Basque Country, in case you haven't heard, isn't like the rest of Spain.

Proudly perched on the northern Atlantic coast, near the border of France, the fabled region – locally known as Euskadi or País Vasco (‘the land of Basque Speakers’) – has its own language, its own culinary traditions and a distinctive geographic and cultural landscape.

With COVID-19 travel restrictions from the US to Spain recently eased, Basque Country brims with an eager and warm welcome back. Make sure to read up on the latest COVID-19 travel guidelines on Spain's Ministry of Health’s website here prior to booking your trip.

Once you're all clear, here's a guide to get started with the best of the Basque, from fairytale villages to modern architectural wonders and so much more. Here are our 10 favorite reasons to visit Basque Country now.

San Sebastián, the best place in the world to eat

You shouldn’t need extra motivation to visit San Sebastián – the impossibly lovely seaside metropolis is widely considered one of the best places to eat in the world.

This designation brings with it a packed calendar of events that enlivens the city throughout the year, from a human rights festival each April to the famous film festival in September that attracts Hollywood stars to a Jazz festival in the warm summer month of July.  Explore the city and its cultural offerings on two wheels: the bicycle is one of the city's favorite modes of transportation.

World-class wining and dining

It's estimated that Basque people spend more than twice as much of their disposable income on food as people do in the United States. Step into any bar and look at the lavish spread of pintxos (small snacks) and you'll understand why. The region's cuisine, built around authentic and local products like grilled lamb, cured meats, salt cod, sheep's and goat's cheese, piquillo peppers, artichokes and fresh anchovies, to name a few, is rightfully world-famous.

You can swing high or low: Basque Country is home to the second-most Michelin star-restaurants per capita, but you'll be just as happy sampling finger food and sipping Basque cider or txakoli, a sparkling white wine typically served as an aperitif, at a bustling corner bar that's been run by the same family for generations.

The spellbinding curves of the Guggenheim Bilbao

Gleaming and otherworldly, the Guggenheim Bilbao is more than an art museum: it’s a modern architectural landmark, a stylized ode to the city’s shipbuilding past and an unmistakable emblem of Bilbao itself. When Frank Gehry's masterpiece opened in 1997 – on the banks of the Rio Nervión, in a derelict and highly polluted area that was previously an industrial wasteland – it was a symbol of revitalization and the dawn of a new era for the city. Stroll along the riverfront promenade for spectacular views of the museum's sculptural exterior.

A road trip that winds the clifftops of the coast

To experience the enchantment of the Basque coastline, you'll want to rent a car and explore the dramatic clifftop landscape at your own pace. Take the scenic route from Bilbao to San Sebastián; this unforgettable road trip leads you through a string of traditional fishing villages with names you'll struggle to pronounce, from tiny Elantxobe to drop-dead gorgeous Lekeitio to Getaria, the hometown of the fashion designer Cristobal Balenciaga (there's a great museum dedicated to his oeuvre). All of the towns along this stretch feature great pintxo bars and quiet medieval streets that invite a leisurely wander.

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Basque Country's truly unique identity

If you follow the news, you know that Basque nationalism is a point of controversy in Spain. But that regional pride could be read as an expression of cultural independence: though mystery surrounds the topic, confounding anthropologists and archeologists, Basque people are believed to be descendants of the original human inhabitants of the European continent. Their culture is characterized by thoroughly unique traditions, including Euskara, the Basque language. It predates the Romans and it bears no relation to languages spoken elsewhere in Europe.

Travelers will hear Euskara spoken throughout Basque country, and see the language – with its own alphabet and dedicated typeface – printed everywhere from the train station schedule to newspapers and cafe menus. Luckily, most words are also printed in a language that's much easier to decipher – Spanish.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe's s tairway to heaven

It's a small journey, getting to the ninth-century religious site of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe – a zigzag walk down a steep hill, passage across the Bay of Biscay via a picturesque stone footbridge, and a hike up 241 steps, to be exact. But the views from the top of the island make the effort worthwhile.

Gaztelugatxe derives from the Basque gaztelu (castle) and aitz (rock or crag). Even though the original hilltop church, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, was demolished and rebuilt, ‘castle rock’ remains an apt description of this quintessentially Basque landmark.

Take in sweeping views of the dramatic coastline and the crashing waves below, and keep your eye out for Basque fishermen making the pilgrimage along with the tourists: it's a local tradition to hike to the church and ask for the saint's blessing for a bountiful season ahead.

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The storied, cobblestone streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz

The Basque capital doesn't see as many international visitors as Bilbao or San Sebastián – all the more reason to spend a few days exploring the cobblestone streets and pintxo bars of pretty Vitoria-Gasteiz. Highlights include the postcard-perfect historic center, considered the best-preserved medieval center in Basque Country, and the 13th-century Cathedral Santa María, a Gothic landmark perched at the summit of the old town.

Gernika's historical relevance

Even if your knowledge of art is limited, you've likely seen Guernica , Pablo Picasso's powerful mural depicting the violence and chaos of war. It's widely thought to be a response to the 1937 bombing of Gernika, a Basque village, during the Spanish Civil War. Today, you can visit the site yourself, stopping into the excellent Museo de la Paz de Gernika for an overview of wartime events and the town's significance in the greater context of Basque culture.

The chance to 'hang ten' at Mundaka

The waves at Mundaka, on Basque Country's central coast, have long been regarded as the best waves in all of Europe. The natural geography – a sandbar formed by an estuary – forms fast, hollow waves that some surfers have called the finest in the world. If you're not up to the challenge, watch the spectacle from the town's harbor walls.

The full-bodied wines of the region

You'll see the names of Basque Country's premiere wine-growing centers – Samaniego, Laguardia, Elciego, Labastida – scrawled on chalkboards at bars and cafes all over the region. Sample a Tempranillo or two before heading into the Rioja Alavesa wine region to see how they're made. Of particular interest are the stunning medieval city of Laguardia and the wineries around it, including Bodegas Ysios and its futuristic ‘temple dedicated to wine’ by Santiago Calatrava.

Can't get enough of that seductive pairing of fine wine and modern architecture? Don't miss the Bodegas Marqués de Riscal in Elciego, specializing in full-bodied reds produced from the old vines, and its whimsical Frank Gehry-designed hotel.

This article was originally published on August 20, 2019.

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It’s easy to spend some serious cash in Gatlinburg; the city that serves as the “Gateway to the Smokies” is populated with amusement parks and museums and dotted with souvenir shops and enticing restaurants. But the Tennessee town’s raison d’etre is its proximity to the 500,000 acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which – much to the delight of penny-pinching vacationers – is free to explore.

Whether you want to grab a backpack, a tent, and spend your low-cost holiday in the woods or you’re drawn to the lights and sights of downtown Gatlinburg, there’s a wallet-friendly option (or two) here for every type of traveler. Here’s our pick of the best free things to do in and around the city.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

This popular 5.5-mile one-way, driving trail is a free and accessible way to see the Smokies (provided you have your own car). You’ll slowly – due to the speed limit and the winding nature of the road – make your way around this paved loop road, which is, somewhat ironically, named after a fast-flowing mountain stream that curves through this part of the Smoky Mountains.

Throughout your drive you’ll have opportunities to pull over to take hikes, such as the 5.4-mile trail to Rainbow Falls and back. If you head to this waterfall on a sunny day you’ll see the rainbows in the water that give its name. The hike to Grotto Falls is short, about 2.6 miles in total, but just as pretty.

As long as water levels are high enough, you can also catch waterfall action at Place of a Thousand Drips, near the end of the loop. There’s an opportunity to appreciate the scenery from a nearby overlook or even from the car itself.

Ely’s Mill

Located at the end of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Ely’s Mill offers a peek at what agricultural life was like for those who lived in these mountains long ago. Built in 1925, it is still run by the family of its original owner, Old Man Ely, an attorney who constructed this place after his wife died and he wanted to flee city life.

A few small buildings are scattered throughout the site. Park in the ample lot, and wander. First up, you’ll see the old mill. It’s not currently working, but hopes are to restore the waterwheel in the future, and even if it isn’t turning, its picturesque setting in the creek is worth seeing. Most popular is the shop in the old mill building, stocked with locally made crafts.

Outbuildings house blacksmithing and other demonstrations, plus bathrooms, which may be a welcome amenity if you have spent a lot of time in the woods. If you want to delve deeper into the history of Ely’s Mill, book one of the cabins where you can spend the night.

Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill

Technically over the North Carolina border, about 30 miles from Gatlinburg inside Smoky Mountain National Park, Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill are a collection of buildings from this region, some of which are more than 100 years old.

Stroll down the walking trails, check out an apple orchard, smokehouse, and more. As is the case in much of the Smokies, there’s a chance to spot wildlife here, including elk, salamanders and black bears.

Cades Cove

Another popular stop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile, one-way driving route. Historically, Cherokee and other Native Americans used Cades Cove as a way to traverse through the area to hunt deer, elk, and other wildlife long before it became a national park.

In the 1820s white farmers established a settler community in Cades Cove. At its peak, nearly 700 people lived here, and it supported a post office, schools, and more. Today, visitors come to see the heritage homesteads from this period, as well as to spot black bears, which are prominent in the area. You’re also likely to see wild turkeys, rabbits, river otters, elk and woodchucks.

While it is best known as a driving loop, each Wednesday and Saturday morning between May and September the route is closed to cars so you can bicycle or walk (rental bikes are available). The visitor center is around the midpoint of the driving loop.

Parkway

The Parkway is the main thoroughfare through Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge. In downtown Gatlinburg, between Traffic Light 1 and Traffic Light 10 (about three miles long), the road is a walkable route that’s perfect for taking in the town’s charms.

Along the way you’ll stroll through shops, including the charming Village, which has fountains and landscaped grounds, walk past restaurants, neon attractions, and candy and fudge stalls. Officially this route is called U.S. Highway 441, but everyone calls it The Parkway.

Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community

Basket-making, weaving, ceramics and other arts are part of the mountain traditions in the Smokies. Meet the artists making these works and see their handiwork when you visit their studios and galleries in the Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community. The 8-mile loop road is accessible by car, or you can take the free Gatlinburg Trolley.

While there are more than 100 artists who work along the loop, the vibe is more secluded than congested. Some studios are together in collectives; others are in freestanding buildings. Check individual artists’ schedules for classes and workshops.

Gatlinburg Trolley

The combination of Gatlinburg’s popularity and its remote location means that many people who visit this mountain getaway do so by car which creates traffic back ups on the narrow mountain roads.

Fortunately, there’s a free alternative to sitting in your car. The Gatlinburg Trolley whisks passengers around town on three different routes (blue, purple, and yellow), covering downtown and the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. Consider it a free tour of the city, undertaken from the comfort of one of the city's 20 atmospheric trolley cars.

Distilleries

Gatlinburg is home to a few moonshine-makers and wineries. Their outposts are far more commercial than the romantic notion of “moonshine shacks”, hidden away in the mountains, you might have in your head, but if a tasting of moonshine or wine is your thing, there are several free or low-cost options for a sample. Try Sugarland Cellars or the huge Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, one of the most popular moonshine distilleries in the country, to get started.

City Parks

Gatlinburg has three city parks – Mynatt Park, Mills Park, and Herbert Holt Park. Each has its own amenities, including a Storywalk Trail and disc golf at Mills, and fishing for kids at Herbert Holt. But they all share a few things: the topography of the Smokies with scenic views and lush, green landscapes; fewer crowds than you’ll find in the national park; and all three are free. Kids don’t even need a fishing license to cast a line.

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The US government has moved forward with plans to make COVID-19 booster shots available to Americans by approving additional Pfizer jabs for people over 65, and those considered high-risk. For now, boosters are not recommended for anyone beyond the most vulnerable category—but if this trend continues, is it likely people will need to review their vaccines before planning any overseas trips?

From today, Americans aged 65 or over who received their final dose of a vaccine six months ago will be eligible to receive a third shot of the Pfizer vaccine, amid fears of waning immunity and the Delta-driven surge. Those aged between 18 and 64 who are considered "high-risk for severe illness or exposure to COVID-19" can also receive a third shot following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the Pfizer vaccine as a single-dose booster shot.

It's part of a national booster shot program that could eventually be rolled out to the wider population, though details have yet to be finalized. Dr. Janet Woodcock, the acting FDA commissioner, said"as we learn more about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, including the use of a booster dose, we will continue to evaluate the rapidly changing science and keep the public informed."

Read more: Unvaccinated Americans to face stricter entry rules under new US travel policy

If booster shots become the standard, will indviduals need to regularly update their vaccine credentials before travel? Here's what the situation looks like so far.

Vaccine deadlines for travelers

A similar roll-out is being implemented in Europe, and it particularly affects travelers. Last month, Croatia became the first country in the EU to add an expiry date to vaccine passports in line with when the holder was inoculated. According to the government, travelers will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Croatia if more than 270 days (nine months) have passed since their last dose of an approved vaccine. Austria also placed a 270 day maximum validity period on their vaccination certificates for travelers.

If this trend continues, it's possible that travelers will need to stay up-to-date with their vaccines before planning any international trips. "There are currently recommendations for regular boosters for many vaccines, particularly for international travelers, including influenza, hepatitis A, yellow fever, typhoid, etc.," Dr. Bob Bollinger, a professor of infectious diseases at the John Hopkins University School of Medicine, tells Lonely Planet. "Since travelers already should review their vaccinations prior to their overseas trips and get boosters as needed, it would not be a major issue to add COVID-19 vaccines to the list."

Seasonal shots

In the UK, the government is expected to implement a booster campaign in early October following recent recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. "Introducing a booster programme will help to prolong protection in those most at risk from this virus and reduce hospitalisations as we head into colder weather and what will be a challenging period for our health service," Health Minister Robin Swann said in a statement.

With yet another national booster shot campaign receiving the green-light, is it possible that we could see these vaccines continually administered on a seasonal basis, particularly as more COVID-19 strains emerge? According to Dr. Bollinger, we'll have to wait and see. That's because there's still much uncertainty about the need for boosters, and how often they might be required. "It is certainly possible that boosters will be needed periodically for COVID-19. But we don’t yet know how frequently boosters might be needed. We also don’t yet know if, like flu vaccinations, we might need booster vaccinations that are periodically modified to protect against new SARS-CoV-2 strains," he explains.

In the meantime, if you're planning to travel and are concerned your destination may no longer consider you to be fully vaccinated, check the local embassy or tourist board website for information on entry requirements. There may be alternative solutions such as the option to present a negative COVID-19 test result instead.

It's worth noting that while some nations are planning to administer third shots to their populations, the World Health Organization (WHO) fears that it comes at the expense of millions of people around the world who have yet to receive a single dose of a vaccine for protection. "We're planning to hand out extra life jackets to people who already have life jackets, while we’re leaving other people to drown without a single life jacket," Dr. Mike Ryan, director of the WHO's emergency programme, told reporters in August.

This article was first published on August 19 and updated on September 23, 2021.

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With an arresting green coastal route, UnescoWorld Heritage-listed natural wonders and cities rich with history, both ancient and modern, Northern Ireland will have you thinking you’ve dropped into a mythical otherworld.

In some ways, it’s true because Northern Ireland is the backdrop for many of your favorite TV shows and films like Dracula Untold, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, The Fall, Vikings and of course Game of Thrones. Although it’s a small country, it is packed with exceptional places to see and cool things to do. If you want to learn more about political history, visit film sets, or spend your days in nature, Northern Ireland has you covered.

Visit Game of Thrones filming locations

Although the series may be over, you can still pretend to be in the world of Westeros as Northern Ireland was a key filming location for Game of Thrones. There are multiple sites around the region to visit today, including the 400-million-year-old Cushendun Caves, seen in both Seasons 2 and 8. One of the most popular Game of Thrones filming locations is the haunting tunnel of the Dark Hedges, which doubled as the road to King’s Landing. Ballintoy Harbour may be familiar as the port of Pyke in the Iron Islands. And you can’t forget Castle Ward in County Down that was the backdrop for Winterfell. A Game of Thrones studio tour is also set to open in the not too distant future in Banbridge.

Test your vertigo on Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Located just a stone's throw away from the famous Giants Causeway is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This 300-year-old rope bridge was first erected by fishermen to connect the island of Carrickarede and the mainland of County Antrim. The bridge may be old, but it is safe to cross, though it might not be for the faint of heart: it’s only 20 meters wide and 30 meters above the rocks and ocean below. Yes, it also sways and bounces in the wind. But putting fear aside, those who dare to cross will be rewarded with not only a thrill, but also a striking view of the Causeway Coastal Route.

Meet myths and legends at the Giant's Causeway

Equally exhilarating when cloaked in mist as when bathed in sunshine, this spectacular rock formation is a Unesco World Heritage site and one of Ireland's most atmospheric landscape features. Uneven stacks of tightly-packed hexagonal columns stand in neat clusters along the water’s edge, forming a causeway that inspired local legends that the stones were put in place by a giant. If you can, try to visit midweek or out of season to experience it at its most evocative. Sunset in spring or autumn is the best time for photographs. A state-of-the-art ecofriendly building houses the visitor centre here, half-hidden in the hillside above the sea.

Take afternoon tea at Glenarm Castle

If you’re keen to learn about the history of one of Northern Ireland’s most historic family homes, then Glenarm Castle & Walled Garden is right up your alley. Built in 1860, Glenarm Castle is the ancestral home of the McDonnell family to this day. Take a tour of this fantastic castle and catch sight of some treasures on display from the La Girona shipwreck. Then take a walk around the Walled Garden to smell the earthy herbs or delight in the explosion of reds, oranges and pinks found in the blooms here. Afterward, chill at the tearoom for a little food and coffee and perhaps take some edible souvenirs home with you.

Try the whiskey at Bushmills Distillery

A trip to Northern Ireland really would not be complete without a pit stop to the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest legal distillery, established in 1608. Learn about the ins and outs of Irish whiskey including the meaning of the ‘angel's share’. Of course, you end the tour with a tasting session, sipping on a few samples of their premium whiskeys.

Climb heavenly stairs

Part of the Unesco Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is one astoundingly beautiful hike in Enniskillen. Nicknamed ‘the stairway to heaven’, the construction protects the land while affording great views. The 1.6km (1 mile) route weaves across the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland and the Cuilcagh Mountain. While the climb may be steep, awaiting those who reach the top is a summit plateau with a spectacular 360-degree view of Lough Erne and the surrounding countryside of Cavan and Donegal.

Walk through centuries of history at Carrickfergus Castle

Just outside Belfast is Carrickfergus Castle, Northern Ireland’s most famous castle. This imposing castle that was built over 800 years ago by the Normans was besieged by the Scots, Irish, English, and French and had a military role until 1928. One for history buffs, it’s also the best-preserved medieval castle in Ireland that's open to the public with fascinating exhibitions on display throughout the castle.

Take a black taxi tour of Belfast

As the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast can easily be explored in a day or two. It was once a focal point of violence during The Troubles so taking a black taxi tour is a great way to learn more about the complex history. These well-informed drivers will take you to key locations such as the art murals and Peace Wall. After taking in the tour's history, you might need to grab a pint and maybe catch a music session at one of Belfast's cosy pubs. Not to be missed before you leave the city, Titanic Belfast is a striking maritime landmark where guests can take a self-guided tour about the impressive but doomed ocean liner.

Witness the murals of Derry

Derry is Northern Ireland’s second-largest city and Ireland’s only completely intact historic Walled City, built in the 17th century. Just like Belfast, this city has a long history with The Troubles. One spot that can’t be missed is the historical landmark of Free Derry Corner in the Bogside neighborhood, a nationalist area. While you’re there, check out the murals of the People’s Gallery and the Bloody Sunday Memorial to understand how the decades-long Northern Ireland conflict affected the city and its inhabitants, and does so to this day.

Get lost in the Peace Maze

For those who want to travel off-the-beaten-path, plan a trip to the Peace Maze in Castlewellan Forest Park. Comprising of 6,000 yew trees, it was turned into the world’s largest permanent hedge maze, representing peace for Northern Ireland and hope for the future. Go around twist and turns to get to the middle of the maze and once you succeed, ring a victory bell and celebrate your triumph.

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Unvaccinated Americans will be subject to stricter entry rules when arriving to the United States from an international location when the new travel policy is implemented from November.

As announced by the White House on Monday, the US will introduce a new international travel policy beginning in early November. The new policy allows all adult foreign visitors to travel to the US provided they demonstrate proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 and present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than three days before boarding their US-bound flight.

Read more: What you need to know about traveling to the US when restrictions are lifted from November

This rule applies to returning US citizens and permanent residents. However, border protocols will be stricter for unvaccinated citizens and residents. A spokesperson for the Department of State confirmed to Lonely Planet that these passengers will be required to provide proof of a negative test taken within one day prior to boarding their flight, rather than three, and must provide proof that they have purchased a viral COVID-19 test to be taken after arrival.

"The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will continue to strongly recommend against air travel by US citizens and [permanent residents] who are not fully vaccinated," the spokesperson added.

Under the new travel policy, unvaccinated adult foreign visitors will not be permitted to travel to the US, regardless of where they are coming from, though this ban won't apply to children who are not eligible for the vaccine.

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In Monday's White House press briefing, press secretary Jen Psaki, said the CDC will issue a contact tracing system that will require airlines to collect "comprehensive contact information" from every inbound passengers so that they can follow up with anyone who has been exposed to COVID-19 on their flight. However, the government has yet to confirm if it will go ahead. The CDC still must issue a formal order that will provide details on the new travel policy and the exact date on when it will begin.

In the meantime, all potential US-bound passengers, including visa applicants, can check for travel updates on the Department of State's website.

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“ Iceland is too expensive to visit on a budget” is right up there with “Don’t eat the street food – it will make you ill” as one of the great myths of travel – and it could lead you to miss out on some amazing experiences.

True, Iceland can be eye-wateringly pricey, but with some planning it is possible to visit The Land of Fire and Ice without spending a fortune. Here’s how to make it happen.

Sights

In Iceland, horizons are dotted with volcanic peaks, gushing waterfalls spring from every crevice and beautiful coastlines seem to lurk around every bend in the road. Despite discussions over the years on introducing a nature pass system, which would mean some of the country’s natural sites would command a (small) fee from visitors, this spectacular scenery remains mostly free to explore.

However, parking fees are charged at some sites. The fee varies but is often around Ikr750 (US$6) per day for a regular private car and is used to help fund maintenance of facilities such as walking paths, rest rooms, parking lots and service centers. Some places have introduced a fee – up to Ikr200 (US$1.50) – for restroom use.

Many of the country’s big-name sights are easily accessed from the Ring Road, which circles Iceland. Along the south coast, showstoppers include incredible waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the falls, and Skógafoss, where rainbows arc through the spray in sunshine. Other attractions include the dramatic black beach at Reynisfjara near Vík, the massive Vatnajökull ice cap and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where glistening icebergs journey out to sea, occasionally resting along the black sand beach – dubbed Diamond Beach in English – on the way.

The most popular day trip from the capital, Reykjavík, is to the Golden Circle. It's home to the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, the geyser after which all others are named, and Þingvellir, the site of the world’s first parliament.

Reykjavík itself is an enjoyable city to explore, and some attractions are free to enter, including the must-see Hallgrímskirkja church (though there is a charge of Ikr1000 (US$8) to go to the top for views across the city and its rooftops). The iconic Harpa concert hall, the city’s cultural hub, is also worth a visit even if you’re not shelling out for a performance. City Walk Reykjavik, meanwhile, offers popular guided walking tours of the city, with a pay what you like policy. When getting around the capital, save money by walking, taking the public bus Strætó or hiring a bike (for city cycling check out Donkey Republic ’s day deals).

Activities

From relaxing in the famous Blue Lagoon to high-octane experiences such as snowmobiling, glacier hiking and descending into a volcano, Iceland offers incredible activities. Some can be undertaken independently, although you should prepare carefully as Iceland’s natural environment is both wild and fragile. Tour companies offer a spectrum of activities, some taking in the sights mentioned above, but trips don’t come cheap, so pick one or two which you really want to try, and focus on finding the best experience for your money.

If you want to go whale watching, for example, you should do some research into the best locations around the country and compare tour prices. But it’s also worth checking the conditions and optimum times for spotting whales – if it’s not a good time of year to view them you may want to save your pennies and opt for a different activity.

Also consider alternatives. Glacier hiking trips from the likes of Skaftafell in the southeast of the country may well be out of your budget, but walking along the edge of the glacier gives you fantastic views without the cost. Likewise, while the Blue Lagoon (from Ikr6990 (US$54) in low season and Ikr8990 (US$69) in high season) isn't budget-friendly, you can soak in one of the country’s less famous geothermal hot spots for a fraction of the price.

Transport

You can get around Iceland by car or bus, with a tour company or via internal flights. In summer, as long as you’re careful to stay off mountain roads, a 2WD hire car can open up much of the country, and roads are generally easy to navigate. However, with prices starting at Ikr16,000 (US$123) a day in high season (if booked a good way in advance) and fuel costing in the region of Ikr240 (US$1.85) per liter, having your own wheels doesn’t necessarily come cheap, so price up the alternatives.

How to save money on travel:

• Avoid airport taxis. Keflavík International Airport is 50km from Reykjavík. If you’re not hiring a car, opt for one of the airport bus services, which offer a regular service from Ikr3300 (US$25). For larger groups, ordering a large taxi might work out cheaper. The public bus Strætó also offers a service several times a day. It takes around 30 minutes longer but costs Ikr2000 (US$15).
• In high season, book your hire car well in advance. Better yet, travel outside of the high season for discounted rates.
• Compare tour prices for the area you’re looking to explore with the cost of hiring a car for the day. If you have a few friends with you, a car could be the most affordable option for taking in a route such as the Golden Circle, as well as giving you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
• Take the bus. Strætó runs bus services within the capital and to towns around the country. Reykjavík Excursions offers a bus pass to the Highlands during the summer – though check timetables as some services run infrequently. Again, compare with the cost of hiring a car, which could work out cheaper than the bus if you are travelling with two or more people.
• Hitching is never entirely safe, and we don’t recommend it, but some people do hitch-hike in Iceland. You will need plenty of patience and weatherproof clothes. Alternatively, check the carpooling website samferda.is to organize a lift in advance. It’s generally expected that you’ll pay towards the cost of fuel.

Accommodation

Even basic accommodation in Iceland isn’t cheap. Though traveling outside of peak season, from June through August, means accommodation prices will usually be significantly cheaper.

How to save money on accommodation:

• Book early, particularly in peak season. In some popular parts of the country, such as the route between Vík and Jökulsárlón, accommodation options are limited.
• Bring a sleeping bag. A few places offer beds without a duvet or blanket for a cheaper price.
• Join Hostelling International before your trip to get a discount on most hostel stays.
• Camping is not only the cheapest option, but also offers the opportunity to wake up in some of the country’s most incredible locations such as in the shadow of Skógafoss waterfall. If you’re traveling as a family, or visiting Iceland for a longer period, check out the Camping Card, which gives 28-nights access to camping spots all around the country, and may work out cheaper.

Food and drink

Food and drink can eat away at your budget, but there are some simple ways to reduce costs.

How to save money on food and drink:

• Opt for accommodation with kitchen facilitation and buy supplies at the cheaper supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan and pack a lunch for on the road.
• Bring a reusable bottle and drink tap water! Iceland has some of the purest water of any country on earth.
• Buy alcohol at the airport, where it’s tax- and duty-free, making it significantly cheaper than in shops and bars.
• Keep your eyes peeled for happy hours in Reykjavík. The Reykjavík Appy Hour app can help with this.

Getting there

Book your flights to Keflavík International Airport well ahead of travelling, flying where possible outside of the summer high season. Avoid weekends and keep your eyes peeled for offers from budget airlines. If you’re travelling between North America and Europe, opt for a flight which allows a few days stopover in Iceland at no extra cost.

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This article was first published on the 1st of May, 2015.

How to travel in Iceland on a budget

Flanked by the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville is an enthusiastic cheerleader for some of the country’s most popular national parks. But the city doesn't ignore green spaces within its own boundaries.

It just adjusts the focus, celebrating art, architecture, music, culture and community as well as the great outdoors.

Pack Square Park

Anchoring downtown, Pack Square is the best place to kick off your visit. And even if you don’t start here, it’s likely you’ll stop by at some point for live music, public art or a moment of relaxation on its green lawn. The Asheville Urban Trail, which delves into the city’s history at 30 sculpture stations, begins beside the park. Most Saturday nights in summer, Pack Square hosts Shindig on the Green, a free celebration of Southern Appalachian culture – it’s a fiddle-and-banjo-with-dancing kind of night. Kids can cool off underwater jets on the Splasheville splash pad, which was revamped in 2021. There is a visitor center in the park pavilion (9am-5pm).

Step up to the Oculus, a 15ft window inside the newly renovated Asheville Art Museum, for a dramatic, high-elevation view of the Pack Square. The Friday night drum circle is a few blocks away at smaller Pritchard Park.

Carrier Park

To exercise in a pretty location not far from downtown, make your way to 32-acre Carrier Park, which sits on the north bank of the French Broad River in West Asheville. Interpretive trails navigate the wetlands here and provide access to the multi-use French Broad River Greenway, which swoops past public art and independent businesses as it rolls east from Hominy Creek River Park to Carrier Park and French Broad River & Dog Park.

Cyclists can drop onto the velodrome – dubbed the "mellowdrome" – for a smooth ride while families can let their kids run wild in the large playground here. The playground is in the center of the velodrome track and is reached by a wheelchair-accessible sky bridge. There are also volleyball and basketball courts at the park.

Richmond Hill Park

A new bike skills trail rips through the forest in Richmond Hill Park, which overlooks the French Broad River. Completed in 2021, the trail serves up 15 obstacles, including a rock pile, a stump ride and log pile rollers. Catering to beginner and intermediate riders, as well as families, the bike skills area was a joint effort between the city and the Pisgah Area Southern Off-Road Biking Association (SORBA).

In addition to the new skills trail, the 180-acre park has 5-miles of biking trails, described as “tight and twisty” by MTBikeWNC.com. The bike trails are open to hikers. The park also has a disc golf course. Richmond Hill is four miles northwest of downtown.

Peace Gardens & Market

Located in Asheville’s oldest historically Black neighborhood, these urban gardens support education, peace, community building and the power of art. Co-created by DeWayne Burton and Safi Martin in response to the War on Drugs and the second war in Iraq, the community-supported gardens are chock-full of sculptures, portraits and found-art installations.

You’ll also find meditation areas, a store and a farmstand. Produce from the gardens is delivered to neighborhood elders and used for jams, jellies and salsas. The volunteer-run gardens are open from dawn until dusk daily, with garden workdays on Saturdays (10am-noon). Check the Peace Gardens & Market Facebook page for farmstand hours and live music events.

French Broad River & Dog Park

If you’re traveling with your dog, don’t miss this riverside park in West Asheville. The off-leash dog park is fenced, with separate sections for large and small dogs. You'll also find a playground, picnic tables, riverside overlooks and lots of trees for shade. Follow the greenway west along the French Broad River to Carrier Park.

Western North Carolina (WNC) Nature Center

Sixty animal species that have lived in or roamed the Southern Appalachians now call the WNC Nature Center home. Many have been injured, some are endangered and others are unable to live safely in the wild. Residents include black bears, American red wolves, river otters and hellbender salamanders. Check the schedule as you enter for information about daily animal programs. Learn about wolves – and howl at the moon – during the popular Wolf Howl evenings, which sell out a month ahead. There is an admission fee (adult/child $13.95/9.95).

North Carolina Arboretum

Themed gardens embrace Southern Appalachian culture in this acclaimed arboretum 10 miles south of downtown. The arboretum isn't a city park, but it does sit within an experimental research forest carved out of the greater Pisgah National Forest. The Heritage Garden showcases plants used for Appalachian craft-making while quilt-style block patterns – made of blooming flowers – look cozy in the Quilt Garden. The Bonsai Exhibition Garden, with its miniaturized trees, is an unexpected treasure. Hiking and biking trails also meander across the 434-acre grounds.

The arboretum was the brainchild of famed landscape architect Frederick Olmsted, who designed the grounds of the neighboring Biltmore Estate. Olmsted died before the arboretum could be constructed, but the North Carolina state legislature completed his vision decades later with the creation and establishment of the arboretum as an affiliate of the state’s university system. Admission is free, but parking is $16. You can access the arboretum from the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 393.6.

Foundation Skate Park

Just steps off the Wilma Dykeman Greenway but hidden by graffiti-covered warehouses, this gritty skate park is a local treasure, drawing in-the-know skaters from far and wide. Open to the public and free, this non-profit park sprawls across the foundation of a demolished building on Foundy St in the River Arts District. Watch the skaters – or join them – then wander galleries, studios and shops on Foundy Street. 12 Bones Smokehouse, Wedge Brewing, a local theater, a coffee shop and the indoor RAD skatepark are also nearby.

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Bangkok has freebies galore. From golden temples, vast open-air markets and collections of counterfeit goods to meditation sessions, puppet shows and the most famous backpacker strip in the world, it’ll keep you entertained for months. These are the best free things to do in the city.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Among the largest open-air markets in the world, Chatuchak is a simply unforgettable Bangkok experience, even if you don’t plan on buying anything. Free to get in, there are more 15,000 stalls to explore across 27 sections, selling everything from used vintage trainers to live frogs. Plan to spend a full day here, as there’s plenty to see and do, but arrive around 10am to beat the crowds and the heat.

Papaya

Technically, many of the objects in this four-story antique store are for sale, but really the owner prices his collection of 19th- and 20th-century artefacts so astronomically that the collection never seems to deplete. Instead, many see Papaya as a museum of recent nostalgia. Every inch of this warehouse-size exhibition space is stuffed with art deco furniture, 1960s beer signage, superhero statues, Piaggio scooters, typewriters, movie projectors, love seats, TV sets, VHS players, wall clocks, storefront mannequins, lampshades – the list goes on. It’s great for a free afternoon of browsing.

Golden Mount

There are plenty of free temples in Bangkok, but the Ayutthaya-era Golden Mount is the city’s finest. Its glimmering golden chedi can be seen shimmering high above old Bangkok and the flowing Mae Nam Chao Phraya. It’s free to enter the compound it shares with Wat Saket, but there is a small fee to go to the summit.

Bangkokian Museum

Comprising three early-20th-century wooden bungalows, the charming Bangkokian Museum illustrates an often-overlooked period of Bangkok's history. Free to visit, the main residential building was constructed in 1937 for the Surawadee family – it is filled with beautiful wooden furniture, porcelain and other detritus of pre- and post-war family life.

An adjacent two-storey shophouse contains themed displays of similar items. The third building, to the rear, was built in 1929 as a British doctor's clinic (he died soon after arriving in Thailand). A visit takes the form of an informal guided tour in halting English, and photography is encouraged.

Khao San Road

From seedy backpacker ghetto of the 1980s to atmospheric flashpacker central of the current times, Khao San Road – actually Thanon Khao San ( kâw sǎhn, meaning ‘uncooked rice’) – has undergone a considerable image makeover through the years. The shadowy, sleazy, bedbug-infested version lionized by Alex Garland in The Beach has now gone: its crumby guest houses replaced by boutique hotels; its downmarket TV bars playing pirated movies transformed into hip design bars. But still its mythical appeal lives on.

The pedestrianised street remains a lively backpackers’ hub – its energy radiating out along cheerful side streets where excellent new sleeping, eating and drinking options abound. But the long-simmering debate surrounding its merits continues: is it cool to stay on KSR? Is it ‘real travel’? Is it really Thailand at all? Our take: just go. Experience it at least once. It’s free. It’s even its own mind-clearing riddle: if a traveler goes to Bangkok but doesn’t visit Khao San Road, did they ever really visit Bangkok at all?

Patpong Red Light District

Many of the moral and philosophical discussions about the Khao San Road can be transposed to Patpong Red Light District. This notorious strip of go-go bars and ‘exotic’ shows (read: sex shows) – once arguably the world’s most infamous strip of sleaze – is now nothing but a caricature of its former self.

There’s still blazing neon, pumping music and scantily-dressed women – its night market even sells erotic toys – but the American soldiers it attracted during the Vietnam War have long been replaced by curious tourists snapping photos. It’s free to wander about the two main strips, but the best time to visit is after 5pm when the market opens.

Lumphini Park

In a city of few green spaces, Lumphini Park feels like a literal breath of fresh air; a pollution-kicking patch against Bangkok’s addiction to dirty belching motorbikes fumes and sun-blocking skyscrapers. Replete with soft manicured lawns, thickets of trees, winding walkways and swan-shaped pedalos for hire on its glassy lake, this free park is a great spot to reset. No wonder many locals start their mornings here with a little t’ai chi.

Center Meditation Wat Mahadhatu

Located within Wat Mahathat, this small center offers free informal daily meditation classes. Taught by English-speaking teachers, classes last between two and three hours. Longer periods of study, which include accommodation and food, can be arranged, but students are expected to follow a strict regimen of conduct.

Creative District

The Bang Rak district has become a magnet for creative types in recent years. For a taste of the Thai art scene, check out Warehouse 30, a collection of shops, workspaces and cafes offering regular lectures and exhibitions in a refurbished World War II-era building. After you’ve browsed the work of local designers, go and see the mural by street artist Vhils – he has carved faces and eyes into the concrete wall outside the Portuguese Embassy.

King Prajadhipok Museum

This free museum assembles old photos and memorabilia to illustrate the rather dramatic life of Rama VII (King Prajadhipok; r 1925–35), Thailand's last absolute monarch. It occupies a grand neocolonial-style building constructed on the orders of Rama V for his favourite firm of Bond Street merchants – the only foreign business allowed on the royal road linking Bangkok’s two palace districts.

Prajadhipok did not expect to become king, but once on the throne showed considerable diplomacy in dealing with what was, in effect, a revolution fomented by a new intellectual class of Thais. The first floor deals with the life of Queen Rambhai Barni, while the upper two floors cover the king’s own life. A coup, carried out while the king and queen were playing golf, ended Thailand’s absolute monarchy in 1932.

Amulet Market

This fascinating free-to-visit market is based around small but highly-prized talismans. Potential buyers (often already sporting many amulets) can be seen bargaining and flipping through magazines dedicated to them, some of which command astronomical prices. It's a great place to just wander and people watch as collectors look through magnifying glasses at the tiny amulets, seeking hidden meaning and, if they’re lucky, hidden value. The easiest entry point is clearly marked "Trok Maha That".

Wachirabenchathat Park

For a dose of nature in Bangkok, head to Wachirabenchathat Park, which encompasses three of the city’s best parks in one. Known locally as Suan Rot Fai (Railway Park) because the State Railway of Thailand once had a golf course here, it’s now a collection of calming green space with manicured gardens, running tracks, lakes and plenty of trees. Close to Chatuchak Weekend Market, it can be the perfect antidote to a day’s hard haggling.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

This large, modern building in the centre of Bangkok has become one of the more significant players in the city’s contemporary arts scene. As well as its three floors and 3000 sq metres of gallery space, the centre also contains shops, private galleries, cafes and an art library. All exhibitions are free to visit.

Erawan Shrine

Erawan Shrine was originally built in 1956 as something of a last-ditch effort to end a string of misfortunes that occurred during the construction of a hotel, at that time known as the Erawan Hotel. It is consecrated to the Hindu Lord Brahma, creator of the universe. A bomb exploded near the shrine in August 2015, killing 20 and slightly damaging the shrine. It was repaired and reopened just two days later.

After several incidents ranging from injured construction workers to the sinking of a ship carrying marble for the hotel, a Brahman priest was consulted. Since the hotel was to be named after the elephant escort of Indra in Hindu mythology, the priest determined that Erawan required a passenger, and suggested it be Lord Brahma. A statue was built and, lo and behold, the misfortunes miraculously ended. The hotel was demolished in 1987, but the shrine, which is free to visit, still exists as an important place of pilgrimage for Thais.

Khlong Toey

Make an early morning trip to the city’s largest wet market to discover where most street vendors and restaurateurs source their ingredients. Ironically named Khlong Toey after the fragrant pandan leaf, the air here is usually thick with the stench of fish or the divisive odour of durian. The sights are better than the smells, so get here early and bring a camera. By 10am, most vendors have already packed up and left.

Chinatown

Its streets thick with the scent of traditional herbal medicines, Chinatown offers a total sensory experience that you won’t get anywhere else in the city. The narrow market alleys off Yaowarat Road are crammed with bird's-nest restaurants, gaudy gold and jade shops, and flashing neon signs in Chinese characters. It is Bangkok’s most hectic neighbourhood, where half the fun is in getting completely lost.

Ban Baat

The residents of Ban Baat inhabit the only remaining village established in Bangkok by Rama I (r 1782–1809) to produce bàht, the distinctive bowls used by monks to receive morning food donations. To find the village – today just a single alleyway – from Thanon Bamrung Meuang, turn down Soi Ban Bat, then take the first right.

Tourists – not temples – are among the customers these days, and a purchase is usually rewarded with a bàht -making demonstration where eight separate pieces of steel, said to represent Buddhism’s eightfold path, are hammered together to create a single bowl. Expect to pay around 300B for a small bowl – or watch them make them for others for free.

Sri Mariamman Temple

Arrestingly flamboyant, this Hindu temple is a wild collision of colors, shapes and deities. It’s also free to visit. Built in the 1860s by Tamil immigrants, it features a six-meter facade of intertwined, full-color Hindu deities.

Artist's House

Sort of a gallery, kind of a coffee shop, more a cultural center… It's tough to categorise this old wooden house on Khlong Bang Luang in Thonburi. There's food available on weekends, as well as a free traditional Thai puppet show scheduled for 2pm, but the best excuse to come is simply to soak up the old-world canal-side vibe. It’s most easily accessible via Soi 3, Thanon Charansanitwong; cross the canal at the bridge by the 7-Eleven, turn left and it's about 100m down.

Gallery VER

This vast experimental art space has hosted a variety of work by both established and emerging local artists, sometimes with a subversive lean. In 2017, the gallery was raided by the Thai military and five pieces deemed “threatening to the peace and security of the nation” were removed. An art-themed cafe on the premises often hosts talks and workshops.

Pak Khlong Flower Market

As part of a cleaning drive in 2016, Bangkok's famous and formerly street-side flower market – also called Pak Khlong Talat – was moved indoors. Within the giant warehouse-like market that now houses the resettled stalls, you'll find piles of delicate orchids, rows of roses and stacks of button carnations. The best time to come is late at night, when the fresh blossoms arrive from upcountry for sale the following day.

Children's Discovery Museum

Learning is well-disguised as fun at this free museum where interactive exhibits range in topic from construction to culture, although most children are drawn to the Dino Detective Zone, where kids can dig in sand to find and reassemble dinosaur bones.

Museum of Counterfeit Goods

Fakes are so prominent in Bangkok that there’s even a free museum dedicated to them, where a mind-boggling array of counterfeit merchandise collected over the years by law firm Tilleke and Gibbins is on display. An in-house lawyer from the company's intellectual property department provides a complimentary tour. Call for an appointment at least 24 hours before a scheduled visit.

Bangkok Doll Factory & Museum

This workshop was founded by Khunying Tongkorn Chandavimol in 1956 after she completed a doll-making course while living in Japan. Her dolls draw on Thai mythology and historical periods. Today her personal collection includes 400 dolls from around the world, plus important pieces from her own workshop, where you can watch the figures being crafted by hand for free. The museum is tricky to find; take a taxi from BTS Phaya Thai and get the driver to call the museum for directions.

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Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in Thailand before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

This article was first published October 2017.

25 free things to do in Bangkok to get more bang for your baht

Hip hotels and buzzworthy restaurants are staking claim across Asheville, but a communal sense of fun is keeping this mountain town grounded – at least for now. This collegial spirit is maintained in part by the many free activities offered across town, from public art and live concerts to trail-filled parks and brewery tours.

The list below is a good jumping-off point for experiencing the best free things to do.

Asheville Urban Trail

Art, history and exercise collide on the 1.7-mile Urban Trail in downtown Asheville. Similar to a self-guided scavenger hunt, this city-sponsored trail stops by 30 official stations. At each station you’ll find an informational plaque and whimsical public art. Listen to the audio commentary at each stop – find it on the Urban Trail website – and enjoy learning about the city and its most interesting characters. The trail starts at Pack Square Park, but you can jump in anywhere.

Folk Art Center

The region’s rich Appalachian heritage is on display at the Folk Art Center, which borders the Blue Ridge Parkway six miles north of the city. The Allanstand Craft Shop here is the oldest craft shop in the country, and it sells artisan-made pieces – jewelry, pottery, glassworks, apparel and more – by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Exhibits in the gallery spotlight the history and craftsmanship behind various high-quality works from the Guild’s permanent collection. Stop by for craft demonstrations daily from March through December.

Brewery Tours

For an introduction to the city’s craft beer scene and to learn the basics of the brewing process, step behind the taps on a guided tour. Popular Wicked Weed Brewing offers free tours daily of its brewpub downtown, with samples and a commemorative glass thrown in for guests. Free tours at Highland Brewing, New Belgium and Sierra Nevada at Mills River are temporarily on pause due to Covid-19 precautions, so confirm they have resumed before making a special trip.

Mount Mitchell State Park

An easy thirty-mile drive takes you from the bustling streets of downtown Asheville to the parking lot beside the summit of 6684ft-high Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. A short walk leads to the observation deck and 360° views of the soaring Black Mountains, a sub-range within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Bring a jacket – the climate and ecosystems of the Black Mountains resemble those of Canada. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the park.

Shindig on the Green

For an enthusiastic introduction to mountain music, make your way to Pack Square Park for Shindig on the Green. This outdoor concert series celebrates the homegrown sounds of the Southern Appalachians with fiddles, dancing and a communal sense of fun. Mountain music – which includes old-time and bluegrass – originated in the hills and hollers of the nearby mountains, but young performers keep the sounds fresh with their own innovations – which you might just hear during an impromptu jam. Concerts are held most Saturday nights from late June through early September.

Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway

Asheville sits just west of a graceful bend in the Blue Ridge Parkway, a national scenic drive that ribbons along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Overlooks, trailheads and historic sites are scattered along the 469-mile roadway, but you won't find stoplights or any commercial distractions. Parkway highlights near Asheville include the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, the Folk Art Center, the swimming hole at Skinny Dip Falls and wildflowers at Craggy Gardens

Foliage along the parkway typically changes color from late September through October, depending on elevation. Check the fall color report for the latest updates.

Montford Park Players

Puck, Hamlet, Falstaff and other Shakespearean favorites take the stage every summer at the outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre in the historic Montford neighborhood just north of downtown. The longest-running Shakespearean Company in North Carolina, the Montford Park Players attract 18,000 theater-goers annually. Players pass the hat for donations at intermission.

Farmers Markets

For locally sourced produce, cheese, honey, baked goods and crafts, visit one of the city’s many farmers markets. Check the ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) website for a list of the weekly markets, also known as tailgate markets. You can also drive to the Western North Carolina Farmers Market, which is open daily and fills several sheds on a 36-acre site six miles southwest of downtown. The popular Asheville City Market is in temporary digs on the campus of A-B Tech (340 Victoria Rd) during COVID-19, but should return to downtown in 2022. The River Arts District Farmers Market is Wednesdays from 3pm to 6pm (May-Nov).

Mountain biking in Bent Creek Experimental Forest

Got your bike? For a quick ride only 20 miles from downtown, drive to the Bent Creek Experimental Forest, which sprawls across nearly 6,000 acres of woodlands in Pisgah National Forest. Research about forest management is the primary goal here, but local bikers know it's home to a network of almost 30 miles of trails. Difficulty levels vary. A few trails flow across the North Carolina Arboretum, which is within the Experimental Forest. There are also hiking trails here. Download a trail map from the forest service website.

Hiking

Hikers are spoiled for choice in Asheville, which sits within a short drive of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Pisgah National Forest, several state parks and Great Smoky Mountains National Park – all filled with trails. For meadows, waterfalls and a swimming hole, drive to Graveyard Fields along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Big views of mountains are the reward on the Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail, which is also on the Parkway. The Appalachian Trail climbs to expansive views at Max Patch, Charlie’s Bunion and Roan Mountain, all within a 75-mile drive.

Gallery hopping

Come for the craft beer and music, get distracted by the art – an unexpected treasure in this overgrown mountain town. More than 30 art galleries cluster downtown, many of them along busy Biltmore Ave. Public art is also plentiful, with bright murals and quirky sculptures keeping the vibe offbeat. The River Arts District plays host to the largest collection of galleries in the city. You’ll find another handful of galleries in Biltmore Village just outside the entrance to the Biltmore Estate.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A lush wonderland of thick forests, mossy streams, tumbling cascades and abundant wildlife, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. Admission is free, thanks to the Tennessee legislature, which insisted in the early 1930s that the deed transferring ownership of the land to the federal government include the restriction that “no toll or license fee shall ever be imposed” upon Newfound Gap Rd. Newfound Gap is the lowest mountain pass over the Smoky Mountains and its namesake road is the primary artery across the park, linking North Carolina and Tennessee.

Splasheville

Who needs a pricey waterpark when the kids can get soaked for free in the heart of downtown? After a complete rebuild in the spring of 2021, the Splasheville splash pad in Pack Square Park has reopened – complete with synchronized water jets and colorful lighting. Splasheville is open in summer – and into September – from 10am to 8pm daily, unless there is an event in Pack Square. Check the Asheville Parks & Recreation Facebook page for Splasheville updates.

Friday Night Drum Circle & Live Music

On weekends, downtown Asheville doubles as one enormous performance stage, with the Blue Ridge Mountains as the backdrop. Birthed in the Appalachian Mountains, old-time music and bluegrass are the musical forebears here, but the music scene today is incredibly diverse. Buskers are welcome, and jazz, zydeco and the sounds of a didgeridoo might complement your wanderings. On Friday nights from April through October, the Drum Circle kicks off around 6pm in Pritchard Park. South Slope breweries and festivals often have live music too.

Grovewood Village

On a multi-acre site beside the Omni Grove Park Inn, the historic Grovewood Village celebrates Appalachian history and handmade arts and crafts in a handful of galleries and museums. The Grovewood Gallery sells high-quality crafts, including jewelry, pottery, glassworks and furniture. The Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum spotlights Biltmore Industries, which encouraged and promoted local craftsmanship in the early 1900s. Grovewood Village once housed the weaving and woodworking operations for this Edith Vanderbilt-backed enterprise. Also on-site is the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum – check out that Ford Model T!

Basilica of St Lawrence

Your first reaction after stepping into the Basilica of St Lawrence downtown? Whoa, I wasn't expecting this! Designed by the architects behind the Biltmore House, the Basilica was completed in 1909. The granite foundation and the solid-brick walls are topped by the largest freestanding dome in the US – you won’t find wooden or steel beams anywhere inside the structure. The grand interior is marked by ornate stained glass windows and striking tile work.

Murals

The city’s colorful murals are an unexpected treasure in this busy mountain town, where craft beers, James Beard nominees and the Blue Ridge Parkway tend to hog the spotlight.  Breweries, alleys, the Lexington Avenue Bridge and the River Arts District are your best bets for mural-spotting. For maps and more details, check out the listings in the South Slope Mural Trail. Dolly Parton and Chicken Alley await!

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