There were surprisingly a lot of things to do in Baton Rouge. Baton Rouge has a lot of history and personally was creepier than going to New Orleans. It was such a breathtaking location to experience the real Louisiana. We’re diving into the heart of the South—Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t New Orleans the place to be in Louisiana?” Well, sure, NOLA is fantastic, but let’s not overlook its charming neighbor, Baton Rouge. This city is a blend of Southern hospitality, rich history, and vibrant culture that you won’t want to miss. So grab your sweet tea, and let’s get started with the best things to do in Baton Rouge.
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Why Baton Rouge?
Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital city, and it’s teeming with life. From the mighty Mississippi River to the lively music scene, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to have a good time, Baton Rouge has got you covered.
The Best Time to Visit Baton Rouge
The best time to visit is during the fall or spring when the weather is just perfect—not too hot, not too cold. Plus, you’ll get to experience some of the city’s best festivals.
Getting Around Baton Rouge
The city is pretty easy to navigate. You can rent a car, but if you’re staying downtown, walking or biking is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere. There’s also a convenient bus system and ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft.
Things to do in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, mouthwatering cuisine, and toe-tapping music, this city offers a unique blend of experiences that you won’t want to miss. So grab your sense of adventure (and maybe a beignet or two), and let’s dive into the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in the United States!
Louisiana State University Campus (LSU)
Let’s just say that the state of Louisiana is very proud of its university. Geaux Tigers! They take pride in their school and their team. Many alumni will still continue to see an LSU game whenever they can.
Even if you’re not a student or an alum, a visit to this iconic campus is an absolute must when you’re in Baton Rouge. Picture sprawling green lawns, majestic oak trees, and grand Georgian-style architecture. It’s like stepping into a different era but with a modern twist, thanks to the vibrant student life that infuses the campus with energy and excitement.
First things first, you’ve got to check out LSU Tiger Stadium, or as locals call it, “Death Valley.” Whether it’s football season or not, the sheer size and atmosphere of this place are awe-inspiring. If you happen to be there during a game, prepare for an electrifying experience; the crowd’s spirit is contagious! It’s a great place for sports lovers.
Meet Mike the Tiger at LSU
When you’re at LSU, you can’t miss the chance to meet this majestic creature who embodies the spirit of the university like no other. Mike is not just a tiger; he’s a living symbol of LSU’s pride, strength, and resilience. This is a must-see for things to do in Baton Route.
Located near Tiger Stadium, Mike’s habitat is more than just an enclosure; it’s a state-of-the-art sanctuary that provides him with a comfortable and enriching environment. As you approach, you’ll see a glass barrier that allows you to peer into his world while ensuring his safety and well-being.
Getting a glimpse of Mike is a treat in itself, but if you’re lucky, you might catch him in a playful mood or even lounging in the shade. Keep your camera ready because capturing a moment with this magnificent creature is a memory you’ll treasure.
The best part? Mike’s enclosure is designed with his needs in mind, ensuring that he has ample space to roam, a pool to cool off in, and plenty of opportunities for enrichment. LSU takes great care of Mike, ensuring that he leads a healthy and happy life.
Louisiana State Museum
Just a short walk from the Capitol is the Louisiana State Museum. Dive into the state’s rich history, from its Native American roots to its role in the Civil Rights Movement. Don’t forget to check out the Mardi Gras exhibit!
Live Oaks Plantation Houe
Live oaks plantation is a very beautiful plantation with a weird and spooky vibe. In the attic, you will see this creepy wedding gown in the middle on a mannequin. This was probably one of my favorite things to do in Baton Rouge – I’m a California girl, so learning about the history of these places is an important part of US history.
This historic plantation nestled in Baton Rouge exudes the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the antebellum South. As you stroll beneath the sprawling canopy of ancient oak trees, their majestic branches adorned with Spanish moss, you’ll feel a sense of tranquility and nostalgia.
The plantation’s architecture reflects the opulence of the past, with its ornate details and classic Southern design. Whether you’re drawn to the captivating stories of the past, the architectural beauty, or simply the serene ambiance, Live Oaks Plantation offers a glimpse into history that’s both captivating and unforgettable.
Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
Why not take the chance and opportunity to visit the Louisiana state capitol building? One of my goals when visiting each state is to visit the state capitol. The buildings created for the state capitol always seem to be large and extravagant buildings.
The old Louisiana state capitol is the tallest capitol building in the U.S. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. It’s a great way to get your bearings and snap some Insta-worthy pics.
Louisiana Art & Science Museum
Welcome to a piece of history that’s as captivating as it is awe-inspiring—the Old State Capitol Museum in Baton Rouge. This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to the city’s rich past and serves as a gateway to a world of stories and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
As you approach the Old State Capitol, you’ll be struck by its striking Gothic architecture, resembling a medieval castle that seems to have been plucked from a fairytale. But this isn’t just a castle; it’s a place that has witnessed pivotal moments in Louisiana’s history, from political debates to social change.
One of the highlights of the museum is the breathtaking stained glass dome that bathes the interior in a warm, ethereal light. It’s a sight to behold and a reminder that history is not just about facts and figures; it’s about the human stories that have left an indelible mark on the world.
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
This 103-acre haven is a must-visit for nature lovers. With its well-marked trails, you can easily find yourself lost in the beauty of cypress-tupelo swamps, hardwood forests, and even a sparkling lake. Keep your eyes peeled, because you might just spot some of the local residents like armadillos, deer, and if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you see it), an alligator basking in the sun.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a photographer looking for that perfect shot, or just someone who wants to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center offers a tranquil and educational experience that’ll make you fall in love with Louisiana’s unique landscapes all over again. If you want outdoor activities, it is the perfect spot for the whole family.
There are so many different types of birds and creatures here. Unfortunately, the milk thistle was making me sneeze like crazy – be sure to bring your allergy medication. We found one gator while out there.
Magnolia Mound Plantation
Magnolia Mound Plantation—a true gem that transports you to the heart of Louisiana’s colonial history. Nestled in Baton Rouge, this meticulously restored plantation offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture, lush gardens, and fascinating stories.
As you explore the historic buildings, from the main house to the slave cabins, you’ll be immersed in the lives of the people who once called this place home. The beautiful French Creole-style architecture, complete with its distinctive roof and galleries, is a testament to the cultural influences that shaped the region.
Wander through the lush gardens adorned with vibrant flowers and fragrant herbs, and you’ll understand why this plantation is a haven for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic insights, architectural beauty, or the serenity of the surroundings, Magnolia Mound Plantation offers an enriching experience that captures the essence of Louisiana’s past.
Atchafalaya Basin
This place is like stepping into a different world, a magical realm where nature reigns supreme. The Atchafalaya Basin is the largest river swamp in the U.S., stretching over 140 miles and covering almost one million acres. It’s a labyrinth of bayous, swamps, and lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The basin also holds cultural significance, especially for the Cajun people who have lived off this land for generations. You’ll find charming fishing villages where life moves at a slower pace, and you might even get to hear some authentic Cajun music if you’re lucky.
What a gorgeous view it was to be around here. The water felt like it never ended, the view was breathtaking. What is cool about this area is that there are many rivers that meet here and lead out into the ocean. It was a great way to end the evening with a view of the sunset.
The Old Arsenal Powder Magazine Museum
Step into Baton Rouge’s past at the Old Arsenal Powder Magazine Museum—an intriguing window into the city’s military history. This historical gem, originally a storage facility for gunpowder in the 1800s, now stands as a meticulously preserved museum showcasing artifacts, uniforms, and documents that offer insights into the lives of soldiers and the evolution of weaponry.
The museum’s original architecture and immersive exhibits create an atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era, where stories of courage and sacrifice come to life. For those intrigued by the past’s echoes, the Old Arsenal Powder Magazine Museum is a must-visit destination that bridges the gap between history and the present.
USS KIDD Veterans Museum
If you are interested in history, this is one of the things to do in Baton Rouge you shouldn’t miss.
Step aboard history at the USS KIDD Veterans Museum, an iconic tribute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Permanently docked in Baton Rouge, this floating museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the USS KIDD, a Fletcher-class destroyer that played a vital role in World War II and beyond. As you step onto the deck, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the ship’s historic architecture and artifacts.
From the well-preserved living quarters to the mighty guns that once defended our nation, every corner of the USS KIDD tells a story of bravery and sacrifice. You can walk through the engine rooms, peer into the ship’s communication center, and even explore the captain’s quarters, gaining insight into life aboard a warship during some of history’s most critical moments.
Things to do in Baton Rouge with Kids
Baton Rouge Gallery
This place celebrates contemporary art in all its forms. As you step inside, you’re immediately greeted by the vibrant energy that emanates from the artwork adorning the walls. From thought-provoking paintings and sculptures to cutting-edge multimedia installations, the gallery showcases a diverse range of works from both local and national artists.
Baton Rouge Zoo
Embark on a wild adventure at the Baton Rouge Zoo, where the wonders of the animal kingdom come to life. Nestled in the heart of Baton Rouge, this family-friendly destination offers a captivating blend of education and entertainment. As you explore the zoo’s diverse natural habitats, you’ll encounter a fascinating array of creatures from all corners of the globe. From playful primates to majestic big cats, each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to provide a natural and enriching environment for the animals.
One of the highlights of the Baton Rouge Zoo is its commitment to conservation and education. Through interactive experiences, informative displays, and engaging presentations, visitors of all ages can learn about the importance of wildlife preservation and the role zoos play in protecting endangered species.
Blue Bayou Water Park
Dive into a world of splashes, thrills, and endless fun at Blue Bayou Water Park in Baton Rouge. This aquatic wonderland is the ultimate escape from the heat, offering a variety of exhilarating water rides and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. This is one of the best summer activities and things to do in Baton Rouge.
From heart-pounding slides that send you spiraling down to lazy rivers where you can relax and soak up the sun, Blue Bayou Water Park has it all. If you’re up for a challenge, test your courage on the towering water slides that will get your heart racing.
For a more leisurely experience, grab an inner tube and float along the lazy river, letting the gentle currents carry you away. With its vibrant atmosphere, vibrant pools, and interactive play areas, this water park is a family-friendly paradise where memories are made and laughter echoes through the air.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to cool off and unwind, Blue Bayou Water Park promises a day of excitement and aquatic adventures that will leave you with unforgettable moments and a big smile.
Knock Knock Children’s Museum
The museum’s exhibits are a blend of education and play, encouraging children to learn through hands-on experiences. From a mini cityscape where kids can role-play as doctors, chefs, and more, to a backyard filled with outdoor adventures, every area is designed to spark creativity and foster a love for learning.
Whether it’s building structures, creating art, or solving puzzles, the Knock Knock Children’s Museum offers a wide range of activities that cater to various interests and age groups. With each exhibit, kids are encouraged to ask questions, explore their surroundings, and discover new concepts in a fun and engaging way. This is a great museum to take your child if you are looking for things to do in Baton Rouge with kids.
Where to eat in Baton Rouge
Chimes Restaurant
Get ready to indulge your taste buds at Chimes Restaurant, a beloved Baton Rouge dining institution that’s all about good food, great vibes, and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the city, Chimes is more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place where locals and visitors alike come together to savor the flavors of Louisiana.
I suggest you try the Boudin Balls, Crawfish Ettoufee, Gumbo, and Raw Oysters.
Have a Crawfish Boil at a local’s home
Crawfish Boils are a thing to do in Louisiana, but the best part is doing all of these with locals. The crawfish are a big deal in Louisiana and the boils are a big family thing to do with drinking beer, eating good food, spending time with family, and of course eating Crawfish, Corn, and Potatoes from the boil.
Must have Drinks
Grab a Daquiri in a drive-thru
This was probably one of the most interesting things to do in Baton Rouge for someone not from the South. However, it is illegal to drink these in the car while it is moving, but it’s weird because it’s technically an open container. Not sure what to say about that, but they were freaking delicious! Hands down the best Bloody Mary I ever tried hands down and definitely refreshing.
Have you been to Baton Rouge, Louisiana? What are your favorite things to do in Baton Rouge?
I’ve lived in South Korea for over 3 years and I’m half-Korean I’ve been all over Korea and tested out some of the best tours in Seoul so you can figure out which is the best for you! Now, I don’t need to tell you that Seoul is a city that exudes energy, modernity, and centuries-old traditions, all wrapped in one. But what you might not know is how to see the city’s highlights in the most engaging way. So, grab a notepad (or just open your travel planning app), because I’ve got you covered!
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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Day Tours in Seoul for Every Kind of Traveler
Looking for the best way to maximize your time in Seoul? The city offers a range of day tours designed to suit all kinds of interests. Nature lovers can find solace on trips like the Nami Island and Gangchon Rail Bike tour, which offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and physical activity. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Korean Folk Village and Everland Day Tour, combining a deep dive into Korean culture with modern-day thrills. There is so much to see in this beautiful country.
Are you a history buff or just love dressing up? Then this day tour in Seoul is the dream! You get to visit the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace – a UNESCO world heritage site, where you can rent a Hanbok—the traditional Korean outfit—and feel like a royal from the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony; it’s like stepping into a time capsule! You’ll also get to experience Bukchon Hanok Village – one of Korean’s preserved traditional villages.
This is pretty much one of the most popular tours you can possibly grab. You can easily do this on your own as well, but it helps when you have a tour guide to give you some of the history of this palace and surrounding areas.
A visit to Seoul is incomplete without indulging in some lip-smacking Korean street food. This tour provides you with local guides and takes you through bustling markets like Myeongdong and Gwangjang, where you’ll get to try local cuisine classics like Tteokbokki, Hotteok, and Kimbap.
To be honest, this is one of my favorite day tours in Seoul. There aren’t a lot of food tours available in other parts of Korea, so this is a great stepping stone to knowing what foods to try and eat in South Korea. Korean food is more than just Korean BBQ! So go out there and try some of my favorite dishes that I grew up with.
EMBARK ON A CAPTIVATING NORYANGJIN FISH MARKET TOUR | In Seoul, where you’ll witness a bustling hub of activity and immerse yourself in the vibrant seafood culture of Korea. Explore rows of stalls brimming with fresh seafood, observe the lively auctions, and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies straight from the market’s numerous restaurants. More details here.
If you’re anything like me and love to start your day with a burst of physical activity, then I suggest the Bukhansan Mountain morning hike. You’ll head to Bukhansan National Park and hike one of Korea’s most popular mountains. Get those boots on and enjoy the panoramic views of Seoul from the top. Just don’t forget your camera!
And finally, if you’re looking to explore the posh neighborhoods of Seoul, head over to Gangnam. Yes, as in ‘Gangnam Style’. It’s a shopper’s paradise and home to some of the best cafés and boutiques Seoul has to offer. Day tours in Seoul like this are perfect for people wanting to learn more about why Gangnam became so famous.
EXPERIENCE TRADITIONAL KOREAN CULTURE: RENT A HANBOK IN SEOUL | Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Korea by renting a hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, in Seoul. Read more details here.
Ready for the scoop? Seoul is not just a bustling metropolis; it’s also the backdrop for many of your beloved K-Dramas. Picture yourself at the Namsan Tower, where countless love confessions have been made. Or imagine strolling down the stylish streets of Garosu-gil. And let’s not forget the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, which has graced the screen in historical dramas. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a history geek, these K-Drama spots in Seoul add an extra layer of magic to your Korean adventure.
Experience the city that never sleeps! From the sparkling Han River to the bustling streets of Myeongdong, the Seoul Night Tour gives you a slice of Korean nightlife. It’s the city under the stars, and you won’t want to miss a moment. This tour is a great one to also experience delicious Korean street food as many Koreans love to stay out late with a good drink and good food. We have a tradition that when we drink, we also need to eat.
Ghosts in Seoul? You bet! On this eerie walking tour, you’ll hear legends and stories of Seoul’s haunted past. Wander through dark alleys and learn about the city’s mysteries, myths, and spirits that refuse to rest. This is a great way to get spooked especially during Halloween.
Worried about finding Halal options while exploring day tours in Seoul? Worry no more! The Muslim Friendly Tour offers an itinerary that respects Islamic practices, including Halal dining options and prayer spaces. See the sights without the stress!
To be honest, trying to find food tours strictly for Muslims within Korea can be quite difficult, so to see this amazing guided tour being offered and available is amazing. I often get asked what are the options for Muslims in Korea and unfortunately, it’s quite difficult for me to navigate as someone who isn’t. So rely on the experts living in Seoul to provide that information and join this amazing Muslim Tour in Seoul!
This 5 star cooking experience is one that shouldn’t be missed! Unleash your inner chef in this interactive cooking experience! Learn how to make Korean dishes like Kimchi and Bibimbap under the guidance of local experts. It’s a deliciously fun way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. You’ll be able to experience a tour of Mangwon Market as well.
Korean food is no easy task, but this Korean cooking experience will help you learn how to make some of the best and easiest Korean dishes. You’ll be stuffed at the end of this experience and hopefully learn more about Korean food and culture.
Explore Seoul at your own pace with a biking tour that takes you along the Han River and through some of Seoul’s most scenic parks. You’ll cover more ground and see the city from a unique, up-close perspective. In this tour, you’ll be able to have lunch and experience Korean tea at a traditional tea house. You’ll get to experience iconic sights including Iwha Woman Street, Sinchon, Chungdong Church, Deoksu Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the famous Insadong markets.
Best Day Tours from Seoul
These are some of the best day trips from Seoul that you can take. The best thing about traveling within Korea is that it’s quite easily accessible.
This is one of the best Seoul day trips that offer you a breath of fresh air—literally! Imagine pedaling down old train tracks with the wind in your hair at Gangchon, surrounded by lush landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a painting. It’s probably one of the most booked tours you can get because of all the popular destinations. The garden of Morning Calm is a beautiful garden, especially during Christmas in Korea. Nami Island is an island where you can literally see all 4 seasons change. One of my favorite things to do in Korea is ride the Gangon Rail Bike, it’s a unique experience that you should try at least once.
And let’s not forget the fairy-tale charm of Nami Island, with its towering tree lanes, romantic walkways, and even ostriches prancing around. It’s as if Mother Nature herself decided to bless this tiny island. Whether you’re traveling with family, your special someone, or just your adventurous self, this combo is a serene yet exciting way to experience the Korean countryside. Nami island is where many K-Drama movies were filmed and is a popular tourist location, especially during autumn in Korea. This should be added to your Seoul itinerary.
One of the most recommended tours on GetYourGuide is the DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone) tour. It’s an eye-opener that offers a glimpse into the tension between North and South Korea. The DMZ tour includes stops at the 3rd Tunnel, the Freedom Bridge, and the Dora Observatory. A must for anyone interested in geopolitics or history!
This is one of the best things to do in Paju as it has a lot of history. The DMZ has a lot of interesting information and can provide you with some insight into exactly what has happened. Due to the war, many Koreans had escaped from North Korea and a lot of family members in Korea still have family in North Korea that they haven’t been able to see for decades. You can choose between a full day tour or half-day tour. Some tours include the JSA (joint security area) while others do not – this is one thing to consider as it’s definitely an area that shouldn’t be missed.
Suggested DMZ Tours
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Boulders and blooms, anyone? The Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island tour is a feast for the eyes and soul. First, you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of Pocheon Art Valley—an abandoned quarry-turned art space. Then, bask in the aromatic bliss of Herb Island, filled with themed gardens and magical evening lights. Nature and art have never blended so beautifully.
Pocheon Art Valley is a beautiful place to check out and you can easily take the tram up to the location and see these beautiful rocky features. Herb Island not too far from Pocheon Art Valley is a great place to see some lights and take photos. Many K-Dramas were filmed here because of the beautifully designed backdrops. During summer, it’s a great place to see the lavender.
From the past to the present, experience the full spectrum of Korean culture. Begin your day at the Korean Folk Village, where you can immerse yourself in the traditions and crafts of yesteryears. Then hop over to Everland, Korea’s largest theme park, for some high-adrenaline fun.
Everland is great for older kids as there aren’t as many rides available for younger children, however, there are still a few available and an amazing zoo exclosure to see the different exotic animals. You can get some delicious Korean park food, ride some large wooden rollercoasters, drink beer, and take many photos as well.
Unlock the secrets of the Joseon Dynasty with a visit to Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village. As you walk along the well-preserved Suwon Hwaseong fortress walls, you’ll find artisans demonstrating traditional Korean crafts. It’s history brought to life, making you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll also get to experience Gwangmyong cave as well as a rail bike ride.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I love Seoul – I lived in Seoul for a year, but Incheon is where my heart and home is. I lived in Incheon for 2 years and it’s where most of my family are located and I just find it to be one of my favorite places to be.
Incheon is more than just Incheon airport, there are a lot of things to do in Incheon despite what a lot of people say. You can discover the historical Chinatown, visit the fairytale-like Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village, and don’t miss out on the breathtaking views at Wolmido Island. There are a lot of areas to shop and see in Songdo as well.
Block off a day, adventurers, because Legoland Korea Resort is a colorful paradise and amusement park where every brick tells a story! Perfect for families, kids-at-heart, or anyone who ever dreamt of stepping into a life-sized Lego world. Located in Chuncheon City in Gangwon-do, a convenient distance from Seoul, this wonderland offers roller coasters, water attractions, and hands-on Lego building experiences. Dive into themed zones like Ninjago World and the magical Lego Castle. It’s more than just a theme park; it’s a creative playground that brings your favorite Lego sets to life.
You’ll want to select the Roundtrip Shuttle Bus option and departure times starts between 8-8:30 from either Hongik University Station or Myeongdong Station.
If you are traveling during Winter in Korea, you’ll definitely want to see the snow and visit this beautiful winter wonderland during this time of year. Grab your mittens and your sense of wonder, because Vivaldi Park SnowyLand and ski resort is a winter wonderland you won’t want to miss! Located just a snowball’s throw away from Seoul, this magical resort transforms into a snowy paradise during the winter months.
Whether you’re a pro on the slopes or just there for the snow angels, there’s something for everyone. Think of sledding hills, snow tunnels, and even an ice climbing wall. Plus, the atmosphere is as warm as hot cocoa with bonfires and evening light shows. So if you’re yearning for that perfect blend of exhilaration and coziness, look no further. Get ready to make your winter fantasies a frosty reality!
If you are traveling during autumn or winter, this is a great Seoul day tour to take especially for nature lovers. It’s also amazing to take outside of those time frames as well, but you’ll really get to see the beauty of Korea during those times of the year.
Your journey starts with Jeonju Hanok Village – one of the best places to visit in Korea, where traditional Korean houses, known as Hanok, line the streets like a scene from a historical drama. But keep those cameras ready, because next up is Jangtaesan—home to luscious forests and eco-friendly attractions. And for the grand finale? Daedunsan, where suspension bridges and cable cars await, offers sweeping views of the mountainous landscape. From history to heights, this tour has it all. You’re not just sightseeing; you’re soul-searching in the heart of Korea.
Thoughts on Best Day Tours in Seoul
And there you have it, my adventure-seeking pals! From historical haunts to culinary quests, from natural wonders to the magic of television brought to life, the best day tours in Seoul offer a tapestry of experiences that are as diverse as they are thrilling. Whether you’ve got a single day or a whole week to explore, these tours are your passport to a deeper understanding of this vibrant city.
The number of calls I’ve gotten from friends and family members lately asking me to help with using credit card points for flights is at an all-time high. You should have a workshop, they say. We’d pay to have you figure this out for us, they tell me.
But look, I’m not going to charge them—or you—but I will share all my secrets here. It’s taken me awhile to figure out the process, and it’s a bit like travel Jenga if we’re being honest. If you do find this content helpful, I’d appreciate you use the embedded links to open credit cards or subscriptions, as it continues to help me provide these resources free of charge to you.
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Quick resources for booking flights
How to find rewards flights
People think that opening a credit card and earning the sign-up bonus is all you have to do, and rewards flights will just materialize. Wrong! Obviously, you need the points first, but each airline varies in how much inventory they have open for awards seats and the amount of points needed to book (which also depends on time of year you’re traveling, class of service and route, among other things). One service I love that makes this process easier is Point.Me, which lets you load in all your credit card points and figures out flights for you based on which points you have (Ultimate Rewards, Membership Rewards, Bilt Reward, etc.). You can then sort by lowest points, quickest flights or your personal credit card/airline loyalty programs.
It’s how I found our flights in a very complicated itinerary to Qatar and onto Thailand—we flew in suites all the way around the world and just paid a total of $200 out of pocket for taxes—and it’s well worth the subscription fee. But if you don’t want the ease of a service to do it for you, here’s what you need to know as you start the process of using credit card points for flights.
You have to put in the research
Once you have your destination in mind, the first things to research are 1) what airlines fly there from your home airport and 2) do your credit card points transfer to those airlines? For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to United, KLM and AirFrance, while American Express Membership Rewards transfer to Delta (and no one transfers to American, ha). I find this chart from In Points We Trust a helpful one to reference quickly when I’m doing my flight searches.
When finding reward flight availability, you may have to reposition to a larger airport (i.e. book a separate flight to a larger airport with better airlift). Being based out of Nashville at BNA, I do a lot of this—I often fly for cheap or use my Companion Pass to get to other cities like D.C., Atlanta, Newark or even JFK to begin my journey, then book my round-trip international airfare out of those hubs.
Once you have an idea of what routes go where, then you can start plugging and playing on the airline websites. You’ll usually need a frequent flier account to search rewards availability, so go ahead and sign up for the airline(s) you think you may be flying so you’ll be one step closer. After you have an account, you can plug in your dates or date range, then start looking at availability and pricing. For many airlines, this means checking a box that says “use points” or “rewards flights.” And if the airline (like United, pictured here) offers a calendar by the month, it’s worth checking to see what days have the cheapest rewards availability to your destination.
Sometimes, I find it easier to search awards availability on the airline’s app, so if you’re finding the browser experience clunky, considering downloading the app instead. The 300 level of using credit card points to fly for free is learning what alliances (e.g. Avios, Flying Blue, etc.) you can transfer to—and also what airports to avoid connecting through as they charge an exorbitant amount of taxes (I’m looking at you, Heathrow)—but that is a topic for another day once you’ve got the basics down.
This is important: You’re always going to want to transfer points to that airline’s site versus booking through the credit card portal, which often costs five times the points as transferring directly to the airline, not to mention has fewer routes available.
If you find a flight for, say, Qatar Airways that requires 140,000 points, then—and only then—is it safe to transfer the points over from your credit card to that airline account and book the flight stat. Points transfers often are instantaneous but sometimes can take up to 72 hours, so don’t fret if you don’t see them in your airline account right away. And if an airline allows you to hold the seat—which often is something you’d have to do via calling—absolutely take them up on that.
You have to book early
For our Thailand trip this year, I booked my flights 11 months out, and the same for our Australia trip coming up this winter. Do you always have to be looking that far out? If you want to fly business, the answer is generally yes. Economy availability is usually more plentiful, but business class has limited inventory because the airlines want the cash for those expensive seats.
Airlines typically release flights around 330 before departure. If you’re flying international and want to use points for business class seats, I suggest you book as close to that release date as possible.
You have to be flexible
You can’t have dates set in stone when you need to leave and arrive and expect to find points flights that magically align with that dream. After I have a general idea of where I want to go—like the year and season, for example—and how many days I want to be gone for, I’ll start tracking prices on Google Flights (if I’m paying out of pocket), including setting up price alerts, and watching rewards availability like a hawk (if I’m using points). This is a time-consuming hobby, make no mistake.
If you have the flexibility to travel with a few weeks’ notice, you can definitely make out well using points for flights. For example, I just saw a lot of award availability open up to Europe for next month! The points game is great for Type A travelers like me who plan their travels a year out, as well as fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants jetsetters who have the flexibility to up and go on a whim.
I also subscribe to many different newsletters like Going and 10xTravel—I recommend the paid subscriptions for both—which give me heads up about short sales, awards flight availability and more.
Also know going into this process that many holidays or high season periods will likely be sold out or blacked out—or, on the flip side, you’ll have to spend a premium of points, meaning it might not be worth it to use your hard-earned points on that specific trip. I typically find I get the best bang for my buck using credit card points for flights when I’m traveling outside of the big travel seasons like summer and November/December.
My favorite credit cards for earning travel points
Each of them has different benefits, but all of them come with lounge access, which I use the heck out of.
Top ways to earn points toward flights
Beyond opening credit cards, getting the sign-up bonuses and using those cards for key categories, there are other things you can do to make sure you’re getting the maximum points.
Link your Rakuten to your AmEx account
The number one—read this: NUMBER ONE—way to rack up additional Membership Rewards points is by signing up for a free Rakuten account, then linking it to your American Express card. I’ve found my points through cash back are way more valuable than a few dollars each cycle.
You can only do this if you have an AmEx account. Sorry, Chase and Cap1 card holders. Explore my favorite AmEx card here.
Check your offers regularly
No matter which card you have, there will be an offers section in your dashboard. I routinely browse them and add any ones—like LuluLemon, Marathon gas, Hilton, etc.—to my offers, that way if I spend money with any of those businesses and meet the criteria, I’ll either earn additional points or cash back. AmEx, in particular, often has points deals for Amazon purchases. You just have to make sure you (obviously) use that card when shopping at the business.
Refer your family and friends
Once you have opened credit cards, using your referral link when friends and family open the same card can be helpful in accruing additional points you can use toward travel. And bonus, you didn’t have to spend a dime to do it either!
Any other questions on using credit card points for flights? This is just the tip of the iceberg, but should get you going as you work toward your master’s degree in rewards travel.
Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Pompeii is one of the most well-known archaeological sites in Italy, and a popular attraction for visitors. We’ve visited Pompeii a number of times over the years, (Laurence first visited in 1995) and in this guide we’re going to share everything you need to know to plan your own visit to Pompeii.
There’s a lot to see and learn about at Pompeii, and there are also various options for visiting. You can take a guided tour or do a self-guided visit, and there are also various transport options for getting to Pompeii from different locations in Italy, including Rome, Naples and the Amalfi Coast.
In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to visit Pompeii, from getting to Pompeii, to which tours are worth it, to other sights in the area, and lots more. Let’s get started with some background.
What is Pompeii?
In AD 79, Pompeii (Pompei in Italian) was a relatively large and successful town in the Roman Empire, home to between 10 and 20 thousand people.
That all came to an end in the autumn of 79 AD when the nearby Mount Vesuvius volcano erupted. This had catastrophic consequences for the surrounding towns and villages.
Within 24 hours of the eruption, the massive amount of ash and pumice produced by the volcanic eruption had covered the towns in the region to a depth of 13 – 20 ft (4 – 6 metres).
Thousands of people who had tried to shelter lost their lives, and the towns were effectively lost to history.
It wasn’t really until the 18th century that Pompeii and neighboring towns such as Herculaneum surfaced back into public consciousness. This was when the first scientific excavations at the site took place.
In the following centuries, huge efforts were taken to reveal the hidden city, efforts that continue today. New discoveries are still being made at the site every year.
Pompeii effectively serves as a snapshot of a Roman town at the height of the Roman Empire. The volcanic eruption was so violent and quick that a great many inhabitants perished, with their bodies trapped in the ash. Plaster casts of the imprints these bodies left behind are an image that is inextricably linked with Pompeii.
Planning your Visit to Pompeii
I’ll now go through some helpful information to help you plan your trip to Pompeii, from how to get here to where to buy tickets and lots more.
Where is Pompeii?
Pompeii is found in the Campania region of Italy at the southern end of the Bay of Naples. It’s around 27km (16 miles) to the southeast of Naples, or approximately a 30-minute trip by car, bus or train.
It’s around 250km (155 miles) south of Rome, or approximately a three-hour journey by car, bus or train.
It is possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from both Rome and Naples, options I will cover below.
House of the Tragic Poet
How to get to Pompeii?
Pompeii is relatively easy to reach, with good transport connections from various locations in Italy. We’ll go through the options for visiting Pompeii from some of the more popular departure points.
How to get to Pompeii from Rome?
It is possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from Rome as long you are prepared for a long day with a fair bit of travel time. You’re generally looking at around 2.5 – 3 hours of travel time each way from Rome to Pompeii.
The main options you have are to drive, take public transport, or take a guided tour.
Drive from Rome to Pompeii
Unless you are planning on taking a road trip in Italy and continuing on after Pompeii, we’d suggest taking public transport or a tour rather than driving.
If you drive, you’ll have to go through the hassle of finding and renting a car, dealing with traffic around Rome, navigating, and paying tolls and gas.
Taking public transport or a tour is going to be a lot easier.
Public Transport from Rome to Pompeii
For public transport, you can take an express train from Rome to Naples Central train station. Then, from Naples you can take a local train to Pompeii.
See details below in the section on getting from Naples to Pompeii for how to do this.
Tours from Rome to Pompeii
Our recommended way for getting from Rome to Pompeii as a day trip is to take a guided tour. This will make your day a lot more relaxing as you won’t have to worry about logistics.
You’ll also have a better time at Pompeii with a professional guide to explain what you are seeing. There are a number of tour options to Pompeii from Rome, some recommended options are as follows.
When comparing tours and prices, always check how much time is actually spent at the various sights, as well as group size and what is and isn’t included.
Paying a little extra for a tour that includes more might work out more cost effective!
How to get to Pompeii from Naples?
There are multiple options for getting from Naples to Pompeii. You can drive, take the train, take a shuttle bus, take a train, or take a tour.
Drive from Naples to Pompeii
The drive from Naples to Pompeii is around 30 minutes via the A3 toll road, and there is paid parking on site.
This is going to be an option to consider if you already have a car rental for your trip in Italy, but we’d not recommend renting a car specifically for this journey as the other options are likely going to be easier.
Shuttle Bus from Naples to Pompeii
A really easy option for getting from Naples to Pompeii is to take the dedicated City Sightseeing bus. This departs from central Naples and takes you directly to the ruins.
The journey takes around 40 minutes depending on traffic, and you get around 4 hours on site. Note that you have to book a specific departure time, which ties you to a specific return time, you can’t choose to stay longer and come back on a later bus.
4 hours should give you enough time to see a lot, but if you wanted to spend longer on site then this might not be the best option.
There are two direct train options for getting from Naples Central train station to Pompeii.
First, you need to be aware that Pompeii itself has a couple of train stations. When taking the train to the Pompeii historical site you want to get off at Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteria Station as this is the one directly by the ruins.
Direct trains from Naples to Pompeii all depart from the Garibaldi train station, which is (a little confusingly) located directly underneath Naples Centrale train station.
The cheapest train option from Naples to Pompeii is the Circumvesuviana service. This regional commuter train system runs trains all around the area, and you will want to take a train which is heading to Sorrento.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, and there are normally a few trains every hour. Journey time to Pompeii is around 35 minutes. You can see train times on the official website here (Italian only).
A slightly more expensive, but generally more comfortable train option, is the tourist-oriented Campania Express train. This also operates from Garibaldi train station and takes you directly to the ruins.
Trains run less frequently and cost more, but are less crowded and more comfortable.
See timetables and buy tickets with seat reservation for the Campania Express train online here. Tickets are also available in person.
Note that Trenitalia runs trains from Naples central train station to Pompeii, but these go to the main train station in Pompeii rather than the station by the ruins.
It’s possible to take a shuttle out to the ruins or walk (20 – 30 minutes), but honestly, we’d recommend taking one of the other options as it’s going to be easier. You won’t be having a shortage of walking when you’re on site!
Entrance to Garbialdi train station in Naples from the Naples Central train station
Tours from Naples to Pompeii
You can also book a tour to Pompeii which includes round-trip transport to and from Naples. There are quite a few options, with both half-day and full-day tours available.
Most full-day tours include an additional attraction or two such as a visit to Mount Vesuvius or time on the Amalfi Coast.
Here are some options to consider.
How to get to Pompeii from Sorrento
Sorrento is one of the major towns on Italy’s popular Amalfi coast, a popular and spectacular destination for tourists visiting Italy. Sorrento makes for a good base for exploring the Amalfi Coast.
It’s also easy to get to, being connected by rail directly to Naples. This is on the same train line that goes to Pompeii, meaning you can easily reach Pompeii by train from Sorrento as well.
Here are some options for how to get from Sorrento to Pompeii.
Driving from Sorrento to Pompeii
You can drive from Sorrento to Pompeii, so if you already have your own car rental this is definitely an option to consider. However, you might find taking the train to be just as convenient.
The 28km (17 mile) drive takes around 40 minutes depending on traffic. Just remember you’ll need to pay for parking when you get to Pompeii.
Public Transport from Sorrento to Pompeii
Getting from Sorrento to Pompeii by public transport is easy. There is a regular train service from Sorrento to Naples, which stops at the Pompeii Scavi train station. This is right by the Pompeii site entrance.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, and there are normally a few trains every hour. Journey time to Pompeii is around 45 minutes. You can see train times on the official website here (Italian only).
Tours from Sorrento to Pompeii
You can also take a guided tour from Sorrento to Pompeii. These tours generally include round-trip transfers, and a guided tour of Pompeii lasting 2-3 hours.
Tours then differentiate by other additions such as lunch, and other destinations like Mount Vesuvius or Herculaneum.
Note that not all tours include your Pompeii entrance ticket, and any additional sights may have additional ticket requirements, such as Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum. So always check what is and isn’t included before booking anything.
Here is a selection of tours from Sorrento to Pompeii to consider.
As you can see there are plenty of options. We’d always recommend comparing a few different tours to see which suits your requirements and budget, and always check what is and isn’t included when comparing tours as well.
Pompeii Opening Times
Pompeii is normally open year-round with the exception of 25th December, 1st May, and 1st January.
Generally, everything at Pompeii opens at 9am, but closure times can vary. So if you want to see everything, then we recommend visiting in the morning. This is usually also the coolest time of day in the summer months.
There are also multiple locations across the main Pompeii site such as the Amphitheater, Garden of the Fugitives, House of the Menander etc. which also have opening times to be aware of. You can see those here.
Additionally, there are a number of nearby sites linked to Pompeii which have a last entrance time 30 minutes after the main site last entrance time.
These include Villa Regina, Villa Arianna, Villa San Marco and Villa de Poppea. These locations are all closed on Tuesdays with the exception of Villa Regina.
These extra sites require a specific ticket to access them and you need to take a shuttle bus from the main Pompeii site to reach them, so if you plan to visit these locations you will want to give yourself plenty of time.
You can see more information on opening times as well as any exceptional closure information for Pompeii on the official website here.
How Long to Visit Pompeii For
There is a great deal to see at Pompeii, however you also have to consider the time of year you are visiting and your personal interest in ancient archaeological sites when deciding how long to visit.
The majority of visitors come for 2 – 3 hours, which is also how long the majority of guided tours are.
If you think you will want to spend more time on site (there is lots to see), then a good option is to take a guided tour that finishes on site, and then explore on your own when the tour is finished. Your tour guide should be able to direct you to particular highlights once the tour is over.
We have done this and it was a great way to learn a lot from a guide, after which we were able to explore on our own at our leisure.
One thing to note, if you are visiting in the summer months it can get very hot here, and there isn’t a lot of shade, so visiting for much longer than 2 or 3 hours can be quite challenging.
However, if you are really keen to explore and spend more time on site, and are either prepared for the heat or are visiting at a cooler time of year, there is certainly lots to see! You could easily spend a whole day exploring Pompeii, especially if you head out to the villas. It’s entirely up to you!
Stabian Baths
Pompeii Ticket Information
We’ll now cover ticketing information for Pompeii, including ticket types and costs, discounted tickets, where to buy tickets and more.
Do You Need a Ticket for Pompeii?
Yes, all visitors need a ticket for Pompeii, even those eligible for free and discounted entry.
You can purchase tickets online in advance or in person on site.
How Much does it Cost to Visit Pompeii?
There are a number of ticket options for Pompeii, depending on what you want to see. These are as follows. Prices are correct as of April 2025.
Tickets are for adults 18 and over only. Children under 18 have free entry, although they do still require a ticket which can only be collected in person at the ticket office.
If you arrive at Pompeii with an Express ticket and decide you want to visit the villas, it is possible to purchase a ticket upgrade for €8 at the Herculaneum Gate – Street of the Tombs entrance. This only accepts card payment.
Are there Discounted Pompeii Tickets?
Yes, discounted Pompeii Tickets are available.
EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 24 inclusive with ID can enter the park for €2.
All children under 18 get free entry to Pompeii, although they still require a ticket.
There are currently no discounts for seniors.
Where to Buy Pompeii Tickets
You have a number of options for purchasing Pompeii tickets.
In person
First, you can buy tickets for Pompeii on-site at Pompeii itself. There are ticket offices at the three main entrances: Porta Marina, Piazza Anfiteatro and Piazza Esedra.
We’d generally advise against this where possible as you might end up standing in line for a while, but it is an option.
If you under 18, an EU resident aged 18-24, or fall into another category for reduced price tickets, then you will need to visit the ticket office for your ticket.
This is so your qualification for the reduced price ticket can be verified, so be sure to bring any necessary paperwork, such as a government issued Photo ID document (i.e. a passport or ID card).
Online
You can buy Pompeii tickets online from a number of websites, as follows:
In our experience, the official website tends to have the lowest cost online tickets, but they do not come with free cancellation.
Tickets sold by third parties do normally cost a bit more, but can have benefits such as free cancellation as well as the option to book a guided tour.
We recommend comparing prices and options to see which suits you. It’s also important to carefully read the redemption instructions when buying a ticket online so you know what you need to do in advance of your visit.
Often you can just show a ticket on your smartphone, but sometimes you might need to print something out or collect a ticket from a specific pick-up point.
You can also buy this pass which includes access to multiple sites of interest. It includes your Pompeii entry ticket, Vesuvius ticket and Herculaneum ticket. If you plan on visiting all these sights this can be can good option to consider.
By Phone
You can buy tickets for Pompeii by phone. The number is +39 811 865 8177. The office is normally open weekdays from 9.30 to 6pm. There’s a surcharge of €1.50 for booking by phone.
Can you Skip the Lines at Pompeii?
There are two lines at Pompeii. First, there is the line for the ticket office where you can buy tickets in person. Next, there is an entrance line for going into the site, which includes a security check.
If you pre-book your ticket, in most cases you can skip the ticket line. However, this will depend on the ticket you purchase, as some online tickets require you to swap a voucher for an actual ticket, so do check if this is the case with the ticket you have purchased.
The security / ticket-check line cannot be skipped by any visitors, but in our experience it moves pretty quickly.
When is Pompeii Free in 2025?
Pompeii is free to visit on the first Sunday of every month. On these days you will still need a ticket, but there is no cost for purchasing it.
Tickets for the free days can be purchased online at the official Ticketone site here, or in person at the ticket office on site.
We’d suggest doing the online ticket option as the site can get very busy on the free days, and if it exceeds capacity, the ticket offices close.
Note that some third-party sites will still charge you for the free ticket days, so only buy tickets for the free days on the official site!
What is the Pompeii Official Website?
There are multiple sites offering information on visiting Pompeii, including this one.
However, for the latest information on visiting Pompeii including ticket prices, updates, opening hours and more, we always recommend consulting the official website.
You can find it at the following web address, with content available in multiple languages including English. The site is excellent and has a wealth of information to help you plan your visit, and is well worth checking out.
Pompeii is a large attraction, covering around 65 hectares (170 acres). From the east side to the west side is around a kilometer (0.67 miles), and it’s 0.8km (0.5 miles) from north to south.
Suffice to say, it’s not hard to get lost in Pompeii. Whilst much of the site is laid out in a grid, there are also plenty of narrow lanes and twists and turns. Navigation isn’t helped by fairly limited signage.
To help you find your way around, it’s a good idea to have an idea of the layout of Pompeii.
The first thing to know is that Pompeii is divided into nine distinct regions, or “Regio“. This system was developed way back in the 19th century when the site started to be excavated and remains in use to this day.
Each regio is assigned a Roman number, from I (one) to IX (nine). The regio is in a grid pattern, 3 wide and 3 high.
The layout of the regions isn’t entirely intuitive. It’s a counterclockwise spiral starting from the lower middle grid square. You can think of it like a tic-tac-toe board, or a table that looks as follows.
VI
V
IV
VII
IX
III
VIII
I
II
Having an idea of this grid and the numbering system will help you orient yourself when you are on site, as the Regio number you are in is regularly printed on walls and in signs.
Each Regio is also divided into “Insulae” or “Insula”. In Roman times, an Insulae was a city block, or an apartment building. For Pompeii, the Insulae are the blocks.
So, when you see a sign in Pompeii, it will usually tell you which Regio and Insulae you are in, for example REG VII INS XIII would mean you are in Regio 7, Insula 13.
The Insula follow a layout system which I’m sure makes sense to an archeologist but seems designed to confuse the average person in my opinion.
However, it doesn’t really matter, because the official map has both the Regio and Insula numbers marked. So, if you have the map, all you need to do is find a sign to know where you are.
We highly recommend doing this in advance and saving it to your smartphone for reference. You should be able to get a printed version of this guide when you visit, but it’s good to be prepared just in case they aren’t available.
There are also street names to help you orient yourself. The main houses and attractions also have names.
I’d also add that each house (and some of the rooms in the houses) also have numbers. However, this is really more for cataloging and archaeological purposes rather than something visitors would want to use for navigating!
It is also worth noting that whilst most visitors visit the main Pompeii site, there are a number of other sites which have been excavated, and which can also be visited. These require you to have a different ticket, and to take a shuttle bus from the main site.
In summary, if you are visiting Pompeii without a guide, we recommend having a map on hand, and being aware of the Regio and Insulae system. You can also orient yourself with nearby obvious landmarks, with Mount Vesuvius often visible for example.
Model of Pompeii as displayed in the Naples Archaeological Museum
What to see and do at Pompeii
There’s a lot to see and do in Pompeii, and it can be a fairly overwhelming place to visit. This is why we would recommend taking a guided tour, or at the very least getting an audio guide.
To help you figure out what to see, we’re going to share what we think are some of the unmissable sights at Pompeii. Most tours will include at least some of these, although tour routes can vary. If you are taking a tour, always check what they include to be sure it covers your interests.
Top Sights at Pompeii
Obviously, everyone will have slightly different interests, however we think this is a good overview of the main highlights at Pompeii. These are the sights that most tours are likely to visit as well, although of course it will vary, and not all tours will visit every sight we list.
These sights are ordered approximately as you would encounter them entering the city from the western side. There’s an excellent map here you can download for reference as well.
Porta Marina – arguably the most impressive of the original seven gateways to the city, and the one which led to the sea, hence the name. The barrel-vaulted ceiling is made from concrete and dates from 80BC.
Plaster Casts of Pompeii’s victims – One of the most well-known sights at Pompeii are the plaster casts of those who lost their lives in the eruption, including people and dogs. The victims were encased in ash and asphyxiated, and their bodies entombed. Over time the bodies decomposed, leaving gaps in the hardened ash layer. During the excavations, plaster was carefully injected into these cavities to form the molds you can see today. These can be seen at various locations in Pompeii, including at the Antiquarium and the Forum Granary
Antiquarium di Pompei (Pompeii archaeological museum) – found by the Porta Marina, this museum houses a collection of artifacts from the site. It must be said that the best artefacts from Pompeii can be found in the Naples Archaeological Museum, however there is a lot to see here nonetheless, including plaster casts of Pompeii’s victims.
The Forum (Foro) – the heart of any Roman city or town is the Forum, where you would have found city administration buildings, the main temples and the market. If something important was going to happen in Pompeii, this was probably where it was going to happen.
Basilica – found in the south-western corner of the Forum, the Basilica dates from around 80BC. Despite the religious sounding name, it was actually more of a civic hall, used for business and as a court for handling legal matters. Religious Basilicas came later, basing their name and layout on the Roman buildings!
Forum Granary – The Granary is located by the Forum and would originally have been the main produce market. Today it is the home of thousands of artifacts which have been excavated from the ruins, as well as plaster casts of some of the victims of the disaster.
Baths of the Forum (Terme del Foro) – No Roman town is complete without a bath house (the more the better), and Pompeii had at least five of them. The Baths of the Forum are the closest to the Forum. Here you can see the male and female bathing houses including the hot bath room, warm bath room and cold plunge room.
Via Abbondanza (main street) – the main street (Decumanus Maximus in Roman times) of Pompeii runs west to east from the Forum all the way across the town to Sarno Gate. This would have been a busy, pedestrianized street filled with shops and food and drink vendors. The stretch which leads from the Forum has three upright stones, designed to block chariot passage as this was a pedestrian street.
Eateries – along many of the streets, and especially the main streets, you will see evidence of ancient Roman eateries. Look for marble counter tops with holes cut out where the food would have been stored.
Arches – Pompeii has a number of arches which you will see throughout the city. At the northern end of the Forum is an honorary arch, whilst further north at the intersection of Via Fortuna and Vicolo del Foro you will find the Arch of Caligula. Some of these arches also served a more practical function, hiding water tanks that supplied nearby fountains. Today many of these fountains have been modernized and provide clean drinking water for visitors.
House of the Tragic Poet (Casa del Poeta Tragico) – One of the many houses you can visit in Pompeii, this one is just to the north of the Forum by the Arch of Caligula. It’s notable for the beautiful mosaic floors which depict scenes from Greek mythology, which is where the houses name comes from.
House of the Faun (Casa del Fauno) – just to the northeast of the House of the Tragic Poet, on Vicolo del Fauno, this is one of the largest and most well-known of the houses in Pompeii, and is a must-visit. It occupies a whole block, taking up around 32,000 square feet, and would have been owned by a very wealthy family. The name comes from a bronze statue of a faun which was found here, the original of which is in the Naples Archaeological Museum (a copy is viewable in the house).
House of the Vetti (Casa dei Vetti)– found to the northeast of the House of the Faun, the House of the Vetti is a beautifully decorated property featuring many beautiful fresco paintings which depict various mythological scenes. It’s also a very large property.
Brothel (Lupanare) – almost as popular today as it likely was in its heyday 2,000 years ago (although with a somewhat different clientele), the brothel was where citizens came to find sex workers, as well as drinks and social interaction. The name Lupanare comes from the Latin name for a wolf-den, as prostitutes were known as she-wolves. The brothel has fairly graphic frescoes and graffiti, and parents might want to skip this attraction.
Stabian Baths (Terme Stabiane) – As previously mentioned, Pompeii had at least five bath houses, of which the Stabian Baths are the largest and oldest. In fact, they are one of the oldest Roman baths in the world. They are found on the intersection Via dell’Abbondanza and Via Stabiana. Here you can see the different mens and women’s bathing areas. We’d probably recommend picking one bath house to visit, unless you are particularly into Roman bath houses.
Other sites which are a little off the main route and which are not always included on regular tours (although, again, this varies!):
Temple of Isis (Tempio di Iside) – this small and largely intact temple is found next to the Grand Theatre, and is dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis. The Cult of Isis was popular in Pompeii, despite proclamations against it by the Roman Senate. It is believed that the composer Mozart visited this temple when he was 13, and it inspired his composition The Magic Flute
Grand Theater (Teatro Grande) – Entertainment was a key part of Roman life, and there were a number of venues across the city where performances would have taken place. The Grand Theater was built in the Greek style, which meant taking advantage of a natural hill slope to create the auditorium, which would have had seating for 5,000 spectators. Much of the Theatre survives today, and it is well worth a visit. It’s in the south part of Pompeii, near Porta di Stabia.
Small Theater (Teatro Piccolo – Odeion) – Right next to the Grand Theater is the Small Theater, a more intimate performance venue which was also used for council meetings. It also had a roof, primarily to improve acoustics. At the time, it was often used for mime performances, which were popular. It was also used for music.
Viewpoint / Panoramic View of Pompeii – To grasp the scale of Pompeii, you should consider visiting the viewpoint by Casina dell’Aquila, just by the intersection of Via Dell’Abbondanza and Vicolo di Tesmo. The viewpoint is at the original level of the ground here before the excavation, and will give you an idea of just how much ground had to be moved in order to unearth the city.
House of Menander (Casa del Menandro) – owned by a high ranking and wealthy family, this large house (19,000 square feet) is named for the fresco which depicts the Greek playwright Menander. There are a number of rooms that can be visited.
Garden of the Fugitives (Orto dei Fuggiaschi) – found in the southeast part of Pompeii, the Garden of the Fugitives contains the plaster casts of 13 of the victims who died trying to escape the city.
Amphitheater – an important entertainment center in a Roman city or town was the amphitheater, essentially an enclosed theatre which was used for gladiatorial battles, circuses and more. The most famous Amphitheatre is Rome’s Colosseum, but the one in Pompeii is actually one of the oldest surviving amphitheaters from the Roman Empire. Much of the structure still survives, with seating for around 20,000 people.
Aqueduct – The Romans were incredible engineers, and whilst they didn’t invent the aqueduct, their aqueducts were definitely engineering wonders of their time. They allowed the distribution of water across the Roman Empire, and allowed towns like Pompeii to get fresh water to their citizens. The water in Pompeii was carried by the Augustan Aqueduct, sourcing water from 96km away, using only gravity to move the water! Today, you can see where the aqueduct system arrived into the city at Castellum Aqueduct, next to Porto Vesuvio in the northern part of the city. From here it was distributed to water towers and fountains across the city.
As you can see, there’s plenty to see and take in at Pompeii!
Casa Del Menandro
Casa del Fauno
Pompeii Amphitheater
Tours of Pompeii
One of the best ways to visit Pompeii is to take a guided tour. There’s a lot to see and a lot of history and information to absorb, and having a good guide can definitely improve your experience.
You have a few options for taking a tour. You can book a tour which includes transport from a major city such as Rome or Naples. Or, you can make your own way to Pompeii and just take a tour on site.
We’ll include a number of options for you to consider, depending on your preferences.
You can also book a tour guide on arrival at Pompeii. Tour guides are available just inside the site entrance and should have an official badge.
Note however that whilst accredited, the guides are freelance and prices are not fixed. You will need to negotiate price, route and tour duration with the available on-site guides.
Generally, these guides will have a price they charge for a tour, irrespective of group size. By having a larger group you’ll pay less per person, but obviously have a less personalized experience.
Depending on how busy the day is, guides may not be available. So, we would generally recommend booking a guided tour in advance instead.
Pompeii Forum on a guided tour
Pompeii official guide point
Practicalities for Visiting Pompeii
Dress Code at Pompeii
Pompeii is not a religious site and as such there is no specific dress code for visiting.
There are a couple of rules around clothing. First, you cannot be bare chested, you must be wearing a top. In addition, clothing that could be considered disruptive is also not allowed, and costumes, masks and banners are not permitted.
This clothing rule is normally used to prevent protestors using the site, so is unlikely to affect most visitors. Steer clear of any offensive clothing and you’ll be fine!
You will still want to think through your clothing choices prior to visiting. The majority of your visit will be spent outside, and there is minimal shade or shelter available.
See the section of what to wear and pack for Pompeii for some suggestions on what to bring for your visit.
Facilities at Pompeii
Pompeii has a number of visitor services you can use. These include:
two on-site bookshops, one at Piazza Esedra and one inside the Antiquarium.
audio guide hire, available at the Porta Marina entrance and Porta Anfiteatro entrance.
first aid services, available near the Chora Cafe on Vicolo degli Augustali
Multiple free water fountains across the site
Multiple free toilet facilities across the site
Baby changing facilities. There are three of these, one on Via dell’Abbondanza, one on Via di Nola, and one at the corner of Via Stabiana and Via della Fortuna
Restaurants / Dining at Pompeii
If you’re visiting Pompeii for a few hours you might want some food. There are a number of tourist oriented restaurants near the main entrances to the site, particularly around the train station. There are also two main options for food and snacks on site as follows:
A cafe called Chora where you can get drinks and snacks like cakes, pastries and ice cream. This is at Casina Dell’Aquila, on Via Dell’Abbondanza
The Vicolo del Foro restaurant, which is just north of the Forum by the Arco di Nerone Forum entrance / exit.
Note that you cannot exit and re-enter Pompeii on the same ticket, so if you plan to eat on site during your visit you will either need to bring food with you, or visit one of the above options.
Smoking at Pompeii
Smoking is forbidden at Pompeii except at designated smoking areas. These can be found near the Casina dell’Aquila and the toilet facilities.
Security at Pompeii
All visitors must go through a security check at Pompeii. Bulky objects, umbrellas, and bags larger than 30x30x15 cm (12 x 12 x 6 inches) are not permitted on the site and must be left at the cloakroom. This is a free service.
Otherwise, the rules are pretty obvious, and mostly focus on protecting the site and ensuring a good experience for all. So you’re not allowed to play music, deface objects, climb on the ruins, pick fruits or flowers, build fires, enter fenced off areas and so on.
You can see the full list of rules and regulations here.
Accessibility at Pompeii
Pompeii is obviously an ancient city, and as such there are accessibility challenges. However, efforts have been made to ensure the site is as accessible as possible for all visitors.
There are a number of specially designed accessible routes, called Pompeii for All, which are designed to allow access for mobility impaired users, as well as parents with buggies, to a large part of the site.
These routes include many of the main buildings that visitors would want to see, and cover a total of 3.5km. You can see details of these routes on the Pompeii for All page.
There are also accessible toilets found on site.
Pompeii has also developed a program to help those hard to hearing to enjoy the site. More on this program, and accessibility on the site in general, can be found on the Pompeii for All page.
Luggage storage Near Pompeii
Visitors to Pompeii are not allowed to bring any bags larger than 30cm x 30cm x 15cm on site. So nothing larger than a small backpack essentially. We’d suggest leaving luggage in your hotel room where possible.
If you must travel with a bag which is larger than the allowed size, there is a cloakroom at Pompeii itself where you can store luggage and other items free of charge.
There are also luggage storage lockers on the lower floor of the Pompeii Scavi train station available for a fee.
Tips for Visiting Pompeii
Based on our experiences visiting Pompeii, we wanted to share some tips to help you get the most from your visit.
Plan your day in advance
The first thing we recommend doing is planning your day out before you visit. Decide what you want to see at Pompeii, and then decide if you want to take a tour.
If you decide to take a tour, check what it includes, and then consider if you need additional time. If you are taking a tour that includes round-trip transport, you might not have much extra time.
If you are taking a tour that starts on site, make sure you know where the meeting point is and the meeting time, and plan how you will get to and from Pompeii.
If you are doing a self-guided visit for any part of your time at Pompeii, we suggest looking at the official map and planning out what you want to see. You may even consider coming up with a general route to follow. This will help orient you when you are actually there.
Consider a Guided Tour or Audio Guide
We can highly recommend taking a guided tour of Pompeii. An expert guide is going to be able to bring the site to life and really help you understand what you are seeing.
On our most recent visit to Pompeii we took this guided tour with Take Walks and can highly recommend it. However, there are a number of options.
If you take a guided tour that meets on site, we highly recommend planning on staying at least an hour more on site once the tour ends so you can see any other sites that the tour didn’t cover.
If you opt not to take a guided tour, then we’d suggest either picking up an audio guide on site, or at the very least a guidebook that includes a self-guided Pompeii tour like the Rick Steves Italy guidebook.
Dress and Pack Accordingly
If you are visiting Pompeii in the hotter months of the year, you will want to bring a good sun hat to keep the sun off your face, loose fitting clothing, and likely a small daypack to carry suncream, water and any snacks.
If rain is a possibility, a light raincoat or poncho is also a good idea. Umbrellas are not allowed on site.
If you are visiting outside of the warmest months of the year, then some warmer layers are a good idea just in case it is cooler on site.
Footwear is also important. The ancient streets of Pompeii can be uneven, varying between loose dirt and cobblestones. A good pair of comfortable shoes that you are happy to spend time walking in is a must.
You will definitely want to bring a water bottle with you. Fresh drinking water is available at fountains across the site, and on a hot day you will need to drink plenty of water. We use and love our Klean Kanteen water bottles for travel, but there are lots of options out there of course.
Both have a self-guided Pompeii tour which is an excellent option if you choose to skip a guided tour.
Be Wary of on-site Touts at Pompeii
Like any popular tourist destination, Pompeii has a couple of pitfalls to watch out for.
First, if you want to take a tour and haven’t pre-booked one, then we’d recommend taking one of the tours with an approved tour guide.
These can be found at Piazza Esedra and Porta Marina, once you have entered Pompeii, after the security checks. These tour guides have official badges issued by the Tourist Board of the Campania Region. If you are unsure if a guide is accredited, check with the ticket office.
Be aware that these guides will most likely need to be paid in cash, and the price of the tour is going to be something you’ll need to discuss with the guide in advance.
When you arrive at Pompeii you will also likely be offered tours by guides outside the gates. These will not be led by Pompeii’s accredited guides, so the quality of the tour is not guaranteed. We’d suggest ignoring these options and heading inside to find a guide if that is of interest.
One other thing to note is that as Pompeii is a popular tourist destination that can be crowded, there is a risk, as with any destination like this, of pickpockets. So just be mindful of your belongings and keep valuables in sight, or safely away in zippered pockets. This is also the case on the train and at the train station if you choose to take public transportation.
We’ve never had an issue in Italy, but it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions when traveling anywhere, as you would at home.
Arrive Early and Head to the Back
Pompeii is a popular destination, and as such it can get quite busy. In addition, there is limited shade on site, and in the summer months particularly it can get very hot on site.
All this means that for the best experience we recommend arriving early in the day if you can. If you are planning on taking a tour, book it for earlier in the day. If you are planning to guide yourself, plan out your route so you head away from the entrance first, and work your way back towards it.
Many visitors only visit the major sights, many of which are located not too far from the entrance areas, particularly Porta Marina. Tours groups also follow similar routes. So if you want a less crowded experience, identify a few sights that you are interested in that are off the beaten path, and head to those first.
Bring a Water Bottle
We mentioned this already in the “what to pack for Pompeii” section of this guide, but we think it is worth repeating. Pompeii gets incredibly hot in the summer months and there is not much shade.
There are lots of free drinking water fountains across the site, so bring a water bottle and stay hydrated for free as you wander!
Escape the Crowds at Pompeii
Pompeii is a hugely popular attraction, and as a result it can be busy. The site has a limit of 15,000 visitors at any one time, but despite the site being quite large people tend to head to a handful of locations such as the Forum, Brothel, and Bath houses, meaning it can feel more crowded than it is.
Here are some tips for escaping the crowds at Pompeii.
Visit at a quieter time of the week or year. Peak season in Italy is generally from May through August, with weekends being busier than weekdays. If you can’t avoid visiting in high season, try visiting on a week day if possible.
Head to a quieter part of the site if you can, away from the groups. Most tours follow a similar route to a handful of highlights, and if you head to the less popular areas you can find yourself wandering almost deserted streets, even at a busy time of year
Use a quieter gate. Many people enter through the Porta Marina as it’s next to the train station. The Anfiteatro gate tends to be quieter, and brings you in right next to the Amphitheater as well, from where you can explore the site at your leisure
Attractions Near Pompeii
Pompeii is one of the most popular attractions in the Naples area, but it is by no means the only attraction in the area! Here are some other attractions in the general area to consider adding to your itinerary.
Herculaneum – the other well-excavated town that was buried by the Vesuvius eruption is Herculaneum. This is closer to Naples, and also easily accessible by the Circumvesuviana train service. It’s a smaller site but as it was a wealthy seaside resort, it has a high density of luxurious dwellings. It is usually quieter than Pompeii, and some tours like this one visit both.
Mount Vesuvius – the volcano which caused all the trouble is still active and still posing a threat to the millions of people who live in the area. It’s a dominant part of the skyline, and you can head all the way up to the summit to peer into the steaming crater and hike around the rim. There’s a small fee to visit the park, and it can be reached by public transport or on a guided tour like this.
Amalfi Coast – one of the most popular and spectacular regions of Italy, the 50km long Amalfi Coast is right next to Pompeii. Gorgeous seaside towns like Positano and Sorrento cling to the dramatic coastline. It’s well worth spending a few days here if you can. Alternatively, you can get a taste of what’s on offer by taking a tour which includes the Amalfi Coast like this.
Naples – the capital city of the region, Naples tends to divide visitor opinion. It can be crowded, and chaotic yes, but it’s also home to amazing food and numerous attractions. Pompeii visitors should definitely take the time to visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which has the majority of the best preserved artefacts from Pompeii available for viewing.
Capri – a popular island for a day trip (although stay overnight if you can to avoid the crowds!), Capri can be visited by ferry from both Naples and Sorrento. It’s a beautiful island with a lot to see, but it can get incredibly crowded in the summer months.
Of course, there is much more to see in this area, but this should give you an idea of what is on offer in the area around Pompeii!
Mount Vesuvius
Where to Stay Near Pompeii
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Pompeii, you have quite a few options. You can stay close to the site, or you could stay in nearby Sorrento or Naples.
It’s also possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from Rome, but we’ll focus on closer accommodation for this part of the guide. See our guide to spending 3 days in Rome for Rome accommodation options.
Pompeii Ruins De Charme B&B – Literally across the road from the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance this popular B&B offers air-conditioned rooms with breakfast included. Rooms also have a kitchen and dishwasher if you prefer to cook for yourself. Parking is available for a fee.
Hotel Forum – also just next to the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance, this is a well-reviewed 4* hotel offering free private parking, air-conditioned en-suite rooms and a restaurant. Breakfast is available.
Habita79 Pompeii – just a few minutes walk from the Anfiteatro entrance, this 4* hotel offers en-suite air conditioned rooms as well as an on-site spa and wellness studio. Breakfast is available. Note there’s no on-site parking.
Agora Hostel – five minutes walk from the Anfiteatro entrance to Pompeii, this well rated hostel offers great value private and shared rooms with air conditioning. There’s a bar and coffee house on site but no dining or parking available.
La Ferrovia Guesthouse Sorrento – found just next to Sorrento train station, this guesthouse offers private en-suite air-conditioned rooms with coffee makers. Paid parking is available nearby but there’s no on-site restaurant
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria Sorrento – if you’re looking for a 5* luxury experience in Sorrento, this is the hotel to head for. Expect spectacular coastal views, a beautiful garden, lovely rooms, and two restaurants to choose from.
Of course, there are a great many more options to choose from! We recommend looking on booking.com for everything from hotels to guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels and apartments.
We use them for our booking accommodation for travel all over the world and love how easy it makes it to filter and find the right property for our budget and requirements.
Well, that finished up our guide to visiting Pompeii! It’s just a small part of our content on Italy and Europe, which we hope you will find useful when planning your trip.
Here are some of those guides, as well as links to third party resources we recommend.
If you’re looking for a physical (or Kindle!) guidebook, we recommend the latest edition of Rick Steves Italy guide, which has lots of practical information to help you make the most of your stay
And that’s it! As always, we hope you found this guide useful, and if you have any questions or comments about visiting Pompeii, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll answer as soon as we can.
The best beaches in Victoria Australia promise boundless sunshine, sand, swells, and spectacular views for travellers.
Victoria’s coastline sprawls over 2,000 kilometres. Beautiful beaches dot this long sandy stretch, as do seaside towns, national parks, and walking trails.
Listing down all the best beaches in Victoria is a tall order because there are just too many! But we’ve rounded up the top must-visit spots that will keep you returning for more.
Here are the most spectacular beaches in Victoria, Australia.
The best way to get to all these incredible beaches is with your own car. We highly recommend renting a car if you don’t already have one! This gives you the most flexibility for exploring the stunning coastline.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Torquay Beach, Great Ocean Road
The seaside town of Torquay is the gateway to the Surf Coast and the birthplace of the surfing sportswear Rip Curl. It’s also home to Torquay Beach!
Though often overshadowed by its more popular neighbour, Bells Beach, Torquay Beach is one of the best beaches in Victoria Australia for the whole family. Dogs included (yes, it’s pet-friendly).
On its beautiful stretches of sand, you can have a picnic, sunbake, build sandcastles, or walk your furry friend.
The milder breaks are tailor-made for those who want to learn to surf or hone their skills. During low tide, the shallow waters near the shore are great for little kids to waddle and paddle in.
Nearby are cafes and eateries if you want to grab some snacks. The beach has shower facilities, toilets, and a spacious parking lot.
Lifeguards patrol Torquay Beach in the summer months, particularly on weekends and school holidays.
Bells Beach, Great Ocean Road
Victoria’s most popular beach destination, Bells Beach, is the crown jewel of Torquay, Australia’s surfing capital.
Bells is globally known for its legendary swells. It hosts the oldest surfing competition in the world, the Rip Curl Pro, every Easter weekend.
Because of its powerful waves, Bells is fitting for experienced surfers. It’s unpatrolled and the strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming.
But you don’t need to be a surfer to enjoy Bells Beach. The incredible scenery makes up for its rough waters!
Dramatic cliffs fringe the coast, creating a natural amphitheatre from where you can gaze at the ocean or watch surfers barrel through giant waves.
Make your way to the shore through the wooden stairs that snake down the bluff. On the beach, you can set up a picnic, sunbathe, or soak your toes in the waters at low tide.
Surfers at the famous Bells Beach
Johanna Beach, Glenaire
A hub for surfing, fishing, and camping, Johanna Beach is another stunning stop along the Great Ocean Road. It has an off-grid campsite frequented by road trippers, bushwalkers, and surfers.
Surprisingly serene despite its popularity, Johanna is surreal at sunset.
The waves here best fit seasoned surfers. Don’t swim unless you’re a strong swimmer, as the beach is unpatrolled and the waters are rough.
Between August and February, it is a nesting ground for the threatened Hooded Plover.
You can bring your dogs, but keep them on a lead to help protect the wildlife in the area.
Loch Ard Gorge Beach, Great Ocean Road
Named after a wrecked ship, Loch Ard Gorge Beach is one of the most memorable stops along the Great Ocean Road.
Due to its strong currents, Loch Ard Gorge is unsuitable for swimming. But its otherworldly views make it one of the best beaches in Victoria for sightseeing.
If the scenery doesn’t move you, perhaps its haunting history will. The gorge forms part of the infamous Shipwreck Coast, where roughly 638 ships sank.
In June 1878, the ship Loch Ard, travelling from England to Melbourne, struck a reef and sank near the shallow inlet.
Of the several surrounding walking trails, the most popular is the track down to the beach where the survivors were safely washed ashore. Unfortunately, the access to the beach from the lookout has been closed after a rockfall in May 2023.
You can still see Loch Ard Gorge Beach from the decked-out platform overlooking the coastline.
There are many other points of interest in the area, including various viewpoints, rock formations, a blowhole, and a small cemetery where those who lost their lives in the Loch Ard shipwreck were laid to rest.
A short drive from the gorge is another iconic natural landmark, the Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering limestone columns rising from the Southern Ocean.
You can see both attractions on a Great Ocean Road trip. For a hassle-free adventure, consider booking a day tour of the area.
Apollo Bay, Great Ocean Road
A scenic seaside town nestled at the foothills of the Otways, Apollo Bay is a haven for outdoor adventures and relaxing getaways.
One of its highlights is the three-kilometre sandy beach that follows the curve of the crescent-shaped bay.
The sheltered waters make it an excellent swimming beach, especially among casual bathers and families with small kids. Lifesavers patrol the area in the summer and public holidays.
Apollo Bay doesn’t have the huge waves that pro surfers chase, but it’s a popular spot for watersports like kayaking and boating.
Seafood lover? Consider lunch settled. Once a fishing village, Apollo Bay has fantastic eateries serving the catch of the day. After lunch head to the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, famous for its 100 craft beers.
Beaches surrounded by rolling green hills in Apollo Bay
Kitty Miller Bay, Ventnor
Kitty Miller Bay is not the best beach for sunbathing, but the rock pools, surrounding cliffs, and SS Speke Shipwreck create a postcard-worthy scenery.
The bay is more of a walking beach than a swimming beach. When the tides are low, you can go to the beach and scramble over the rocks to the shipwreck site.
For confident swimmers, there are lovely spots for snorkelling at high tide. You might even catch some waves to surf.
Gibson Steps, Great Ocean Road
The name Gibson Steps technically refers to the 86-step staircase carved intro a rocky bluff, leading to a quiet beach below. Over the years, the name has come to refer to the entire area.
Like many spots on the Southern Ocean coast, the beach has choppy waves, making it unsafe for swimming. The view, however, is not to be missed.
The beach’s most famous landmarks are the two gigantic sea stacks jutting from the ocean. Nicknamed Gog and Magog, these rock formations are simply out of this world, but even more so at sunrise and sunset.
You can see the rocks from the lookout at the top of the Gibson Steps. But if you want to get a feel of how massive they are, climb down the stairs and hike to the end of the beach.
The beach access may be closed due to rough weather or high tides. Be sure to check the weather and tide table before visiting.
Unspoilt, untamed, and unforgettable, Ninety Mile Beach is Victoria’s longest uninterrupted beach.
This pristine strip of honey-coloured sand lies between the Gippsland Lakes district and Bass Strait. It sprawls as far as the eye can see without any headlands or sudden bends blocking the view.
It’s a favourite among hikers, kayakers, campers, and surf fishers. You can also swim in some areas. Touristy seaside towns, like Lakes Entrance and Woodside, have lifeguards that patrol the beach during summer.
Ninety Mile Beach is within the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, the country’s most extensive inland waterways, famous for boating and fishing.
Brighton Beach, Melbourne
Brighton Beach is another highlight. The Melbourne beach is most famous for its row of brightly painted beach boxes lining the shoreline.
In the Victorian era, women used the bathing sheds to change into their swimming attire. Over a century later, most of these multi-hued wooden huts remain largely unaltered, except for a dab or two of paint.
As iconic as these bathing boxes are, there is more to Brighton Beach!
Thanks to its calm waters, Brighton Beach is a popular swimming spot. It’s also patrolled by lifeguards year-round.
Beyond the shallow sand bar, you can windsurf, kite surf, or water ski.
For something more relaxing, take a leisurely walk on the Middle Brighton Pier or picnic at Green Point, a small park near the beach.
The iconic colourful beach boxes at Brighton Beach, Melbourne
Half Moon Bay, Melbourne
The 350-metre-long Half Moon Bay beach has two distinct sides that offer different experiences.
As the southern bay is partially protected, it has been considered one of the best beaches in Victoria Australia for swimming and boating.
Apart from the calm waters, the southern part is known for the Black Rock Jetty. From the jetty, you can see the remains of a sunken warship, HMVS Cerberus. Grounded in 1926, it serves as a breakwater.
Half Moon Bay Surf Life Saving Club, the oldest in Victoria, and the Black Rock Yacht Club are also in the south.
The northern end, backed by the Red Bluff Cliffs, is wilder and more raw. The water is deep, with high waves that create strong currents.
For leisure bathers, the patrolled and protected south is the best and safest spot for a swim. Still, the northern section is worth exploring for its breathtaking beauty.
The beach is dog-friendly, but take note of the schedule, as access hours are capped during peak season.
You don’t have to travel far from the city to experience one of the best beaches in Victoria! St Kilda Beach is just six kilometres south of the Melbourne CBD.
Summer or not, St Kilda is a hive of beach activities. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, holiday goers can engage in windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, and sailing.
The Esplanade draws rollerbladers, joggers, walkers, and foodies on the hunt for good food.
Walk down the pier to see the colony of Australian penguins. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try the rides at Luna Park, the oldest amusement park in Australia.
Fairhaven Beach, Fairhaven
Undoubtedly one of the most spectacular beaches in Victoria, Fairhaven Beach is fantastic for serene strolls. This 6-kilometre stretch of golden sands is the longest beach along the Great Ocean Road.
Its main draw, however, is the cinematic views. On a clear day, you can see eye-popping panoramas sprawling from the eastern headland, where the surf club is, to Devil’s Elbow, a hairpin bend atop a sheer cliff face.
The beach’s eastern end has great swells and numerous breaks for surfing, particularly around Moggs Creek, Spouts Creek, and The Spot.
You can also swim in Fairhaven, but make sure you stay within the red and yellow flags for safety.
Sorrento Ocean Beach, Mornington Peninsula
Sorrento Ocean Beach (also known as Back Beach) is stunning from all angles, from its golden sand dunes to its deep blue waters and the grassy bushland in the background.
It’s easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mornington Peninsula. That’s saying something, considering the slew of lovely ocean beaches in the area.
Partly protected from waves and patrolled at peak times, the beach is moderately safe for swimming. But be cautious of the rips and swim only between the flags.
As the waters recede at low tide, several rock pools appear on the coast. They come in various sizes, with some deep enough to swim in.
Many visit the beach just for the rock pools. It’s important to check the tide chart to be sure you visit during low tide when the area is safest!
The beautiful Sorrento Ocean Beach, Mornington Peninsula
Refuge Cove, Wilsons Promontory
If isolated beaches are your thing, nothing is more secluded than Refuge Cove. It lies on the eastern tip of the Wilsons Promontory National Park and is only accessible by boat or a multi-day hike.
For over 200 years, sailors and boaters have used Refuge Cove to shelter from the turbulent Bass Strait. It’s popular not just with boaters but also with birders and bushwalkers.
Refuge Cove has two sandy beaches backed by lush vegetation. The northern end is larger and more exposed, while the southern section is smaller and even more sheltered.
There’s a campsite with basic toilets and unfiltered creek water on the south beach.
Both beaches are safe for swimming, but be careful as they’re unpatrolled and the water is deep near the shore.
Nestled in the southern end of Wilsons Prom, Little Waterloo Bay is a lovely strip of white sand lapped by crystal blue waters. A steep slope of granite boulders and lilly pilly trees borders the bay from behind.
You can reach the bay by foot via the Telegraph Saddle Track in an overnight hike or a day walk. It’s a popular stop along the multi-day Wilsons Prom Southern Circuit.
On the beach is a campsite with picnic tables, toilets, and untreated water from a creek.
When the waves are low, the beach is safe to swim in. Be sure to stay close to the shore, as rip currents may suddenly intensify at any time.
Squeaky Beach, Wilsons Promontory
If you haven’t figured out where the name comes from, here’s a clue: powdery white sand that is so clean it doesn’t only glisten under the sun, it also squeaks underfoot.
Squeaky Beach is not just one of the best beaches in Victoria. In 2024, Tourism Australia declared it the best beach in the country. And in 2025, Lonely Planet awarded it the second-best beach in the world.
We wholeheartedly agree. Squeaky’s natural beauty is hard to beat. The sugary sand contrasts dramatically with the turquoise waters, while the greyish granite boulders bring out the vibrancy of the surrounding foliage.
One snag is that Squeaky is unsuitable for casual swimming due to the rips and strong currents. But if you’re an experienced surfer, you’ll have fun catching the waves.
Wilsons Promontory is lined with incredible beaches!
Portarlington Beach, Portarlington
With its calm waters, sandy expanse, and views of the Melbourne cityscape, Portarlington is one of the best beaches in Victoria Australia for those seeking a relaxing seaside escape.
The area near the jetty is the busiest, with people picnicking, barbecuing, swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the warm summer’s day.
Portarlington boasts clear, shallow waters with almost no waves, making it ideal for families with small children. Though there are no strong currents, be cautious of the boat traffic near the jetty.
YCW Beach, Phillip Island
The beach’s gentle waves are tailor-made for novice surfers. But when the conditions are right, the ocean can produce excellent waves for more experienced ones.
The sandy strip between the headlands at each end of the beach is safe for young and casual bathers to paddle in. But be cautious, as the beach is unpatrolled and has sections with rocks beneath.
YCW has a campsite, change rooms, toilets, and gravel car parking. If you need to grab some snacks, there’s a local store nearby.
Cape Paterson Beach, Cape Paterson
The cape has two beaches: bay and surf.
The curved 400-metre bay beach is a favourite among families and fishers. The area near the shallow bar, away from the rocks at each end, is a safe spot for casual bathers and young kids, while the marine-rich waters offshore draw snorkelers and divers.
The highlight is an artificial rock pool atop a craggy platform. Built in the 1960s, it’s a great place for cooling off on a hot summer day.
The surf beach is 500 metres long and receives waves averaging 1.3 metres high. The life-saving club, parking lot, toilets, and food stalls are here.
Both sides have lifeguards during summer and holidays. Dogs are allowed but must be on a lead at all times.
Port Phillip Bay has some of the best beaches in Victoria Australia. Many of these are shallow and flat, with golden sand and calm turquoise waters that are safe for swimming.
The swells are seldom huge enough for surfing, but the beaches offer watersports like bodyboarding and kayaking. Several lifesaving clubs operate along the bay, so most beaches are patrolled.
St Kilda and Brighton are part of Port Phillip’s beaches. But there are several other beautiful beaches lining the bay, including:
Williamstown Beach
Safety Beach
West Beach
Dromana Beach
Elwood Beach
Hampton Beach
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What I carry in my bag has changed a lot over the years. Most of that change has to do with the fact that I now carry a lot of gear related to blogging, but it also reflects that I’ve learned a lot about packing since I first hit the road in 2006.
I’ve learned different packing techniques through the years. I’ve traveled with big duffel bags, 60L packs, 30L packs, carry-ons, and everything in between. I’ve done it all and in all seasons.
And, today, I want to share that knowledge with you so you can be a better packer because a lot of people always want to know what they should pack for their trip.
The answer?
As little as possible.
Packing light is a cliché, yet one that has a lot of truth to it. The more I travel, the more I realize I don’t need a lot of stuff. Everything I need now fits into one backpack (for more recommendations from my years of testing backpacks, click here for my top travel backpacks.
I like to write down everything I think I’ll need before I go — and then cut it in half. I always ask myself, “Will I use this enough to justify the weight?”
Most of the time the answer is no.
I take only the essentials, and if I really need something I didn’t bring, I buy it on the road. It’s not that hard to find medicine, clothes, or an umbrella overseas.
I also try to stick to the same climate during my trips to avoid having to carry lots of different kinds of clothes. I don’t want to be lugging sweaters around Thailand! However, plans can change, and if that happens, I’ll buy a light jacket or a sweater. I’ll keep it until it is a burden and then give it away.
Also, you can do laundry overseas so I like to carry enough clothes for 7-10 days, do laundry, then repeat. There’s no need to bring a lot of stuff when you can just wash what you have.
As for the long answer to what you should pack? Well, below is my suggested packing list — but you should tailor this to your needs.
(Note: This focuses on travel to a non-winter climate. If you’re heading somewhere cold, you’ll need to adjust accordingly.)
Special tip: Buy a small backpack so you won’t be tempted to overpack. We subconsciously like to fill empty space, so if you have a big bag, you’re more likely to overpack just so you don’t waste space. By getting a smaller backpack, you’ll be forced to take only the essentials — a mind trick that works very well!
***
I’ve found that this list leaves me wanting for nothing. I’m sure many of you will read this and say, “But what about X?” or “You really don’t need Y.” Well, that works for you, and this list works for me. Tailor your list to suit your travels.
I write this post not because I think there is one perfect way to pack but to answer the recurring question about what I pack and why. This is my list and suits my “chase the summer, live in hostels” lifestyle.
But the real point I want to emphasize is that you really don’t need a lot when you travel. You never need as much as you think.
Next Steps
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Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
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Egypt, where the murmurs of ancient secrets resonate through the sands of time, is a destination that captivates all the senses. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the vibrant bazaars of Cairo, Egypt’s cultural canvas unfurls a sumptuous tapestry interwoven with history, art, and gastronomic wonders. Set forth on an immersive expedition through this fascinating nation, where every twist and turn unveils a fresh facet of its irresistible charm.
Unveiling the Secrets of the Pyramids
Begin your Egyptian adventure in awe of the pyramids at Giza, an eternal symbol of human achievement. Standing before the Great Pyramid, you’ll feel the weight of history as you contemplate the labor and ingenuity that went into its construction, and for a seamless and hassle-free start to your journey, be sure to secure your Egypt evisa in advance. Venture inside the ancient tombs to discover hieroglyphs and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the pharaohs’ afterlife beliefs. With its lion’s body and human face, the enigmatic Sphinx guards these wonders, its riddles still unsolved.
Cruising the Nile: A Journey Through Time
Embark on a Nile River cruise, where you’ll sail through the heart of ancient Egypt. As the gentle current carries you, you’ll witness life along the riverbanks, where lush greenery contrasts with the desert’s golden hues. Explore temples that rise like mirages in the desert, including the magnificent temples of Luxor and Karnak. Step ashore in Aswan to visit the High Dam and the Philae Temple, modern marvels against an ancient backdrop.
Cairo’s Contrasts: Tradition and Modernity
Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, is a city of contrasts where tradition and modernity collide. Dive into the labyrinthine streets of Old Cairo, where the Khan el-Khalili bazaar beckons with the scent of spices and the sparkle of jewelry. Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to the treasures of Tutankhamun, where history comes alive. For a glimpse of modern Egypt, explore the Zamalek district, a leafy oasis along the Nile, and indulge in contemporary Egyptian cuisine at trendy restaurants.
The Magic of Luxor and Karnak Temples
Luxor, often called the “World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum,” is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Visit the Luxor and Karnak Temples, where colossal statues and intricately carved obelisks pay homage to ancient gods. As the sun sets, witness the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple, where history is narrated through a mesmerizing interplay of light and sound, bringing the past to life.
Exploring the Temples of Abu Simbel
Exploring the Abu Simbel temples, nestled along Lake Nasser’s shores, transports you on a profound journey through history. These monumental structures, meticulously hewn into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II, stand as an enduring testament to the magnificence of ancient Egypt. Stand before the massive statues guarding the entrance and marvel at the precision of the carvings inside. The temples were relocated in a remarkable engineering feat to save them from the rising waters of the Nile, preserving their splendor for generations to come.
Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Aswan
Aswan, often called Egypt’s “Jewel of the Nile,” is a city of timeless beauty. Explore the Nubian villages, where vibrant colors adorn the houses and the warm hospitality of the Nubian people is palpable. Sail to the serene Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and witness the interplay of light and water. Aswan’s natural beauty, including the Nubian Desert and the Elephantine Island, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling cities.
Savoring Egyptian Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine is a compelling blend of flavors and traditions. Feast on aromatic dishes like koshari, a hearty mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and spicy tomato sauce—sample succulent grilled meats and seafood at local restaurants along the Nile. Try traditional sweets like baklava and basbousa, and sip on mint tea in bustling cafes. Egyptian cuisine is a journey of taste that reflects the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
The Oasis of Siwa: A Hidden Gem
Venture off the beaten path to the Siwa Oasis, a remote haven in the Western Desert. Explore the ancient ruins of the Oracle Temple, where Alexander the Great sought guidance. Take a dip in the therapeutic waters of Cleopatra’s Spring and watch the sunset over the salt flats of Bir Wahed. Siwa’s serene beauty and unique culture offer a glimpse into a world apart from Egypt’s bustling cities.
Egypt is a land of contrasts and captivating beauty, where temples and tombs tell stories of ancient dynasties, and the taste of local cuisine lingers on the palate. From the timeless wonders of Luxor and the temples of Abu Simbel to the bustling markets of Cairo and the serene Siwa Oasis, Egypt’s rich cultural landscape invites you to delve deeper into its mysteries and treasures. Every moment in this enchanting land is an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Travel plans can disrupt your fitness routine. If you let that happen, it might take a while for you to return to your normal fitness routine, even after your trip is over. Although you can’t follow your daily fitness routine exactly on the days you travel, you can make some modifications and keep making progress toward your fitness goals.
Exercising during your travels can actually be beneficial for combatting travel-related aches and strains, fatigue, and jet lag. You will, most likely, be in unfamiliar surroundings, so you will need to use a little bit of creativity to increase your activity levels.
You know what they say “Failing to plan is planning to fail”. Even before you start from home, you should have at least a rough plan for maintaining your fitness. Incorporate these tips and draw a customized fitness plan for yourself:
Select a Fitness-Friendly Hotel
These days, it’s very easy to check out the place where you are planning to stay. Just a quick search online, and you can find out all about the hotels. Select a hotel with exceptional fitness offerings.
If you can’t find a hotel with a gym, or if their timings do not suit your needs, choose a hotel with a gym nearby. You can check out the area around the hotel using online maps. If there is no gym near the hotel, check what other fitness activities are possible in that area.
Check if there’s a cycling track around, a fitness class, or even a park. Some hotels even offer guided fitness tours. Even if you have to spend a little extra on a hotel that can help you maintain your fitness, consider it an investment in your health.
Pack Some Exercise Gear
If you are traveling for work, or if you have a packed itinerary, you may not be able to hit the gym. For such situations, it’s better to carry your portable gym with you. Carry lightweight, small exercise tools in your luggage. The mere presence of these in your luggage will motivate you to work out.
If you have work during the day, you can work out with these in the comfort of your hotel room at night.
These are some of the more popular travel-friendly exercise gear options: Resistance bands, a travel suspension trainer, a jump rope, water-fillable dumbbells, a foam roller, a hand gripper, a yoga mat, and tennis balls.
Perform Bodyweight Exercises
If plan A was the gym, and plan B was the portable exercise gear, this is your no-fail plan C. You may not be able to go to the gym, and you may not be able to carry any exercise equipment, but you always have yourself. Bodyweight exercises depend only on the weight of your body for resistance. Additionally, bodyweight exercises have variations suitable for different fitness levels.
Your workout can be as intense or as light as you like. You can take your workout outdoors, and gain the added benefit of fresh air. Moreover, the scenic landscape will take your workouts (and during and post-workout pics and selfies) to the next level.
Enhance the effects of your workouts with nutritious post-workout supplements. The supplements will provide insurance against the imperfections of your travel diet.
Opt for Active Transportation
When you are on a trip, whether for work or vacation, you will have to move from place to place. Whenever possible, ditch the car or public transport, and try an active mode of transportation to get wherever you want to reach. Try to walk as much as you can when you go sightseeing.
Walking allows you to explore places that you can’t possibly reach through the usual means of transportation. Rent a bike, and join guided cycling tours. If you’re good at skateboarding, you could try that.
During trips, transportation contributes significantly to total sedentary time. If it is necessary to remain seated in a car, or other means of transport for a long time, try safe exercises such as neck stretches, shoulder rolls, seated leg lifts, ankle rotations, and isometric contractions.
Use Your Smart Devices
Your phone, tab, and smartwatch can help you remain on track with your fitness goals even in new places. Use these devices to track your activity levels, monitor your progress, and access fitness resources online. Install special fitness and nutrition apps on your devices to increase your motivation for your fitness goals.
Smart devices make it possible for you to join live fitness classes from anywhere in the world. Or you could follow recorded videos for workouts or guided meditations.
Wrapping Up
Trips do not and should not mean a break from fitness activities. In fact, exercising can improve travel experiences. By exercising, you’ll be more energetic and ready for your adventures. If it’s a work trip, exercising can help relieve stress naturally and boost your mood. You’ll also sleep better, and wake up fresh.
You can also balance your food indulgences with a corresponding increase in activity levels. Exercising can also strengthen your immune system, so you won’t fall sick during your travels. The list of benefits can go on and on. To derive these benefits and more, incorporate exercise into your travel itinerary.
Sunshine, surf, and scenic trails – this Noosa itinerary covers beautiful beaches, breathtaking sights, and the best bites in a grand three-day getaway.
Noosa, set on Queensland’s sunshine coast, is the textbook definition of a resort town. It’s lush, relaxed, and unapologetically beautiful.
A two-hour drive north of Brisbane, Noosa is a suburb of the greater Shire of Noosa. While it’s the top tourist hub, it’s also a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions like posh Noosaville, sunny Sunshine Beach, and the idyllic Peregian Beach.
Noosa Heads draws all kinds of visitors – families with kids, foodies, beach lovers, surfers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone with good taste.
Need something chic? Stroll along Hastings Street, the town’s main shopping and dining belt. This vibrant strip displays an array of top-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, alfresco cafes, beachfront resorts, and luxurious day spas.
But if it’s nature you’re after, Noosa never disappoints. The town is packed with natural beauty.
We mean pristine beaches, enchanting fairy pools, a lush hinterland, and coastal trails that will leave you in awe. And if you’re a surfer (or a fan), Noosa is renowned for its lovely waves.
Ready for a sun-soaked escapade? This three-day Noosa itinerary maps out the perfect way to explore one of Australia’s iconic towns.
Get ready for a gorgeous stay in Noosa!
Why is Three Days Enough in Noosa?
As the relaxation capital of Australia, it’s only right that you explore Noosa unhurried. Three days in Noosa Heads hits the spot.
Even if you spend a day hiking the Noosa National Park, surfing the Noosa Main Beach, and shopping on Hastings Street, you’ll still have enough time to see the Noosa Everglades or cruise the Noosa River.
Plus, an extra day to relax on the peaceful Tea Tree Bay or drive into the Noosa Hinterland.
Noosa’s is tailor-made for a luxurious time-out from the daily hustle and bustle. But it doesn’t mean you can’t have a bit of nature and adventure thrown into the mix.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Day 1
Spend your first day in Noosa Heads and explore Noosa National Park. Then, add a dash of pizzazz to your Noosa itinerary with a stroll or dinner at the iconic Hastings Street.
Rock pools in Noosa National Park
Morning: Noosa National Park
After a hearty breakfast or some coffee to perk you up, waste no time kicking off your morning with a hike at Noosa National Park.
Head to the southern end of the Noosa Main Beach, past the surf club, until you spot the signpost that says ‘first point.’ The concrete footpath leads into the heart of the park.
Noosa National Park covers a protected headland overlooking Laguna Bay and a chain of gorgeous beaches, including Peregian Beach, Little Cove Beach, and Sunshine Beach, all perfect for a morning swim.
The best way to explore this secluded paradise is on foot. The park has an extensive network of hiking trails, but the most popular is the coastal walk.
This Noosa National Park trail is a circuit loop stretching 5.4 km each way for an entire length of 10.8 km. It typically takes four hours to complete. We recommend you take your time and enjoy the lookouts, views, and beaches along the track.
The first lookout on the coastal trail is Boiling Pot, set at the end of a eucalyptus forest on the headland. Continue to Tea Tree Bay, one of the prettiest beaches on the Sunshine Coast.
After Tea Tree Bay, push on to Dolphin Point. This lookout is known for frequent sightings of dolphins and turtles. If you drop by between July and October, you might see some whales swim by.
Follow the track opposite the one going to Dolphin Point, and you’ll find the Fairy Pools. These twin tidal pools, tucked between basalt rocks, lie at the far end of Granite Bay.
The only way to access the pools is by climbing down a rocky path on the side of a cliff face. Be very careful, as the track is narrow and slippery.
The next stop is Hell’s Gate, a craggy bluff looking across the coastline and Alexandria Bay.
The coastal walk ends at patrolled Sunshine Beach. Here, you can cool off with a dip in the ocean. Or, unwind on an outdoor sun lounge while sipping a post-walk cocktail.
If you’re done walking for the day, you can take the local bus (route 620 or 627) to Noosa Heads or Noosa Junction. You can also hike back the same way to complete the loop.
Afternoon: Main Beach or Little Cove Beach
After your long hike at the national park, you might want to sit and relax on the beach.
The buzzing Main Beach is fantastic for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, or people-watching. You can watch beginner and pro surfers catch the waves.
For somewhere quieter, head to Little Cove Beach, about 100 metres east of Main Beach.
Kick back at Noosa Main Beach!
Alternative:
Those who want to continue exploring the national park can hike the other trails. These include Tanglewood Walk, Alexandria Bay Walk, Emu Mountain Walk, and Ocean Beach Walk, which will take you to the breathtaking Peregian Beach.
Evening: Dining/Shopping Hastings Street
Enjoy the balmy Queensland evening with a leisurely walk around Hastings Street, the heart of Noosa Heads.
The iconic Hastings Street is more than just a shopping district; it’s a vibe – whether you’re after something chic and glitzy or casual and beachy.
Hungry? Hastings Street never disappoints with its long list of dining options. Check out Noosa’s iconic beachfront restaurant, Bistro C, which serves modern Australian cuisine. Stay on after dinner for some cold beer or cocktail by the beachfront.
Day two of our Noosa itinerary is for discovering the remarkable Noosa Everglades. An everglade is a swampy grassland. Only two exist in the world, and one of these is in Noosa (the other is in Florida).
Morning: Noosa Everglades
One of the best ways to explore Noosa Everglades is to glide along its glassy waters on a kayak or canoe. You can opt for a self-guided excursion (DIY) or join one of the eco-kayaking tours.
To explore the Noosa Everglades without a guide, head to Boreen Point, a 30-minute drive from Noosa Heads. The village lies on the southern edge of Lake Cootharaba, the gateway to the Everglades.
You can rent a kayak or canoe there. The package also includes a life jacket, safety gear, and a map with instructions.
The Everglades is easy to navigate. But if you want someone with local knowledge to help you find hidden spots and explain the flora and fauna, consider looking for an operator that offers eco-kayaking tours.
The Everglades is 60 km long and spans between the Upper River Noosa and the Great Sandy National Park. It may take the entire morning and a better part of the afternoon to explore the waterway.
Alternative: Noosa Everglades Cruise
Not keen on kayaking the Noosa Everglades? You can enjoy the waterway and its wildlife with a relaxing afternoon cruise.
Late Afternoon: Noosa River
There’s no better way to unwind after a long day of adventure than watching the sun set over the Noosa River. You’ll get lovely sundown views at Gympie Terrace, a bustling riverside green space.
The area has several cafes and restaurants if you want to grab something to eat.
Heading south? Explore the iconic Australian city of Brisbane!
Day 3
The Noosa Hinterland, a region of rolling hills, serene lakes, and picturesque towns, is about 30 minutes inland from Noosa Heads. It’s a favourite destination for scenic drives and culinary tours on the Sunshine Coast.
You can access the hinterlands even without a car. Buses have regular trips there. But it’s crucial to check timetables and carefully manage your time.
Want a hassle-free trip without driving or transferring from one bus to another? Go for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Tour, which combines scenic views, history, and good food.
Morning: Cooroy
Firstly, drop by the Noosa Farmers Market if, by chance, you are in Noosa Heads on a Sunday for breakfast. The market is open from 7:00 am to noon.
After breakfast, start your trip to Cooroy, about 30 minutes from Noosa Heads, by car. Once in Cooroy, you can check out the Butter Factory Arts Centre. This creative hub is free to enter.
Another attraction to visit is the Noosa Botanic Gardens. Perched on the shores of Lake MacDonald, it’s great for a serene stroll.
Getting to Cooroy: Take the bus route 631 from Noosa Heads Station to Cooroy. Travel time is around 40 minutes. The bus departs hourly, but check the timetable for changes.
Trade the beach for the forest in the Noosa Hinterland.
Midday: Pomona
Pomona is the town next to Cooroy. Sprawled across the foot of Mount Cooroora, it’s known as the ‘living heritage town’ of the Sunshine Coast.
That said, the top thing to do in Pomona is to take the Heritage Walk. On this hour-long hike, you’ll see historic landmarks like the old railway, the courthouse, and the Majestic Theatre, the world’s longest-running silent cinema.
End your visit with a tour of the Pomona Distilling Co. and try their signature pink gin. The distillery has a mouthwatering menu, so you might want to enjoy a late lunch there.
Getting to Pomona: Take the bus route 632 from Cooroy Station to Pomona. Travel time is around 10 minutes.
Late Afternoon: Noosa Heads
The rest of the day is at your disposal. You can ride the waves at Little Cove or take surfing lessons on the Noosa Main Beach. If you need to do last-minute shopping, many shops on Hastings Street are open until late.
Return to Noosa Heads: Take the bus route 632 from Station St in Pomona to Noosa Junction. Travel time is 60 minutes.
If you’ve always wanted to try surfing, Noosa is a great place to learn.
Alternative: Dolphin Safari in Noosa Heads
If you prefer the ocean over the mountains, swap the Noosa Hinterland for a dolphin safari around the Noosa Headland and Double Island Point.
Now that you have your Noosa itinerary planned, here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit, how to get around, and where to stay.
When to Visit Noosa
Noosa is a year-round destination with something unique in store, no matter the season.
For milder weather, a smaller crowd, and lower rates, visit Noosa during the shoulder months, September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn).
However, bear in mind March is the wettest month of the year, and some outdoor activities may not push through due to the rains.
December to February is summer, the peak and busiest season in Noosa. It’s sunny, dry, and warm, with temperatures between 27°C and 30°C. Summer comes with larger crowds and higher rates.
In winter, June to August, the average temperature sits around 20°C but may drop to 10°C at night. Winter is the low season, so it’s less crowded and more affordable.
You can use the efficient bus services to get around Noosa Heads and the popular destinations nearby. Translink is Queensland’s primary public transport company and offers regular trips around Noosa.
You can also walk or cycle around town, including Hastings Street, Main Beach, and Little Cove.
Bikes and electronic scooters are available to rent. They’re a fun and sustainable way to explore Noosa and its neighboring suburbs.
If you plan to explore areas beyond Noosa Heads, such as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you can rent a car for convenience and flexibility. You’ll also find taxis and ride-sharing services, but they can be pricey.
If you’re not in a hurry, you can take the Noosa Ferry. It operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making seven stops along the river between the Noosa Marina and the Sofitel Jetty at Hastings Street.
It’s easy to get around Noosa!
Where to Stay in Noosa
Whatever your budget and preference is, Noosa has something to offer. Noosa Heads and Noosaville are two of the best areas to stay in this coastal town.
Noosa Heads is fantastic for visitors seeking to stay in the heart of the action. It also has a broader range of options, including budget-friendly bed-and-breakfasts and high-end hotels. Many accommodations boast easy beach access, perfect for a resort-style getaway.
Noosaville, with its picturesque riverfront setting and relaxed atmosphere, is a pleasant alternative for those who want somewhere with a cozy, residential vibe. It’s also just a short ride from and to Noosa Heads.
Here are some of the top places to stay in Noosa.
Best Hostel in Noosa – Halse Lodge Noosa Heads
Built in the 1880s, Halse Lodge is a heritage-listed two-story hostel in the middle of Noosa Heads.
After a complete renovation, the lodge re-opened in 2024 and now features modern dorms and cozy private suites.
Guests can access a shared kitchen, game room with billiards and ping pong tables, yoga deck, tropical gardens, and evening entertainment.
Best Mid-Range Stay in Noosa – Noosa River Retreat Holiday Apartments
This secluded retreat is perfect for a Noosa long weekend or a quick overnight stay.
Each self-contained apartment features a comfy King or Queen-sized bed, a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living area that opens to a patio or balcony. There’s a lush garden and a heated outdoor pool for relaxation.
The property is an 8-minute walk to the riverfront, where you’ll find a host of cafes, bars, restaurants, and the ferry terminal to Noosa Heads.
Best Luxury Hotel in Noosa – Tingirana Noosa
Nestled between Noosa Beach and Hastings Street, Tingirana guarantees ultimate indulgence with its Hamptons luxury accommodations. From your tastefully decorated apartment, you can gaze into the sandy stretches of Main Beach.
The other amenities include two outdoor swimming pools, a spa and wellness centre, and an onsite restaurant.
DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Russia on:
September 9th to 16th, 2025 (Russian Caucasus) – APPLY NOW
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It’s incredible to see how quickly things have changed when traveling in Russia.
From booking accommodation to accessing the internet or just getting into the country, traveling to Russia is very different from what it used to be like pre-2022.
Russia is a massive country, not only in terms of land, but also in its diversity and complexity. It would be impossible to write down a compelling travel guide in just 3500 words.
However, rather than serving as the ultimate guide to traveling across each region, this Russia travel blog contains all the relevant updated info and recent changes that will help plan your trip to Russia, including how to look for hotels, how to get your visa, how to book domestic flights, and much more.
Until 2022, Russia was a popular destination for travelers, and nobody was ever criticized for traveling there.
Moscow International Airport had connections with pretty much everywhere in the West, embassies across Europe were always packed with travelers trying to secure their visas, and the main language heard in the Hermitage Museum of Saint Petersburg was definitely English.
But today, Western foreigners are a rarity across Russia.
You can still see Asian tourists (mainly groups from China, Malaysia and Iran) in Moscow’s Red Square but the total number of Western tourists I saw after 1 month of traveling across Russia was zero, not a single one.
This made things particularly interesting, especially when meeting English-speaking Russians, who always had plenty of questions on my country’s opinion of Russia.
Red Square in Moscow, the most touristic place in all Russia
What do Russians think about the Ukraine war?
The conflict with Ukraine was on the top of my mind but engaging in local politics with Russian people wasn’t really my objective, since I had traveled to Russia to learn about the country and its cultural diversity.
Obviously, I did speak about the current conflict with a few Russians, but the only thing I’ll say is that most people around the world dislike war.
From Syria to Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, I’ve always been criticised when traveling to certain countries with controversial regimes, and Russia was no exception.
In fact, I don’t think there is any other country in the world which inspires as much rejection as Russia these days.
It’s important to remember that we are travelers, not activists, and that local people can never be blamed for their Government’s actions, whatever those actions might be.
Photo taken in rural Russia. Seriously, do you think these people like Ukraine war
🪪 How to get a visa for Russia
Can you travel to Russia?
Surprisingly, getting a tourist visa for Russia is much easier than it used to be before the war with Ukraine.
In fact, Russian authorities recently introduced the option of applying for an e-visa for visits no longer than 16 days.
Also, most embassies and consulates around the world no longer require an appointment, probably because they aren’t as busy as they used to be.
Here’s what you need to know about how to apply for a Russian tourist visa.
How to apply for an e-visa for Russia
For single-entry visits of up to 16 days, you can apply for a Russian e-visa.
Which countries are eligible for a Russian e-visa?
All EU and Schengen countries, as well as Bahrain, Cambodia, China, Japan, India, Indonesia, Iran, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, North Macedonia, Oman, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Turkey and Vietnam.
How long does it take to get approval?
Around 4 calendar days.
How much does the Russian e-visa cost?
It costs $52.
What’s the e-visa validity?
Once your visa is issued, you have 60 days to enter Russia.
Once you get in, your stay can’t exceed 16 days.
Can I use the e-visa at any entry point?
You can enter Russia via any international airport but with the e-visa, land border crossings are limited.
When should you get an ordinary visa instead of an e-visa?
You plan to travel in Russia for more than 16 days
You need to get a multi-entry visa
Your country is not on the list of countries eligible for an e-visa. This includes the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Visa requirements for Russia
Russia travel tip: I can’t speak for all Russian embassies and consulates, but I do have recent experience of getting one at the Consulate of Barcelona and, from what I heard, all offer a similar experience. Just check your nearest embassy’s website for specific requirements.
Russian visa typical requirements:
Passport
2 passport photos
Valid travel insurance for traveling in Russia. We recommend Alfa Strakhovanie.
Letter of Invitation (you should get this from a local tour operator)
How much does the visa for Russia cost?
Price varies from embassy to embassy but at the Russian Consulate of Barcelona:
Single entry non-urgent visa: €120
Single entry urgent visa: €195
Multi-entry non-urgent visa: €250
Very expensive!
How long does approval take?
In my case, a non-urgent visa took around 2 weeks, while an urgent one takes 2-3 days.
My visa for Russia
✍️ How to sign up for a tour in Russia
Traveling with a group and an expert local guide will make things much easier, and more fun!
In Against the Compass, we have the following expedition scheduled for 2025-2026:
April 12th to 18th, 2025 (Arctic Russia). SOLD OUT
April 21st to 28th, 2025 (Russian Caucasus). SOLD OUT
September 9th to 16th, 2025 (Russian Caucasus). APPLY NOW
September 18th to 24th, 2025 (Arctic Russia). APPLY NOW
November 16th to 22nd, 2025 (Arctic Russia). APPLY NOW
March 31st to April 6th, 2026 (Arctic Russia). APPLY NOW
April 14th to 21st, 2026 (Russian Caucasus). APPLY NOW
🚑 Travel Insurance for Russia
Remember that having valid travel insurance for travel in Russia is a must requirement for getting your visa at the embassy.
Our preferred travel insurance company (IATI Travel Insurance) isn’t covering travel in Russia any longer.
Instead, we recommend Alfa Strakhovanie. It’s a Russian-based insurance company, so they are accepted by the embassies, plus they allow to purchase a policy with a foreign card.
⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Russia?
Many people believe that due to the war with Ukraine, Russia has become an unsafe country.
In fact, if we look at the FCDO advice, the largest country in the world is today considered one giant red zone, meaning that even places like Vladivostok, which are nearly 10,000km from Ukraine, are also unsafe for travel due to the Ukraine war.
Russia travel advice according to the FCDO
They also talk about arbitrary detentions and a lack of available flights to return to Europe.
It’s more than obvious that the different foreign ministries don’t want their citizens traveling to Russia, but I’d also like to give my perspective based on my last visit.
Is Russia safe to visit given the war with Ukraine?
As of today, the war with Ukraine is mainly limited to the border areas, up to the region of Kursk.
Outside of those areas, life in Russia is completely normal, just as usual, and the reason is that Russia is just too big for other parts to be affected by it, from a security perspective.
What about the long-distance missiles that hit Moscow?
In September 2024, Ukraine launched a bunch of long-distance missiles that hit some buildings in the suburbs of Moscow, which resulted in the death of one civilian.
Although I’ve never said that the rest of Russia was 100% safe, but I do want to mention that I was in Moscow when that incident happened, and I only found out about it from the Spanish news.
The authorities closed the airport for a few hours but other than that, life went on as always. You also need to remember that there are more than 13 million people living in Moscow.
No country in the world is free of risk, so it’s up to each traveler to assess how much risk they choose to be exposed to when traveling to a certain region or country.
Are arbitrary detentions a risk in Russia?
Arbitrary detentions don’t affect foreign tourists traveling on a valid tourist visa who stick to tourist sites and don’t get involved in politics.
Lack of flights
You can’t fly out direct to Europe, but you can fly to Baku, Dubai, Istanbul, Cairo and many other places around the world.
Lenin square in Makhachkala. When traveling in Russia, you will see that even the smallest town has a Lenin square
🛫 How to get in Russia
How to fly to Russia
Because of the sanctions, there are no flights operating between Russia and any Western countries, but you can still fly from many cities around the Middle East and Central Asia.
The most popular connections for flying to Russia are:
Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)
Dubai (Emirates and FlyDubai)
But you can also travel to Russia from:
Can you fly to Russiawith Aeroflot, Ural Airlines, S7 or any other Russian airline?
Yes, you can.
These airlines have connections with all the previously mentioned cities.
However, because of the sanctions, you can’t book flights through their website using a foreign card, although it can be done through Aviasales.com, a search engine for flights that allows international card payments.
How to travel to Russia by land border
Russia has endless border crossings with 14 different countries, so it’s impossible to provide up-to-date information on each and every one of them.
However, we can give you a rough idea of what the situation is like in each of the countries that borders Russia:
Norway: The border is open and, due its remoteness, it doesn’t present many issues.
Finland: The border is closed.
Estonia: The border is open but reports suggest it can take over 12 hours to cross.
Latvia: The border is open but reports suggest it can take over 12 hours to cross.
Lithuania: It borders with the enclave of Kaliningrad. Easy to cross, no more than 2 hours.
Poland: It borders with the enclave of Kaliningrad. Easy to cross, no more than 2 hours.
Belarus: As a foreigner, you can’t cross this border because there aren’t any immigration authorities, since Russians and Belorussians are allowed to cross it freely.
Kazakhstan: The longest border in the world. Most entry points are fully functional and don’t present any major issues.
China: They share a border but there isn’t an actual entry point.
Mongolia: Borders are fully operational.
North Korea: On the e-visa portal, I was surprised to read that the electronic visa is valid for entering from North Korea by train at Khasan. If you happen to be in North Korea, perhaps you could be the first traveler to ever exit through Russia.
Do you get a lot of questions when entering Russia?
It’s hard to say, I guess it depends on your entry point.
If you’re entering from Europe (Estonia, for example), you’ll certainly get a lot of questions, plus the whole immigration process is very slow.
If entering via Moscow International Airport, the chances of being questioned are also high, as travel reports suggest.
Nevertheless, be aware that all this questioning is mere procedure, and that nobody I know has been denied their entry into Russia, as long as they were traveling on a valid tourist visa.
I personally entered from Kazakhstan by train. I did get asked a few questions but they were mostly about the 2 visas for Afghanistan stamped on my passport, no big deal.
They also made me fill in and sign a form with Ukraine-related questions, just to make sure that you had no interest in getting involved in their politics.
💰 Money and budget in Russia
In Russia, they use the Russian Ruble and approximately:
1 USD = 85 RUB
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, there’s been a massive inflation and currency fluctuation, but they’ve managed to stabilise it.
Can you use foreign bank cards when backpacking in Russia?
No, absolutely not.
Because of the sanctions, international credit and debit cards can’t be used anywhere in Russia.
Where can you exchange money?
You can exchange your foreign currency at pretty much any bank, easy.
How much does it cost to travel in Russia?
Overall, Russia is cheap as per European standards but it really depends on what you do.
Budget backpackers will be happy to hear that all towns and cities in Russia have an abundance of budget hostels, and that meals are inexpensive.
Long distance trains aren’t super cheap, but you can cover a lot of terrain, plus you save nights in a hotel.
Here are the prices of the most typical things:
Pint of beer: from 300 RUB
Main course at a local restaurant: 400 RUB
Main course at a nicer restaurant: 1000 RUB
Short taxi rides in Moscow: 600 RUB
Short taxi rides in secondary cities: 300 RUB
Overnight train in third class: 2500 RUB
Overnight train in 4-bed compartment: 4000 RUB
Single room in a hotel: from 4500 RUB
Dorm in a hostel: from 600 RUB
Backpacking budget for traveling in Russia: from 40 USD a day
⛅ Best time to visit Russia
Russia can be visited all year around, even during the freezing winter.
Traveling to Russia in winter
Everyone knows that winter in Russia can be cold but it can be adventurous as well.
You would not be the first person to visit the coldest city in the world (Yakutsk) during the month of January or travel across Siberia on the Trans-Siberian.
Northern Siberia can get pretty cold even during sunny summer days
Traveling to Russia in summer
This can be a great time to visit Russia, especially if you plan to visit the Arctic, Lake Baikal or the Caucasus and Altay regions.
Please be aware that many areas of Russia, and that includes Moscow, have a continental climate with very cold winters, but very hot summers.
Summer is a great time to visit Russia if you travel to the Caucasus region
Traveling to Russia in spring and autumn
It’s hard to give an accurate answer on this, it depends on where you go and how early or late in autumn or spring you visit Russia.
🛺 How to get around Russia
How to travel around Russia by train
One of the best experiences when traveling in Russia is boarding a Soviet train. It’s a great way to meet local people and also the only way to comprehend the vast size of this country.
You can go by train to pretty much everywhere in the country.
You won’t be able to book train tickets with a foreign bank card, but the site will help you plan your trip.
How to book a train ticket at the station
Once you know your train schedule, head to the train station and before paying for the ticket, make sure to choose your preferred class:
Lyux – 2-bed compartments. The most expensive.
Kupé – 4-bed compartments. Upper-middle class.
Platzkart – The most common, at its most powerful Soviet style. These wagons don’t have compartments but bunk beds placed all over the wagon.
Obshy – Seats, no beds.
This is platzkart class
How to travel around by taxi
When traveling around Russia, you will have to download Yandex GO, the Russian version of Uber.
You can order a taxi using Yandex GO from virtually anywhere in Russia, even in small towns in the extreme north of Russia, such as Salekhard.
Top Russia travel tip: You can only use Yandex GO with a Russian SIM card, so get one of these upon arrival in Russia.
How to travel around by plane
Domestic flights are a good option for travelers with little time who are interested in visiting different regions of Russia.
You can check flight schedules on Aviasales and book them using a foreign bank card.
How to navigate around Russia
In Russia, Google Maps works fine but Yandex Maps is more detailed and accurate.
In fact, I realized that many businesses such as restaurants were not listed on Google Maps but they were on Yandex.
By the way, due to the war in Ukraine, geolocation isn’t working properly in the center of Moscow.
🏨 Where to stay in Russia: accommodation
Russia is packed with hotels of all types.
From budget hostels to expensive 5-star chains, you will never have any issues trying to find a hotel in Russia.
The problem is more about how to book a hotel in Russia, since popular search engines such as booking.com or hostelworld.com are no longer operating in the country.
Instead, you can search and book hotels through ostrovok.ru, and even book and pay with your foreign card. It is 100% reliable.
💻 Internet in Russia
Wi-Fi and internet speed in Russia
From an internet perspective, Russia is a highly developed country.
There will be good reception pretty much anywhere you go.
Getting a SIM card in Russia
Internet data is ridiculously cheap in Russia.
I paid less than 7 USD for a package that included a SIM card with 50GB of data and unlimited calls.
I bought it at the official store in a mall and all they required was my passport.
You can also get yourself one upon arrival at the airport.
Getting an eSIM for Russia
Some eSIM providers such as HolaFly, GoMoWorld or Alosim offer eSIM for Russia but they are way too expensive compared to the local plans, plus you can’t get a local number, which is absolutely vital to be able to use Yandex GO.
Just get a local SIM instead, it’s super simple.
Restricted websites and apps in Russia
Some restricted websites, services and apps include:
I’ve been using ExpressVPN for years but to my surprise, it wasn’t working in Russia.
NordVPN is my back up VPN, but it also didn’t work.
Instead, I used OpenVPN and it worked well. Some Russians told me they use Planet VPN.
Download and configure your VPN before traveling to Russia because their websites are often blocked as well.
Getting hacked in Russia
It is said that the best hackers in the world are Russian, and that getting hacked is not uncommon here.
I am extremely paranoid about the internet, so my advice is to be very careful about the public Wi-Fi networks you connect to.
Always connect using a VPN and if possible, only connect through your mobile data.
Since data packages are so cheap, I always connected my laptop via my mobile hotspot.
🕌 The people, culture and language in Russia
Cultural diversity in Russia
People tend to think of Russia as one massive Slavic nation but you’ll be amazed to know that Russia is home to 190 recognized ethnic groups, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world.
Caucasian people in Chechenya
While it’s true that many of those ethnicities refer to people from former Soviet countries (like Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Ukraine or Armenia) who for whatever reason moved to the Russian Federation in the past, there are many minorities who are indigenous to a specific region in Russia, such as Tatars, Chechens or Kumyks.
I have personally been to the republics of Dagestan, Chechnya, Ingushetia, North Ossetia and the autonomous region of Yamalia.
Traveling in the different republics of Russia feels like visiting a different country. They have their own rules, religion, habits, food, and culture, and they refer to actual Slavic Russians as if they were from a separate country.
From a traveling perspective, this is Russia’s best asset and the one thing that makes you realize that most travelers have only scratched a tiny bit of the surface of Russia.
Nenet woman, north Siberia
Language in Russia
Russian is the most widely spoken language in Russia, but there are 25 other official languages and over 100 minority languages, all proof of the broad cultural diversity in Russia.
English in Russia
There is a massive language barrier when backpacking in Russia since very few Russians can speak English.
In fact, most people outside of Moscow don’t even understand very basic English words and sentences, such as numbers.
While it’s true that Google Translate and Google Lens have made our life much easier, traveling in Russia is a bit challenging if you don’t know any Russian, so I strongly recommend learning a few basic words.
Also, learn how to read the alphabet. It’s very easy. It took me one day to learn it back in 2018, when I was traveling in Kyrgyzstan.
When it comes to reading food menus, understanding the alphabet is particularly handy.
🍲 Food and drinks in Russia
I don’t want to go into too much detail in this section.
Russia is a developed country so even in small, remote towns, you’ll be able to find decent food options and nice cafés.
Even in the Arctic town of Salekhard – a very small city which until 2021 was impossible to reach by road – there was a sushi restaurant and a German-style bar with a large selection of beers on tap.
Russian caviar. If you want to learn about caviar when you travel in Russia, I recommend going to Astrakahan
You’ll also find modern Russian restaurants all over the country.
Russian cuisine is, of course, very meat-based but all menus will feature different types of soup and salads.
Borscht (beetroot soup), pelmeni (meat dumplings), or varenniki (potato dumplings) are some of the most common dishes.
For breakfast, I really like sirniki, small but thick pancakes made of cottage cheese, usually served with sour cream.
Additionally, there is a vibrant coffee culture in Russia, so you won’t have any problem finding decent coffee anywhere you go.
❗ More helpful information to visit Russia
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
All guides and articles for traveling in Russia destination
