From gazing on the northern lights to soaking in a geothermal pool surrounded by volcanic landscapes, Iceland 's natural environment turns the prosaic into the extraordinary. With glaciers, geysers, and wildlife-watching opportunities, it's no surprise this astonishing place is has seen a surge in popularity. Here are 15 must-visit places to add to your Iceland itinerary.

Explore it all on the Ring Road (Route 1)

There’s no better way to explore Iceland than to hire a set of wheels and road-trip Route 1, affectionately known as the Ring Road. This 832-mile (1340km) tarmac trail loops around the island, passing through verdant dales decked with waterfalls (be sure to stop at Goðafoss), glacier tongues dripping from ice caps like frosting from a cake, desert-like plains of grey outwash sands, and velvety, moss-covered lava fields. It's supremely spectacular – but don’t forget to follow other roads as they splinter off into the wilderness. Allow around ten days to take it all in, longer to make the most of those detours.

Tour the Golden Circle for Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss

On a quicker visit to Iceland, you can take in some major sights on a shorter driving route, all within a couple of hours' drive from the capital. It can feel more commercial than other areas, but despite the hordes, the Golden Circle remains one of the most memorable routes on the planet. It spans roughly 185 miles (300km) and takes in three main sights, which are all true knockouts: Þingvellir where tectonic plates meet, Geysir where water erupts more than 100 times a day, and the roaring and staggeringly voluminous waterfall Gullfoss. It takes about four hours to drive the loop without any add-on stops. If you have time, though, check out nearby activities: rock-climbing, rafting and soaking in geo-pools, plus visiting a hydropower museum, fishing and exploring a 6500-year-old explosion crater.

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See Europe's last true wilderness in the Westfjords

Iceland’s sweeping spectrum of superlative nature comes to a dramatic climax in the Westfjords, where mass tourism disappears – only about 10% of Iceland's visitors ever see the region. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is one of Europe's last true wilderness areas. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking, with challenging terrain and excellent opportunities for spotting Arctic foxes, seals, whales and teeming bird life. At Rauðasandur on the Látrabjarg Peninsula, you will find a stunning beach with shades of pink and red sands stretching out ahead of you. Dynjandi is the most dramatic waterfall in the Westfjords. The bumpy drive to it is famous for incredible views; you'll see how the falls are the catchment area for run-off from the peaks and inland valleys all around.

Learn about Icelandic culture in Reykjavík

Petite Reykjavík boasts all the treats you’d expect of a European capital – such as excellent museums and great shopping – but the city’s ratio of coffee houses to citizens is nothing short of staggering. In fact, the local social culture is built around such low-key hang-outs that crank up the intensity after-hours, when tea is swapped for tipples and the dance moves are broken out. When you're not swigging handcrafted caffeine or microbrews, you might be wandering the Old Harbour and neighbouring Grandi, which have blossomed into hot spots for tourists, with key art galleries, and several museums. Other city draws are Hallgrímskirkja, the white concrete church with a viewing deck in the 74m-high tower, and the Icelandic Phallological Museum, with its huge collection of penises.

Watch icebergs drift by at Jökulsárlón

A ghostly procession of luminous-blue icebergs drifts serenely through the ten-sq-mile (25-sq-km) Jökulsárlón lagoon before floating out to sea. This surreal scene (handily, right next to the Ring Road) is a natural film set; in fact, you might have seen it in Batman Begins and the James Bond film Die Another Day. The ice caves come from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, an offshoot of the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap. Boat trips and kayaking among the bergs are popular, or you can simply wander the lakeshore, scout for seals and exhaust your camera’s memory card.

Indulge your body at the Blue Lagoon

Iceland’s unofficial pastime is splashing around in its surplus of geothermal water. You'll find "hot-pots" everywhere, from downtown Reykjavík to the isolated peninsular tips of the Westfjords. Not only are they incredibly relaxing, they're the perfect antidote to a hangover and a great way to meet the locals (this is their social hub, the equivalent of the local pub or town square). The Blue Lagoon is the big cheese: in a magnificent black-lava field, the cyan Blue Lagoon spa is fed water from the futuristic Svartsengi geothermal plant; with its silver towers, roiling clouds of steam, and people daubed in white silica mud, it's an otherworldly place. Those who say it’s too commercial and too crowded aren't wrong, but you’ll be missing something special if you don’t go. Pre-booking is essential. It's conveniently close to Keflavík airport, making it the perfect send-off before flying home.

Get adventurous in Vatnajökull National Park

Europe’s largest national park – created by the combination of two previously-established national parks: Skaftafell in southeast Iceland and Jökulsárgljúfur in the northeast – covers around 14% of Iceland and safeguards mighty Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap outside the poles (it's three times the size of Luxembourg). Scores of outlet glaciers flow down from its frosty bulk, while underneath it are active volcanoes and mountain peaks. This is ground zero for those "fire and ice" clichés. You’ll be spellbound by the diversity of landscapes, walking trails and activities inside this supersized park. Given its dimensions, access points are numerous – start at Skaftafell in the south or Ásbyrgi in the north.

Seyðisfjörður and Borgarfjörður Eystri

A tale of two east-side fjords. Stunning, art-fuelled Seyðisfjörður garners most of the attention – it's only 17 miles (27km) from the Ring Road, and it welcomes the weekly ferry from Europe into its mountain-lined, waterfall-studded embrace. The town's Rainbow Street is a favorite with photographers and Instagrammers for its rainbow-painted pathway leading to a quaint church. Beautiful Borgarfjörður Eystri, on the other hand, is 43 miles (70km) from the Ring Road, and much of that stretch is bumpy and unsealed. Its selling points are understated: puffins, mythical elves, rugged rhyolite peaks. Both fjords have natural splendor and bumper hiking trails in spades, and many people can’t help but love ’em equally.

Take a dip in this fjord-side swimming pool on Tröllaskagi

Touring Tröllaskagi, or Troll Peninsula, is a joy, especially now that road tunnels link the spectacularly-sited townships of Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður, once end-of-the-road settlements. The peninsula’s dramatic scenery contrasts with the gentle hills that roll through most of northern Iceland. Pit stops with pulling power include Hofsós ’ perfect fjord-side swimming pool, Lónkot’s plates of fine local produce and Siglufjörður ’s outstanding herring museum. Plus you'll find glorious panoramas, quality hiking, ski fields (including a growing trade in heliskiing), microbreweries and beer baths, whale-watching tours, and ferries to offshore islands Grímsey and Hrísey.

Visit black sand beaches on Snæfellsnes Peninsula

With its cache of wild beaches, bird sanctuaries, horse farms and lava fields, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is one of Iceland’s best escapes – either as a day trip from the capital or as a relaxing long weekend. It's little wonder it's called "Iceland in miniature" – it even hosts a national park and glacier-topped stratovolcano. Jules Verne was definitely onto something when he used Snæfellsjökull's icy crown as his magical doorway in Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Visit the black sands at Djúpalón Beach, where a series of rocky sea stacks emerge from the ocean. Stykkishólmur, on the populated northern coast, is the region’s largest town and a logical base.

Take a boat tour of the islets of Vestmannaeyjar

An offshore archipelago of craggy peaks, Vestmannaeyjar is a mere 30-minute ferry ride from the mainland, but feels miles away in sentiment. A boat tour of the scattered islets unveils squawking seabirds, towering cliffs and postcard-worthy vistas of lonely hunting cabins perched atop rocky outcrops. The islands’ 4000-plus population is focused on Heimaey, a small town of windswept bungalows with a scarring curl of lava that flows straight through its center – a poignant reminder of Iceland’s volatile landscape.

Head to the lava fields of Askja

Accessible for only a few months each year, storied Askja is a mammoth caldera ringed by mountains and enclosing a sapphire-blue lake known as Víti crater. To access this glorious, otherworldly place, you'll need a robust 4WD, a few days for hiking, or passage on a tour. Highlands excursions generally incorporate river crossings, impossibly vast lava fields, regal mountain vistas and outlaw hideouts – and possibly a naked soak in geothermal waters. While you're in the area, head just south of Askja for Iceland's freshest lava field at Holuhraun.

Marvel at the waterfall at Hengifoss

Crossing the bridge across Lagarfljót on Rte 931, you’ll reach the parking area for lovely Hengifoss, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall. The falls plummet 128m into a photogenic brown-and-red-striped boulder-strewn gorge. Getting to Hengifoss requires a return walk of one-to-two hours (1.5 miles/2.5km each way). From the car park, a staircase and path lead up the hillside – Hengifoss is soon visible in the distance. It’s a steep climb in places but flattens out as you enter the canyon. Halfway to Hengifoss is a noteworthy smaller waterfall, Litlanesfoss, surrounded by vertical basalt columns in a honeycomb formation.

Spot puffins at Hafnarhólmi

The photogenic small-boat harbor and islet of Hafnarhólmi is home to a large puffin colony. A staircase and viewing platforms allow you to get close to these cute, clumsy creatures (and other seabirds). The puffins arrive by mid-April and are gone by early to mid-August, but other species (including kittiwakes, fulmars and common eiders) may linger longer. In summer's peak, from the islet you can enjoy midnight sun viewings in the company of puffins and with an evocative soundtrack of bird calls.

Go whale-watching in Húsavík

Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital, has become a firm favorite on travelers’ itineraries – and with its colorful houses, unique museums and stunning snow-capped peaks across the bay, it's easily the northeast's prettiest fishing town. The excellent Whale Museum provides all you need to know about the impressive creatures that visit Skjálfandi bay. Húsavíkurkirkja, the town's beloved church, has an Alpine style and is nothing like any other church you'll see in Iceland.

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A nation of vast distances and ever-changing landscapes, China is a destination that’s simply made for train travel. While you’ll encounter the classic imagery of the country’s mist-shrouded jagged peaks and pine-clad temples, you may be surprised by what else is on offer.

From the snow-capped Himalayas and Silk Road oasis towns to grassy Inner Mongolian steppes and bamboo forests, China’s expansive rail network gets you right in amongst it – reaching speeds in excess of 300km/h, the arrival of the fast-train network has been a game changer. Not only has it halved the time required to travel across the country, but it’s infinitely more comfortable and reliable, and offers a much greener alternative to flying. And with the unveiling of the Maglev bullet trains, clocking in around 600km/h, rail travel is about to get even faster.

Here are our picks for the best train journeys running through China, to see beautiful landscapes, epic World Heritage sites and beyond.

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Beijing to Lhasa (3757km)

One of China’s most epic train journeys is this spectacular two-day trip along the highest railway line in the world. Running from the nation’s capital all the way to Tibet, it covers some 3757km across eight provinces.

Departing Beijing in the evening, you’ll awake to the flat rural landscapes of the North China Plain, but it’s not until reaching Qinghai (2275m) that the highlights reel clicks into gear. Here you’ll pass through the Tibetan Plateau as you make your ascent to the Roof of the World. The remaining 1110km to Lhasa features 86% of the line above 4000m; the highest point is at Tanggu-la Pass (5072m), the highlight, where you’ll be treated to the sharp-contoured snowy mountains overlooking stunning grasslands home to Tibetan nomads and yaks.

And for those wanting to make the trip in luxury, the Golden Eagle Shangri-La Express does the journey too.

Trans-Mongolian (7621km)

No discussion on China train travel is complete without mention of the Trans-Mongolian route. One of the world’s great rail journeys, this seven-day, six-night bucket-list adventure travels 7621km from Beijing into the wilds of the Gobi desert, the Mongolia steppe and the endless birch forests of Siberia before pulling into Moscow.

Departing from Beijing, the Chinese leg takes you through the dramatic forest mountain scenery of Northern China's Hebei and Shandong provinces before entering the grass steppes of Inner Mongolia. Reaching the Mongolia border, you’ll encounter the remarkable process of the changing of the bogies, in which each carriage is painstakingly hoisted up to change the gauge from the Chinese to Russian line before continuing on its way.

Another option from Beijing is the Trans-Manchurian (8986km). This less-traveled journey takes you through China’s northeast provinces before arriving at Harbin, from where it shoots through Inner Mongolia to reach the Russian border and on to Moscow.

Hefei to Fuzhou (850km)

Unquestionably one of China’s most scenic high-speed railways, this route passes not one, but three World Heritage sites. Beginning in Hefei in Anhui province, this bullet train races through China’s southeast to arrive at Fuzhou in Fujian province. It’s a four-hour journey through mountainous scenery of mist-cloaked pine forest, canyons, rivers, tea plantations and well-preserved villages. Highlights include Huangshan, Sanqingshan National Park and Mt Wuyi, all featuring idyllic trails leading to summits with astonishing lookouts.

Xian to Urumuqi (2344km)

Linking China to the West, the ancient trade route of the Silk Road has long evoked a sense of romance for travelers far and wide. And though the days of camel-drawn caravans are long gone, the Lanzhou–Xinjiang High Speed Train enables you to retrace their steps in quicker and more comfortable means.

Boarding the train at the Silk Road’s historical starting point in Xi'an, you’ll shoot through the plains of Shaanxi province to arrive at Lanzhou in Gansu. Here you’ll transfer to another bullet train to Xinjiang province, from where you’ll pass through China’s northwest wilderness, admiring the Gobi Desert, grasslands and snow-capped mountains among the rapid-fire development of new cities. Arriving at the provincial capital of Ürümqi, you’ll notice a distinct exotic flavor that feels more Central Asia than mainland China.

Guiyang to Guangzhou (856km)

If ever there was an example of just how much China’s fast-train network has made a difference, then the route between Guangzhou and Guiyang is it. Back in 2014, it took 20 hours; today it takes little more than four.

Beginning in Guiyang, the train travels southeast through Guangxi’s attractive verdant valleys to reach Guilin and Yangshuo, with its famous karst limestone peaks. Jutting out like sharp mossy teeth that span the horizon, it’s as spectacular as it is surreal; so otherworldly, in fact, it was used as the backdrop to the Wookiee planet Kashyyyk in Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. You’ll pass among its rice fields and the scenic Li River before crossing into the Cantonese province of Guangdong to arrive at Guangzhou –  one of China’s biggest and most dynamic cities.

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Eulogised in countless works of cinema, literature and poetry, and home to some of the greatest artworks, historical monuments and – perhaps best of all – food on the planet, Italy elates, inspires and moves like no other.

With a landscape that winds from pulsating cities to regions of serene natural beauty, picking just a handful of destinations to visit in this wonderful country is no easy task. However, here are 12 places that really shouldn’t be skipped on a tour of Italy.

Rome

Best for masterpieces of art and architecture

Once caput mundi (capital of the world), Rome was legendarily spawned by a wolf-suckled boy, grew to be Western Europe's first superpower, became the spiritual centrepiece of the Christian world and is now the repository of over two millennia of European art and architecture. From the Pantheon and the Colosseum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and countless works by Caravaggio, there's simply too much to see in one visit. So, do as countless others have done before you: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and promise to return.

Tuscany

Best for churches, galleries and countryside

Italy's most romanticised region, Tuscany is tailor-made for art-loving bon vivants. Home to Brunelleschi's Duomo and Masaccio's Cappella Brancacci frescoes, Florence, according to Unesco, contains "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world". Beyond its blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes sprawls an undulating landscape of sinuous cypress trees, olive groves and coveted regional treasures, from the Gothic majesty of Siena and Manhattan-esque skyline of medieval San Gimignano to the vineyards of Italy's most famous wine region, Chianti.

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Amalfi Coast

Best for inspiration

Italy's most celebrated coastline is a gripping strip: coastal mountains plunge into creamy blue sea in a prime-time vertical scene of precipitous crags, sun-bleached villages and lush woodland. Between sea and sky, mountain-top hiking trails deliver Tyrrhenian panoramas fit for a god. While some may argue that the peninsula's most beautiful coast is Liguria's Cinque Terre or Calabria 's Costa Viola, it is the Amalfi Coast that has seduced and inspired countless greats, from Wagner and DH Lawrence to Tennessee Williams, Rudolf Nureyev and Gore Vidal.

Pompeii

Best for stepping back in time

Frozen in its death throes, the time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theatres, even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder Pliny the Younger's terrifying account of the town's final hours: "Darkness came on again, again ashes, thick and heavy. We got up repeatedly to shake these off; otherwise we would have been buried and crushed by the weight."

The Dolomites

Best for dramatic mountains

Scour the globe and you'll find plenty of taller, bigger and more geologically volatile mountains, but few can match the romance of the pink-hued, granite Dolomites. Maybe it's their harsh, jagged summits, the vibrant skirts of spring wildflowers or the rich cache of Ladin legends. Then again, it could just be the magnetic draw of money, style and glamour at Italy's most fabled ski resort, Cortina d'Ampezzo, or the linguistic curiosity of picture-postcard mountain village Sappada. Whatever the reason, this tiny pocket of northern Italy takes seductiveness to dizzying heights.

Emilia-Romagna

Best for foodies

In a region as overwhelmingly foodie as Emilia-Romagna it's only natural that its capital, Bologna, is dubbed "La Grassa" (the fat one). Many belt-busting Italian classics hail from here, including mortadella, tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù. Shop in the deli-packed Quadrilatero and day-trip to the city of Modena for world-famous aged balsamic vinegar. Leave room for Parma, hometown of parmigiano reggiano cheese and the incomparable prosciutto di Parma. Wherever you plunge your fork, toast with a glass or three of Emilia-Romagna's renowned Lambrusco or sauvignon blanc.

Lago di Como

Best for a slice of luxury

If it's good enough for the Clooneys and vacationing Obamas, it's good enough for mere mortals. Nestled in the shadow of the Rhaetian Alps, dazzling Lago di Como is Lombardy's most spectacular lake. Its lavish Liberty-style villas are home to movie moguls, fashion royalty and Arab sheikhs, while the lake's siren calls include gardens at Villa Melzi d'Eril, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello that blush pink with camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons in April and May. For those less flush, Como's lush green hinterland promises bags of free, wonderfully scenic hiking.

Naples

Best for living out loud

Nowhere else in Italy are people as conscious of their role in the theatre of everyday life as in Naples. And in no other Italian city does daily life radiate such drama and intensity. Naples' ancient streets are a stage, cast with boisterous matriarchs, bellowing baristas and tongue-knotted lovers. To savor the flavor, dive into the city's rough-and-tumble La Piggnasecca market, a loud, lavish opera of hawking fruit vendors, wriggling seafood and the irresistible aroma of just-baked sfogliatelle (sweetened ricotta pastries).

Sardinia

Best for coastal beauty

The English language fails to accurately describe the varied blue, green and – in the deepest shadows – purple hues of the sea surrounding Sardinia. While models, ministers and perma-tanned celebrities wine, dine and sail along the glossy Costa Smeralda, much of Sardinia remains a wild, raw playground. Slather on that sunscreen and explore the island's rugged coastal beauty, from the tumbledown boulders of Santa Teresa di Gallura and the wind-chiselled cliff face of the Golfo di Orosei to the windswept beauty of the Costa Verde 's dune-backed beaches.

Venice

Best for a fairytale city

An Escher-esque maze of skinny streets and waterways, Venice straddles the middle ground between reality and sheer fantasy. This is a city of ethereal winter fogs, fairy-tale domes and Gothic arches fit for the set of an opera. Look beyond its sparkling mosaics and brooding Tintorettos and you'll discover the other Venice: a living, breathing organism studded with secret gardens, sleepy campi (squares) and well-worn bacari (small bars) filled with the fizz of prosecco and the sing-song lilt of the Venetians' local dialect.

Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso

Best for hiking

If you're pining for a mind-clearing retreat, wear down your hiking boots on the 724km of marked trails and mule tracks traversing "Grand Paradise". Part of the Graian Alps and the very first of Italy's national parks, Gran Paradiso 's pure, pristine spread encompasses 57 glaciers and Alpine pastures awash with wild pansies, gentians and alpenroses, not to mention a healthy population of Alpine ibex, for whose protection the park was originally established. The eponymous Gran Paradiso (4061m) is the park's only peak, accessed from tranquil Cogne.

Mount Etna

Best for thrill seekers

Known to the Greeks as the "column that holds up the sky", Mount Etna is not only Europe's largest volcano, it's one of the world's most active. The ancients believed the giant Tifone (Typhoon) lived in its crater and lit the sky with spectacular pyrotechnics. At 3326m it literally towers above Sicily 's Ionian Coast. Whether you tackle it on foot or on a guided 4WD tour, scaling this time bomb rewards with towering views and the secret thrill of having come cheek-to-cheek with a towering threat.

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With breathtaking views and stunning landscapes throughout the whole country, Ireland's scenery is among the most spectacular in Europe. Yes there are many famous places to see, but if you get off the main roads some of the country’s most stunning scenery can be found on secondary roads that wind their narrow way through standout photo ops.

You'll the Irish are genuinely warm and welcoming, and there are few more enjoyable ways of gaining a greater understanding of the island's inhabitants than a chat with a local. Here’s our guide to the places that will make a trip to Ireland one to remember, for a long time.

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

Best for iconic Ireland

One of Ireland's blockbuster sights, the Cliffs of Moher are staggeringly beautiful, and as a result a visit there is high on every visitors agenda – so be warned it will be busy here. The entirely vertical cliffs rise to a height of 214m, their edge abruptly falling away into a ceaselessly churning Atlantic.

Views stretch to the Aran Islands and the hills of Connemara. Sunsets here see the sky turn a kaleidoscope of amber, amethyst, rose pink and deep garnet red. The turf covered visitors centre, cut into the hillside, has engaging exhibitions covering the fauna, flora, geology and climate of the cliffs.

Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin City

Best for learning about Ireland’s struggle for independence

If you want to understand Irish history, especially the long-running resistance to British rule,  then a visit to this former prison is an absolute must. A threatening grey building, Kilmainham Gaol was built in 1796, it's played a role in virtually every act of Ireland's painful path to independence, and even today, despite closing in 1924, it still has the power to chill. The tour is gripping, but maybe not suitable for younger children, as it ends in a courtyard where the leaders of the 1916 rebellion were executed.

Wild Atlantic Way

Best for road trips

No visit to Ireland is complete without tackling some part of the 1555-mile long Wild Atlantic Way. Depending on what direction you travel, the craggy, crenellated Donegal coastline is either the dramatic finale of the Wild Atlantic Way or its breathtaking beginning. Ireland’s northwestern corner is an untamed collection of soaring cliffs (the tallest in Europe), lonely, sheep-speckled headlands and, between them, secluded coves and long stretches of white, powdery sand. Among them, in the county's southwest, is Rossnowlagh, one of Europe’s premier surf beaches and a hotspot for big-wave surfers.

The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

Best for bucket list ticking

This spectacular rock formation – Northern Ireland's only Unesco World Heritage site – is one of Ireland's most impressive and atmospheric landscape features, a vast expanse of regular, closely packed, hexagonal stone columns looking for all the world like the handiwork of giants. The phenomenon is explained in the Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience, housed in a state-of-the-art ecofriendly building half-hidden in the hillside above the sea. Visiting the Giant's Causeway itself is free of charge but you pay to use the car park on a combined ticket with the visitor centre; parking-only tickets aren't available.

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Croagh Patrick in County Mayo

Best for hiking

Mayo has wild beauty and haunting landscapes, but you'll find few tourists here, which means there are plenty of untapped opportunities for exploration by car, foot, bicycle and even horseback. Bright and vibrant even in the depths of winter, Westport is a photogenic Georgian town with tree-lined streets, riverside walkways and a great vibe. From here, pilgrims climb Croagh Patrick, the mountain where Ireland's patron saint fasted for 40 days and nights. Climbing the 764m holy mountain is an act of penance for thousands of believers on the last Sunday of July (Reek Sunday) On a clear day, the tough two-hour climb rewards with stunning views over Clew Bay and its sandy islets.

Belfast Murals, County Antrim

Best for understanding Ireland's recent history

The gable walls of Belfast have become an important tourist attraction, depicting the Troubles of the 1970s and 1980s.  As the 'voice of the community' the murals were rarely permanent, but changed to reflect the issues of the day. Many nationalist murals in West Belfast commemorate the hunger strike of 1981, when 10 men IRA men starved themselves to death in prison. The Loyalist battle cry of 'No Surrender!' is common, along with red, white and blue painted kerbstones. There are various tours that will give a good explanation of the history of Northern Ireland and the murals that depict significant events, or you can take a self guided walking tour.

Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, County Antrim

Best for thrill seekers

Now firmly on the tour-bus route, Carrick-a-Rede has become so popular that you need to book in advance of a visit. Mornings tend to be quieter; the coaches arrive in the afternoon.

The 20m-long, 1m-wide bridge of wire rope is not for the faint hearted, swaying 30m above the rock-strewn water. Crossing the bridge is perfectly safe, but frightening if you don't have a head for heights, especially if it's breezy (in high winds the bridge is closed). From the island, views take in Rathlin Island and Fair Head to the east.

The Aran Islands

Best for traditional lifestyles

The three Aran Islands are situated 40 minutes by boat from Galway, but each has a very distinct flavour. Inishmore (Irish: Inis Mór) is the largest island and home to the only town, Kilronan. Inishmaan (Inis Meáin) preserves its age-old traditions and evokes a sense of timelessness. Inisheer (Inis Oírr), the smallest island, has a strong traditional music culture. Dún Aonghasa is one of the largest prehistoric stone forts in Europe and stands guard over Inis Mór on the edge of a 100-metre sheer cliff drop.

Galway City

Best for music and nightlife

Galway is one of Ireland's most energetic cities, while it's steeped in history, the city buzzes with a contemporary vibe. Brightly painted pubs heave with live music, while restaurants and cafes offer front-row seats for observing buskers and street theatre. Remnants of the medieval town walls lie between shops and pubs and a long promenade leads to the seaside suburb of Salthill, on Galway Bay, the source of the area's famous oysters.

St Declan’s Way, Ardmore, County Waterford

Best for starting the Irish camino

The seaside village of Ardmore was once one of the most important Christian settlements in Ireland.  Today's visitors come mainly to enjoy the beaches (both the town strand and secluded Ballyquin Beach), as well as water sports and bracing coastal walks. The Irish Camino, St Declan’s Walk, starts from Ardmore through 56 miles (96 kilometres), crossing the Knockmealdown Mountains to Cashel in County Tipperary. Follow the blue signposts along the route and consult this local website for advice. The five star Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore is a destination hotel. If budgets allow, the eight course menu in the Michelin-star House restaurant is something to savour.

Rock of Cashel

Best for a Game of Thrones-like location

Soaring up from the green Tipperary pastures, this ancient fortress takes your breath away at first sight. The seat of kings and churchmen who ruled over the region for more than 1000 years, it rivalled Tara as a centre of power in Ireland for 400 years. Entered through the 15th-century Hall of the Vicars Choral, its impervious walls guard an awesome enclosure with a complete round tower, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral and the most magnificent 12th-century Romanesque chapel in Ireland. Entry is free, but tickets must be reserved online.

Adare Village, County Limerick

Best for a postcard-perfect houses

Overtouted as 'Ireland's prettiest village', Adare's fame centres on its string of thatched cottages built by 19th-century English landlord, the Earl of Dunraven, for workers constructing Adare Manor. Today the pretty cottages house craft shops and fine restaurants, while prestigious golf courses nearby cater to golf enthusiasts. The Irish name for Adare is Áth Dara – the Ford of the Oak. The village is 16km southwest of Limerick, on the approach to the village is Adare Manor, today it is a luxury 5 star hotel and golf resort  - visitors are permitted to drive in and take a a look at the incredible grounds and castle.

The English Market, Cork City

Best for food lovers

The English Market is a true gem, with its ornate vaulted ceilings, columns and polished marble fountain. Scores of market traders set up stalls of local fresh produce  including meat, fish, fruit, cheeses and takeaway food. Queen Elizabeth II made a memorable trip here on her first visit to Ireland, where she  shared a joke with fishmonger Pat O’Connell. On a sunny day, take your lunch to nearby Bishop Lucey Park, a popular alfresco eating spot.

Glendalough

Best for stepping back in time

No trip to Ireland would be complete without a visit to Glendalough. Why? It is one of the most beautiful places in the country, and has been recognised for its romantic landscape since the arrival of St Kevin who made a home here in the 5th century.

During the Middle Ages, when Ireland was known as "the island of saints and scholars", Glendalough became a monastic city catering to thousands of students and teachers. The site is entered through the only surviving monastic gateway in Ireland. Around the monastic site can get congested with visitors, but head away from the crowds and up to the lakes of Glendalough for scenery that will take your breath away.

Garnish Island, West Cork

Best for discovering a hidden world

Take the short ferry ride from Glengarrif harbour in County Cork and you step into a garden of Eden. A well kept secret, Garnish is home to exotic plants and unusual species, owing to the microclimate on the island.  Stroll around the gardens, including an Italian Garden, a Japanese Garden and the Kitchen Garden, all which have been impeccably maintained for over a century. Visit the Martello Tower on the island, dating from 1805.  The ferry ride itself is a wonder, passing a colony of over 250 harbour seals.  The island opens from April to October.

Sheep's Head, West Cork

Best for rugged views

The Sheep's Head Peninsula has a wild charm all its own – and as the name suggests, there are plenty of sheep. The road west from Durrus passes through Ahakista (Atha an Chiste), which has a couple of pubs including the charming, tin-roofed Ahakista Bar – take your pint out the back and step into a 19th century Victorian garden with truly incredible view. Make a stop at Durrus Farmhouse, and watch the cheese-making process through a viewing window.

The Gap of Dunloe, County Kerry

Best for breathtaking photos

The Gap of Dunloe is a wild and scenic (and sometimes hairy!) mountain pass – studded with crags and bejewelled with lakes and waterfalls – that lies to the west of Killarney National Park, squeezed between Purple Mountain and the high summits of the Macgillycuddy Reeks (Ireland's highest mountain range).

Take a pony and trap ride with a local for an authentic experience, or walk the Gap to allow time to take in the majestic views. Make your way to Heather cafe, for a true farm to fork experience – with vegetables from its fields and polytunnels, while seafood and meat are locally and sustainably sourced.

Croke Park GAA Stadium, Dublin

Best for sporting fans

Gaelic games (hurling and football) are fast, furious and the beating heart of every town and village in the country.

The dream of every club player is to represent their county at Croke Park in Dublin, the incredible 82,300 capacity stadium right in the heart of the city.  Visit the Croke Park museum to discover the history of the GAA, which has Ireland’s cultural identity in its DNA.  If you can get a ticket to a match, all the better, and if Dublin are playing, try to get yourself onto Hill 16, where you will be entertained as much by the banter of supporters around you as the sport on the pitch.

Dublin’s Georgian Squares

Best for city strolling

A perfect way to spend an afternoon in Dublin is to wander around the city's elegant spaces of Merrion and Fitzwilliam Squares and take in the exquisite architecture. Here you'll find the perfect mix of imposing public buildings, museums, and private offices and residences.

These include the home of the Irish parliament at Leinster House and, immediately surrounding it, the main branch of the National Museum of Ireland and the Museum of Natural History. Situated on Merrion Square is Ireland’s pre-eminent gallery, packed with art from eight centuries of European tradition. Take a trip over to the Northside to the more vibrant, community centered Mountjoy Square, and stop off at the Hugh Lane gallery on Parnell Square on the way, and view an incredible contemporary art collection.

Phoenix Park

Best for a families

The Phoenix Park has a lot to offer visitors, including Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin, home of the Irish president, the official residence of the US ambassador, the Papal Cross (where John Paul II said mass to a million people in 1979) and the often missed Farmleigh House.  The Irish government's official guesthouse is this fine Georgian-Victorian pile designed by James Gandon. Originally part of the Guinness estate, the guided tour only includes the ground floor, but it's still pretty impressive, especially the fantastic library and glass conservatory. The vast pleasure gardens with lake and walled and Japanese gardens are a delight to stroll.  At the weekends you can enjoy a farmer's market in the grounds of Farmleigh.

Ben Bulben, Sligo

Best for taking your breath away

A flat top mountain visible along Sligo's northern coast, Ben Bulben, resembles a table covered by a pleated cloth. Walking here is not for the uninitiated; High Hopes Mountain Treks leads hikes to the top. It's best to stock up with snacks for hiking in the Benbulben area as restaurants are few and far between. Pay a visit to nearby grave of poet W.B. Yeats in Drumcliffe Cemetery.

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From the dynamic Cape Town to the cosmopolitan vibes of Johannesburg to expanses such as Namakwa, the Kalahari and Karoo, South Africa remains an alluring destination for all types of travelers.

The country's diverse terrain and impressive landscapes provide the perfect opportunity to visit all year round. Here's our guide to the best time to visit South Africa.

High Season: November to March

Best time for festivals

November to March is summertime in South Africa, and if you’re looking to visit during peak times, you’ve got to plan ahead. Coastal and national park accommodations book up months in advance, and popular vacation spots see accommodation prices rise by 50% or more.

But if you’re willing to spend the money, you'll enjoy a host of festivals and events like the Cape Town Street Parade (Cape Minstrel Carnival), a colorful new year celebration that includes floats, routines and troupes. AFROPUNK, a massive international music concert that brings in artists from all over the world, kicks off in December. The Cape Town Cycle Tour in March brings in cycling enthusiasts from all over the globe.

Shoulder Season: April to May and September to October

Best time for wildlife and whale watching

Shoulder season offers fewer crowds and more wildlife. Fall (April and May) provides the optimum wildlife-watching conditions, while spring (September and October) is the best time for whale watching. Wildflower season runs from late August to early September.

Low Season: June to August

Best time for budget travelers

Winter brings lower prices and fewer crowds, but it is the rainy season in Cape Town and the Western Cape. The northern areas like Karoo are a bit drier and sunnier during this time. Among the top winter festivals is Knysna’s incredible 10-day oyster festival in July.

January

South Africans descend on tourist areas, including the coast and major parks, during summer school holidays (early December to mid-January). Book accommodations and transport far in advance. High season for accommodations is November to March.
Key events: Cape Town Street Parade (Cape Town Minstrel Carnival)

February

Summer continues through February, with smiles on the beaches, half-price cable cars up Table Mountain for sunset, and dramatic lightning storms in Jo'burg. Elephants munch marula trees, and baby antelope, zebras and giraffes cavort in the parks. For something a little different, there’s the Up the Creek Festival. Billed as the second-longest outdoor music festival in South Africa, Up the Creek takes place on the banks of the Breede River. Don’t forget your floaties.
Key events: Hands-on-Harvest, Up the Creek Festival, Ultra South Africa

March

Summer rolls towards fall, although days remain sunny, the Lowveld steamy and the landscapes green. This time of year is good for walking and beach bumming in the Western Cape. Cultural and music festivals happen in Cape Town and Jo'burg.
Key events: Cape Town Cycle Tour, Cape Town International Jazz Festival

April

There's a two-week school vacation around Easter, generally regarded as the beginning of fall. Temperatures drop, and wildlife watching in the bushveld starts to look more attractive than lying on the beach. Wildlife rutting season runs until May.
Key events: AfrikaBurn, Klein Karoo National Arts Festival

May

As the temperatures start to drop, the tourist crowds have disappeared, but the days in some regions remain mild. Snow may fall on the highlands where it is much wetter.
Key events: Cape Times Waterfront Wine Festival, South African Music Awards, Franschhoek Literary Festival

June

June in South Africa falls during rainy season, and it's the rainiest month in Johannesburg and the Western Cape. But don't let that put you off: safari conditions are great in the north, which is much drier.
Key events: Standard Bank National Arts Festival

July

Winter brings rain to the Cape and clouds to Table Mountain. Northern areas experience fresh, sunny days and clear night skies. Low season is June to September, apart from the mid-June to mid-July school holidays.
Key events: Oyster Festival, National Arts Festival, J-Bay Open

August

Signs of spring are in the air in South Africa in August. Head the west coast to see wildflowers emerge from winter hibernation. Kruger National Park and the northern reserves remain pleasant and dry.
Key events: Namakwa wildflowers

September

By September, winter is giving way to spring. Cherry trees bloom in the Free State Eastern Highlands in September and October, which are also the last dry months for wildlife viewing. Head to the coast for superb opportunities for whale watching. School holidays run from late September to early October.
Key events: Jo’burg Festivals

October

October is a great month to visit South Africa, and it offers mostly sunny weather without the worst of the summer crowds and prices. There is a 10-day South African school holiday at the beginning of the month.
Key events: South African National Gold Panning Championships, Soweto Festivals, Mangaung African Cultural Festival

November

Spring drifts into summer: look out for wildflowers in the Drakensberg, and hit the beach before the worst humidity comes to KwaZulu-Natal, and all of the above in Cape Town and the Western Cape. November is rainy in the Lowveld, and high season begins.
Key events: Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, Cherry Festival

December

The hot, dry days pick up as summer officially gets cooking in December. Music festival AFROPUNK in Johannesburg is the perfect big-time kickoff to the city’s music festival season.
Key events: AFROPUNK

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It's no wonder that Oregon has become a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts – this corner of the Pacific Northwest is blessed with a stunningly-diverse landscape. From towering shield volcanoes that have (mostly) simmered down to coasts strewn with driftwood the size of fresh-cut timber, with  wind-scoured high desert and wild and rivers, there's no shortage of varied terrain to explore.

If you're eager to take your hiking boots out for a spin, we have narrowed your Oregon hiking bucket list down to the top 25 trails for every kind of hiker. Ranging from short easy hikes for families that reward you with waterfalls and wildflowers to challenging summits and backpacking trips that take you deep into Oregon's vast alpine wilderness areas.

Dog Mountain

7.2 miles round-trip

The most popular hike in the Columbia River Gorge is also a very steep and challenging 7.2 miles round trip. The uphill is unrelenting but it ends at open fields full of some of the best blooms anywhere and gives you sweeping views over the Columbia River. Expect high winds anytime of year and dress in layers. To manage crowds and reduce impact on the ecosystem, this hike now requires an inexpensive permit April 18 through June 14 (Saturday and Sunday only). Individuals can purchase up to four permits (per day) starting March 1.

Timberline Trail

40 miles; plus smaller segments of varying lengths

The mother of all trails is the (approximately) 40-mile Timberline Trail, which circumnavigates Mt Hood along a scenic wilderness of waterfalls, quiet reflecting lakes, wildflower meadows and mountain vistas. Parts of the trail may be closed due to washouts or fallen trees, so check with ranger stations as you plan your hike, especially in spring.

The trail can be accessed from several points – noteworthy sections include the hike to McNeil Point and the short climb to Bald Mountain, both offering breathtaking scenery. From Timberline Lodge, Zigzag Canyon Overlook is a 4.5-mile round-trip through meadows of wildflowers to a canyon vista. Some trails can be snowbound until late July, and fording rivers can be a challenge, so stop in at a ranger station for details before you decide which part of the trail to take on.

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The Rogue River Trail

40 miles

The 40-mile Rogue River Trail, best hiked in spring or fall, follows the river from Grave Creek to Illahe in southern Oregon near Grants Pass. Once used to transport mail and supplies from Gold Beach, the route follows a relatively easy grade through scrub oak and laurel past historic homesteads and cabins. The full hike takes four to five days, but rustic lodges along the way can make your itinerary flexible.

Multnomah Falls

2.2 miles; further 7 miles to Larch Mountain

The top attraction in the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls is so beloved there's even a version built out of Legos on display in the Portland Airport's baggage claim area. A 2.2-mile hike with 700 feet of elevation gain leads to the top of the falls, but you can continue up forested Multnomah Creek and the top of Larch Mountain (another seven miles). Don't expect to have Multnomah Falls to yourself, but do fuel up for your hike at the Multnomah Falls Lodge, which has a restaurant and snack bar in addition to a visitor's center.

The Oregon Coast Trail

400 miles

This adventurous 400-mile route runs through sandy beaches, verdant forests and rocky headlands, as well as coastal towns and cities from just this side of Washington to California. The OCT isn't necessarily a hard route, but it'll take about a month to hike the whole thing. Keep in mind that there are a few gaps in the hikeable sections of trail;  you'll want to make connections by road at a few points, such as the Sixes and Elk rivers. You'll also want to consult a tide table, as some beach passages aren't feasible at all times of day depending on what the Pacific Ocean is up to. The hike is best done north to south due to prevailing winds and available literature. Hike it all or just a few sections of it, and enjoy the spectacular views – there's one around every corner or two.

Neahkahnie Mountain

2.5 miles

It's no secret that Oswald West State Park is full of fantastic hikes, but one of the real gems is the 2.5 mile climb (one way) to the top of 1660ft Neahkahnie Mountain, which towers above Nehalem Bay and offers amazing views – on a clear day, you can see 50 miles out to sea. Start at the North Neahkahnie Mountain Trailhead and enjoy the views of Cape Falcon and the Devil's Cauldron far below the summit.

Blue Basin and Island in Time

4 miles; plus 1 mile

This ethereal landscape in John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a testament to the explosive forces that shaped Oregon millions of years ago. Those geologic events painted Blue Basin an unusual pastel hue that you can see up close and personal on these relatively short, easy hikes. The Blue Basin Overlook trail is four miles-long, while the Island in Time trail is just over a mile. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat, though – there's very little shade, and temperatures can soar in the summer.

Mt Scott

4.2 miles

This strenuous hike takes you to an incredible lake vista atop 8929ft Mt Scott, the highest point in the Crater Lake National Park. It starts easily, through a meadow then climbs more steeply the higher (and more out of breath) you get. Because of the high elevation you can expect snow around the top of the trail year-round. It's said that this is the only place in the park where you can get the entire lake in a camera frame. This is also a great place to spot Grouse, Clark's Nut Crackers, Steller's Jays and other birds.

Eagle Cap

various trails

Many of the most popular hikes in Oregon are in close driving distance of Portland or along the coast – but eastern Oregon shouldn't be overlooked. Eagle Cap in the stunning Wallowa Mountains is the largest wilderness area in Oregon, full of dramatic granite peaks and jewel box alpine lakes. While many of the trails in this sprawling region are best suited for backpackers with a few days to spend on a trek, you can summit Eagle Cap itself from Two Pan trailhead – if you're up for a 20-mile-day and ascending 4000 feet. You'll be rewarded with 360° views from the top, and a better understanding of why the Wallowas are often compared to the Swiss Alps.

Mt Howard in the Wallowas

various trails

Another can't-miss peak in the Wallows is Mt Howard, and this one involves a little assist on your way to the top. The Wallowa Lake tramway climbs 3700 feet up the side of 8241-foot Mount Howard, taking you from the green summer camp vibes at the mountain's foot to a rocky, wintery world at the top. From the tram's top stop, it's up to you to explore several trails by foot, including an easy two-mile loop to the summit where you'll be greeted by an ocean of peaks spread out to the horizon all around you. Because of the elevations, it's a hike best done from July to September – and even then you might see snow at the top. Dress in layers, and be sure to charge your phone. Although there's a small restaurant and warming station by the tramway, they don't have electrical outlets available for visitors.

Carroll Rim Trail

1.6 miles

This short, easy trail in John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers a site you don't see very many places on earth – painted hills banded with rich hues of red, yellow, and pink layered by eons of geologic events. A series of eruptions drifted into beds hundreds of feet deep, layering the brick-red, yellow, black, beige and ochre-hued ash that you now see. It's a fabulous, uncommon sight, best viewed just before sunset. The Painted Hills Unit is nine miles north of Mitchell, off Hwy 26.

Tumalo Falls

6.5 miles

Bend, Oregon may be in the high desert, but there's still plenty of water spilling over Tumalo Falls in the Deschutes National Forest. You can see it for yourself on this 6.5 mile out-and-back hike that's only moderately challenging and promises big rewards. In the summer you can expect plenty of company on the trail, but in winter you might dodge some of the crowds if you're willing to slip on your snowshoes.

Pittock Mansion

5 miles

You don't have to leave the city to find a good hike in Portland. Case in point, the Forest Park trail to the Pittock Mansion is a moderate hike perfect for filling up an hour or so of your afternoon. Accessible by public transit and boasting incredible views of Portland and, on clear days, Mount Hood, it's easy to see why newspaper magnate Henry Pittock – himself an avid mountaineer and one of the founding members of the Mazamas club – chose this spot to build his glamorous abode. Start at the Lower Macleay Park Trailhead and follow the Wildwood Trail and its switchbacks to the top.

Rowena Crest

2.5 miles

This is an absolutely lovely 2.5 mile loop stroll over a plateau with views over rolling hills and up and down the Colombia River Gorge. Rowena Crest sits on the backroads between Hood River and the Dalles and is a great choice for families, although there are some rocky and rough spots on the trail. Bright yellow balsamroot carpets the hills here as well as anywhere in spring and summer. There's also a longer and more strenuous option from the same trailhead to hike the 3.25 mile round trip McCall Point Trail which offers views of Mt Adams.

Ramona Falls

7 miles

A popular trail on the upper Sandy River on the west side of Mount Hood loops for seven miles and shows off lovely Ramona Falls, which tumbles 120ft down a face of mossy columnar basalt. To reach the trailhead from Zigzag, turn north onto Lolo Pass Rd, continue for four miles, then turn right onto USFS Rd 1825 and drive three miles further.

John Dellenbeck Trail

6 miles round-trip

For some of the biggest dunes in Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (including the tallest at 500ft), take the John Dellenbeck Trail, 10.5 miles south of Reedsport, which leads out across a wilderness of massive sand peaks before reaching the beach. The round-trip hike is six miles and involves some tough dune climbing, though there's a one-mile interpretive loop on packed gravel if you just want to take a look.

Catherine Creek

6.9 miles round-trip

There are actually three hikes from this trailhead, but the best (arguably) crosses Catherine Creek on a plank bridge just below an old corral. You'll end up in forest and get to a small pond but there will be flowers the whole way up and down. As ever, the views over the Columbia River and looking out to the Oregon side of the gorge (this hike is on the Washington side) are spectacular. It's 6.9 miles round trip, and on the difficult side of moderate.

Watchman Trail

1.5 miles round-trip

For a steep but shorter hike in Crater Lake National Park, trek up to the Watchman, an old lookout tower on the opposite side of the lake that boasts one of the park's best views – and definitely the best views of Wizard Island. Wear good shoes to traverse a scree area. The lookout tower was built in 1932. Expect a colorful palette of wildflowers from late August into October and snow year-round. You'll only be hiking for about a mile-and-a-half round trip, but it can get windy up here so dress in layers.

Oregon Trail Interpretive Center Loop

2 mile loop

The rolling hills of eastern Oregon are still scarred with wheel ruts dug by the thousands upon thousands of settlers who came through what is now Baker City by covered wagon in the 19th century. You can see them clearly from the promontory of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, where you can learn more about the role the Oregon Trail played in US history. But you can also see them up close on this two-mile loop hike, and literally follow in the footsteps of pioneers who poured into the territory that the Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Nez Perce nations called home.

Three Fingered Jack

4.5 mile round-trip

For a serious but fabulous day hike, head up to Canyon Creek Meadows, where summer produces a vibrant wildflower display and great views onto the rugged 7841ft Three Fingered Jack. This shield volcano was shaped by dramatic lava flows and glaciers millions of years ago, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts today, from hikers to backcountry skiers to rock climbers. To reach the trailhead from Sisters, drive 13 miles northwest on US 20. Just south of Suttle Lake, turn north on Jack Lake Rd, USFS Rd 12. It's about eight miles to the trailhead, at Jack Lake Campground. The hike is 4.5 miles round-trip; $5 day-use pass required in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness.

Oregon Caves National Monument

3.3 miles; plus 0.75 miles

It's a real treat to visit Oregon Caves National Monument and its swirling, undersea-like formations – not to mention the lovely, historic Oregon Caves Chateau lodge (currently closed for restoration). Guided tours let you explore the caves, but don't neglect the surrounding area. There's a handful of short nature trails, such as the 0.75-mile Cliff Nature Trail (offering good views) and the 3.3-mile Big Tree Trail (which loops through old-growth forest to a huge Douglas fir).

Spencer Butte Trail

2 miles

The most popular hike in all of Eugene is this nearly two-mile-trek to the top of a ridge line from which you can see the city below and, on clear days, even the Three Sisters that sit near Bend, Oregon. Don't expect much solitude, and consider starting early to get a spot in the trailhead parking lot. It's not a particularly challenging trail, with a gradual climb to an expansive viewpoint.

Sweet Creek Falls

2.2 miles

What's the best-kept secret tucked away in the Coast Range near Florence, Oregon? One local recommends hiking to Sweet Creek Falls, an easy 2.2-mile round-trip journey that begins 15 miles east of Florence on Hwy 126, toward Eugene. Start at the eponymous trailhead and enjoy chasing those eleven waterfalls along the way to the multi-tiered Sweet Creek cascade.

Yoran Lake

5.3 miles; plus 3.8 miles

From the west end of Odell Lake, energetic hikers should consider the 5.3-mile one-way hike to Yoran Lake for a great view of 8744ft Diamond Peak. Another popular hike from Odell Lake Resort leads 3.8 miles to Fawn Lake, below two rugged peaks.

Prospect and Union Creek

various trails

A mile south of Prospect on Mill Creek Dr is the 0.3-mile trail to the awesome Mill Creek Falls (173ft). A side shoot leads to the Avenue of Giant Boulders, well worth the extra few steps, where the Rogue River crashes through rocky boulders (scrambling required).

A good 4.6-mile hike (one way) starts from either the Woodruff Bridge picnic area or the River Bridge campground; you'll get views of the pretty Takelma Gorge. You can also hike 3.5 miles (one way) between Natural Bridge, where the Rogue River borrows a lava tube and goes underground for 200ft, and the magical Rogue River Gorge, where a narrow, turbulent section of river cuts a sheer-walled cleft into a lava flow.

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When Archbishop Desmond Tutu called South Africa the "Rainbow Nation," his words described the very essence of what makes this country extraordinary. Certainly, the blend of peoples and cultures that his oft-used moniker referred to is instantly evident, but the country’s diversity stretches far beyond its people.

Within South Africa ’s borders you can sleep under the stars in a desert or hike to snowcapped peaks. The hills of the Wild Coast provide a bucolic antidote to the bustle of large cities like Johannesburg. Wildlife watching ranges from remote safari walks to up-close encounters with waddling penguins.

Here are the must-visit places in South Africa.

1. Cape Town

Overlooked by flat-topped Table Mountain, with its cable car, walking trails and abseiling, Cape Town is one of the world's most beautiful cities. Fill your days here visiting beaches and Constantia wine estates, wandering the V&A Waterfront, catching the ferry to Robben Island and, above all, meeting the easy-going Cape locals. In complement to its considerable natural charms, the city is benefiting from ongoing urban renewal, with world-class restaurants, hip food markets and design-savvy arcades opening in once-industrial neighborhoods such as Woodstock and the Waterfront's Silo District.

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2. Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of Africa's great wilderness experiences and the mightiest of the country's national parks – a trip here will sear itself in your mind. Its accessibility, quantity and variety of wildlife, and staggering size and range of activities make Kruger unique and compelling. From wilderness trails and bush walks to mountain biking and remote 4WD trails, there are myriad opportunities to enjoy the wild environment and its four-legged inhabitants. Kruger is simply one of the best places to see animals – big and small – in the world.

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3. Drakensberg Region

Majestic, stunning and mysterious, the mountains and foothills of the World Heritage–listed uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park are among the country's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Drakensberg means "Dragon Mountains" in Afrikaans, while the Zulu named the range Quathlamba ("Battlement of Spears"); both convey beautifully the area's sublime backdrop of incredible peaks. People have lived here for thousands of years, evidenced by the many San rock-art sites. With its Zulu villages, wilderness areas and wildflowers, and good accommodations and restaurants, the Drakensberg region is the perfect place for photographers, hikers and adventurous travelers.

4. South Africa's Winelands

Whitewashed Cape Dutch architecture dots this endlessly photogenic landscape of rolling hills and vines in neat rows. The Winelands is the quintessential Cape, where world-class wines are the icing on the viticultural cake. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, the area's holy trinity of wine-tasting towns, host some of the southern hemisphere's oldest, largest and prettiest wine estates. But this is not the only wine region: head to Tulbagh for sparkling wines; the heights of the Cederberg for crisp sauvignon blancs; and Hermanus' Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven on Earth) valley for boutique wineries.

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5. Wild Coast

With its rugged cliffs plunging into the sea, remote sandy beaches, rural Xhosa villages and history of shipwrecks and stranded sailors, the aptly named Wild Coast is ideally explored on foot. From the Great Kei River to Port St. Johns, pathways hug the shoreline, cutting through dense vegetation or snaking across denuded hillsides and gorges, and often overlook southern right whales and dolphins in the turquoise seas. Power down in rustic accommodations or overnight with families in traditionally designed rondavels (round huts with a conical roof).

6. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park covers almost 15,445 sq miles of raw Kalahari in the Northern Cape and Botswana, an area roamed by some 2000 predators. But such statistics, albeit impressive, barely scrape the surface of this immense land of sizzling sunsets, velvety night skies and rolling red dunes. The park is one of the world's best places to spot big cats, and you might spy black-maned lions napping under thorn trees, or cheetahs and leopards purring along the roadside. Best of all, you don't need a 4WD to access the park.

7. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso, which means "miracle" or "wonder" in Zulu, has a fitting name. This Unesco World Heritage site stretches for a glorious 136 miles, from the Mozambique border to Maphelane, at the southern end of Lake St. Lucia. iSimangaliso Wetland Park protects five distinct ecosystems, offering everything from beaches, offshore reefs and coastal forests to lakes, wetlands and woodlands. It's nature's playground, which travelers can enjoy on wildlife drives, kayak safaris, cycling and cruises. The extraordinary animals here include loggerhead and leatherback turtles, whales, dolphins, antelope, zebras and hippos galore.

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8. Clarens

The odd international star popping in for a lungful of fresh mountain air gives well-heeled Clarens celebrity credentials. But with galleries, antiques, classy restaurants, a microbrewery and adventure activities in the surrounding countryside, there's something to appeal to most visitors. The laid-back town is perfect for an evening stroll after a day exploring the nearby Golden Gate Highlands National Park. And with plenty of pubs to drop into and a bookshop to browse, Clarens is the best place in the Free State's Eastern Highlands to simply wind down.

9. Blyde River Canyon

Blyde River Canyon, the third largest in the world and possibly the greenest, is one of South Africa's great sights. Even the bus loads of domestic and foreign visitors to the canyon, where the Blyde River snakes down from the Drakensberg Escarpment to the lowveld, cannot spoil the majesty of sights such as Bourke's Luck Potholes. On a clear day, viewpoints including the Three Rondavels and God's Window will leave you breathless. This vast natural landmark scarring northern Mpumalanga can be appreciated on foot or by car.

10. Mapungubwe National Park

A real standout among South Africa's national parks, the transfrontier Mapungubwe National Park conservation area in the making has been declared a World Heritage site for its important cultural heritage, which is explained at its interpretative center. The landscape is riveting, too: arid, ancient terrain that's twisted and knotted, with rocky bluffs offering majestic views, and mighty rivers that intersect. The climate is harsh, but lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and rhinos can be found here, as well as smaller species such as caracals. Getting around can be tough but the rewards are sublime.

11. Addo Elephant National Park

At Addo Elephant National Park, more than 600 African elephants roam through low bushes, tall grass and distant hills. The land (reclaimed after being decimated by farmers) and the park represent a conservation success story. Also roaming free are hyenas and lions, introduced in 2003 to bring the kudu, ostrich and warthog populations down. Buffaloes, rare Cape mountain zebras and endemic dung beetles can also be seen, but elephants are the showstoppers – particularly when they burst from the undergrowth, flap their ears and dwarf all that is before them.

12. Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Beneath the open skies of the Free State's Eastern Highlands, Golden Gate Highlands National Park enjoys extraordinary sunsets, and hides plenty of antelope, zebras, jackals and birds among its grasslands and sandstone outcrops. It's great walking territory, but you can also drive short, scenic loops. Either way, views of the Drakensberg and Maluti Mountains loom large and there's something almost fairy tale about the wind sweeping patterns through the nodding grass.

13. Garden Route

The enduring popularity of this verdant coastal strip, where woodcutters once dodged elephants in the old-growth forests, lies not only in its undeniable scenic beauty. The Garden Route is also a magnet for those in search of a little outdoor adventure. Whether you're hiking the Knysna Forests, surfing in Victoria Bay, canoeing on Wilderness Lagoon or getting up close with great whites in a cage in Mossel Bay's waters, the Garden Route guarantees an adventure for every taste and budget.

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14. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Sometimes overshadowed by Kruger National Park, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is nonetheless one of the country's best-known and most evocative parks. Stunningly beautiful, it features a variety of landscapes, from open savanna to mountains with wildflowers. It teems with wildlife, including the Big Five and other amazing creatures. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi can be visited at any time because there's always something happening and plenty to see, from elephants munching marula trees to impala, zebras, wildebeest and giraffe babies. Great wildlife drives, accommodations and hiking trails ensure a memorable experience.

15. Madikwe Game Reserve

One of the country's most exclusive reserves on such a large scale, Madikwe Game Reserve occupies 293 sq miles of bushveld, savanna grassland and riverine forest. There's a good chance of spotting iconic African wildlife, and the lodges are experiences in themselves, from an ecolodge to five-star options offering creature comforts in the wilderness. Visits to Madikwe are on an all-inclusive basis, allowing you to relax once you're through the gates.

16. Venda Region

A lush place steeped in mystique and traditional customs, the Venda Region is the Africa of mist-clad hills, dusty red tracks and mud huts. Sprinkled with lakes and forests containing enormous spiritual significance, and marking the primeval ties between indigenous culture and the land, the Limpopo province's former homeland is well worth exploring with a local guide. Stay in Elim or Louis Trichardt (Makhado) and begin with the Venda arts and crafts trail; the area is noted for its fine original artwork, with studios hidden throughout the landscape.

17. Johannesburg

With a grisly reputation, Johannesburg is a surprisingly vibey and inspiring place thanks to the regeneration uplifting its inner city. The cultural enclaves of Braamfontein, Newtown, 44 Stanley and the Maboneng precinct are dynamic and exciting spots by any city's standards, with galleries, restaurants, bars and boutiques. Take a walking tour to understand the background of this urban transformation and spot Maboneng's public art by international muralists. Try to time your visit to coincide with Braamfontein and Maboneng's weekly markets.

Johannesburg's best neighborhoods to explore

18. Pilanesberg National Park

Sprawling away from the Sun City casino complex is the underrated Pilanesberg National Park, where the Big Five and day-tripping Jo'burgers roam an extinct volcanic crater. With its tarred roads, Pilanesberg is sometimes dismissed as tame, yet the rhinos lapping at waterholes seem to disagree. To escape the other cars and score an up-close sighting, hit the gravel roads through the bush and stake out a dam. Guided drives and walks are available, as is a range of accommodations, making this a winner for families and those short on time.

19. Cradle of Humankind

As you'll discover at this palaeontological zone, it began in Africa – Western Gauteng to be precise. The Cradle of Humankind nurses hundreds of square miles of beautiful green and brown veld, and an increasing migration of tourists, descended from hominids, who sit with the fossils of their ancestors deep underground, before returning to civilization at fine restaurants and day spas. There's a serene sculpture park at the Nirox Foundation and wilderness to be enjoyed. Only 30 miles northwest of Jo'burg are free-roaming elands, zebras, giraffes and gazelles.

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19 best places to visit in South Africa

A windswept and beautiful coast is the face that South Africa turns to the rest of the world – tempestuous and tamed, stormy and sublime. It spans two oceans as it winds its way down the Atlantic seaboard in the west and up into the warmer Indian Ocean waters to the east.

In all, the country has more than 1550 miles of coastline. So where should the beach lovers go? Cape Town is known to have many great beaches (we've picked just a few), but there are other delights to be found along the vast coastline, from remote strands tucked away in national parks to top surfing spots on the Sunshine Coast.

Here are the best beaches in South Africa.

Bloubergstrand, Cape Town's northern suburbs

The beaches beside this pleasant coastal suburb are where the British won their 1806 battle for the Cape. The panoramic view they provide of Table Mountain across Table Bay is fabulous, but these beaches are also popular with kite-surfers and windsurfers; watching them ride the waves on the weekends is an impressive sight. You can also see Robben Island clearly from here. Bloubergstrand is a good example of a poetic Cape name – it means "blue mountain beach."

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Dolphin Beach, Jeffrey's Bay, Sunshine Coast

Jeffrey's Bay on the Sunshine Coast is one of the world's top surfing destinations. Boardies from all over the planet flock here to ride waves such as the famous Supertubes, generally rated as one of the world's most perfect waves. June to September are the best months for experienced surfers, but novices can learn at any time of year. The town's main beach, Dolphin Beach, is a beautiful, wide and largely-untouched expanse of sand. It's safe for swimming and there are lifeguards on duty, which makes it very popular with families.

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Boulders Beach, Simon's Town, Cape Town

You don't come to Boulders Beach for sand and surf; you come here for bird-watching. This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs from the Boulders Visitor Centre at the Foxy Beach end of the protected area – part of Table Mountain National Park – to Boulders Beach, where you can get down on the sand and mingle with the waddling penguins. Don’t, however, be tempted to pet them: they are wild animals with sharp beaks that can cause serious injuries.

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Golden Mile, Durban

Durban 's beaches and promenade extend from the Blue Lagoon (at the mouth of the Umgeni River) to uShaka Marine World on the Point, an area known as the "Golden Mile," although it’s more like four miles. At the southern end is uShaka Beach, a sheltered spot that's popular with families and local sand sculptors. Surfers find reliable surf at Dairy Beach.

At the heart of Durban's Golden Mile is Bay of Plenty Beach, often packed with sunbathers and beach-sports enthusiasts. Towards the north is Suncoast Beach, where you can rent loungers and umbrellas. Further north still is Blue Lagoon Beach, with playgrounds and food stalls, making it a great place for families. Excellent signage at the beaches provides maps and names of the different beaches, as well as what activities are permitted there. The surf and currents at Durban’s beaches can be dangerous. Always swim in patrolled areas that are indicated by flags.

Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town

The trademark multicolored Victorian bathing cabins of Muizenberg Beach have become photogenic icons of Cape Town. Surfboards can be rented and lessons booked at several shops along Beach Road at this surfing hot spot. The beach shelves gently, and the sea is generally safer here than elsewhere along the peninsula. There's also a water park at the eastern end of the beach, always popular for those traveling with young family members.

The beaches on the False Bay (eastern) side of the Cape Peninsula are not quite as spectacular as those on the Atlantic side, but the water is often 41ºF or more warmer, and can reach 68ºF in summer, making swimming more pleasant here.

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Cape Vidal, Eastern Shores, the Elephant Coast

If you ask anyone in the know what to see in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, they'll most likely suggest Cape Vidal. Some of the forested sand dunes here rise 500 feet high, and the beaches are excellent for swimming. There's also decent wildlife viewing en route to the beach, and you'll likely have the sightings of hippos, antelopes, buffaloes and crocs to yourself.

Kings Beach, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Port Elizabeth (PE for short) fringes Algoa Bay at the western end of the Sunshine Coast and offers many good bathing beaches, great surf spots and excellent water sports. Marine life in the bay is also sensational, with plenty of dolphins and whales that can be spotted throughout the year. Kings Beach is a central beach stretching from the harbor to Humewood, popular for sunbathing and swimming in the shallows. Take extreme care when swimming; the current is very strong. More sheltered beaches can be found at Summerstrand.

Kakapo dominates the surfing beach at Noordhoek © DWaschnig / Shutterstock" data-embed-button="images" data-entity-embed-display="media_image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"","image_link":""}" data-entity-type="media" data-entity-uuid="9fb4f089-e711-4b48-bdea-c1caeb76b15d" data-langcode="en" title="Wreck of the Kakapo, Noordhoek Beach, South Africa">

Noordhoek, Cape Town

This magnificent three-mile stretch of beach is favored by surfers and horse riders. It tends to be windy and dangerous for swimmers. The Hoek, as it is known to surfers, has an excellent right beach break at the northern end that can hold large waves (only attempt it at low tide); it’s best with a southeasterly wind. In the middle of the beach, the rusted shell of the steamship Kakapo sticks out of the sand like a weird sculpture. It ran aground here in 1900 on its maiden voyage from Swansea, Wales, to Sydney, Australia.

Langebaan Beach, West Coast National Park, West Coast

Langebaan's beautiful location overlooking the Langebaan Lagoon in West Coast National Park has made this seaside resort a favorite vacation destination with South Africans. The town is known for its water sports, particularly kite-surfing and windsurfing on the lagoon. For those seeking something less strenuous, there are phenomenal sunset views and a few good beaches, the best of which is Langebaan Beach, which is very popular with swimmers.

Nahoon Beach, East London, Eastern Cape

Pristine Nahoon Beach in East London will appeal to sunbathers and surfers alike. At the southern end of the beach is Nahoon Reef, which has excellent surfing opportunities. The Nahoon River mouth provides safe swimming for those a little less confident in the pounding surf.

Clifton 4th Beach and Camps Bay, Cape Town

Clifton 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th beaches all offer top sunbathing spots and exhilarating (read: freezing) swimming conditions. But it's 4th Beach that really stands out. This is the only Blue Flag beach among the four sheltered stretches of sand along Victoria Road and is popular with families. On calm summer evenings, especially the night of Valentine's Day, couples and groups of young people have candlelit picnics on 4th from sunset onwards. Nearby Camps Bay, another Blue Flag beach, with soft white sand and a backdrop of the spectacular Twelve Apostles range (part of Table Mountain), is one of the city’s most popular beaches. However, it's also one of the windiest, and it gets very crowded.

Second Beach, Port St Johns, Wild Coast

Second Beach is Port St Johns 's heart and soul. Locals come to this idyllic stretch of sand to while away the hot days and party as the sun goes down. Wandering down to the shallows for a paddle and spotting Nguni cows lounging on the sand are classic Port St Johns experiences. That said, be aware of rip currents and sharks.

Cape Peninsula beaches

The Cape Peninsula has some excellent beaches, which you may even have to yourself (but take care if you go swimming – the sea is perilous, and there are no lifeguards). The best ones are Platboom Beach, Bordjiesrif on the peninsula's more sheltered eastern side, and neighboring Buffels Bay, which has a large tidal pool for safe swimming. Maclear Beach, near the main car park, is good for walks or diving but is too rocky for enjoyable swimming. Farther towards Cape Point is the beautiful Diaz Beach, where swimming is not allowed because of the strong currents.

Coffee Bay, Wild Coast

Because of its beautiful long beach and easy access to dramatic surrounding scenery, including the Hole in the Wall, the once-remote village of Coffee Bay has become something of an essential Wild Coast stop for backpackers and South African hippies. The village itself doesn't have much charm, but it's a great base for those who want to hike the coast and surf.

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Austria ’s cultured and charismatic capital Vienna is anything but one dimensional; the city changes with the seasons.

Winter brings jubilant Christmas markets and summer offers up delightful warm weather that entices locals to spend afternoons lounging in the city’s green spaces. An impressive array of annual events adds even more variety. Fortunately, however, some city must-dos, like whiling away an afternoon in one of town’s famed coffee houses, where everyone from Freud to Marx got their caffeine fill, can be enjoyed whatever the season.

Whether you want to see live music, sip a pint in a summer biergarten or just avoid the crowds, here’s our guide to the best time to visit Vienna.

High season: June-August; December

Best time for being outdoors

You’ll likely love summer in Vienna, seemingly everyone does – at times it can feel like the world has descended en masse on those warm days in high season. If you can put up with the crowds though, this really is a lovely time to be in the city, with the parks, vineyards, lakes and outdoor pools all perfect for a sunny afternoon. In the evening, a packed calendar of events, from film festivals to outdoor concerts, stir into life, and it feels like the whole city is out and about.

A second, shorter high season comes in December, when Christmas markets take over the city and festive holidaymakers spill in, on the hunt for (semi) unique gifts and the best gluhwein stands.

Shoulder season: September-November

Best time for taking in culture

Fall is a great time to be in the city, with less crowds, cheaper hotel prices and lingering good weather (especially in September and early October).

It’s also the time of year when the city puts on a show: the Wiesn, Vienna’s answer to Oktoberfest gets the party started in late September, Vienna Design Week brings the class in October and the city’s Comic Con, the top event for pop culture and gaming in Austria, arrives in November – expect to see a lot of impressive costumes on show.

Low season: January-May

Best time to avoid the crowds

If you want a Vienna experience that’s less chaotic, try the first part of the year. Many travelers retreat in the face of chilly temperatures, but the weather isn’t a problem in the city’s cosy coffee shops and fascinating museums, palaces and galleries. Tour the Schloss Belvedere without getting elbowed and get into any of the MuseumsQuartier ’s museums without the lines. Getting a table at a restaurant of your choice is easier too (outside of Valentine's Day week, that is!).

A top tip is to remember that the always-popular Christmas markets and skating rinks continue through January, though with far fewer crowds than in December.

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January

A new year and a new start, with few tourists. This is a time to enjoy the brisk breezes and fresh mornings of Vienna. Try ice skating on the temporary double-level(!) rink which remains standing following the festive season outside the City Hall on Rathausplatz – you can even try your hand at curling here. The city’s Christmas markets continue too, rebranded as “New Year’s Markets”, offering the same intriguing trinket stands and enticing food stalls, but without the over-the-top Christmas decorations.
Key events: New Year’s Markets, Vienna Ice Dream

February

Love is in the air in February, and Vienna is perfect for a romantic break. You’ll need to book restaurants well ahead of time if you want to dine with a special someone on February 14 (Valentine’s Day) because a lot of locals and visitors have the same idea.

If that meal goes well why not take your other half to the Opera Ball – one of the grandest dates of the year in Vienna. This annual ball at the Vienna State Opera opera house, which usually falls in mid-February and has been taking place for over 200 years, is a part of the city’s Carnival season, with various other parades and events taking place in the city.
Key events: Carnival, Opera Ball, Valentine’s Day, International Orchid Show

March

Visual arts take centre stage as winter transforms to spring in the Austrian capital and people begin to leave their heavy coats at home. Two key events are the Photo Wien show which displays the best in contemporary photography, and the noted Spark Art Fair at the Marx Halle, where you can catch the latest in modern art to purchase.
Key events: Spark Art Fair, Photo Wien

April

April sees a flurry of activity on the streets of Vienna as two key sporting events take over the city. In the Rathausplatz, and surrounding areas, cyclists show off their bikes as part of the Argus Bike Festival, with stalls and demos, as well as displays from BMXers and dirt bikers.

Later in the month, it’s the turn of the runners to take centre stage, as the city’s annual marathon takes place – taking part is like a sightseeing tour of the city, as runners pass all the key historic Habsburg sights on their extended circuit.
Key events: Argus Bike Festival, Vienna Marathon

May

Austrians love a beer and Vienna’s Bier Festival is a mainstay of the city’s events calendar. Biergardens are set up all over the city in May, and with the sun shining and temperatures rising, you’ll find much merriment taking place. For something more cultured, try the Vienna short film festival, Vienna Shorts, which has been going for two decades and provides a great platform for up-and-coming filmmakers.
Key events: Vienna Bier Festival, Vienna Shorts, Vienna Wine Festival

June

The first month of high season sees all kinds of cultural displays taking place, including the Vienna Festwochen, with shows covering theatre, art, dance, and everything in between, happening across the city. Also in June, the Vienna Jazz Festival provides a smooth soundtrack to the long summer nights, while street fashion lovers should check out the Fesch’Market, which gives space to new young designers in a large industrial space.
Key events: Vienna Festwochen, Vienna Jazz Festival, Danube Canal Festival, Fesch’Market

July

Cinema is huge in Vienna, and July’s warm evenings mean serious al fresco film festival action, with the Dotdotdot Short Film Festival, the Frame Out art film festival in MuseumsQuartier and the Town Hall Square Film Festival in Rathausplatz kicking off in July and running into September.

Cinephiles should also make time for a visit to the Austrian Film Museum, which is home to a collection of approximately 31,000 films, and hosts a handful of showings every day. Away from film, Popfest, a cool music festival, comes to town.
Key events: Frameout Film Festival, Dotdotdot Film Festival, Town Hall Square Film Festival, Popfest

August

In August, the hottest month in Vienna, the city can become excessively toasty and citizens cool off at the seasonal stranbads and lidos (beaches and pools) that open up from May until September. It’s a big Viennese tradition to hit the pool or river beach on hot weekends and the biggest and best is the remarkable Gansehaufel Island with mid-century architecture, space for thousands of bathers and a playpark for kids.
Key events: Seasonal Strandbads, Vienna Classic Days

September

By September, the students have started back at university and locals go back to work following summer vacation. Not everyone’s hard at work though: the Wiesn, Vienna’s answer to Oktoberfest, sees big-time beer drinking and oompah music round off the summer season.

Also in September is Waves, a brilliant little music festival which takes place at the WUK venue and showcases emerging talent and the best new bands from around Europe – it’s a place to discover the stars of the future.
Key events: Waves, Wiesen

October

History and design fans get their chance to experience the best Vienna has to offer in October with the annual Long Night of The Museums at the start of the month, with museums and galleries across the city open after dark and beckoning people in with music and other special treats. Alongside this, Vienna’s note-worthy Design Week is Europe’s largest and has been taking place since 2007. Expect talks, launches, displays and other surprises from across the worlds of graphic design, fashion, architecture and product design.
Key events: Vienna Design Week, Long Night of The Museums

November

November offers something for those who like their culture on the slightly nerdier end of the spectrum, with sci-fi nuts and comic fans gathering, usually in impressive costumes, at the city’s large-scale Comic Con event, where all kinds of leftfield films, TV, comics and books are celebrated. Music fans, meanwhile, will want to check out the Wien Modern Festival, where avant garde musicians and new composers are given the space to play their newest and boldest arrangements.
Key events: Comic Con, Wien Modern

December

Christmas time in Vienna means that Mitteleuropean staple that gets the tourists coming back every year. Yes, it’s the Christmas Market season; and Vienna has lots and lots of them, from the mainstream, like the village of stalls (lined with festive staples like wooden toys, bratwursts, gluhwein and marzipan) that takes over Rathausplatz in front of the Town Hall, to the Spittelberg iteration, where stalls tend to focus on more artisan items, like jewellery. The city’s event calendar finishes with a bang as firework displays mark the coming of a new year.
Key events: Christmas Markets, New Year Fireworks

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