putney Bridge – Thames Path National Trail

Day 13 – Distance and timings

Kingston to Putney is aprox 13 miles/20.9 km. Allow around 6 hours plus stopping time. On this stretch, you’ll pass the stately home of Ham House (National Trust) and Kew Gardens, both of which are well worth a visit.

If you want to visit either of these, you could break this day’s walk into two, with an overnight stay in Richmond or Kew. Richmond is also worth a look around, with its Terrace Gardens, scenic village green and views from Richmond Hill.

Views from Richmond Hill – Thames Path National Trail

Day 13 – Where to stay

Putney – mk hotel london is a good budget option near the river with no frills decor

Richmond – NOX Richmond is a contemporary style aparthotel with compact rooms

Day 13 – Where to eat

On this stretch of the river there are numerous places to stop to eat and drink.

Kingston – Stock up on picnic supplies at the Waitrose supermarket. On leaving Kingston Bridge there’s a small park cafe at Canbury Park and the busy Boater’s Inn by the river.

Canbury Gardens near Kingston – Thames Path National Trail

Teddington – Cross on a footbridge at Teddington Lock to reach the busy Angler’s Pub, smaller Tide End Cottage Pub, or colourful Flying Cloud Cafe.

Petersham – Approaching Richmond, the Petersham Nursery cafe is a delightful place to stop for a coffee or light lunch in their greenhouses.

Richmond – There’s Eileen’s small kiosk cafe in the Buccleuch Gardens and the Tide Tables Cafe with large seating area right under Richmond Bridge. For a riverside pub, stop at the White Cross or the smaller White Swan on Old Palace Lane.

Kew – At Kew Bridge head to Kew Green where there’s The Willow cafe and The Cricketer’s Pub.

White Hart at Mortlake – Thames Path National Trail

Mortlake – there are several cafes and restaurants in Mortlake but we recommend the White Hart Pub overlooking the river.

Hammersmith – while there’s not much on the Barnes side of the river, you could cross Hammersmith bridge to the north side where there are a number of riverside pubs.

Putney – close to Putney Bridge by St Mary’s Church, are numerous pubs and cafes. There are supermarkets on Putney High Street.

Day 13 – Transport for this stage

For Kingston the nearest station to the river is at Hampton Wick, a 10 mins walk from Kingston Bridge. Alternatively Kingston station is in Kingston town centre. Both can be accessed from London Waterloo but require a change, so check the network map for South West Railway, to work out the train connections.

Alternative stations on this leg of the walk are at Richmond, Kew and Mortlake. On arrival in Putney, there are 2 separate stations for the Underground and Overground train networks. Local buses are also a good way to get around and we recommend the TFL Go app to plan bus and train routes in and around London.

Teddington Lock – Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Putney to Tower Bridge

At Putney Bridge the transition from the leafy suburbs to London life becomes ever more obvious. Staying on the south of the river through Wandsworth, the route passes through Wandsworth Park and Battersea Park, both well used by local families, joggers and dog walkers.

Wandsworth – Thames Path National Trail

Between the two parks is a stretch lined by modern buildings. The only interesting landmark here is the pretty St Mary’s church with its classical proportions and spire.

St Mary’s Church Wandsworth – Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Battersea Power Station

Just beyond Battersea Park is Battersea Power station, now converted into an upscale attraction for fashion shopping and dining. The riverside frontage has been attractively landscaped, with a Christmas ice rink in full swing when we were there.

Battersea Power Station – Thames Path National Trail

We popped inside for a coffee and a quick look around the swanky shops, vowing to come back later for a day’s shopping when we had more time (and money!)

Battersea Power Station – Thames Path National Trail © Heatheronhertravels.com

Just beyond the power station, at Vauxhall Bridge, the path briefly moves away from the river and follows the road, before rejoining by Lambeth Palace.

This beautiful Tudor brick building is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and only open for pre-booked guided tours, although there is a garden museum in the church next to it.

Lambeth Palace on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – The South Bank

From here, we skirted the wall covered with hearts that has been painted to remember those who died during the Covid pandemic.

Covid Memorial South Bank – Thames Path National Trail

On the opposite bank are the Houses of Parliament and Westminster. Very soon we were wading through tourists all trying to take the perfect London selfie, with Big Ben as their backdrop.

Westminster on the Thames Path National Trail

This section of the South Bank is a particularly attractive and busy one. There are numerous London landmarks such as the OXO Building, Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, any of which could demand a few hours to do them justice.

South Bank on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Southwark

Beyond Southwark Bridge, we passed the Golden Hinde replica Tudor sailing ship and the beautiful Southward Cathedral, where we ate our picnic on the bench in their courtyard.

Southwark Cathedral on the Thames Path National Trail

Now the ultimate London landmarks of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge came into view with more crowds of tourists, which finally thinned out once we were past Tower Bridge.

Southwark on the Thames Path National Trail

By this point, we really felt that we’d seen the “Greatest Hits” of London, all in one easy day’s walk along the Thames, albeit sharing the experience with thousands of other London tourists!

Tower Bridge on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Distance and timings

Putney to Tower Bridge is aprox 13.5 miles/21.7 km. It took us around 5.5 hours including stopping time, including a coffee at Battersea Power station and picnic breaks at the Festival Hall and Southwark cathedral.

South Bank on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Where to stay

Because the rail and bus links are so comprehensive, you could stay almost anywhere in London. Since this part of the walk passes so many popular landmarks, hotels closer to the river will generally be more expensive than those further away.

We recommend searching for hotels in London, and using the map to narrow down your search for the best locations and deals.

If you want to stay near Tower Bridge at the end of this day’s walk, The Tower Hotel is a good option

Putney – mk hotel london is a good budget option near the river with no frills decor

Tower Bridge – The Tower Hotel is a good mid-range option, overlooking Tower Bridge

Day 14 – Where to eat

As this part of the Thames Path is close to some of London’s hottest tourist spots, anywhere near the river tends to be expensive. To find shops selling sandwiches and snacks at reasonable prices, you may need to move a little away from the river.

Putney – Try the Putney Pantry cafe at the church or any of the many places on Putney High Street and near the bridge.

Wandsworth – there’s a cluster of pubs and cafes close to the bridge.

Battersea – around the Battersea Power Station and inside the complex are numerous nice cafes and restaurants, as well as an M&S food hall for picnic supplies.

Vauxhall – around Vauxhall bridge are numerous pub and restaurant options.

Waterloo – the area around the London Eye is packed with tourists and expensive food stalls catering for them. For something quieter, retreat into the Royal Festival Hall cafe or make a short detour to Waterloo Station where there are numerous food shops.

Wandsworth – Thames Path National Trail

Gabriel’s Wharf – between Waterloo and Blackfriars Bridges is an area of cafes and bars near the river.

Southwark – a pleasant courtyard cafe is to be found at Southwark Cathedral. Nearby is foodie heaven at Borough Market with numerous food stalls and restaurants.

Between London Bridge and Tower Bridge – Hay’s Galleria has a good selection of cafes and restaurants in an attractive covered courtyard.

Wandsworth – Thames Path National Trail

Day 14 – Transport for this stage

There’s rarely a problem getting around in London, due to the extensive network of underground and overground trains, bus routes and the increasingly popular Uber Boat by Thames Clipper service. We recommend the TFL Go app to plan bus and train routes in and around London.

At Putney, there are 2 separate stations for the Underground and Overground train networks. Tower Bridge is close to Tower Hill station on the north side of the river, or London Bridge station on the south side.

There are a number of other underground and overground train stations close to the river on both banks. Both Putney and Tower Bridge are connected by the Uber Boat river service as well as by the underground train line.

South Bank on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – Tower Bridge to Woolwich

Because the transport network is so good in London, we decided to tack a little bit on to the previous day’s walk, continuing past Tower Bridge to Canary Wharf. Having fought through the tourists around Tower bridge, we were amazed to find that on the Bermondsey side of the bridge, the crowds melted away.

Bermondsey on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – The London Docklands

While the section of the Thames path through Bermondsey and Rotherhithe is not the prettiest, it does have an interesting industrial heritage. We passed numerous old warehouses, now converted into apartments, the names of each wharf telling us what goods were landed there.

Bermondsey on the Thames Path National Trail

This area of the London Docklands was heavily bombed in the war and the formerly thriving wharfs fell into decline by the 1960s. More recently the docklands has been redeveloped for apartments and offices, with the glass towers of Canary Wharf springing up in the 1980s.

Bermondsey on the Thames Path National Trail

At the Double Tree by Hilton, we walked through the hotel’s reception to find the ferry pier and made a short ferry hop across the Thames to the glittering financial centre of Canary Wharf.

It was from here we continued the following day, walking a short but unremarkable stretch through the Isle of Dogs on the north bank, until we crossed to the south bank again via the Greenwich foot tunnel.

Greenwich foot tunnel on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – Greenwich

Walking under the Thames was a surprisingly pleasant experience, with a lift or stairs to take you down, then a well lit, dry and relatively short walk to emerge in Greenwich by the Cutty Sark. The heritage attractions, especially the Royal Museums Greenwich deserve a full day here, to explore the Old Royal Naval College, Queen’s House, National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory.

Greenwich University on the Thames Path National Trail

While we didn’t have time (and had seen much of it before) we did have a coffee in the pleasant surroundings of the Old Brewery, next to the visitor centre.

On leaving the Old Royal Naval College behind, we quickly felt the legacy of this area’s past industrialisation. Less of the smart warehouse conversions and more machinery plants and waste ground waiting to be developed.

Rotherhithe on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – The O2

On the North Greenwich peninsula, where the Thames loops back on itself, the dome of the O2 rises like a space age spider. Built in 2000 as the Millennium Dome, the O2 now houses a concert arena and shopping centre.

It was busy with shoppers when we stopped there, but we found a bench inside to have our picnic out of the rain. From here the IFS Cloud cable car runs across the river to the Excel conference centre, on a fine day (which it was not!) giving views over the Thames.

Thames Barrier on the Thames Path National Trail

The Thames Barrier now came into sight, with a series of old wharfs to pass before we got there. This stunning piece of engineering was completed in 1982 and can be closed off when required to protect London from tidal surges and flooding.

We did not find any information centre or cafe open, but there’s a viewing bank on the far side, with a pleasant grassy picnic area.

Thames Barrier on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – The path ends at Woolwich

The Thames Barrier was originally the end of the Thames Path National Trail, but in order to connect it with coastal footpaths, it’s now been extended a further half an hour’s walk to Woolwich.

We duly walked a little further, with views of the Woolwich car ferry coming and going and reached the entrance to the Woolwich foot tunnel and the Royal Arsenal Heritage site beyond.

Woolwich on the Thames Path National Trail

As the name suggests, Woolwich Arsenal was, from the 17th century, London’s main site for the manufacture of munitions. The old brick factory buildings have been nicely restored, but we didn’t have too much time to linger.

Before long a Thames Clipper boat arrived at the pier and we hopped on board for the journey back to Waterloo station.

Woolwich on the Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – London from the river

If I’m honest, this final stretch of the Thames Path from Tower Bridge to Woolwich, was not as attractive as the previous stretch through central London, not helped by the grey and drizzly December weather.

However, the return journey from the comfort of the river boat, past all those same London landmarks was a real highlight. The bustle and crowds of the river bank seemed to melt away in the open space and calm of the river.

Tower Bridge on the Thames Path National Trail

In the past, the Thames was the main highway running through the city. So it was a great way to end our 15 day walk, seeing the historic sights of The Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Westminster from the river’s perspective.

Day 15 – Distance and timings

Tower Bridge to Woolwich is aprox 12 miles/19 km. It took us around 5.5 hours including stopping time, with a coffee at Greenwich and picnic stop at the O2.

Canary Wharf opposite Greenwich Thames Path National Trail

Day 15 – Where to stay

Because the rail and bus links are so comprehensive, you could stay almost anywhere in London. We recommend searching for hotels in London, and using the map to narrow down your search for the best locations and deals.

There are not many accommodation options around Woolwich at the end of the walk, so we recommend staying at the Ibis Hotel in Greenwich instead, where there are plenty of shops and restaurants.

Alternatively book a more centrally located hotel like The Tower Hotel at Tower Bridge, that you can return to every night using public transport.

Tower Bridge – The Tower Hotel is a good mid-range option, overlooking Tower Bridge

Day 15 – Where to eat

Closer to Tower Bridge, there are places to eat at every turn. But the nearer you get to Woolwich, the scarcer these become, although there’s a succession of historic riverside pubs.

Tower Bridge (south bank)- there are quite a few smart restaurants by the river, but for something less expensive wait until you reach Bermondsey.

Bermondsey to Rotherhithe – On this stretch you’ll find historic pubs like The Angel, The Mayflower and Salt Quay overlooking the river. There’s not much else until you reach the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel opposite Canary Wharf.

Rotherhithe on the Thames Path National Trail

Canary Wharf – there are numerous cafes, shops and takeaway options around the station.

Greenwich – there are plenty of cafes around Greenwich market, but a nice place to stop is The Old Brewery, next to the Old Royal Naval College Visitor Centre. A nice pub stop in summer would be the Trafalgar Tavern overlooking the river.

North Greenwich / O2 – there are numerous cafe, food and shopping options in and around the O2 centre.

Woolwich – between the O2 and Woolwich is the Anchor and Hope riverside pub, but a nice final coffee stop is the Visitor’s Book Cafe in Woolwich Works, right by the Uber Boat Jetty at the end of the Thames Path Route.

Day 15 – Transport for this stage

Tower Bridge is close to Tower Hill station on the north side of the river, or London Bridge station on the south side. Woolwich is connected by the Elizabeth Line and DLR (Docklands Light Railway). Along the river there are a number of other train stations.

Tower Bridge and Woolwich are also connected by the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper river ferry service.

We recommend the TFL Go app to plan bus and train routes around London.

Read Next

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – from Source to Oxford – Days 1-4

More articles about the Thames Path National Trail

Here are all the articles published about Thames Path National Trail.

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – from Source to Oxford – Days 1-4

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – from Oxford to Henley – Days 5-8

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – from Henley to Kingston – Days 9-12

Hiking the Thames Path National Trail – Kingston to Woolwich – Days 13-15 (this article)

Coming Soon – Tips for hiking the Thames Path National Trail

Resources for hiking the Thames Path National Trail

Train bookings – to get you to the start and end of this section of the walk, we recommend Trainline for easy rail bookings.

Book accommodation: to book hotels online and conveniently have all your bookings in once place, we used Booking.com but if you prefer you could also use Expedia.

Guidebook – we used and recommend the Trailblazer Thames Path Guide – this is the one we used and we liked the easy to follow maps and the fact that it’s just as easy to follow for walking in either direction.

The Thames Path National Trail website is a useful source of information about the trail as a whole.

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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17/04/2025
Is San Sebastián Worth Visiting? An Unbiased Opinion

If you are planning a road trip to the Basque Country and wonder whether it’s worth including San Sebastián into your itinerary, this post is for you. We recently returned from a three-week to Spain, so in this article I’ll get into the pros and cons of visiting San Sebastián. Based on our experience, there are plenty of good reasons to visit this city, but there are also a few cons which may be a deterrent for you.

San Sebastián-Donostia

But First Things First: where is San Sebastián?

San Sebastián is one of the four main cities in the Basque Country, Spain, next to Bilbao, Santander and Vitoria-Gasteiz, the region’s administrative capital. Officially known by the bilingual name Donostia/San Sebastián (Basque: Donostia, Spanish: San Sebastián), the city lies on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, about 12 miles from the border of Spain and France.

The Pros of Visiting San Sebastián

San Sebastián was once a summer vacation spot for the European elites, and once you see it you’ll understand why.

It’s a Clean and Safe Place to Visit

San Sebastian is generally a very safe city to visit. The crime rate is low in comparison to other cities in Spain. We spent about 5 days in San Sebastián and never felt unsafe, whether it was day time or night time. That being said, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town, where pickpocketing can occasionally occur.

What impressed me most was how clean an well maintained the streets and the buildings are hare. In fact, San Sebastian is famous for its elegant Belle Époque buildings and charming old streets.I

Old Town in the morning

In the heart of San Sebastian is its Old Quarter (Parte Vieja), a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with pintxos bars and local shops. This area which buzzes with activity, especially in the evening when locals and tourists come out for a drink and a bite to eat.

People enjoying a drink in Plaza de la Constitucion

Beautiful Beaches and an Amazing Scenery

The city’s coastline location is a big draw for visitors. It has wide sandy beaches in either direction, while inland it abounds with green forests, high cliffs, and strange rock formations. When visiting San Sebastián you’ll be surprised how green, lush and diverse the landscape is. Even in the midst of summer, when the rest of Europe is baking in a heatwave, the city maintains its verdant color.

Scenic view of San Sebastián

Beach culture is a big thing in San Sebastián because the city is blessed with quite a few nice beaches. The most popular one is La Concha. The other two are Zurriola and Ondaretta.

La Concha Beach

Located in a small bay in the center of the city, La Concha Beach is by far the best in San Sebastián and truly worth visiting. The beach has calm waters, fine golden sand and abundant amenities like sun-beds, umbrellas, showers, lifeguards on duty. Its protected location from the wind make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing and various water sports.

La Concha Beach

Zurriola Beach

Another beautiful beach is Zurriola, located on the other side of the river in the Gros neighborhood. This beach is very popular for surfing, but not so much for swimming because of its strong currents and big waves.

Zuriolla beach in the evening

Exquisite Food

One of the reasons San Sebastian is worth visiting is its food. What makes the food here so special? It’s the ingredients, the fresh seafood, the local produce, and the artisan cheeses they use. The city’s rocky coastline bordered by rolling green hills and farmland, make this area great for fishing, farming, and gardening. The fresh seafood and produce are delivered almost immediately to the world-class restaurants.

Tamboril, one of the Michelin-star restaurants in San Sebastián

San Sebastián has a large number of Michelin-starred restaurants. You practically stumble upon them almost everywhere you go in this city. Some of the most renowned are Casa Unroll (3 Michelin stars), Kokotxa (3 Michelin star), Mirador de Ulia (3 Michelin star), Ikaitz (2 Michelin Stars), and Tamboril (1 Michelin stars).

Pintxos, small snacks characteristic to the Basque Country

But the city is especially famous for its pintxos (pronounced pin-chos), which are small snacks typically served in bars. These delicious bites are a huge part of Basque culture. You’ll find the best pintxo bars in the old town, especially the streets around the Basilica. And while strolling the old town, don’t miss the traditional Basque cheesecake, which is quite different from the one we have here, in the USA.

It’s Home to the Oldest European Culture

The Basques have one of Europe’s oldest and most unique cultures. Their language and traditions are very different from the rest of Spain, so there is a good reason why they consider themselves a distinct cultural group. They cherish their unique language, music and folklore and try to preserve them the best they can. Even their dances set them apart from the rest of Spain or Europe.

Locals dressed in folk Basque costumes performing a dance

If you want to experience the traditional Basque music and dances, San Sebastián is the place to go. Basque dances are performed on the old town streets, in plazas or public places at during all the festivities and celebrations in the Basque Country. In June, when we visited the city, they had traditional Basque dances every evening in Plaza de la Constitución.

Lots of Places to Walk or Hike

If you are looking to spend some time outdoors, San Sebastián has plenty of delightful places to stretch your legs.

Mount Urgull

Overlooking the Old Quarter, the summit of Monte Urgull and the 40 foot tall Christ statue at the top are visible from many points in the city. One of the nicest things to do in San Sebastián hike to the very top of the mountain. It’s really a nice walk that goes only in the shade, with breathtaking views. While the paths are nicely paved, there are some steep parts as well as stairs in some places.

The walls of Castelo de la Mota at the top of Mount Urgull

This is a great place to observe the city and the sea. The different paths around the area open up to many scenic lookout points that are hidden between leafy patches. At the very top of the mountain you’ll see upclose the Sagrado Corazon statue (the statue of Christ) as well as the fortifications and cannons of the Castelo de la Mota.

Christ Statue at the top of Mount Urgull

La Concha Promenade (Paseo de la Concha)

Next to La Concha Beach there is a long promenade that follows the bay, bordered by a wrought-iron balustrade. This is a great place for walking, cycling, or people-watching. The lively promenade offers great views of La Concha Bay and Santa Clara Island. It also passes by opulent looking buildings, such as the emblematic Londres Hotel and Miramar Palace.

Paseo de la Concha

Don’t miss the famous Clocks scattered along the promenade, which the locals use as meeting points. Also located on the promenade is the famous thermal springs spa of La Perla. This is the only center of thalassotherapy in town, reminiscent of the time when San Sebastián was a spa city.

Mount Igueldo

Located on the western side of La Concha Beach is Monte Igueldo, a leafy mountain that features a funicular train, great views and even a roller coaster. As you ascend the mountain on the funicular, you will enjoy the stunning panoramic view of San Sebastián. Once at the top, you can go on a roller coaster and a few other amusement park rides that operate at the top of the mountain.

Spectacular view from the top of Mt. Igueldo

Having been up to both peaks in San Sebastián, I think visiting Mt. Igueldo is truly worth it for the views, which are absolutely amazing. Also, if you don’t want to spend money on the funicular (€2.80) you can also hike to the top.

The funicular at Mt. Igueldo

It Has Interesting Museums

If you have time for museums, you’ll find quite a few worth visiting in Donostia-San Sebastian. Like Eurika! Science Museum, San Telmo Museum, which is housed in an ancient convent in San Telmo, Museum of Sacred Art, or History House in the Castillo de la Mota at the top of Monte Urgull, where you can find out about the history of San Sebastián.

Museums in Donostia-San Sebastian

Cons of Visiting San Sebastián

After listing so many good reasons to visit San Sebastián, you may be wondering what could be the cons. Well, like I promised in my title, this will be an unbiased review of San Sebastián where I’ll give both the good and the bad and let you decide whether it’s worth visiting or not.

The Weather is Totally Unpredictable

If you decide to visit San Sebastián, be prepared for rain. You may like the lush, green vegetation and cooler temperatures during the summer, but there is a reason for this. San Sebastián receives more rainfall than almost anywhere else in Spain, with an average 59 inches of rain per year. The rainiest months are October to January, but it rains often and during every season. Even in summer.

Rainy day in June in San Sebastián

You can count that on one of the summer months will be a rainy mess, but the other two will usually be warm and sunny. The problem is you never know which month will be the rainy one. And when it rains, it rains! If you are lucky, it’s just a short shower. But sometimes it rains for a few hours and often it rains for days in a row.

It’s Expensive

Generally, San Sebastián is rated as a moderately expensive city, but that was not our experience. When compared to other European city, San Sebastián is among the top 15% most expensive cities in Europe.

They say that on average, a visitor can spend about $150 per day when visiting San Sebastian, while a couple would spend an average of $267 per day. Of course, prices will vary a lot based on the travel style and length of trip. But if you stay at moderately priced hotels, eat at affordable restaurants, and use public transportation, this is what you can expect to pay.

However, if you want to go to a couple of Michelin restaurants, stay in the center of the city where you can walk practically everywhere, or rent a car for day trips, the price per day will jump considerably.

It Has Big Crowds

San Sebastián is a popular beach town with a beautiful seashore and a charming old town. The problem is that it’s not very big, so if you plan to visit it during the summer time, when the weather is nice and your chances of getting rain are slimmer, you’ll be faced with big crowds. That’s especially a problem at La Concha Beach, or when you try to get a seat at one of the bars or restaurants in the Old Quarter.

Big crowds in Donostia-San Sebastián

Streets will also be very crowded and sometimes you’ll have to walk almost shoulder to shoulder with other people.

Unfriendly Locals

We travel extensively through Europe and by comparison I can safely say that locals in the Basque region aren’t exactly friendly, or willing to help. They seem rather impatient and uninterested in you, as a tourist. This is especially true for San Sebastián, which sees a lot of visitors every year.

We had quite a few experiences within the five days we’ve spent there and in almost all circumstances we received average or poor service. Waiters who wouldn’t show up to take the order, or were obviously annoyed by merely asking for another drink. Shopkeepers who wouldn’t acknowledge our presence and would continue their private conversation. Hotel receptionists who were very arrogant and patronizing, and so on.

Who is San Sebastian Best Suited For?

San Sebastián is a perfect blend of natural landscapes and city attractions. Home to the world’s finest food, wine, art, and so much more! Because of its luxurious appeal, the city has always been a retreat for royalty and European aristocracy, which is why I believe it’s perfect for travelers looking for relaxation, culture and gastronomy.

It is also a great city for couples looking for a romantic getaway or in search of a serene seaside retreat.

Visiting San Sebastián

In short, if you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, surfing, and water sports in San Sebastián. And if you like to discover new dishes and wines, you’ll be in Heaven here!

A Final Note

So, is San Sebastián worth visiting? After reading both the pros and cons, I’m pretty sure your answer will be yes! In San Sebastián you’ll experience some of the best food in Spain, enjoy gorgeous scenery, visit beautiful museums and learn a few things about the oldest culture in Europe.

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13/04/2025