Abandoned airports, half-timbered beer taverns and breathtaking cable cars: Germany has tons to discover. To get the full picture of the diversity of what there is to do in Germany, combine the things you might expect, such as Lederhosen-clad locals drinking oversized beers, with those you might not, such as lemon, fig and almond trees in one of the country’s biggest wine-growing regions.

Stroll along the murals on the Berlin Wall

There are several places in the German capital where you can find remaining parts of the Berlin Wall, but the East Side Gallery stands out. The 0.8-mile (1.3km) stretch running parallel to the Spree River is covered in more than 100 murals, created by international artists following the fall of the wall.

One highlight is Dimitrji Vrubel's Bruderkuss depicting a kiss between high-ranking Soviet politician Leonid Breschnew and East German leader Erich Honecker. Another is Birgit Kind's image of a Trabant (Trabi) car crashing through the wall. Surrounded by many new apartment blocks and office complexes – some complete, some still under construction – this part of town also demonstrates the vast scale of redevelopment that has shaped Berlin since reunification.

Roller skate down a runway at Berlin’s abandoned airport

One of the largest urban open spaces in the world, the abandoned airport is a much-loved spot for many Berliners. Complete with runway markings, grounded planes and old hangars, the park, known as Tempelhofer Feld, is popular with kite-flyers, rollerbladers, picnickers and the occasional windsurfer. Between the concrete, wild greenery has also become home to some protected animals and rare plant species. The airport stopped operating in 2008, and the site was opened to the public in 2010. A history trail provides more information about the airport’s past, not least its vital role in providing supplies to the western part of the city during the Berlin Airlift from 1948 to 1949.

Visit the castle that inspired Walt Disney

Set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop, Germany’s fairytale castle perched on a hill has to be seen to be believed. Said to be the model for the Disney logo and castles found in parks around the world, Schloss Neuschwanstein was built as a retreat for King Ludwig II. A shy and somewhat eccentric man, the young king designed much of the castle himself inspired by medieval legends and the operas of Richard Wagner. Opened to the public just a few weeks after the king’s mysterious death in 1886, the castle is now one of Germany’s top tourist attractions and one of Europe’s most visited castles, a far-cry from its intended purpose as a private refuge.

Scale Germany’s highest mountain

With blue lakes, rocky peaks and bell-wearing cows galore, the Bavarian Alps are a must for lovers of the outdoors. The region has ample hiking and rock-climbing opportunities, as well as a large number of cable cars that help you gain height much faster. By far the most dramatic of these is the Zugspitze cable car on Germany’s highest mountain. In operation since 2017, this state-of-the-art construction includes the world’s longest unsupported rope span and the world’s highest steelwork pylon for an aerial tramway. Rising up from the stunning Eibsee lake, it ferries visitors to an epic top station that sits majestically on a rugged ridge almost 10,000ft (3000m) above sea level.

Sip a smoked beer in Bamberg

It’s not hard to find beer in Germany, but for something a little different, head to the Franconian town of Bamberg. The entire old city district is a Unesco World Heritage Site that has half-timbered taverns, small breweries and Rauchbier, its famous smoked beer. According to legend, Rauchbier was invented by accident, following a fire in a brewery, but it soon became a popular local tipple. Today, you can find Rauchbier all over town, but only two breweries still stick to tradition and kiln malt over an open wood fire: Schlenkerla and Brauerei Spezial. Keep an eye out for dishes that use the beer, such as pork-filled roasted onion served with mashed potato and Rauchbier sauce.

Hit the spa in the Black Forest

The curative mineral waters that bubble up from under the Black Forest have long attracted wellness fans to this region. In Baden-Baden, one of the area’s best-known spa towns, 12 thermal springs produce around 211,340 gallons of water every day, with temperatures as high as 154°F (68°C). Head here for old-world luxury and traditional baths, starting with an afternoon at the Friedrichsbad Spa. Opened in 1877, this grand Renaissance-style building comes with domed ceilings, elaborate frescoes and a 17-station bathing circuit. Submerge yourself in thermal whirlpools, hot-air baths and cold water before heading to a relaxation room with a free wake-up service.

Attach a padlock to a bridge in Cologne

One of the best ways to approach the world-famous Cologne Cathedral is by crossing the Rhine River on the Hohenzollern Bridge. You can take in the city skyline and watch large barges glide along the mighty river as the Gothic towers of the iconic cathedral loom ever closer. In 2008, people started attaching “ love locks ” to the railings that separate pedestrians and cyclists from the trains that rattle over the bridge into the Cologne’s central station. Most are engraved with couples’ names or initials, but some have other messages. The colorful sea of sentiment is great to photograph or perhaps even add to. Many throw the key into the water below as a sign of eternal love.

Explore the German Wine Route

The Deutsche Weinstrasse winds its way through the Pfalz (Palatinate) wine-growing region. Running from Bockenheim in the north to Schweigen-Rechtenbach on the French border, the 53-mile (85km) route connects picturesque towns, countless wineries and a number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Known for its Rieslings, this region also produces a large number of reds and lesser-known whites, not to mention many great rosés and sparkling wines (called Sekt in German). The moderate climate also allows almonds, figs, kiwis and lemons to thrive, creating something of a Mediterranean feel in the southwest of Germany.

Reflect on Nazi history in Nuremberg

Nuremberg ’s imposing buildings bear witness to both the scale of the events and the megalomania of the Nazi regime. The Nazi Party Rally Grounds were used for party meetings, speeches and parades. Many of the structures on the site, such as the Zeppelinfield Grandstand and the unfinished Congress Hall, are still there and can be visited on a walking tour. Of course, after the war, Nuremberg gained a different significance for the Nazis. The Nuremberg trials saw a number of party officials and high-ranking military officers answer for their crimes in a process recognized for changing international criminal law. An informative documentation center, the Memorium Nuremberg Trials, can now be found on the top floor of the courthouse building where the trials took place.

Catch a concert at Hamburg’s impressive concert hall

Located on a peninsula in the former port district of Hamburg, the Elbphilharmonie, often affectionately called “Elphi,” is an architectural masterpiece. Opened in 2017, the concert hall consists of a glittering glass structure, made up of more than 1100 window panels sitting on top of an old red-brick warehouse. Check out the program of events or simply head up to the Elbphilharmonie Plaza for panoramic views across the city and along the river. The open-air platform is free of charge and wraps around the entire building.

Join locals for breakfast in a Munich beer garden

A traditional breakfast in Munich involves two white sausages, a pretzel, a dollop of sweet mustard and a glass of Weissbier. Best enjoyed in one of the city’s many beer gardens, the dish should be eaten before noon as it used to be in the days before refrigeration. Cooked and often served in warm water, the sausages come with a skin that needs to be removed – best to watch the locals to see how it’s done. Beer gardens are also great at other times of the day and can be a good option for families. Most have playgrounds for children or at least plenty of space to run around. You can also consume your own food in most areas as long as you buy drinks.

Try watersports on Germany’s glitziest island

Attached to the mainland by a narrow causeway, Sylt is the largest of Germany’s North Frisian Islands. The popular staycation destination has grassy dunes, sandy beaches and postcard-perfect lighthouses, as well as upmarket restaurants, designer shops and chic hotels that cater for a wealthier crowd. In fact, the island is sometimes referred to as the Saint-Tropez of the north or the Hamptons of Germany. Sylt is also a watersports hub. Thanks to the choppy surf off the western coast and the calmer waters of the Wadden Sea to the east, the island accommodates both beginners and those with more experience. It even attracts international champions taking part in events such as the Windsurf World Cup Sylt.

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For such a small country, Wales sure packs in a lot of adventure. Wherever you end up, let the landscape lead the way – whether that means climbing mountains, hiking along the castle-strewn coastline or venturing into underground caverns.

Get trip planning with our roundup of the best things to do in Wales.

Visit a castle

Wales has more castles per square mile than any other European country. Top picks include Unesco-listed Harlech Castle, which overlooks Cardigan Bay from its hilltop perch; fairytale-worthy, forest-shrouded Castell Coch, with its distinctive conical roofs; and Powis Castle, renowned for its elegant gardens.

Summit a mountain

If you haven’t schlepped up a Welsh mountain or two, some would argue you haven’t really been to Wales. The landscape here is as rugged and ridged as a dragon’s back, but even the highest peaks are surprisingly family-friendly, and kids will love searching for mythical dragon lairs, sleeping giants and bottomless haunted lakes. Mt. Snowdon (the country’s tallest at 3560ft) and Pen y Fan are spectacular hikes but can get incredibly busy. Avoid the crowds by heading to the remote Cambrian Mountains. Summiting Pen Pumlumon Fawr (2467ft) is made all the sweeter when you have the place all to yourself.

Head underground

Mining and the industrial revolution transformed the economy and landscape of Wales and are a quintessential part of the country’s heritage. Don a hard hat and descend 300ft below ground at the Unesco-listed Big Pit in Blaenavon to get a taste of what it was like to work there or opt for a less historically accurate experience at Zip World, where you can scramble along via ferrata or bounce on trampolines within the old Llechwedd Slate Caverns.

Eat Welsh food

By all means, try the Welsh classics – such as leek-filled Glamorgan sausages, Welsh cakes and bara brith – but save room for top-notch street food, vegan bakes and an ever-expanding selection of artisanal cheese ( Caws Cenarth makes a superb blue). For a fantastic introduction to Wales’s leading food producers and chefs (among others from around the UK) come in September for Abergavenny Food Festival. Foraging is on the rise too – join a coastal foraging course, scour the hedgerows for tasty weeds on a mindful walk with Wild Pickings, or bottle your own botanical gin with Brecon Beacons Foraging.

Hike the Wales Coast Path

Wales was the first country in the world to launch a trail that covered its entire coastline – and what a trail it is. Spanning 870 miles (1400km), the Wales Coast Path meanders over craggy cliff tops and windswept headlands and is dotted with pristine beaches, seaside towns and ancient castles. Pick a section – Llŷn Peninsula, Anglesey or the Gower are all good places to start – pull on your boots and get walking.

Tour a distillery

Welsh spirits are having a moment. In 2021, gin distillery Aber Falls launched its first whisky and plans to seek Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for the locally made tipple, while Penderyn Distillery opened its second location in Llandudno. Book a distillery tour, try a glass or three at any decent country pub, or make your very own bottle of gin at Hensol Castle in South Wales.

Watch a rugby match with the locals

For many people in Wales, rugby is more than a sport – it’s an expression of Welsh identity. It doesn’t get much better than watching a Six Nations game at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium – which is smack bang in the city center – but even if you can’t get tickets, match day in the capital is an experience in itself.

Go glamping

If the mere suggestion of going camping in Wales makes you think of tramping through wet and miserable weather, don’t panic. The spectrum of Welsh accommodations with a back-to-nature feel has expanded rapidly in recent years, meaning you don’t need to wrestle with a tent pole in the rain unless you want to. Bed down in a geodesic dome complete with onsen-inspired outdoor tub and log burner at Fforest Farm near Cardigan, stay cozy in one of The Secret Yurts with private hot tubs near Welshpool or lounge in a luxury safari tent at NightSky Glamping in Abersoch.

Spend the day at the beach

Wales has 45 Blue Flag (ie exceptionally clean and safe) beaches, as well as countless hidden coves and secluded bays. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – the UK’s only dedicated coastal national park – has the lion’s share, and Barafundle Bay, Broadhaven South and Whitesands Bay are all absolute stunners. Wherever you go along the coast, you won’t be far from swimmable, surfable and walker-friendly shores.

Ride the Ffestiniog Railway

Sure, it’s a little twee and touristy, but if you’re a lover of steam trains or slow, scenic travel, a journey along the Ffestiniog Railway is a delight. Established in 1836 to transport slate between the quarry and port, it’s now a heritage attraction – and the world’s oldest surviving narrow-gauge railway. You’ll trundle between Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog – both part of the newly minted Unesco-listed slate landscapes of North Wales – past rushing rivers, forested hills and soaring peaks. Splash out on a 1st-class observation carriage for the best views.

Experience an eisteddfod

The ultimate celebration of Welsh culture, the National Eisteddfod of Wales is an annual event that sees musicians, poets, dancers, actors and creatives from across Wales come together to perform, compete and share their talents with the nation. The event is conducted through the medium of Welsh, but Welsh learners and non-Welsh speakers are welcome to attend (time to start that Welsh Duolingo course!). There’s also a youth-specific festival held earlier in the year.

Watch wildlife in its natural habitat

Wales’s bounty of unspoiled landscapes provides sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife, especially birds. Keep your eyes peeled for red kites in Mid-Wales (these birds of prey have been brought back from the brink of extinction); spot guillemots and razorbills at Southstack Cliffs RSPB Reserve; or take a boat to Skomer Island, a haven for Manx shearwaters and a colony of breeding puffins between April and August. Porpoises, dolphins and seals can also be spotted year round off the west coast.

Go stargazing

Wales’s rural landscapes offer some of the best stargazing in the UK. Both Brecon Beacons National Park and Snowdonia National Park are designated International Dark Sky Reserves, and privately owned Elan Valley Estate is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning light pollution is at its lowest here. The UK Dark Sky Discovery Partnership also lists many other spots where you’re likely to get stellar views, including the beautiful beaches of Broad Haven South and Poppit Sands in Pembrokeshire.

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It’s easy to lose 48 hours in Portugal’s dashing, duel-hilled, sun-drenched second city. Sliced by the slow saunter of the Duruo river and ribboned together by the rails of its sunflower-yellow trams, you could spend a lifetime sighing at its breathless beauty, in awe of its curves and cobblestones and its clinquant Klimt-esque sunsets.

Best day trips from Porto

Think: Emotive churches, evocative poetry, a passionate fado guitarist playing mournfully in a riverside tavern. Get ready to go giddy. Here are some suggestions of how you could spend a weekend in Porto.

Call ahead to reserve for Friday evening dining

After arriving down in Porto, head towards the river. The Ribeira district is magnetic for tourists and lovestruck couples – and for good reason: it’s loud and lively and boasts some of the best views in town. Get acquainted with the fabulous Portuguese wine selection at the Wine Quay Bar. Order a side of local cured hams and cheeses to tide you over until dinner.

Call ahead for a table at Tapabento to try modern petiscos (Portuguese sharing plates) like freshly-shucked oysters drizzled in shallot vinaigrette or tangy Azores cheese with walnuts and rocket. Then wander uphill along the bustling pedestrian street Rua das Flores to take in the remarkably intricate architecture of one of the city’s oldest streets.

Start your Saturday with an espresso and custard tart

Do as the locals do and keep breakfast low-key with an espresso and a pastel de nata (yes, Portuguese custard tarts are a perfectly acceptable breakfast choice). Pick from any of the traditional cafes dotted around the city, but we’d plump for the determinedly archaic Confeitaria do Bolhão, a patisserie that has been doing the business since 1896. And still, locals can’t get enough.

From there, it’s a 10-minute saunter to Igreja do Carmo for some rococo to knock-o your socks off. Adorned in blue-and-white azulejo tiles from tip-to-toe, this 18th-century church is an architectural dazzler and a must for Instagrammers. Note the sliver of a house separating Carmo from its neighbor Igreja das Carmelitas, which kept the monks separated from the nuns.

Carry on south towards the unmistakable spire of the Torre dos Clérigos. The 249ft (76m) tower is the artistry of Nicolau Nasoni, who is oft considered the architect of Porto, and Clérigos is arguably his most famous contribution. Pay €6 ($7) to spiral up the 240 steps for a sweeping view of the city. The old staircases are narrow and often crowded, so if you’re claustrophobic or impatient, give it a miss and wander along Porto’s main avenue, Avenida dos Aliados, instead.

Stroll the cobblestoned streets on Saturday afternoon

Tonight will be spent on the town, so line your stomach with Porto’s famous multi-layered meat sandwich, the francesinha. Wrapped in cheese, drowned in tomato sauce and crowned with a fried egg, this artery-clogging masterpiece has more layers than the movie Inception (and takes just as long to finish). Send your medical bills to tried-and-trusted belly fillers: Capa na Baixa and Café Santiago.

The afternoon goal is to cross the river for a port tasting, but let your food settle with a stroll along Porto’s undulating cobblestones. Pass the baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and wander through the Batalha district to reach the mighty Sé, a cathedral where centuries’ worth of architecture is bundled into one structure.

It’s elevated position sets up a walk across the top level of the Ponte de Dom Luís I to reach the cross-river city of Vila Nova de Gaia – home of the port wine lodges. Mosey down to World of Wine (WoW), a dazzling, new €105 million ($143 million) cultural district squeezed inside former port wine cellars.

There are six museums, five restaurants and an entire afternoon’s worth of fun to be had here. The Wine Experience and the immersive Pink Palace – an Insta-ready whirl through the rosé industry – are both worth a peek, but for a real taste of the city’s fantastic fortified wine, head a wee bit further out and take a personalized tour at Croft, which ends with a port tasting.

Remember locals don't start to party until midnight Saturday

Make the most of being on the south side of the Douro and watch the sunset from Jardim do Morro. Then take the metro back to Porto for a pre-dinner drink at Capela Incomum, a 19th-century chapel that’s been wonderfully transformed into a hushed and reverent wine bar. Locals don’t often eat until 9pm, which leaves you plenty of time to grab a taxi to the esteemed O Paparico, a romantic stone-walled restaurant which looks traditional but is anything but. Expect gastronomic fireworks using local produce like liqueur-laced Rendufas figs drizzled in a sweet fig vinegar.

The party scene doesn’t kick off until around midnight, so enjoy the evening air after dinner by pulling up a beanbag beneath the Passeio dos Clérigos olive trees at Base, a trendy open-air bar. Once the Clérigos clock strikes midnight, join the throngs of partygoers spilling out onto parallel streets Rua da Galeria de Paris and Rua de Cândido dos Reis, which are packed wall-to-wall with nightclubs and bars.

Despite looking like a jumbled garage sale at first glance – given its shelves of toys, vintage clocks and model cars – Galeria de Paris is worth a pit stop. Then follow the human tide to find other hotspots and dance until the sun comes up. The locals dress down with comfy shoes for a reason.

Spend Sunday morning checking out the galleries

If Saturday is a late one, join the rest of the city but enjoying a lie-in. Grab breakfast and a specialty brew at Noshi Coffee (where vegan, vegetarians and gluten-free diets are well catered for), then wander along Rua do Rosário and Rua de Miguel Bombarda to browse concept stores and galleries.

Stop for a tea in the peaceful garden of Rota do Chá, then follow Bombarda to the end and turn left into the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. Watch the peacocks parading the grounds for photos and scope out the small gardens scattered across the park’s eight hectares (20 acres). Eventually zigzag your way back down to the river, pit stopping at the new Miradouro Ignez roof terrace for a snack or a drink with a knockout view.

Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon on the Douro River

Hire a bike at Biclas & Triclas and sweep west along the Douro River to find some lunch. Choose from fresh fish barbecued on the street (follow your nose and the plumes of smoke), pizza overlooking the river at Casa d’Oro, or Portuguese share plates at Casa de Pasto da Palmeira. Brave the waves thrashing the Farol de Felgueiras jetty then continue around the bend as the Douro becomes the North Atlantic. Follow the coast to the beachside suburb Matosinhos or cut across to Portugal’s largest urban park, Parque da Cidade. Backtrack along the river to return your wheels.

bifana (pork sandwhich) and beer at local institution Conga - Casas das Bifanas is a chilled way to start Sunday evening © Emily McAuliffe / Lonely Planet" 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="771df815-0464-420f-91f4-55c20a6365f4" data-langcode="en" title="Bifana at Conga_EmilyMcAuliffeConga_Emily McAuliffe (1).jpg">

Don't leave without trying a famous bifana

Keep things low-key with a beer and a bifana at Conga - Casa das Bifanas. This no-frills joint is a local institution and specializes in Portugal’s traditional thick-filled pork sandwiches. It's best to also take the opportunity to grab a pre-departure pastel de nata from Manteigaria or Fábrica da Nata. Perhaps even buy a box of the flaky, crispy, custard-filled tarts to take home with you.

This article was originally published on August 21, 2019.

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Classy, cultural Bath in southwest England is famous for its exquisite architecture and Bridgerton backdrops.

While the Roman Baths and Georgian Royal Crescent are must-see sights, there’s also a cool, contemporary city to explore. True, the city can be expensive. But avoiding peak times brings accommodation prices down. Add superb shops, arts and music venues and some surprising outdoor activities, and you have an appealing city break for couples and friends.

Tour Bridgerton filming locations

When it premiered in late 2020, Bridgerton quickly became Netflix's biggest-ever series. A record 82 million households watched in the first month. Set in Regency London, the show was filmed extensively in Bath and city buildings are clearly identifiable behind the action.

The Visit Bath website lists the locations so you can do a self-guided tour taking in Lady Danbury's mansion, the home of the Featheringtons and the Assembly Rooms, the settings for those lavish balls. Or book a tour with BritMovie Tours for an anecdote-filled, two-hour guided promenade around Bath’s Bridgerton locations – spiced with scandal, naturally.

Soak like a Roman in a rooftop pool

Bath was born of geothermal springs which flow from the earth at a toasty 46°C (114ºF). Those arch lovers of luxury, the Romans, spotted their potential and built a state of the art bathhouse. Almost two centuries later, the Thermae Bath Spa means you too can blissfully float in mineral-rich waters.

The complex has massage jets, whirlpools, an ice chamber and steam rooms. But the big draw is the open-air, rooftop pool. Schedule an evening session, and you could be soaking under the stars with views of illuminated rooftops as the steam rises all around.

Experience the Roman Baths

Although the Roman Baths are undeniably a tourist attraction, they’re also the key to unlocking both Bath’s historic narrative and the city you see today. The Romans built the sumptuous bathing complex in 70AD and today the cluster of atmospheric pools, courtyards and exhibits are brought vividly to life by projections, soundscapes and CGI displays.

The baths are beside a temple to the healing goddess Sulis-Minerva. It’s this connection between the geothermal waters and health that has  helped the city flourish and has funded grand building projects – from the Roman era to the spa town and tourist hotspot it is today.

Book tickets online and aim for a slot first thing in the morning. Or check the baths' What’s On page for special events like T’ai Chi on the Terrace overlooking the Great Bath.

Delight in the Royal Crescent

An exquisite semicircle of grand honey-colored homes, Bath’s Royal Crescent is another of the city’s can’t-miss sights. The terrace of 30 houses sweeps for 150 meters around a manicured lawn and was built between 1767 and 1775.

This gorgeous place inevitably featured as a backdrop in Bridgerton . One of the houses, the museum No 1 Royal Crescent, appeared as the Featheringtons’ home. Book a visit to see lavish Georgian furnishings, and the pots and pans of the servants’ quarters. After a June 2021 reopening, the story of the house and its residents has been brought to life by new digital projections and soundscapes.

Discover the Circus & the Georgian Gardens

After visiting the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s big draws, many visitors take in the Circus en route from the city center as a bit of a sideshow. This means they miss an intriguing insight into the city’s past. A ring of 33 graceful townhouses split into three semicircular terraces, the Circus features stonework with beautiful emblems and symbols.

A short stroll away, down Gay St and back along Royal Ave, sits one of Bath’s unsung sights. The Georgian Garden is set behind No 4 The Circus. The compact space has been restored to resemble a typical town garden dating from around 1760. Complete with authentic plants and a copy of an elegant 18th-century garden seat, the space provides a rare glimpse into life behind Bath’s grand Georgian facades.

Book a Reading Spa

Novelist Jane Austen lived in Bath in the early 1800s. Mary Shelley wrote much of Frankenstein while in the city. So what better to do in a geothermal town awash with literary links than indulge in a Reading Spa? Run by the beautiful bookshop Mr B's Emporium, these one-off experiences allow you to sit down with a bibliotherapist over coffee and cake to discuss what you love to read. They then scour the shelves for armfuls of books to suit your tastes. All you have to do is decide which to take home.

Unfortunately, there’s a big backlog for in-person sessions. Mr B’s bespoke reading subscriptions – where a dedicated bookseller selects a book for you each month – are a good alternative while you wait.

Clamber up Bath Abbey’s tower

Bath’s famously fabulous architecture has visitors tracing trails from the Roman Baths to the Georgian Royal Crescent. But the best way to see these exquisite buildings initially is to actually look down on them from the roof of Bath Abbey.

During the medieval abbey’s Tower Tours, you’ll climb 212 steps, navigate a stone spiral staircase, weave past bell ropes and emerge onto the roof for panoramic views. From here, the city’s architecture and street plan appears like a giant animated map.

Go to a great grassroots gig

Touring all that gorgeous architecture can leave you gasping for a pint. Handily Bath is blessed with some brilliant, beautiful pubs, including locals’ favorite, the Bell Inn. This ethical, lively, live-music pub is owned by the customers – around 500 of them bought it in 2013.

The inn is a living-wage employer and is part of the Musicians’ Union Fair Play Venue Scheme, which helps performers get a fair deal. The Bell is also home to seven real ales, bar billiards, a real fire and live music sessions three times a week spanning jazz, blues, Cajun and folk.

Cycle through a musical, mile-long tunnel

In a city of splendid sights, the idea of cycling through a tunnel might seem odd. But Bath's Two Tunnels Greenway is a unique cycling experience. It runs from East Twerton, east of the city center, to Midford, 3.8 miles to the south.

After views of the Royal Crescent, riders enter the Combe Down Tunnel. At 1672 meters – or a little over a mile – this subterranean stretch is the longest traffic-free cycling tunnel in Europe. It’s also packed with interactive sound and light installations. Your movement through Passage, an installation by United Visual Artists and the composer Mira Calix, triggers audio-visual displays set in 20 separate alcoves. It’s an unforgettable ride.

Hire a row boat

If visitors stray from Bath’s streets, they probably hop on a boat trip from Pulteney Bridge. But a more atmospheric way to explore is by walking a mile north east of the city center to hire your own craft from the Bath Boating Station.

This Victorian boathouse hires out vintage wooden rowing boats, Canadian canoes and punts. You then get to propel yourself along some 2 miles of river, looking out for birds like kingfishers, herons and moorhens en route to the Bathampton Mill pub.

Make your own bauble

Bath Aqua Glass specializes in making aquamarine artworks using techniques that haven’t changed much since Roman times – many of the pieces echo styles of the era. Most visitors spot the shop near Bath Abbey. But if you walk 10 minutes north to the outlet on Walcot St, you can watch the artisan glassblowers at work.

The doors to the workshop are often open to disperse the heat. But if you visit on Friday or Saturday you can head inside for a closer look. Or you can book activities including choosing the colors for a personalized bauble, crafting your own glass artworks, or hiring a glassblower for the day.

Enjoy superb shopping

Bath’s shops are some of the best in the west. High-quality independent stores line the narrow lanes just north of Bath Abbey, Milsom St is good for upmarket fashion, while the SouthGate shopping center has all the high street brands.

Bookworms love Mr B’s Emporium and Topping & Co – the latter has rolling library ladders and free pots of coffee. Walcot St, the city’s self-styled Artisan Quarter, has the Bath Aqua Glass outlet, the workshop and store of renowned weaver Katherine Fraser, and the fabulously pungent Fine Cheese Co shop and cafe.

See a film in an art deco cinema

In a city rich in history, it’s fitting that one of its independent movie spaces is historic too. The Little Theatre Cinema was built by community theater pioneers in 1935, primarily to screen newsreels and documentaries.

Since then it has added a second screen, and it now focuses on art house films and foreign language flicks. It also holds special autism-, toddler-, child- and dementia-friendly screenings, and it still has an art deco feel.

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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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The heart of Montréal won’t be found at La Ronde amusement park or waiting in line at Notre Dame, it will be found in the 19 boroughs that make up the city, where locals and tourists mingle over the pleasure of a delicious coffee, perfect bagels, and a deep sense of community.

Exploring Montréal’s distinct neighborhoods is like a tasting menu at a restaurant, each course offers its own individual delight, and together they’ll give you the best time you’ll ever have.

Quartier des Spectacles ( Entertainment District)

Best neighborhood for arts and entertainment

Montréal is a deeply creative city, and perhaps there is no better place to experience the festivals, art, music, and performances of the local artisans than the Quartier des Spectacles (Entertainment District). Whether in the sweltering summer or in the midst of a snowstorm, Quartier des Spectacles is constantly buzzing with its 80 cultural venues and 8 public spaces. At night the boulevards light up with enchanting light displays, with the Place des Arts, the largest art and culture complex in Canada, at its heart.

If you want entertainment, look no further. Events and festivals happen year-round (even with 3ft of snow to trudge through) at the Place des Festivals. It is arguably the most festive and lively area of Montréal, and you can check out their schedule of events here.

Mile End

Best neighborhood for coffee and thrifting

One of Montréal’s most dynamic boroughs, this neighborhood is a laid-back and trendy spot for record shops, vintage shopping, cafes, and eateries. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area where even the alleyways have been converted into green spaces to connect the community.

The 40 blocks that make up Mile End are crawling with thrift shops and vintage goods – from Expo 67 coasters to vintage Chanel gowns, Mile End has a treat for anyone willing to spend a few hours combing through its shelves. Annex Vintage possibly sells the most pins and patches in the city, and you can pin them on a vintage bomber jacket from the same store. Another popular shop is Citizen Vintage – their goal is to provide a sustainable alternative to fast fashion through upcycling both clothes and home goods.

If you fancy spending a whole day in Mile End, you can start off by getting brunch at Le Butterblume and then stopping by the lively Librairie Drawn & Quarterly for a graphic novel. If you’re a proud plant parent, drop by the highly Instagrammable Dragon Flowers, fuel up with a coffee from Le Falco or for something stronger, a tipple at Le Darling, and finish your night at Cinéma Moderne for a drink and an avant-garde film.

If you’re still hungry, the famous St. Viateur bagel shop (Anthony Bourdain certified) has its original location in Mile End, and trust me, this bagel will not disappoint even the snobbiest of bagel connoisseurs. You can pit it against another Mile End competitor, Fairmount Bagel.

Gay Village

Best neighborhood to celebrate your pride (and party)

Home to Canada’s largest gay village and North America’s first recorded gay establishment (Moise Tellier’s Apple and Cake Shop), this borough in Montréal has an unforgettable atmospheric scene that is welcome to all and vital to the city’s landscape. In the summer the main boulevard, Rue Sainte-Catherine, becomes pedestrian-only as the streets are strung with pink and rainbow bunting and the patios spill out onto the streets.

Gay Village has an impressive LGBTIQ+ night scene and is most notably home to Cabaret Mado, a 1920s inspired cabaret that is owned by the local drag superstar Mado Lamotte. If you’re looking for something a little more modern, Complexe Sky has three stories of distinct music, a spa and a pool.

Not to be overshadowed with fantastic cocktails, good eats, and drag bars, Gay Village also has amazing shopping options, especially at the vintage shops on Atateken Street. You’ll get beautiful home goods at amazing prices – I have never come back empty handed even after a short browse on Atateken.

Centre-Ville ( Downtown Montréal)

Best neighborhood for shopaholics and urbanites

It’s time to shop! High-end fashion boutiques sit right beside affordable options in the city’s compact downtown core, many of them located on Rue Sainte-Catherine, Canada’s longest commercial street. Don’t fret if it’s too cold, the Underground City has 33km (just over 20 miles) of sprawling shops and subway connections.

If in need of a break from shopping, have a bite of brunch at the beautiful Cafe Parvis and stop by Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (just as beautiful as Notre-Dame and St. Joseph’s Oratory, but far less busy). Afterward, head to The Montréal Museum of Fine Arts for an afternoon of gazing at masterpieces.

When you’re feeling peckish head to Henri Brasserie Française for upscale French cooking. If you’re on a budget, Reuben's Restaurant Delicatessen has some of the best smoked meat sandwiches Montréal has to offer. If you want multiple dining options and possibly also some live entertainment, Time Out Market Montréal is the perfect crowd pleaser.

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal

Best neighborhood to admire Montréal’s unique architecture

Home of the McGill campus and its famous streets of sprawling 19th century townhomes, Le Plateau borough is one you can spend hours walking around in. The vibrant houses with their colorful spiral stairs define this area (make sure to drop by Carré Saint-Louis for some really quirky residences), but the fun and bustling shops (like Mycoboutique, specializing in all things mushrooms), pretty churches, and multitude of green spaces offer plenty to the curious pedestrian.

Make sure to stop for breakfast at Maison Publique, or if you’re craving something a little different, try the gorgeous Byblos le Petit Café for a Persian brunch. Refresh yourself at the industrial Pikolo Espresso Bar, and finish your gastronomical adventure at LOV, a vegan Montréal restaurant that has now spread as far as Toronto.

Quartier Latin ( Latin Quarter)

Best neighborhood to sip a cocktail and socialize

This lively and vibrant part of Montréal thrives in the warm weather. In this part of the city you can experience the true liveliness of the locals; Montréalers have an unrivaled zest for life and you can join them drinking cocktails at bars with little french-cafe tables on every street corner. This is a great place for cheap eats, great drinks, and bar hopping.

In the winter you can cozy up at a candlelit jazz bar like Bistro à Jojo or Bootlegger, L'Authentique, after a stunning dinner at L’Express on the famed Rue Saint-Denis. In the summer the 60+ patios that open onto the streets will doubtlessly accommodate all your eating, drinking, and merrying.

Vieux-Montréal ( Old Town)

Best neighborhood to pretend you’re in Europe

Montréal’s most touristy neighborhood is famous for a reason – Old Montréal has been absolutely buzzing since the 17th century. It boasts winding cobblestone streets, ethereal gothic cathedrals, archaeological ruins, lively squares with street vendors, and of course, an old port (also known as THE Old Port).

The coffee scene in Old Montréal is totally underrated – come for Notre Dame, but stay for the sunlit cafes in pretty historic buildings. Right on the famous Rue Saint Paul sits Tommy, an Instagram-famous two-story cafe. Nearby is also the gorgeous Crew Collective & Cafe; it’s both a cafe and a co-working space, and located in an old RBC building (with the original chandeliers still dangling impressively on the vaulted ceilings). For something a little more quirky, try Le Petit Dep, a hidden gem in the Old Port.

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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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From sweeping coastal shorelines to craggy floating icebergs, glistening glacial lakes to the climbing canopy of ancient forests, Canada ’s enthralling landscapes continue to beckon wonder-seekers from around the globe.

The people spread across the world’s second-largest country are equally as diverse – a complex Indigenous history and growing immigrant population make for increasingly cosmopolitan cities, cutting-edge art and architecture, and creative cuisine.

These 21 bucket-list-worthy experiences will ensure you leave no ground uncovered on your next trip to Canada and return renewed by the experience.

Embark on an Arctic safari in Churchill, Manitoba

During a brief window from October to early November, upwards of 1200 polar bears converge in the enchanting town of Churchill on their annual migration to the shores of the Hudson Bay. A polar bear tour is a must to make sure you don’t miss this quintessential Arctic experience. But even if you do, the “polar bear capital of the world” offers no shortage of wildlife year-round – from dog-sledding in the winter to bird-watching in the spring to kayaking with beluga whales in the summer. While you’re there, don’t sleep on the Northern Lights and hearty local fare, like elk meatloaf and bison stew.

Aurora hunt in the Yukon

Seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Canadians and non-Canadians alike. While the celestial spectacle can be spotted as far south as Banff, the most epic display is undoubtedly found in the “Great White North.” On clear nights between mid-August to mid-April, you can catch the light show all over the Yukon, with the most optimal viewing found outside the capital city of Whitehorse. Whether by foot, plane, canoe, snowshoe or even dog-sled, you’re best off aurora hunting with a local tour operator who adds ease to the experience by providing their expertise on viewing conditions and a toasty beverage to temper the arctic chill.

Dine on the ocean floor in Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy

Twice each day, 160 billion tons of water empty the Bay of Fundy, creating a rare window of opportunity to dine on the ocean floor. Chef-led lessons on the wild edibles of Nova Scotia are followed by a multi-course lunch or dinner topped off with a cozy campfire – all with the staggering Cliffs of Fundy as your backdrop.

Designated a Unesco Global Geopark in the summer of 2020, the 300ft cliffs overlook the world’s highest tides – cresting taller than a five-story building – which invite 12 species of whales to feast on plankton each year. For a deep dive into the region’s history, head to the nearby Fundy Geological Museum and stay tuned for the Indigenous Mi’kmaq cultural center under development.

Eat Montreal poutine and an iconic smoked meat sandwich

It’s not hard to find poutine – gravy-smothered thick-cut fries sprinkled with squeaky cheese curds – all over the country, but it’s in the chef’s town of Montreal where you’ll find the most creative interpretations of Canada’s signature dish. Head to the 24-hour, poutine-worshipping restaurant La Banquise for creative toppings, like guacamole and pulled pork, in an energetic space; or Montreal Pool Room (locally known as the “the Main”) for the greasy-spoon dish without the fuss.

Across the street from the Main, you’ll find another Montreal institution: Schwartz’s. For over 90 years, the famous deli has been sandwiching messy mountains of 10-day-marinated smoked meat between two slices of rye bread for the Montreal masses. The take-out counter will tempt you to skip the line, but dining-in is worth the wait to eat your sandwich shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers and the veteran staff. Don’t forget the pickle and cherry coke.

Surf the misty shores of Tofino

Canada might be known for its winter sports, but its rugged coastlines and placid waterways make for equally as thrilling summer recreation too. With 22 miles of surfable beach, Vancouver Island’s Tofino is undoubtedly the country’s surf capital. Beginners will appreciate the gentle waves along Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay, while seasoned pros will want to hit the intense swells at Long Beach, the longest beach on the island. Not into surfing? The 10-mile beach is still worth visiting for whale-watching in the spring and autumn, and the surrounding Pacific Rim National Park, home to some of the oldest trees in Canada.

No longer a remote fishing village, Tofino’s laid-back surfer vibe attracts a large crowd in the summer. An off-season trip between November and February is best for fewer crowds and more nature, plus storm watching – an increasingly popular activity among photographers.

Camp in Saskatchewan’s prairie desert

Stretching over 60 miles along the southern shore of Lake Athabasca, Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park beckons seasoned hikers and environmentalists alike for its endemic flora and towering sand dunes – a rare sight in a province known for its flat, prairie landscape. Reaching nearly 100ft high, the world’s most northerly sand dunes are also the largest active sand surface in the country. As a result, the fragile ecosystem is seriously safeguarded – each of the park’s three management zones has its own visitor guidelines, and you’ll need to take a floatplane or boat to get there. With few on-site services and guided tours, camping in this remote landscape is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for hardcore wilderness enthusiasts.

Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Québec

Church bells ring from regal cathedrals while contemporary takes on traditional Québecois fare – think, tourtière (meat pie) and maple syrup-infused brunch – are served in former factories and historic homes. It’s hard not to get lost in Old Québec’s charm. Designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1985 for its 400-year-old history, it’s the only fortified city you’ll find north of Mexico and a playground for history buffs. They won’t want to miss Le Château Frontenac. Since opening in 1893, the famous Fairmont hotel has hosted countless celebrities and notable political events, like the Québec Conferences of World War II.

While most visitors frequent the upper section of Old Town, the real “Old Town” is found closer to the water. With buildings dating back to the 17th century, locals will tell you Lower Old Town is the real birthplace of the city.

Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture on Manitoulin Island

Set on the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay in Northern Ontario, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. It’s also home to the Odawa, Ojibwe and Pottawatomi peoples that make up the Anishinabek Nation. While the island’s seven reserves carry a heavy legacy of residential schools, today, First Nations culture is celebrated with a proud embrace of Indigenous foods, music and storytelling. It’s best experienced on the Great Spirit Circle Trail, where a local guide will walk you through the island’s history and surrounding nature and provide a taste of Anishinebek culture, with Indigenous eats and a traditional Powwow ceremony.

Taste tour Toronto

With more than half of the residents that make up Toronto ’s 158 neighborhoods hailing from other countries – the city’s 7500 restaurants are arguably the most diverse in the world. In the absence of a clearly identifiable Canadian cuisine, collaboration and invention prevail in the kitchens of immigrant mom-and-pop shops and Michelin-starred celebrity chefs alike.

The urban core provides no shortage of foodie adventures: from globally-inspired fine dining (such as Sursur Lee’s famous 19-ingredient Singaporean slaw and Nick Bao’s big mac bao) to picturesque food markets (like Evergreen Brickworks nestled in the verdant hills of the Don Valley and St. Lawrence Market set in a light-speckled, century-old building). But the city’s best-kept culinary secrets lie outside the urban core, in the sprawling suburbs known as the “GTA” (Greater Toronto Area), where you’ll find unsuspecting strip malls churning up family recipes from seemingly every culture you can imagine.

Climb the cliffs of Gros Morne National Park

The signature red rock of the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park reveals the earth’s mantle, formed by the collision of tectonic plates nearly 500 million years ago. It’s a geological masterpiece, best viewed by foot on one of Gros Morne’s many trails that take you on a journey through lush boreal forests, majestic waterfalls and jagged cliffs overlooking the wind-swept shoreline.

Seasoned hikers can challenge themselves on the Long Range Traverse, a 21-mile trail that provides the most epic views of the Western Brook Pond Fjord from its near-vertical mountaintops soaring 2000ft into the sky. While down at sea level, a calmer experience of the glacier-carved fjord is found aboard a Bon Tours boat, complete with local storytelling, toe-tapping musicians and East Coast fare.

Savor the wine and design in Prince Edward County

While British Columbia's arid Okanagan Valley is Canada’s obvious wine destination, the largest wine region is actually found in Ontario, where hundreds of wineries, some dating as far back as the late 19th century, are spread across three Designated Viticultural Areas – Niagara Peninsula, Prince Edward County, and the north shore of Lake Erie.

With limestone-rich soil lending itself to grapevine varieties with a distinct taste, Prince Edward County in particular attracts some of the country’s most innovative winemakers. And a creative crowd with an eye for aesthetics has followed – the region is now teeming with chic accommodation and tasting rooms set in bucolic barns. The boutique Drake Devonshire Inn is a destination in and of itself for seasonal eats and creative cocktails overlooking Lake Ontario. Design aficionados will want to check out refurbished motels like the Drake Motor Inn and June Motel (as seen on Netflix’s Motel Makeover).

Leaf peep on Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail

Take in the dramatic highlands and rugged coasts of Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island – considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world – from its famed Cabot Trail. The 186-mile loop spans an 8-hour, non-stop drive, but hiking or cycling a smaller section allows for a more leisurely pace. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is where you’ll find the greatest selection of hiking trails, with the Skyline, Fishing Cove and Acadian trails being the most popular. Summer attracts the most visitors but the trail is most photogenic in the fall when its winding curves glow in autumn colors.

Iceberg and whale watch on Fogo Island

You can visit Newfoundland and Labrador ’s Fogo Island year-round, but it’s the warmer months that offer the most epic experiences. Every spring, staggering 15,000-year-old icebergs sail down “ Iceberg Alley ” while the season that follows sees the world’s largest population of humpback whales migrating off its storm-battered shorelines. Book a tour through Fogo Island Inn, but make sure to visit the architectural masterpiece in person. Perched on stilts overlooking the ocean, the 29-room retreat has gained an international reputation for its sustainability efforts, not to mention its remote location at one of the “four corners of the Earth.”

Outside the hotel, verdant rolling hills speckled with colorful wooden homes are ripe with hiking trails for every skill level while the 18th-century Irish-settled town of Tilting, a National Historic Site of Canada, exudes East Coast warmth with the sounds of sea shanties and smells of simmering chowder wafting from its few cafes and pubs.

Explore Banff’s two most iconic lakes

With its crystal turquoise water fed by the glaciers of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, Lake Louise is a picture-postcard destination that lives up to the hype. With a flat, encircling path, you can easily hike or bike around the lake, or rent a canoe from the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, where you’ll find pristine views of the lake and surrounding Bow Valley from the 1888 castle’s outdoor heated pool and some of its 12 restaurants.

Equally as captivating as Lake Louise is nearby Moraine Lake, set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Open from May to October, it’s also equally as touristy – a peaceful sunrise visit avoids the crowds. Avid hikers can take in the glistening glacial waters and snow-capped peaks from the surrounding strenuous trails, and unwind afterward in a natural steaming bath at one of several nearby hot springs.

Hit the slopes in Whistler

Every winter, alpine enthusiasts from around the world flock to Canada’s Rocky Mountains for its soaring slopes and pristine mountain views. But it’s the ski town of Whistler that continues to draw the largest crowd. Set just two hours north of Vancouver, the former venue of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games straddles both Whistler and Blackcomb – two mountains teeming with ski trails for all levels of experience.

With varied elevations producing a diversity of terrains, each with their own unique seasonal attractions – think, eagle tours among the colorful fall canopy and paddle-boarding glacier-fed lakes in the summer – Whistler appeals to thrill-seekers year-round. And the less adventurous too – stylish accommodation, a blossoming arts scene and energetic après-ski bars have transformed Whistler village from a rustic ski town into a European-style retreat.

Dig for dinosaurs in the Badlands

Known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World,” Alberta’s Dinosaur Valley is a dream destination for professional paleontologists and Jurassic Park fans alike. Home to the world’s richest dinosaur fossil site, Dinosaur Provincial Park is protected grounds, so you’ll want to book a tour. But feel free to get lost in prehistoric times on a self-guided tour of the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where you’ll encounter over 130,000 fossils and a giant, 67-million-year-old T-rex. The surrounding Badlands – with its mystical hoodoo spires and dusty, arid canyons – make for a scenic, wild west road trip. A stop in the nearby eccentric former coal town of Drumheller is a must to climb inside the mouth of the world’s largest dinosaur.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at a Québec sugar shack

The stereotype holds true: Canadians love their maple syrup. Mid-March to mid-April offers a short window of time to savor it in its best form – straight from the tree. Every spring, upwards of 200 sugar shacks surrounding Montreal and Québec City open their doors for the annual maple syrup harvest. Take your pick of quaint, family-run maple groves, where you can learn all about the sweet sap and make your own maple tacky by dropping the sticky syrup in the snow. The experience is topped off with a traditional Québécois feast of baked ham and beans, meat pies and hash browns, all smothered in maple syrup of course.

Marvel at the Niagara Falls

Arguably Canada’s most touristy destination, Niagara Falls is worth braving the crowds for a view of the Horseshoe Falls : straddling the border between Ontario and New York, the largest of the three falls has the most powerful flow of any waterfall in North America. Immerse yourself in the fall’s majestic mist on the classic 20-minute Niagara cruise, or take in the views from the sky by way of helicopter, zipline or the Skylon Tower.

Gaming casinos and Clifton Hill’s many amusement attractions continue to be the main draw for entertainment-seekers of all ages. A short drive or shuttle ride north, you’ll find a calmer pace in Niagara-on-the-Lake, where horse-drawn carriages shuttle visitors between world-class wineries and local shops set in colonial buildings.

Skate Ottawa’s Rideau Canal

Every winter, the 4.8-mile long river that cuts through the heart of Ottawa freezes over to become the world’s largest skating rink. As the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America, the Rideau Canal dates back to 1832 and makes a wintery, picturesque backdrop for taking in the country’s capital city. The classic Canadian experience is rounded out with pit-stops for steaming hot chocolate and crispy beaver tails – fried dough pastry layered with sweet toppings like Nutella and cinnamon sugar. Visiting in the summer? Cruise the canal by boat, bike the Rideau Canal pathway or take to the skies on the new 1400ft Interzip Rogers, the world’s first interprovincial zipline.

Walk the Toronto skyline

Adrenaline junkies can lean over Canada’s largest city in the open air on the EdgeWalk : a wide ledge set outside the CN Tower ’s main pod. Standing 1800ft above the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower has long been one of the country’s most popular attractions for its unbeatable, 360-degree views. But the addition of the world’s highest hands-free external walk – a Guinness World Record breaker and the first of its kind in North America – has skyrocketed the tourist site to international attention. Feeling less adventurous? Take in the views from the CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant, where you’ll find award-winning Canadian-sourced cuisine served in a sleek setting, and the “cellar in the sky,” the world’s highest wine cellar.

Bike the Vancouver Seawall

With nearby outdoor challenges like hiking the steep wooden steps of Grouse Mountain – aptly nicknamed “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” – and Lynn Canyon Park ’s Suspension Bridge, Vancouver tends to attract a competitive athletic crowd. A much more inviting and leisurely outdoor experience is found right in the city along the False Creek Seawall.

While you can easily walk or rollerblade sections of the two-way paved path, cycling is best to take in all the 14-mile-long route has to offer. Beginning in Coal Harbour and ending at Kitsilano Beach, the seaside path winds you through some of the city’s best destinations, like Stanley Park, English Bay and Jericho Beach. Make sure to make a refuel stop at Granville Island Public Market, where locals and visitors sample gourmet cheeses, butchered meat and fresh produce alongside eclectic art and tranquil harbor views.

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Tokyo is often thought of as the archetypal modern city with a sprawling urban landscape of sky-scraping buildings, a complex web of trains and subways, and miles upon miles of bustling neighborhoods that one could never hope to fully explore in a lifetime. But while these preconceptions may ring true, travelers shouldn’t overlook Tokyo’s nature-driven highlights.

Whether it’s cherry blossom picnicking in spring, river boat cruises in summer, hiking under the tumbling foliage in fall, or heading to Tokyo’s little-known tropical islands in winter, there are plenty of ways to rediscover Tokyo through the seasons.

Spring

Every spring – typically around the end of March or start of April – sakura, or cherry blossom, trees bloom throughout Tokyo for approximately two weeks. Exactly how long the delicate pink petals remain is dictated by weather conditions, but eventually they will drift away in the spring winds. Their cinematic departure is a symbol of mono no aware (the beauty of impermanence) and the fleeting nature of life itself.

The tradition of hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, which has existed since the Heian Period (794-1185), is the best way to enjoy this spring phenomenon. In the pre-pandemic era, Tokyo’s park would be awash in daytime revelers, drinking and dining on tarps under the blooming sakura. In these socially distanced times, however, it’s recommended that crowds admire the flowers on foot instead.

Alternatively, go to a quieter, suburban neighborhood - like Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park or Sarue Onshi Park - where you can picnic free from the crowds of central Tokyo. Or you can wait until the yaezakura trees bloom later in the season. Yaezakura, meaning “multi-layered cherry blossoms,” look similar to the more abundant somei yoshino variety, but have layered petals symbolizing strength. Yaezakura bloom around late April at Shinjuku-gyoen, and at Asukayama Park near Oji Station, among other locations in Tokyo.

Active travelers should also consider cycling or e-bike tours in spring. Tokyo is a relatively flat city, and these tours are an ideal way to traverse the streets and explore the diversity of its neighborhoods. Several operators offer guided tours in English through different districts of the metropolis, along with insider recommendations on where to sample the local culinary fare.

Summer

Tokyo’s summers are piping hot and sticky as honey, sending travelers in search of breezier activities within the city. Wooden pleasure boats called yakatabune were once the exclusive domain of the feudal aristocracy who took to the rivers to throw lavish parties with barrels of rice wine and geisha performers. While pleasure boat cruises are no longer exclusive to the upper classes, they remain a great outlet for partying in view of the fluorescent Tokyo skyline while accompanied by a caressing river breeze.

Common yakatabune routes meander along the Sumida River from either Asakusa, home to the grandest of Tokyo’s temples, Senso-ji, or Odaiba, from where you’ll navigate the artificial islands of Tokyo Bay. Bookings for private, shared, or chartered tours are available through the Tokyo Yakatabune Association.

Rooftop beer gardens are also great venues for a tipple set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s epic skyline. The nine-story Seibu shopping mall in Ikebukuro is surmounted by a large drinking-and-dining deck, a portion of which was inspired by Monet’s ‘Water Lilies.’ Some of these places are closed when COVID-19 emergency declarations are in place, so make sure to check local resources for the latest information before you go out.

If you want to get out of the city altogether, go camping – or glamping – in Okutama on the western edge of Tokyo Prefecture. The most mountainous and least developed region of the capital, Okutama is a popular summer haunt thanks to the cool rivers carving through its valleys. For camping, check out the Hikawa Campground, set by a trickling stream in the middle of a tree-swept valley. Or for something more urbane, there are glamping options at Okutama River Terrace or chic tent-cum-cabins at Keikoku Glamping, which also has a spa on site and boutique food-to-order options.

Fall

Sat on the urban-rural boundary, Mt. Takao is the most accessible of Tokyo’s mountains at only 599-meters-tall and less than one hour by train from Shinjuku. There are nine well-maintained hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty – though even the hardest doesn’t pose too much of a challenge – each of which is ablaze in the fiery colors of autumn by late-November.

After the hike, grab a few cold ones at Beer Mount, Takao’s resident sky bar which looks toward the Tokyo cityscape to the east. It’s open until mid-October, but make sure to check its official web site for possible changes due to the pandemic. Follow that up with a dip in the onsen (hot spring) at the foot of the mountain. The Keio Takaosan Onsen, an open-air spring naturally heated by subterranean geothermal activity, is perfect for alleviating hike-weary muscles (massages are also available). Or if you’d prefer to get back to Tokyo first, head to a sento (indoor public bath) in Shinjuku, such as Mannenyu or Thermae-yu.

You don’t have to go west to appreciate the fall foliage; the parks of Tokyo are abundant in deciduous trees which put on a show every autumn. Shinjuku-gyoen and Rikugi-en are two of the best-kept public gardens in the city, and are arguably at their most resplendent at this time of year. Expect to see fan-shaped golden ginkgo leaves, deep red momiji and maple trees, and swathes of zelkova foliage resembling flaming spear tips. Shinjuku-gyoen is larger and more diverse, whereas Rikugi-en, formerly owned by a local daimyo (feudal lord), is filled with spiritual iconography and a bottle-green central pond, and hosts a nighttime illumination event every fall.

Winter

People don’t often associate winter with the tropics, but Tokyo defies that preconception. The UNESCO-recognized Ogasawara Islands are a tropical archipelago sitting 600-miles south of the Tokyo coastline. Chichi-jima and Haha-jima are the two main inhabited islands – a 25-hour ferry from Tokyo docks at the former every six days (bar a two-week inspection period in mid-January).

Both islands are secret sunny escapes from the Japanese winter, with daytime temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Whale-watching, scuba diving and tropical forest hikes are all popular activities in the Ogasawara winter.

On the mainland, winter is when the Japanese skies are at their clearest, meaning you’ll get picture-perfect views of Mt. Fuji for much of the season. You can see Fuji from the summit of Mt. Takao, or from vantage points atop Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower.

Winter is also one of the best times to eat, especially when the New Year chill descends upon the capital. A deep bowl of umami-rich ramen is the quintessential winter warmer meal, with shops like demon-inspired Kikanbo, whose pork belly ramen packs a spicy punch, and vegan-friendly Afuri among the most popular. Tokyo Ramen Street, an underground hallway lined by eight ramen shops, in Tokyo Station is a must-visit for noodle connoisseurs.

For more information, visit Tokyo's New Normal

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