They say that the longer a meal takes to prepare, the better it tastes. If this is true, Moroccan food is the best in the world because it can take hours to prepare a meal and it’s worth it. There are so many flavors and layers to each dish.

With its exquisite mixture of Mediterranean, Arab, Jewish, African, and Maghrebi influences, Moroccan foods are an unforgettable sensory experience. From traditional dishes to street food – savor all that this delectable fare has to offer as you learn about Moroccan cooking techniques spiced up with herbs and spices. Take a culinary adventure with us by trying out these authentic Moroccan delicacies!

A Guide to Traditional Moroccan Food

Eating out in Morocco can be intimidating. When we first went to a restaurant in Morocco, we didn’t know where to begin so we ordered safe and uninspiring dishes. To help you better understand traditional Moroccan food we’ve rounded up the best Moroccan cuisine that you must try on your next trip to the Middle East so you don’t make the same mistakes we did.

Traditional Moroccan Foods

The distinct flavors and textures of Moroccan dishes can be attributed to the unique combination of different influences in the cuisine. Olive oil, preserved lemon, argan oil, and a variety of spices are used extensively throughout traditional Moroccan dishes, giving rise to numerous delightful recipes that never fail to excite even the most adventurous eaters! For those looking for something new on their culinary journey, they should definitely explore what Morocco has to offer: from regional specialties to local delights, there is sure always bound to be a distinctive Moroccan dish waiting for you to discover!

Popular Moroccan Dishes

Visiting Morocco offers an opportunity to experience the distinct flavor of North African cuisine, with centuries-old Arab dishes such as traditional dishes like stuffed camel spleen and modern staples like tagines cooked in slow clay pots. The tantalizing aromas wafting from the markets ignite the senses. From snail soup to Moroccan bread flavored with Ras el Hanout spice, Morrocco’s robust culinary tradition has much to offer.

Tagine Dishes

Moroccan food is greatly influenced by its signature dish, tagine. Tagine is its most famous dish which is a slow-cooked stew cooked in an earthenware clay pot. Ingredients such as meats or poultry, fish, and vegetables are accompanied by spices like turmeric, saffron powder, and paprika plus herbs including fresh leaves of ginger along with olives.

Preserved lemons also go into making these dishes memorable. It’s traditionally served with Moroccan flatbread but can also be served with rice or potatoes. No visit to Morocco would be complete without sampling this traditional meal has been at the heart of Moroccan culture throughout time.

The slow cooking method in a clay pot captures steam which together produces tender meat simmering in flavorful sauces creating quite a feast!

The flavors infuse with olive oil and spices during cooking and everything comes out tender and delicious. Our chicken tagine consisted of Berber chicken with Vegetables and our beef tagine was served with prunes and almonds. Make your own chicken tagine at home.

This Moroccan dish is traditionally eaten with family members sharing one platter and enjoying the communal experience synonymous with Morocco.

Grilling

Moroccan food is renowned for its tagines and bakes, yet grilling holds a prominent place in the culinary culture too. Both charcoal-grilled dishes as well as those cooked over an open flame are part of this distinctive tradition, resulting in succulent morsels with tantalizing smoky aromas.

The secret to creating these remarkable flavors lies mainly in marinades – made from olive oil, lemon juice garlic, and spices like cumin, paprika, or turmeric, which add robust depth to grilled foods prepared by Moroccan cooks who understand flavor fusion very well indeed!

Regional Specialties

The variety of cooking techniques used in Moroccan food brings together delightful and unique flavors, aromas, and textures to create an amazing symphony. Traditional Moroccan dishes have a variety of flavors that showcase the country’s diverse ingredients. In Fez, you can find pastilla – an appetizing pie made from pastry with juicy meat and flavored spices inside. In Essaouira, sardines are loved since they come mixed up with chermoula sauce before deep-frying them to perfection.

Besides dishes such as these, Moroccan salads (more like dips) also have their place on plates for starters: hummus, Zaalouk, or Taktouka cannot be missed. On the other hand, Harcha is most common in Fes. It consists basically of a milk butter blend blended together with baking powder which gets served along with honey or cheese added afterward.

Aromatic Spices and Herbs

Moroccan cuisine is celebrated for its flavor-packed blend of spices and herbs, adding interesting depth to dishes. From a tagine’s powerful medley of flavors to the sharp freshness supplied by cilantro, Moroccan food offers an unforgettable culinary experience that takes you back in time to North Africa’s bustling markets.

Ras el Hanout

There are two important spice blends that bring distinctive flavors to Moroccan cuisine, Ras el Hanout and Chermoula. The name of the first one means “head of the shop” because it usually includes a combination of 25 to 40 spices such as coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Chermoula

Chermoula is mostly used in sauces with its mix of cilantro, parsley, garlic, salt, olive oil, and herbs plus an acidic ingredient like vinegar or lemon juice added for flavor enhancement. Through these seasonings, they aim to show off Morocco’s complex palette when preparing dishes showing the country’s diverse culinary culture.

If you are a fish eater, Chermoula is a marinade of herbs and spices for baking or grilling seafood. It’s also used fish tagine called (mqualli) made with layered potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers. There are different mixes but seasonings include coriander and saffron. For a bit of spice add some chili peppers. Make it at home with this recipe

Fresh Herbs

Herbs such as cilantro, parsley, and mint are frequently used in Moroccan cuisine to create a vibrant flavor. Cilantro and parsley are common garnishes for tagines or salads while an important element of the classic Moroccan beverage is the addition of fresh mint leaves.

The use of these herbs elevates traditional dishes from Morocco, producing results that delight with their distinctive tastes. Without them, each plate wouldn’t be complete.

Moroccan Mint Tea

Mint tea is an integral part of the country’s lifestyle. Lightheartedly kown as “Moroccan whisky” it is a combination of green tea and mint. It not only acts as a symbol of hospitality in Moroccan households (where the host prepares it for guests) but this aromatic beverage can be found almost anywhere throughout day-to-day life.

Its distinct flavor comes from combining its green tea base with spearmint while adding sugar creates a sweet taste. One which brings revitalization along with relaxation when enjoyed! No trip to Morocco would be complete without tasting this renowned drink.

Other Beverages

One popular option includes almond milk – often flavored with orange flower water – which serves as an alcohol-free refreshing delight. Juices, particularly freshly squeezed oranges or pomegranates, as well as coffee, are also popular in Morocco.

Sweet Treats: Moroccan Desserts and Pastries

No matter what the occasion, Moroccan desserts, and pastries are a popular staple at meals. Traditional snacks such as Sellou and Chebakia are complemented by more delicate options like Kaab el Ghazal and Ghoriba. All of these delicacies feature nuts and fragrant spices, along with natural sugars that make them distinctly enjoyable for any event or afternoon tea party.

Sellou

Moroccan desserts such as Sellou and Chebakia are enjoyed frequently at special celebrations. Sellou is an especially loved treat that consists of toasted unhulled sesame seeds along with flour, butter, honey, and a few spices mixed together before being roasted. During the holy month of Ramadan, this dessert is very popular in households all over Morocco.

Chebakia

Chebakia meanwhile is deep-fried pastries shaped into a flower, which is then drenched either in syrup made from honey or anise. It is usually served during special occasions and religious festivals, including Ramadan. These flavorsome confections exemplify Moroccan culinary artistry.

Kaab el Ghazal

Moroccan pastries and cookies are delightful treats with various fillings, flavors, and aromas. Kaab el Ghazal, often referred to as gazelle horns due to their crescent shape, are filled with almond paste flavored by orange blossom water and cinnamon. They are sometimes sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Ghoriba Bahla

Goriba Bahala on the other hand has a crispy outer layer, yet remains soft in texture. It usually comes infused with coconut, sesame seeds, or almonds along with an infusion of a floral scent from the orange flower water being used. Typically enjoyed alongside tea, these Moroccan cookies make for a tasty snack when paired together!

Moroccan Street Food and Snacks

Moroccan cuisine, featuring its vibrant flavors and textures, can be savored through street food options such as Sfenj, Maakouda, and stuffed Moroccan bread.

Sfenj and Maakouda

Sfenj and Maakouda are two popular street foods widely enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Sfenj is an unsweetened, airy doughnut that is typically consumed at breakfast or even during the day with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for some added sweetness.

Maakouda, another popular street food is sold all over markets, roadside stalls, and in many other places throughout Morocco, consists of deep-fried mashed potatoes mixed together with cumin powder, turmeric, and chopped cilantro providing a tasty flavor. So make sure you give these potato fritters a try when visiting!

Baking Traditions

Moroccan cuisine is heavily reliant on bread, such as Msemen and Harcha. They are served with savory dishes or sweet toppings. Desserts like cookies flavored with spices, herbs, sugar, etc., made from semolina can be seen at the end of any meal in Morocco. Traditionally cooked in communal wood fired ovens, the practice continues today.

Sandwiches and Stuffed Breads

Moroccan sandwiches and stuffed bread, such as Msemen and Harcha, offer an interesting take on a meal or snack. Msemen is made from semolina dough that’s mixed with butter for flavor before it’s formed into square shapes. Savory spreads or sweet toppings make this style of sandwich even more delectable. Harcha pancakes are equally enticing, they’re made using milk, baking powder, butter- all of which lend them unique texture when cooked!

These carefully crafted snacks provide an insight into Moroccan cuisine in convenient bite sizes – giving everyone a taste of its rich culture without needing to commit much time or effort.

Moroccan Food Traditions and Celebrations

Moroccan cuisine has a significant place in the nation’s customs and observances, with particular courses prepared for events such as Ramadan, Eid al-Adha, and weddings. These special feasts feature all of the flavorsome tastes and textures that Morocco is known for, symbolizing how crucial food is to their cultural identity.

Gathering around one tagine brings family members together. Meanwhile, lavish meals are created to commemorate memorable moments, both revealing just how generous Moroccans can be when it comes to entertaining friends or celebrating life milestones through Moroccan dishes.

Ramadan Iftar Meals

At iftar meals during Ramadan, it is customary to serve Harira as a starter. This creamy soup typically consists of chickpeas, lentils and tomatoes blended with spices, an appetizing dish for breaking the fast. Dates are then offered due to their symbolism in Islam while Chebakia – deep-fried pastry dipped in either honey or anise syrup – provides a sweet finish after the meal has been consumed.

These dishes not only provide sustenance but also embody concepts such as community and unity, which make this period so special for many around the world.

Eid al-Adha Feast

During the Eid al-Adha celebration, people savor dishes such as Mechoui and steamed sheep head. Mechoui is a slow-cooked lamb dish that offers plenty of flavor while steamed sheep head provides an interesting culinary experience for those looking to try something more traditional Moroccan.

Both serve as symbols marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and are incredibly significant in religious tradition.

Moroccan Wedding Feasts

Weddings in Morocco usually offer an array of cuisine, like savory pies and tagines. Bastilla is a popular choice – made with layers of pastry containing either pigeon or chicken, almonds and spices – while tender meats are often served for the main chicken dish course in flavorful stews called tagines. Beyond providing deliciousness to such special occasions, these dishes also represent the family’s shared love and devotion between those being married.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Morocco

Moroccan cuisine has many different options for vegetarians and vegans, like tagines made with vegetables, salads, and dips.

Vegetable Tagines

For vegetarians and vegans, Morocco offers incredibly delicious options in vegetable tagines. These dishes feature a variety of vegetables cooked with aromatic spices to create a rich and flavorful sauce that is filling yet still light on calories. Because these recipes offer a meat-free alternative to traditional Moroccan meals, they are the perfect way for non-meat eaters to savor all the delightful flavors Morocco has become renowned for. Vegetable tagines provide not only great nutrition but also incomparable taste, making them truly irresistible!

Salads and Dips

Moroccan salads and dips are both nutritious, delicious options when looking for something to enjoy alongside a meal. Zalouk is an eggplant and tomato salad dish served either cold or hot with crusty bread as an appetizer or side dish. Another popular Moroccan salad option is Taktouka – it’s made of tomatoes, roasted bell peppers spiced with paprika, and olive oil garnished by parsley all blended together for a light yet flavourful accompaniment to any main course. These traditional dishes bring the rich culture of Morocco right onto your plate while still remaining suitable for vegetarian/vegan diners!

This yummy dish of eggplant and tomato is our favorite of Moroccan foods and is often touted as the best of Moroccan salads. The eggplant and tomatoes are mixed with garlic, olive oil, and spices and served as a side dish served as an appetizer served alongside crusty bread. See how to make it here.

How to Eat Morrocan Food

Moroccans eat three meals a day but the main meal is mid-day as opposed to dinner. So when dining out, order your large meal at lunch, and for dinner enjoy lighter meals of Moroccan breads with dipping sauces or kebabs.

When eating in Morocco, be sure to use your right hand. Pick up foods with your right thumb and first two fingers. Often times you’ll be scooping up dips, stews, and salads with fresh bread using your hands. Do not lick your fingers. If you do, save it until the very end of the meal.

Insider Tip: If you are visiting a Moroccan household, be sure to bring a small gift. We went to the market to order some figs and dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is typical Moroccan food?

Traditional Moroccan food is famous for its savory dishes like couscous and tagines containing either chicken or lamb along with various vegetables. This meal, which often takes the form of a pyramid, consists primarily of steamed couscous topped with stewed meat, or vegetable stew, plus seasonal veggies placed at the bottom.

Is Moroccan and Indian food the same?

Moroccan cuisine is characterized by the use of milder spices like cumin, paprika, ginger, cinnamon, and saffron. Indian dishes tend to be spicier due to their higher content of these same flavorings.

What makes Moroccan cuisine unique?

Moroccan meals provide a wide variety of tastes and textures that are a mix of Mediterranean, Arab, Jewish, African, and Maghrebi culinary traditions. A unique gastronomic experience awaits anyone who tries it!

Are there vegetarian and vegan options in Morocco?

When dining in Morocco there are plenty of selections for vegetarians and vegans, such as vegetable tagines, salads, and dips.

What beverages are popular in Morocco?

Mint herbal tea, known as the national drink of Morocco, is served often during meals or throughout the day. Other preferred traditional drinks in this country consist of coffee, fruit juices, and almond milk.

Moroccan cuisine is a diverse culinary delight that no food lover should miss. Its aromatic spices, rich and varied flavors, comforting tagines enjoyed with friends, sweet pastries and vibrant street foods are all part of this unique cultural experience. All these elements together make Moroccan dishes unforgettable to the taste buds!

Moroccan Gluten Free Foods

Are you Celiac or have a gluten intolerance? Our friend Jodi at Legal Nomads has created detailed gluten-free cards that have been translated into the Moroccan language by native speakers. These cards were created to help people with celiac disease travel and eat in Morocco safely. Carry these Gluten Free cards with you and show them to restaurants and staff at Moroccan restaurants to ensure they understand your food requirements. Get more details and Purchase your gluten free Morocco card here for just $8.99

Plus, we now have the confidence to order whatever we wish off the menu when eating at Moroccan restaurants. It was one of the best afternoons we had in Marrakech. If you go, make sure you book a cooking class of your own.

Info: You can book a Moroccan cooking class for $90 USD/pp at Get Your Guide. It includes a three-hour cooking demonstration by a gourmet chef, great conversation, appetizers, tea and still/sparkling water throughout the day. The course was followed by a candlelight dinner in a fine dining establishment. Oh and don’t forget the bottle of wine for two people included.

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest does not disappoint. Located in the heart of Central Europe and straddling the shimmering Danube River, Hungary’s enchanting capital city is renowned for its remarkable architecture, healing thermal baths, and a history that weaves a tale as complex as the labyrinths beneath the Buda Castle. These are the best things to do in Budapest, a city that captivates every visitor.

Top Things to Do in Budapest

Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, is a harmonious blend of two erstwhile cities – Buda, resting on rolling hills and home to historic castles and palaces, and Pest, the vibrant hub of culture, politics, gastronomy, and nightlife. The two halves, each with their unique flavors, combine to create a city that’s as rich and diverse as the tapestry of its past.

Located in Central Europe, Budapest is an easy city to visit on a River Cruise, Road Trip, or by flying into the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport located about 16 km from the city center. You can book a transfer directly from the airport to take you to your downtown hotel. If you are looking for car rentals, check out RentalCars.com

1. Visit Heroes’ Square

Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, Heroes Square is something not to be missed. You can’t miss the Millennium Monument at its center which depicts the Archangel Gabriel holding the Hungarian crown. It is surrounded by several other statues that represent the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian leaders.

Make sure to visit the two art museums on either side of the square and learn a little about Hungarian history.

2. Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the largest buildings and most recognizable in Budapest. One of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings, the parliament building, is a marvel of Gothic Revival architecture. Dominating the Pest side of the Danube, the building’s intricate detailing and grandeur are a sight to behold. Its interior is adorned with gold accents and intricate stained glass.

You can tour the 691-room parliament building and watch the changing of the guard. During the tour, you can explore its beautiful statues and paintings as well as learn about the political history of Budapest.

The parliament is a working government building and home to the Hungarian Crown Jewels. A guided tour offers insights into Hungarian politics and the opportunity to appreciate the stunning architecture up close.

Don’t miss the chance to see the building at night when it’s beautifully illuminated, reflecting over the Danube. To really appreciate its Gothic Revival beauty, make sure to view it from the opposite side of the Danube. Or book a city cruise. This cruise includes unlimited Processo as you take in the sights.

3. Walk Across The Chain Bridge

This is Budapest’s most famous bridge and for good reason. The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, usually referred to as the Chain Bridge, is more than a means to cross the Danube. It’s a symbol of Hungarian resilience and innovation. Opened in 1849, the bridge was the first to permanently connect Buda and Pest.

A walk across the bridge offers delightful views of the city’s landmarks. The sight of the Royal Palace, Matthias Church, and Parliament building from the bridge is truly picture-perfect. At night, the illuminated bridge against the backdrop of Budapest’s skyline creates a magical setting.

Built in 1849, this suspension bridge connects the Buda(west) and Pest(East) sides of the city. It only takes about 10 minutes to walk across and the views are stunning. You are going to want to see this bridge both during the day and at night to really appreciate how impressive this bridge really is. Especially if you want some great photos.

4. Explore Buda Castle

Perched high atop Castle Hill, Buda Castle is an iconic symbol of Budapest. This former home of Hungarian kings was completed in the 13th Century and is now a Unesco World Heritage Site. Surrounded by the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum, Castle Hill is the perfect place to learn all about the culture of the city.

Whether day or night, the Castle, with its magnificent Baroque architecture, exudes an enchanting beauty. A stroll around the castle grounds at dusk provides an unforgettable sight of Budapest’s glittering skyline. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding Castle District, with its charming, narrow streets and historical buildings.

The best way to explore the Castle Hill area is by a guided tour. This 2-hour Castle tour costs is worth every penny.

Another interesting tour is the Buda Castle Caves Tour which takes you through the underground tunnels of Castle Hill. It is a fascinating trip through the labyrinth-like of cave system which once served as wine cellars, bomb shelters, and even a medieval prison.

5. Szechenyi Spa Baths

There is a reason they call it the City of Spas. When in Budapest, indulging in a thermal bath is a must. The city is renowned for its thermal baths, and Széchenyi is the largest and arguably the most popular. Situated in the heart of City Park, Széchenyi boasts 15 indoor pools and three grand outdoor pools as well as 10 saunas and steam rooms. They are the perfect escape after a few hours of sightseeing in the city. They are the largest medicinal baths in Europe and are known for their healing properties.

Thermal water, rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, is believed to have therapeutic properties. Whether you swim, soak, or partake in a game of chess with the locals, Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation. Visit in the winter for an extraordinary experience of bathing in hot waters as snow falls around you.

The art nouveau style baths date back to 1911. They suffered damage during World War II in the Siege of Budapest, but have been restored to their original splendor.

Book a full day at the baths in advance – this includes a full day ticket, and an optional tour to the city center to taste some Hungarian pálinka. Also note, that towels and bathing suits are available for purchase. (no rentals)

6. The Fisherman’s Bastion

If you are looking for the best views over the city then you will want to head to the Fisherman’s Bastion. The panoramic views over Pest, Margaret Island, and The Danube are unmatched, especially at sunset.

Its seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary in the 9th century. While the view from the Bastion is impressive at any time of day, it’s especially enchanting at night when the city is illuminated. Adjacent to the Bastion is the Matthias Church, another must-visit landmark with its stunning tiled roof and intricate interior.

7. Margaret Island

Margaret Island is by far Budapest’s most beautiful green space creating a serene oasis in the heart of Budapest. At 2.5 km long, Margaret Island is located in the middle of the Danube River and is accessed by a bridge at each end, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some beautiful gardens.

From beautiful gardens and historic ruins to a mini-zoo and thermal baths, there’s something for everyone. The Island is a popular spot for jogging, picnics, and leisurely strolls.

Don’t miss the musical fountain near the entrance, which puts on a show synchronized to classical music. There are also medieval ruins and an aviary that rehabilitates injured birds. The island also hosts several music and cultural festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.

9. City Park

If you are looking for another green space, City Park is a wonderful spot to escape the hustle and bustle. City Park, or Városliget as it is known in Hungarian spans approximately 302 acres in the heart of the city.

The most iconic site in City Park is the Széchenyi Thermal Baths but it is also home to Vajdahunyad Castle, the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is one of the oldest zoos in the world and the park is also the site of the Municipal Circus and the Pet?fi Hall, a popular venue for concerts and performances.

Other amenities include playgrounds, a boating lake, which transforms into an ice skating rink during the winter, and the Gundel Restaurant, famous for its traditional Hungarian cuisine.

9. Stroll along the Danube Promenade

Taking a short walk between the Chain Bridge and the Elizabeth Bridge along the Danube gives some of the best views of the iconic landmarks of the Buda side of Budapest. You will have great views of the castle, the Liberty Statue, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Try to visit the Danube Promenade in the evening when these buildings are lit up. Budapest is our favorite city in Europe at night. Its skyline lit up over the Danube takes you back in time. It is breathtaking.

10. Visit the “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial

Located along the Danube Promenade The Shoes on the Danube memorial is dedicated to the 3500 killed by the Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II. There are 60 pairs of cast iron shoes on the bank of the river in memory of the victims that were forced to take off their shoes before they were executed and their bodies swept away by the Danube.

This poignant memorial on the Danube Bank is a tribute to the Jews who were killed by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II. This memorial is a stark reminder of the atrocities of war. It’s a sobering site that brings home the human cost of the Holocaust in Hungary. A visit here is a moment to reflect and remember.

11. Great Market Hall (Central Market Hall)

Great Market Hall also known as Central Market Hall is Budapest’s most famous., If you are staying in an apartment rental it is a great place to pick up your groceries and some one-of-a-kind souvenirs. It is located right on the Danube and is worth spending, at least, an hour or two exploring its treasures.

It is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest with a neo-Gothic exterior the bustling stalls selling a variety of goods, it’s a place that showcases the vibrant local life. The ground floor is an excellent spot to find traditional Hungarian foods like salami, spices, and Tokaji wine. The upper floor offers handicrafts, souvenirs, and eateries serving local dishes. Whether you’re a food lover, a souvenir hunter, or a culture enthusiast, the Great Market Hall has something to offer.

12. Stroll Along Andrássy Avenue

Recognized as a World Heritage Site, Andrássy Avenue is one of Budapest’s most significant streets. It’s lined with neo-renaissance mansions, and luxury boutiques, and connects two of Budapest’s famous landmarks – Heroes’ Square and the Hungarian State Opera House.

Andrássy Avenue isn’t just about grandeur and shopping. It also offers insights into Budapest’s history and culture. At one end is Heroes’ Square, featuring statues of Hungarian leaders and the iconic Millennium Monument. At the other end is the Hungarian State Opera House, a jewel of neo-renaissance architecture, where you can catch a ballet or opera performance.

13. The House of Terror

The House of Terror Museum, housed in a building that was a former headquarters of the Nazi and then Soviet secret police, is a chilling look at the darker side of Hungary’s history. The museum is a memorial to the victims of the Fascist and Communist Regimes.  

The House of Terror, which is located on Andrássy Avenue, was the former headquarters of the Nazis and was also used as a prison during World War II by the Fascist Arrow Cross Party in the communist era.

The museum covers 4 floors and a mix of collections and interactive displays where you can learn about that time in the city’s history.

Through a series of exhibits, films, and installations, you’ll learn about the impact of fascist and communist regimes on Hungary. The House of Terror provides an important understanding of Hungary’s past, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts.

14. Hungarian State Opera House

If you are looking for something unique to do in Budapest then you should definitely visit the Hungarian National Opera House. It was first opened in 1884 and is a beautiful example of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Seeing an opera here is an incredible experience. The sound in the 1200-seat auditorium is one of the best in the world and the building itself is jaw-dropping.

Budapest’s Hungarian State Opera House is a marvel of neo-Renaissance architecture. It’s not just a place for opera; it’s a grand monument to Hungary’s musical history. The ornate auditorium, with its gold detailing and plush red seating, is among the most beautiful in Europe.

While watching a performance here is a real treat, a guided tour is a way to appreciate the Opera House’s architectural grandeur and learn about its history. The tour often includes a mini-concert, giving you a taste of the magnificent acoustics.

If you are unable to get tickets to an opera then you should definitely take a guided tour. Just make sure to book them in advance.

15. St. Stephen’s Basilica

This is the largest church in Budapest and the tallest. It was named after the first King of Hungary, Stephen I (you can see his right hand if that interests you), and is the most important church in the country. St. Stephen’s Basilica is not only a religious site but also a beacon of Hungarian history and culture.

The basilica is a masterpiece of neo-classical architecture and the third tallest building in Budapest. When you visit St Stephen’s Basilica, make sure to head up to the observation deck for some spectacular views over the city.

Inside, the basilica houses an impressive collection of religious relics, including the mummified right hand of Saint Stephen. The basilica also serves as a concert venue due to its exceptional acoustics and often hosts classical music concerts.

The church is free to enter but it will cost you HUF 400 to access the observation deck using the stairs (365!) or HUF 600 taking the elevator.

16. Buda Castle Funicular

Take the funicular up for another fun attraction in Budapest. Dating back to 1870, it was the 2nd funicular built in all of Europe. Running between Adam Clark Square and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge the funicular is a great way to get up to the Castle Hill area. It runs continuously each day every 10 minutes so the long queues move quickly.

17. Visit the Ruin Bars

Ruin bars are all the rage in Budapest. Located in abandoned buildings and decorated with eclectic comfortable furniture, Ruin pubs are all unique in their own way. These bars are mostly located in the Jewish Quarter and are set in abandoned buildings. They are decorated with eclectic, often recycled, furniture and art.

Each ruin bar has a character of its own, with diverse music, art installations, and a lively, inclusive atmosphere. Ruin pubs aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re social hubs where you can meet locals, fellow travelers, enjoy live music, and even catch a film screening. Exploring these ruined bars is an experience that encapsulates the spirit of Budapest’s vibrant nightlife.

Szimpla Kert is the most famous of all the ruin pubs and is also located in the Jewish Quarter so make sure to pop in while you are bar hopping. Szimpla Kert is a labyrinth of quirky rooms and vintage decor. Don’t forget to order yourself a shot of Unicum, a traditional Hungarian liqueur. It will blow your socks off.

18. Take a Danube River Cruise

One of the best ways to take in all the beauty of Budapest is to take a cruise along the Danube River. There are many different cruises that last from a couple of hours to a full day. We took a week-long River Cruise along the Danube. You can learn more about what we saw here.

The Danube River, splitting Buda and Pest, is a defining feature of Budapest. A river cruise offers a different perspective of the city’s landmarks, including the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Citadel. It’s a particularly popular activity at sunset and in the evening when the city lights create a romantic atmosphere.

Many cruises offer dining and live music, enhancing the experience further. Whether you choose a lunch cruise, a sunset cruise, or a dinner cruise, floating on the Danube is an experience you’ll cherish.

This River Cruise includes a complimentary cocktail as you enjoy a one-hour trip along the Danube to enjoy the iconic sites such as Buda Castle and the Vigado Concert Hall.

19. Liberty Square

This Russian monument honors the soldiers of the Red Army who died during the liberation of Budapest from the Nazis in World War II. It is ironically located directly across from the US embassy and a statue of Ronald Reagan stands on the other side of it.

20. Take a Trabant Tour

Known as “The Paper Jaguar”, this nostalgic car from the communist era is the perfect way to take a tour of the city. A chauffeur will drive you around town, stopping at the popular places while telling you about what life was like during that era in Budapest.

21. Gellért Hill Liberty Statue

Gellért Hill offers great panoramic views of the city and the Danube. The Liberty Statue sits atop the hill and was erected in 1947 to pay tribute to the Soviet soldiers that gave their lives to liberate the city from the Nazis during World War II.

It is a little out of the city but it is worth it to head out there or you can visit if you are on the Trabant tour. There is also a cave church and the citadel that are worth exploring.

Gellért Hill offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. At the top, you’ll find the Liberty Statue, a monument dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Hungary. The hill is also home to the Citadella, a historic fortress that now hosts various exhibitions.

A walk up can be a bit challenging, but the scenery along the way and the view from the top make it worth the effort. Whether at sunrise, sunset, or night, the vista of the cityscape, the Danube River, and the bridges connecting Buda and Pest is truly enchanting

22. Gundel Restaurant

If you are into culinary travel or just love sampling the food of the country then a visit to the Gundel Restaurant is a must. The Gundel Restaurant dates back to 1894 and is considered one of the pioneers of Hungarian gastronomy.

It is the premier spot for traditional Hungarian food in Budapest especially if you want to savor authentic Hungarian cuisine in a historic grand fashion.

23. Dohány Street Synagogue

Budapest is a beautiful city and the Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue. is absolutely beautiful. Located in the Jewish Quarter and opened in 1859, it is the second-largest synagogue in the world, and the interior and the garden were restored in the 1990s.

The Dohány Street Synagogue is not only the largest synagogue in Europe, but it’s also an important center of Neolog Judaism and a powerful symbol of Jewish heritage in Hungary. Its Moorish Revival architecture is breathtaking, with its richly decorated interior and two impressive onion-shaped domes.

Besides being a place of worship, the complex also houses the Hungarian Jewish Museum and a Holocaust memorial. A visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue offers insight into Jewish history, culture, and the resilience of the Jewish community in Hungary. Don’t miss the weeping willow memorial which is located in the garden.

24. Take Free Walking Tour

The best way to take all the best things to do in Budapest is to do a walking tour. We love joining walking tours when we reach a new destination and the tours of Budapest are some of the best. You get all of the history from a knowledgeable guide and you get to spend time at each location.

If you prefer to get around a little faster then a bike tour is for you. It covers about 15km and it takes you past all the cool spots like Vajdahunyad Castle, St Stephen’s Basilica, Szechenyi Baths, and the Parliament building. Budapest is a very bike-friendly city and it is easy to pedal.

25. Explore Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle, located in City Park, is a unique architectural tribute to a thousand years of Hungarian history. It features replicas of several landmark buildings from different parts of the Kingdom of Hungary, showcasing Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.

The castle houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, the biggest agricultural museum in Europe. Besides, the castle grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and even boating on the lake in the summer. During winter, the lake transforms into a popular ice-skating rink.

26. Visit the Pinball Museum

If you are looking for something completely different to do in Budapest then you might want to check out the pinball museum. Opened in 2014, it houses 130 machines and is fun for the whole family. I’ve got to say, this is one of the coolest, off-the-wall museums in the city.

27. Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum is one of Hungary’s most important historical and cultural institutions. The museum’s grand neoclassical building itself is worth seeing. Designed by architect Mihály Pollack and opened in 1847, the museum’s front steps are a historically significant site as it was here that the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 was declared.

The museum houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts spanning Hungary’s history from its founding to the present day. The archaeological section holds relics from prehistoric times, from the Roman era when it was called the Roman city of Aquincum, to the migration period of the Magyars, the founders of Hungary.

Meanwhile, the historical department covers the period from the foundation of the state to the 1990s, providing visitors with an in-depth look at Hungary’s complex past.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Coronation Mantle, which has been used in the coronation of Hungarian kings since the 11th century. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on various historical themes.

28. Hungarian National Gallery

The Hungarian National Gallery, housed within Buda Castle, is the largest public collection documenting and presenting the rise and development of the fine arts in Hungary. It features extensive collections of paintings, sculptures, medieval and Renaissance stonework, and prints from as early as the 10th century.

The exhibitions offer a journey through Hungarian art and history, with works from renowned artists like Mihály Munkácsy and Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this cultural treasure and the chance to appreciate the panoramic views of Budapest from the top of the museum.

29. Mattias Church

One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, Matthias Church, stands proudly on Castle Hill. Named after King Matthias Corvinus, the church’s history spans over 700 years. The neo-Gothic architecture, colorful roof tiles, and intricate interior make it a masterpiece of art and history.

The church has witnessed numerous coronations and weddings, including that of King Matthias himself. Today, aside from religious services, the church hosts concerts due to its excellent acoustics. The nearby Fisherman’s Bastion offers incredible views of the city, making the area a must-visit spot in Budapest.

30. Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden

The Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden is a fascinating archaeological site and museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the remains of Aquincum, the ancient Roman city that once stood where Budapest is today.

Aquincum was the capital of the Roman province of Pannonia Inferior and one of the most important cities in the Danube region during Roman times, dating back to the 2nd-4th centuries AD. Today, the Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden allow visitors to step back in time and walk among the ruins.

The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed from the site, including Roman stone carvings, statues, ceramics, jewelry, and other everyday objects that offer a glimpse into life during Roman times. One of the museum’s most notable exhibits is the Aquincum Water Organ, an ancient Roman musical instrument that was discovered in the region.

31. Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) in Budapest is one of the most important and prestigious cultural institutions in Hungary. It houses an extensive international collection of art, including works spanning seven centuries from around the globe.

Located in Heroes’ Square, the museum is housed in a magnificent Neo-Classical building, which opened in 1906. The Museum of Fine Arts’ collection is diverse and expansive, with over 100,000 pieces. The Old Masters’ Gallery showcases an impressive collection of European paintings and drawings, featuring works from renowned artists such as Raphael, El Greco, Velázquez, Rembrandt, Tiepolo, and Goya.

The museum’s collection of Egyptian Art is one of the richest in Central Europe, displaying around 4,000 artifacts that provide insights into Ancient Egyptian civilization.

There’s also an extensive collection of Ancient Art, featuring Greek, Roman, and Etruscan works, while the Sculpture Collection boasts pieces from the Middle Ages to the late 18th century. Recently, the museum has undergone extensive renovations to further enhance its exhibition spaces and visitor services, including a new Romanesque Hall, which hosts temporary exhibitions.

32. Experience Budapest’s Café Culture

Budapest’s café culture is a significant part of the city’s identity. With a coffee culture history dating back to the late 19th century, Budapest’s coffee houses were hubs of literary and artistic life. Café Gerbeaud and New York Café are among the most famous and opulent coffee houses in the city.

Each coffee house in Budapest has its unique charm and history. Some serve as venues for live music and poetry readings, while others exhibit local artwork. Enjoy a cup of traditional Hungarian coffee, sample local pastries like Dobos Torte, and soak in the cultural ambiance of these iconic establishments.

33. Escape to the Buda Hills

The Buda Hills, tower over the western side of Budapest and offer a tranquil respite from the city’s bustling streets. The top attraction here is The Children’s Railway. This unique attraction is a narrow-gauge railway winding through some of the most beautiful parts of the Buda Hills.

Another one of the most popular attractions in the Buda Hills is the Széchenyi Hill Lookout Tower. Climb the tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. Close to the lookout tower is the Elizabeth Lookout, another vantage point with equally captivating views.

The Buda Hills are crisscrossed with a network of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views over Budapest and the Danube River.

How to Get Around Budapest

Budapest has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city. Options include the Metro, trams, buses, and trolleybuses. The Metro, with its four lines, is especially useful for getting around the city quickly. Trams are perfect for short distances and offer scenic routes along the Danube River.

For those who prefer traveling on water, there are public boats operating on the Danube River, offering a unique perspective of the city. Biking is also an increasingly popular way to get around Budapest, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs like MOL Bubi.

Budapest Card

To make traveling around Budapest easier and more cost-effective, consider purchasing the Budapest Card. The Budapest Card is the official city pass of Budapest, which provides a range of benefits:

Unlimited public transportation: The card offers unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation network, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, the metro, and even boats. Free entry to museums: The card grants free admission to many of the city’s top museums, including the Hungarian National Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Budapest History Museum. Discounts: The card offers discounts at a wide range of attractions, tours, restaurants, thermal baths, and more. Additional services: The Budapest Card also includes free or discounted walking tours, a free guidebook, and other services.

The Budapest Card comes in different versions (24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours), allowing you to choose the one that best fits your itinerary. It’s an excellent investment for travelers wanting to explore Budapest at their own pace while saving on transportation and attractions.

What is Budapest best known for?

Budapest is best known for its historical sites like the Buda Castle, thermal baths like Széchenyi, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. It’s also renowned for its unique blend of architectural styles and its vibrant café culture.

What you Cannot miss in Budapest?

In Budapest, you cannot miss a soak in Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a visit to Buda Castle, a stroll along the Danube, and a tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building.

How many days should I spend in Budapest?

A 3-4 day trip is usually sufficient to visit Budapest’s key attractions, try some traditional Hungarian food, and possibly enjoy a thermal bath experience. However, with so much to see and do, you could easily extend your stay to a week or more.

In conclusion

From its UNESCO World Heritage Sites to its bustling markets, from its illustrious opera house to the ruins transformed into trendy bars, Budapest is an explorer’s dream. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building, immersing yourself in the bubbling bliss of Széchenyi Thermal Bath, or tracing the contours of history in the Hungarian National Museum, the city is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.

And these are the Best Things to do in Budapest. Budapest is one of these places that has something for everyone. The city is full of history, incredible views, and architecture that will blow your mind. If you have three or four days in the city you can really get a great feel for the city and understand why so many people visit this city each year.

Whether you’re a music aficionado, a museum devotee, or a hiking enthusiast, Austria’s fourth-largest city, Salzburg offers something to captivate every traveler. There are so many things to do in Salzburg. This quaint, elegant, and picturesque city is known for being the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as the primary filming location for the classic film, The Sound of Music. So are you ready to explore Salzburg? Let’s Go!

Top Things to Do in Salzburg

With attractions such as the world-class Salzburg Old Town, The Golden Hall of Fortress Hohensalzburg, and iconic Mirabell Palace and Gardens, there are truly so many things to do when visiting Salzburg – so let’s get exploring.

1. Salzburger Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg)

Salzburg’s Old Town, also known as Salzburger Altstadt, is easily one of Europe’s most impressive old towns. Located on the left bank of the Salzach River, visitors can get lost for hours marveling at Salzburg’s beautifully preserved medieval and baroque architecture, as well as its narrow winding streets, vibrant atmosphere, and pastel-colored buildings.

With highlights such as Getreidegasse, Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburger Altstadt is filled to the brim with architectural treasures, charming boutiques, and important religious sights.

If you’ve also come to Austria to dabble in culinary delights, here’s the place to do it – as some of the country’s best cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens are located right here. In comparison to other old towns in Austria, such as Vienna, I can safely say that Salzburg’s Old Town is my favorite.

2. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a striking Baroque palace complex loved by visitors for both its beauty and historic importance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace was built as early as 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau and later expanded in the 18th century. The Mirabell Palace currently serves as the municipal office for the Mayor and City Council of Salzburg but was originally used mostly as a pleasure palace.

Like many of Salzburg’s attractions, Mirabell Palace was designed with a few architectural styles in mind – namely, the Late Renaissance and Early Baroque styles. With eye-catching features such as its grand arched windows and use of marble as one of the palace’s primary materials, the exterior of Mirabell Palace is one of Salzburg’s impressive buildings.

Speaking of marble – inside the palace, visitors can find Marble Hall (otherwise known as Marmorsaal) – one of the Palace’s highlights. With its exquisitely gilded walls, stunning chandeliers, and tastefully decorated marble floor, the Marble Hall is regarded as one of the most beautiful halls in the world and is frequently used as a wedding hall and performance venue.

Pegasus Fountain

While strolling through Mirabell’s immaculately kept gardens, don’t forget to visit the Pegasus Fountain – an iconic symbol of Salzburg itself. The Pegasus Fountain features a statue of a mythical winged horse surrounded by the water fountain and is a popular spot for photographers. Other things to see around the Mirabell Gardens include the Rose Garden, Dwarf Garden, Hedge Theatre, and its many flowerbeds, sculptures, and enchanting pathways. You cannot visit Salzburg and not pay a visit here.

You might recognize the grounds of Mirabell Palace and Gardens if you’ve ever watched the 1965 movie, ‘The Sound of Music’. It’s here, at the grand staircase and the Pegasus Fountain, where the film’s famous ‘Do-Re-Mi’ scene was shot. Due to its appearance in the film, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens has gained international recognition as an instantaneously recognizable Hollywood location. If you are a fan of the movie then this Sound Of Music tour is right up your alley.

3. Fortress Hohensalzburg

Salzburg is a city full of breathtaking viewpoints, and Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the best places for a truly unforgettable view. I visited around sunset time and as the sun began to set, the sky unfolded into a dreamy blend of purple, pink, and blue colors. From up there, you’ll also be able to witness Salzburg’s magical surrounding Alpine scenery, serving as the perfect background to the city’s stunning buildings.

With its origins tracing back as early as the 11th century, history buffs will be left satisfied after visiting its extensive complex featuring chapels, dungeons, courtyards, and living quarters. Inside the Fortress, you can also explore the Fortress Museum – an opportunity to learn about the fortress in more depth by examining a range of artifacts, objects, weaponry, and historical exhibits.

Other highlights within the Fortress include the Marionette Museum, State Rooms, and Golden Chamber. Dedicate at least a few hours to explore these in detail, as they all represent an important piece of the city in Salzburg’s jigsaw puzzle of history.

Fortress Hohensalzburg, also known as Festung Hohensalzburg, is accessible by a short funicular ride or a steep hike. As a hiking enthusiast, I hiked it all the way to the top and would totally recommend it if you’re looking for a scenic workout.

4. Salzburg Cathedral

Known as Salzburger Dom by German speakers, the Salzburg Cathedral is an imposing baroque cathedral centrally located in the city’s Old Town. Because of its grand façade, rich history, and religious significance, it’s easily one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Salzburg Cathedral was originally constructed back in the 8th century as a church dedicated to Saint Virgil of Salzburg, an Irish churchman known for his religious works during that time. The cathedral’s twin towers reach a height of approximately 81 metres (265 feet), and can be seen as a prominent feature of Salzburg’s skyline.

While the cathedral’s exterior is certainly memorable, visitors would be missing out if they didn’t enter inside. Featuring soaring ceilings and ornate decorations, the interior of Salzburg Cathedral is truly awe-inspiring (Especially since the roof did suffer damage in World War II). In particular, the opulent high altar, designed by artist Santino Solari, is considered a Baroque masterpiece.

The Salzburg Cathedral also has strong ties to music history, as one of its attendees, Mozart was baptized here in 1756. In fact, some of his early works were also performed in front of the church congregation – making it one of the first venues where Mozart’s pieces were ever unveiled. Salzburg Cathedral continues to serve as an active place of music and worship today as regular masses and religious ceremonies frequently take place here.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of this fascinating cathedral, you can also visit the Cathedral Museum, which showcases a collection of religious art, historical artifacts, including objets d’art from the Salzburg archdiocese and liturgical items related to the Cathedral.

5. St Peter’s Abbey

Another religious building worth visiting, St Peter’s Abbey (also known as Stift St. Peter) differs from Salzburg Cathedral as it’s an ancient monastery that’s one of the oldest monastic establishments in the German-speaking world. In fact, St Peter’s Abbey’s origins trace back to the early 7th century when it was established by Saint Rupert, the patron saint of Salzburg.

Although it looks relatively unassuming from the outside, St Peter’s Abbey is full of hidden treasures inside. A walk through the abbey’s complex would take you through to impressive structures such as the Abbey Church, Cemetery, Library and Long Gallery.

I found St Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs to be especially interesting to visit. Not only was it a peaceful place to generally experience and stroll through, but it’s here that you can also find the final resting place for some of Salzburg’s most distinguished individuals – such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s sister, Nannerl Mozart. 

St Peter’s Library is also well worth a visit as it houses some of Salzburg’s most important texts, such as medieval manuscripts, significant religious books, and other historic documents that have lasted multiple centuries. At various points of the year, St Peter’s Abbey also hosts artistic performances and other classical concerts.

6. DomQuartier Salzburg (UNESCO World Heritage site)

If you love museums, then the DomQuartier Salzburg should be one of the top things on your list of things to do in Salzburg. A series of interconnected buildings (including the Salzburg Cathedral), DomQuartier is also where you’ll find the Residenz, the former residence of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg.

As you tour the residences, take note of the intricate stucco work, beautiful tapestries, and immaculate furnishings. It’s here that visitors can also explore an extensive collection of European paintings from the Middle Ages right up to the 19th century. For example, in the Residenz Gallery, art lovers will get the opportunity to examine artworks from names such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Veronese, as well as local Salzburg artists.

In the Long Gallery, you’ll be able to find a collection of valuable sculptures and artifacts. A short walk through the terrace will lead you to panoramic views of Salzburg’s Old Town. While the elevation here isn’t quite as high as you’ll find in Fortress Hohensalzburg, this view offers a different perspective of Salzburg that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the city.

DomQuartier was one of the most extensive museums I explored in all of Austria, and I found that it was extremely well-equipped to inform visitors of all languages through its use of audio guides, informative panels with different translations and helpful, knowledgeable staff.

7. Franziskanerkirche

Salzburg has no shortage of intricate religious buildings, and Francizkanerkirche, or the ‘Franciscan Church’, is yet another one. Built in the 8th century, Franciscan Church displays a blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque – a feature that it shares in common with other Salzburg icons such as the St Peter’s Abbey. This makes the church quite a unique one, as visitors will be able to notice the slight differences by examining features such as the stone carvings, soaring ceilings, graceful arches, stained glass windows and altars. 

The Franciscan Church was founded by St Maxiumus and his fellow monks and over the years has gone through major restoration and transformation, particularly between the 14th and 15th centuries.

The Franciscan Monastery (Franziskanerkloster) can be found right next to the church. As an active monastery, the Franziskanerkloster currently houses friars and continues to be a place of contemplation and study. A crypt also lies beneath the church, where the remains of noble families and distinguished individuals from Salzburg’s history are kept.

8. Mozart’s Birthplace

Known as ‘Mozarts Geburtshaus’ by locals, Mozart’s Birthplace is another must-do in Salzburg simply because of its historical significance. The birthplace of one of the world’s greatest composers and contributors in the history of music, this quaint yellow townhouse has since been transformed into an informative museum where visitors can explore Mozart’s personal belongings, musical instruments, family portraits, and other significant items across all three floors.

Mozart’s family townhouse was built in the 12th century but was purchased by Mozart’s father, Leopold, much later in 1747. You can find the house on Geitreidegasse, a popular street that’s also on this list of 21 Things to do in Salzburg,

At Mozart’s Birthplace, you can even explore the very room where Mozart was born on 27 January 1756. The museum is well-aided by audio guides, informative displays, and other presentations which offer an even greater insight into Mozart’s stories life and musical development. I spent about an hour here learning about Mozart’s life – definitely a worthwhile stop.

Visitors are also able to buy a souvenir of their visit in the small gift shop, located within the townhouse. At the gift shop, you’ll be able to find a wide range of Mozart-related items, such as music recordings, books, and replicas of Mozart’s musical instruments.

9. Linzergasse

As one of Salzburg’s main pedestrian-only streets, Linzergasse is known for being a shopping haven amongst Salzburg’s historic buildings and picturesque architecture. You’ll find some of the city’s best boutiques, art galleries and speciality stores as you stroll down this famous street.

Along Linzergasse, visitors will also have the choice to dine at some of Salzburg’s most well-known cafés and restaurants. These include Café-Konditorei Fürst, Café Bazar and Triangel Restaurant. In particular, Café-Konditorei Fürst is known for inventing the original ‘Mozartkugel’, a chocolate covered confection consisting of pistachio, marzipan and nougat. It’s alternatively known as the ‘Mozart-Bonbon’, and is yep – you guessed it – dedicated to Mozart and his contributions to Salzburg.

It’s important to note than Linzergasse is more than just a street for shopping. It also served as a historically important trading route between Salzburg and the city of Linz. In fact, an exploration of Linzergasse’s surrounds may also lead you to encounter other Salzburg landmarks such as St Sebastian’s Church and Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus). 

10. Old City Hall

Salzburg’s Old City Hall (‘Altes Rathaus’ in German) is an icon of Salzburg that you definitely can’t miss when exploring the Old Town. Constructed in the 14th century, the Old City Hall is adorned with beautiful ornate windows and intricate decorations, as well as a prominent clock tower. It’s also another great example of both the Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, a common theme among important buildings in the city.

The Old City Hall is traditionally where important business meetings and other administrative matters are handled, and it currently serves as the seat of the Salzburg City Council. It’s here that important historical assemblies, public announcements, proclamations, dignitary visits and historical celebrations have taken place (and continue to take place).

One of the Old City Hall’s highlights is the Carillon, a musical instrument comprising of a series of bells played by a keyboard mechanism. This striking feature can be found in the Old City Hall tower, specifically on the front façade facing the Mozartplatz. The Carillion is popular with visitors due to its collection of large bronze bells, each a different size and tuned to a specific pitch.

11. Mozartplatz

Salzburg boasts a lot of famous city squares, but Mozartplatz is my favorite because it features a grand bronze statue of Mozart at the center of the square. It’s transformed into somewhat of a pilgrimage site for music lovers and is an important reminder of just how valued Mozart and music are to the city.

The bronze statue was created by Austrian sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler in 1842, and although it is the main attraction in Mozartplatz, there is still plenty to see and do here. Throughout the year, the square hosts open-air concerts, cultural festivals, and seasonal markets, attracting locals and tourists who visit to enjoy the charming atmosphere.

12. Residenzbrunnen and Residenzplatz

Yet another lively square in Salzburg worth visiting, the Residenzplatz is where visitors can find the Residenzbrunnen, also known as the Residenz Fountain. This fountain was designed by Italian sculptor Tommaso di Garone in 1661 and is today considered one of the finest baroque fountains in the country.

Visually striking the moment you see it, the Residenzbrunnen displays a stunning central marble column adorned with statues and figures that represent various mythological figures. At the top of the column, you’ll find a statue of a male figure holding a gold basin as water cascades down into the base of the fountain, creating an impressive show for onlookers. 

If you’re visiting close to Christmas time, the Residenzplatz is an excellent place to check out the famous Christmas markets in Austria. Also known as the ‘Christkindlmarkt’, the markets stretch out from the Residenzplatz through to the Cathedral Square (Domplatz) and other nearby squares. Also, be sure not to miss the Salzburg Christmas Museum if you love Christmas.

13. Glockenspiel

Founded on the façade of the New Residence building, which also houses the Salzburg Museum in Mozartplatz, the Glockenspiel is a unique musical instrument that has delighted visitors for centuries. Catch a scheduled performance and you’ll be treated to a presentation of familiar tunes and animated figurines.

More than just an entertaining show, watching the Glockenspiel is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Salzburg’s past. This is because the animated figurines depict scenes from Salzburg’s history and folklore, and they sometimes even include notable figures such as Mozart.

The Glockenspiel performs multiple times a day usually at the top of the hour – although you might have to hang around a few minutes, as when I visited, it played about 5 minutes later than it was expected to.

14. Salzach River

The Salzach River is a jade-colored waterway flowing through Salzburg that can be seen from various points in the city, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Winkler Terrace. Aside from being a pretty river to photograph, it serves as a natural border between Salzburg’s Old Town and the more modern parts of the city.

About 225km (140 miles) long, the Salzach River originates from the Austrian Alps, where it flows through picturesque valleys and towns before reaching the city of Salzburg. One of the best ways to experience the Salzach River is to embark on a riverboat cruise. These cruises typically take you through green spaces, recreational areas, and bridges and offer a unique perspective of Salzburg’s Old Town.

A popular way to experience the beauty of the Salzach River is to walk along Salzach Promenade. Also referred to as ‘Salzachufer’, the promenade is a scenic pedestrian pathway that runs along the perimeter of the river. Stretching several kilometres, visitors can enjoy the promenade’s pretty trees, decorated benchworks and greenery while taking in the riverside atmosphere.

15. Getreidegasse

Wander down the Getreidegasse, one of Salzburg’s most visited streets, and you’ll feel like you stepped back in time. Celebrated for its charming townhouses, elegant boutiques and enchanting cafes, a stroll through Getreidegasse’s cobbled streets gives you a good feel of what Salzburg is all about – architectural treasures and a whimsical atmosphere.

It’s at Getreidegasse where you’ll also find a collection of street performers, musicians and artists. Seeing that Salzburg is one of the world’s most famous musical cities, it should be no surprise that these street performers here are sometimes at a world-class level.

Getreidegasse is also home to other worthwhile Salzburg attractions such as Mozart’s Birthplace (previously mentioned on this list), the historic Goldener Hirsch Hotel, and The Old Pharmacy. You can also find unique house signs and facades along the street, making it a popular photography location too.

16. Café Tomaselli

Café Tomaselli is not just a pretty café in the heart of Salzburg – it’s practically an institution and an icon in its own right. This quaint café has been around for some 150 years and is one of the oldest establishments that still exist in the city.

Originating in 1705, Café Tomaselli has been delighting visitors for centuries through its delicious pasties, renowned coffee and peaceful ambiance. Designed with an elegant, old-world charm in mind, guests are immediately transported to an era gone by as they sit down and enjoy the Café’s famous food.

This is a great spot to people-watch, read the newspaper and just hang out. It’s been said that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself spent a lot of time here working on his music. I would recommend ordering the café’s delicious cakes, such as its Esterhazy cake and apple strudel, along with a cup of wonderful Austrian coffee.

Just opposite Café Tomaselli, you can also find Kiosk Tomaselli, an extension of the café. With its leafy trees and colourful umbrella shades, dining at Kiosk Tomaselli is perfectly suited for the summer.

17. Winkler Terrace/M32 Café

Formerly known as Winkler Terrace, this panoramic viewpoint is now known as the M32 Café. One of the most trendy café and rooftop bars in Salzburg, the M32 Café can be found on the top floor of the Museum der Moderne Salzburg and is truly a must-see for any visitor in Salzburg.

Although the views from Hohensalzburg Fortress are equally as amazing, the main point of difference in comparison to the view at M32 Café is that you can actually see the grandeur of the fortress from the latter viewpoint.

Hence, this is possibly the most scenic viewpoint in all of Salzburg as from this vantage point, you’ll be able to see Salzburg’s Old Town in its entirety. I’ll admit that the food and drinks at M32 Café are a little expensive, but given the magnificent panorama in front of you, it’s still totally worth it to spend a few hours here. My recommendations at M32 Café include their apple strudel, sachertorte and their range of cheesecakes. The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas, making it a great choice no matter the season.

Once you’re done taking in the views, spend some time exploring the Museum der Moderne Salzburg on the lower floors. This renowned museum features contemporary artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries – showcasing a diverse range of sculptures, installations, photographs, and paintings from both Austrian and international artists. The Museum der Moderne Salzburg is quite unique in the sense that it features modern work, in contrast to other nearby Salzburg museums which feature more historical works.

The Makartsteg, also known as the Love Lock Footbridge, is a pedestrian bridge that serves as a sort of entry point into Salzburg’s Old Town. Named after the celebrated Austrian painter Hans Makart, the bridge serves as one of the best ways to see the Salzach River.

Because of its beautiful surroundings that include both Salzburg’s charming buildings and the gorgeous Salzach River, there is an undeniable romantic atmosphere as you cross the bridge. Over the years, couples started to attach colorful padlocks onto the railings of the bridge as a symbol of their everlasting love.

These ‘love locks’ have become so popular that the railings of the bridge are now completely covered in colorful locks, serving as a heart-warming reminder of Salzburg’s romantic qualities.

19. Collegiate Church

The Collegiate Church has many different names so it can be a little tricky to find if you’re just inputting one name into your navigation app. Just for reference, it’s also referred to as the ‘Kollegienirche’ or ‘Holy Trinity Church’ (try all of them if one of the names doesn’t work). This Baroque church was first constructed in 1694 and wasn’t finished until 1707. Characterized by its curved forms, specific ornamentation, and use of lighter colors, the Collegiate Church is one of the few examples in Salzburg of architecture that is distinctively Baroque – as opposed to other churches in Salzburg, which were built with a blend of architectural styles in mind).

One of the differences between the Collegiate Church and other churches such as Salzburg Cathedral or the Franciscan Church is its use of marble columns and specific types of ceiling frescoes. The ceilings were painted by renowned artist Johann Michael Rottmayr and depict very detailed visuals relating to the Holy Trinity.

Additionally, the Collegiate Church is especially known for its great acoustics for choral singing and classical music, making it a popular venue for musical performances and concerts in Salzburg.

20. Hallstatt

One of the most popular day trip spots from Salzburg, the charming lakeside town of Hallstatt is only 75 kilometres, or 46 miles, from the city. Hallstatt can be reached after a 1.5 hour car ride, and is an unmissable destination if you’re staying in Salzburg for more than a few days.

Undoubtedly in the top echelon of things to do in all of Austria, Hallstatt has garnered mass popularity across social media platforms over the years for its ridiculously picturesque town, Alpine scenery, enchanting lake and range of activities on offer. In fact, you may have already seen images of Hallstatt already on wallpapers, screensavers or framed print photos – that’s how beautiful it really is.

When in Hallstatt, don’t miss out on doing the Hallstatt Skywalk – a scenic viewpoint offering 360-degree vistas of Hallstatt’s surroundings. Another must-do attraction is the Hallstatt Salt Mine. The town has historically been an important hub for salt trading, and the Salt Mines provide a great opportunity for visitors to explore its underground tunnels, wooden slides and learn more about the salt extraction process.

For a slightly more macabre – but extremely interesting experience – visit the Hallstatt Bone House (Beinhaus), where you can find a collection of intricately decorates bones and skulls housed in a picturesque small chapel.

Of course, it’s impossible not to take in the breathtaking sight of Hallstatt Lake from Hallstatt town. Commonly regarded as one of the prettiest lakes in the country, the lake is perfect for boating, swimming and other water activities in the summer. It’s also easy to take a tour of the lake by boat, where you’ll be able to take in the beauty of Hallstatt town from the water.

21. Saint Gilgen

Given its strategic location in Austria, Salzburg serves as a fantastic jumping point to some of Austria’s best destinations. Some of these day trip options include charming Alpine villages such as Zell am See, Wolfgangsee and Mondsee. Although all these destinations are worth a visit, my favorite was the quaint village of Saint Gilgen.

Less than a 40-minute bus ride from Salzburg, visiting Saint Gilgen is the perfect way to get properly acquainted with Austria’s one-of-a-kind alpine scenery. With Wolfgangsee Lake as its majestic centerpiece, the village of Saint Gilgen elegantly unfolds itself all the way to the towering mountains.

Its well-preserved historic village center features some of the prettiest architecture I have seen in Austria, and I spent hours just strolling through the charming traditional buildings and colorful facades.

In the summer, Saint Gilgen is another popular place to go boating or engage in other water sports activities. Because of its natural beauty and crystal-clear lake water, kayaking, paddleboarding, row boating or swimming are all recommended during this season.

How to get to Salzburg?

The easiest way to get to Salzburg is to fly to W. A. Mozart Airport, which is just 4 kilometers away from the city center. Salzburg Airport is well-connected to larger European cities such as London, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Istanbul, and Frankfurt, and you can readily find flights on popular airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, SAS, and Turkish Airlines.

However, given its location close to the border of Germany in Austria’s west region, Salzburg is actually most easily accessible from the German city of Munich. Munich Airport is a much busier airport than Salzburg Airport and offers many more connections to destinations not just in Europe, but around the world. From Munich, taking the train takes you less than 2 hours to get to Salzburg.

Salzburg is also well-connected by international train services from major cities such as Zurich, Budapest, Prague and Bratislava.

If you’re arriving from Austria’s capital, Vienna, there are a range of train options you can take. Trains typically take around 2.5 or 4 hours and can be purchased online beforehand on the ÖBB Website.

Final Thoughts on Salzburg

Salzburg is a uniquely beautiful city that has undoubtedly captured my heart. With its rich musical roots, elegant architecture, grandiose religious structures, and charming streets, there is truly no shortage of things to do in Salzburg.

To get a true sense of Salzburg’s beauty, I would recommend staying at least 4 days in the city. This will give you the opportunity to spend a couple of days exploring Salzburg’s treasures while also allowing enough time to venture out on some unforgettable day trips in the surrounding area.

The easiest way to get around Salzburg is by renting a car, although Austria’s excellent public transportation system should be easy enough to navigate that you’ll be able to see most of the city’s sights without a car – it just might require a bit more time and planning.

Indian food is lauded around the world for its complex flavors, diverse spices, and aroma. Traveling to India is a dream of many and much of the experience is trying local food from chicken tikka masala to homemade samosas. Traditional recipes have been handed down through the generations, which may explain why locals have got the use of spice down to an art form.

Having spent 3 months traveling around India we were lucky enough to sample some of the best Indian food that the country had to offer. From some of the most famous Indian dishes like Biryani rice to incredible breakfast dishes like Masala Dosa it is easy to see why we fell in love with so many different Indian foods while we were there.

Best Indian Dishes to Try at Home or At An Indian Restaurant

One thing that rings true is that while other popular cuisines around the world may have a few amazing dishes, India’s culinary strength really lies in the vast assortment of dishes and desserts. When we were traveling around India, or even when we are cooking at home, we could try something new every day. So, to help guide you, here are our picks for the most popular Indian dishes to try on your next trip to India or even an Indian restaurant. Before starting your adventures around India, check out our guide to essential items for your trip.

1. Butter Chicken

The mere mention of Butter Chicken brings a tantalizing image of creamy, vibrant, and heartily spiced gravy with tender pieces of chicken. Whether you’re traversing through the lanes of India or experimenting with Indian flavors at home, Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish you’ll find hard to resist. A dish from Northern India, particularly New Delhi, it has now become a global representative of Indian cuisine.

Butter Chicken’s humble origin story revolves around minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. Restaurateurs in the mid-20th century, looking to salvage and utilize leftover tandoori chicken, concocted this luscious dish that pairs perfectly with naan or basmati rice. The recipe’s magic lies in a beautifully balanced, smooth tomato sauce enriched with onions, cream, and butter. Every household and restaurant across India has its take on Butter Chicken, and you should try as many as possible.

As a quintessentially Indian dish, Butter Chicken is a fantastic starting point to delve into Indian cuisine and as I said above is my favorite! here is the recipe I use at home.

2. Tandoori Chicken

A culinary gem from the heart of Punjab, Tandoori Chicken is a feast not just for your taste buds but for your eyes too. The vibrant red hue of this dish is as appetizing as its smoky, grilled flavor. As another symbol of North Indian cuisine, Tandoori Chicken is a testament to the allure of spices and the magic of traditional cooking techniques.

Tandoori Chicken derives its name from the ‘Tandoor,’ a clay oven used extensively in Indian cooking. Marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, the chicken is then slow-cooked in the Tandoor Oven. The result is succulent, smoky chicken with a slightly charred exterior, ready to be devoured with a squeeze of lime and a side of mint chutney. Whether you’re in an Indian restaurant or a street food stall, the sight and smell of Tandoori Chicken are simply hard to resist.

3. Chicken Tikka Masala

A symbol of Britain’s multicultural cuisine, Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish with an Indian soul. The dish is a medley of tender chicken tikka pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, bursting with flavors of traditional Indian spices. Its vibrant color and exquisite taste make it a universal favorite.

Chicken Tikka Masala begins with chicken pieces being marinated in a mixture of yogurt and a blend of spices and then grilled to perfection. The grilled chicken tikka pieces are then simmered in a mouth-watering sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and a symphony of Indian spices, imparting an irresistible depth of flavor to the dish.

The char-grilled aroma of the tikkas, the tangy sweetness of the tomato-based sauce, the spiciness of the Indian masalas, and the rich creaminess of the dish all play a symphony of flavors on the palate. Chicken Tikka Masala, with its alluring flavors, is truly a dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine.

4. Rogan Josh

Originally hailing from the beautiful valley of Kashmir, Rogan Josh is a tasty curry that is as rich in flavors as it is in history. Rogan Josh is a delicately spiced meat curry, typically made with braised lamb chunks or beef, cooked in a sauce that’s aromatic, rich, and absolutely delicious.

Rogan Josh, when translated, means ‘red heat,’ which is fitting considering the color and warmth this dish exudes. The meat is cooked slowly in a gravy flavored with a combination of spices such as ginger, bay leaves, cardamom, and the all-important Kashmiri red chili, which gives the curry its distinctive deep red hue.

The end result is a dish that’s rich and hearty, where the meat absorbs the flavors of the spices to become tender and succulent. The layers of flavors in this dish are complex and delicately balanced, with a warmth that’s comforting, and a depth of flavor that leaves a lasting impression.

5. Korma

A dish with roots tracing back to the royal kitchens of the Mughal empire, Korma is a creamy, aromatic curry that can be made with various proteins such as chicken, lamb, or paneer. The word ‘Korma’ is derived from the Urdu word ‘Kormah,’ which means ‘to braise,’ aptly describing the cooking process involved in making this dish.

The protein is gently cooked with a mixture of yogurt, cream, and a blend of spices, resulting in a mildly spiced, creamy curry. The sauce’s richness is perfectly balanced by the subtle fragrance of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a delicately flavored curry that is simply irresistible.

Korma’s charm lies in its versatility and balance of flavors. Despite its rich and creamy texture, it doesn’t overpower the palate, making it a hit among those who prefer milder curries. Whether served with rice or naan, Korma adds a touch of royal decadence to any meal.

6. Pani Puri

Indian street food is a category unto itself, and no culinary journey across India would be complete without trying Pani Puri. These bite-sized, flavor-packed morsels are more than just a popular snack – they’re a beloved cultural phenomenon. Pani Puri, known by different names across regions (like Golgappa in North India and Puchka in Bengal), is a dish that encapsulates the thrilling adventure that is Indian street food.

Pani Puri’s essence lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. The ‘Puri’ is a hollow, crisp-fried ball made from semolina or wheat flour, which is filled with a mixture of mashed potatoes, spices, and tamarind chutney. The ‘Pani’ is a tangy, spiced water typically made with tamarind, mint, and a unique blend of spices. To eat, the Puri is filled with the Pani just before consumption and popped whole into the mouth. The result? A burst of flavors and textures that’s nothing short of a party in your mouth. Exploring Indian cuisine without savoring Pani Puri would be like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower.

7. Dosa

Hailing from South India, dosa is one of those famous Indian dishes that changes as you travel around the country. Not that this is a bad thing. Every Indian restaurant has its own wonderful twist on this delectable dish. Dosa is a thin pancake made from the batter of fermented rice. You could eat dosa as a standalone treat, however, you would miss out on many aromatic spices. Try it with chutney or sambar, or even spiced potatoes.

At its core, a Dosa is a simple dish, but the art of making a Dosa is a skill that’s honed over the years. The batter is spread thinly over a hot griddle and cooked until it turns into a crispy, golden crepe. Whether enjoyed plain with a side of sambar (a tangy lentil soup) and coconut chutney or stuffed with a spicy potato filling (Masala Dosa), every bite of a Dosa promises a crunch that gives way to soft, fluffy insides.

Across South India, you’ll find a multitude of Dosa variants, each offering a unique experience. From the thick, soft-set ‘set dosa’ of Karnataka to the paper-thin ‘neer dosa’ of coastal regions, the diversity of Dosas is as fascinating as the culture it originates from. Despite these variations, what remains constant is the soul-satisfying experience that a simple Dosa offers.

Common variations for dosa include Set Dosa, Masala Dosa, and Paneer Dosa (cheese). As they’re small and thin, pair them with other popular Indian dishes, such as chickpea curry.

8. Butter Naan (Leavened Flatbread)

An Indian meal is often considered incomplete without the inclusion of Naan, and Butter Naan is one of the most popular varieties. Soft, fluffy, and slathered in melted butter, Butter Naan is a delicious bread that perfectly complements both rich curries and dry dishes.

Traditionally cooked in a tandoor or clay oven, Naan has a unique charred flavor and a wonderfully soft texture. The addition of butter not only adds richness but also brings a slight sweetness, making the bread a delightful accompaniment to spicy Indian dishes.

The versatile nature of Butter Naan allows it to seamlessly fit into any meal, whether it’s scooping up a creamy Dal Makhani, wrapping spicy tandoori chicken, or simply being enjoyed with a dollop of mango chutney. Its ability to elevate the overall dining experience is what makes Butter Naan a must-try item in any Indian restaurant.

9. Papdi Chaat

When it comes to Indian street food, Chaat rules supreme, and Papdi Chaat is one of the most loved varieties. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, combining crispy fried dough wafers (papdi) with boiled chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, chutneys, and a sprinkle of spices.

Papdi Chaat is a flavor explosion in every bite – the crispiness of the papdi, the softness of the boiled potatoes and chickpeas, the tanginess of the tamarind chutney, the sweetness of the yogurt, all tied together with the warmth of chaat masala. It’s a dish that engages all your senses and leaves a lingering taste of deliciousness.

Whether it’s a hot summer day or a cool winter evening, Papdi Chaat is a dish that is always satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish not just a culinary delight, but also a fascinating gastronomical experience.

10. Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala, also known as Chole Masala, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that features chickpeas as the star ingredient. This dish, with its rich, tangy, and spicy gravy, is a staple in many North Indian households and is beloved by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The chickpeas are cooked in a tomato-onion gravy that’s spiced with a unique blend of spices known as ‘chole masala.’ The resulting dish is a hearty, satisfying curry with a complex flavor profile. The soft, protein-rich chickpeas absorb the flavors of the spices, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Chana Masala is typically served with rice or Bhature (a type of fried bread), but it is versatile enough to be enjoyed with any Indian bread. This dish’s robust flavors, nourishing ingredients, and comforting warmth make it a popular choice in Indian restaurants around the world.

11. Vindaloo Curry

Originating from the western Indian region of Goa, Vindaloo Curry is a fiery and tangy dish typically made with pork, although chicken, lamb, or prawns versions are also popular. The dish’s name, ‘Vindaloo,’ is derived from the Portuguese words ‘vinho’ (wine) and ‘alhos’ (garlic), reflecting its historical roots in Portuguese cuisine.

Vindaloo Curry is characterized by its bold, hot, and sour flavors. The heat comes from the generous use of dried red chilies, while the sour element is introduced by vinegar, which also acts as a meat tenderizer. The dish is slow-cooked, allowing the meat to absorb the intense flavors and become succulent and flavorful.

Despite its reputation for being extremely spicy, Vindaloo Curry’s heat level can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. Regardless of the heat level, the dish’s vibrant flavors make it a favorite among those who enjoy bold, spicy dishes. If you are an adventurous foodie, Vindaloo Curry is a must-try dish on any Indian restaurant menu.

12. Aloo Matar

One of the best Indian vegetarian dishes is Aloo Matar. Although you’ll likely find meat options on your travels through India, it’s a simple and delicious vegan dish you can make at home. Aloo Matar is essentially potatoes and peas and hails from the Punjab region at the tip of northern India. Many versions of the dish simmer the potatoes and peas in coconut milk while others cook them in a spiced tomato sauce.

The beauty of this easy dish is the ability to tailor it to your taste and add your own style along the way. But to keep up some tradition, serve with basmati rice or masala dosa. Get this easy recipe from Allrecipes.

13. Biryani

Few dishes in Indian cuisine capture the nation’s culinary diversity and history like Biryani. A fragrant, spiced rice dish laden with succulent pieces of meat (often chicken, mutton, or fish), Biryani is a sensory feast that hails from the kitchens of Indian royalty. As you embark on the Biryani trail across India, you’ll discover that every region lends its distinctive touch, making this dish a symbol of unity in variety.

Biryani’s origin traces back to the Mughal Empire, with influences from Persian cuisine. The name “Biryani” comes from the Persian word ‘Birian’, which means ‘fried before cooking.’ True to its name, the rice is often fried in ghee before being cooked with meat and an array of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and saffron, resulting in a dish that is as flavorful as it is fragrant. Some regional variations even include additions like boiled eggs, potatoes, or dried fruits.

Biryani, served traditionally in a handi (a deep, round-bottomed pot), is not just a dish, it’s a culinary experience that transports you back in time to royal courts and grand feasts. Whether you’re a novice to Indian cuisine or a seasoned connoisseur, a plate of Biryani is not to be missed.

14. Gulab Jamun

To round off our journey through Indian cuisine, we must make a stop at desserts, and Gulab Jamun is one of the most loved sweets. These soft, spongy balls made from milk solids, deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup, are a delightful conclusion to any Indian meal.

Gulab Jamun gets its name from two words: ‘Gulab,’ meaning rose (for the rose-flavored sugar syrup), and ‘Jamun,’ which is a fruit similar in size and shape to these sweet dumplings. The result is a dessert that is rich, sweet, and absolutely indulgent.

When you bite into a Gulab Jamun, you’re greeted with a burst of sweetness that’s balanced by the mild flavor of rose water. The exterior is slightly chewy, while the inside is soft and almost melts in your mouth. The warmth and sweetness of Gulab Jamun make it a dessert worth trying in any Indian restaurant.

15. Samosa

Samosa, a delectable, deep-fried snack, enjoys a place of honor in the league of popular Indian street food. It’s a culinary icon, with its triangular shape, flaky exterior, and savory filling offering a delicious contrast of textures and flavors. Samosas are versatile, with countless variations of fillings across different regions in India.

The classic version, however, comprises a spicy mixture of mashed potatoes and peas, seasoned with a range of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This stuffing is enveloped in a crisp pastry shell, which is then deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is a snack that’s crunchy on the outside with a soft, flavorful interior that warms the palate.

But a Samosa isn’t just about the snack itself. It’s about the experience that surrounds it. Picture this: a piping hot samosa served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney and a bowl of spicy chickpea curry. Each bite is a balance of textures, a medley of flavors, and an absolute delight to the senses. Whether served at street-side stalls, in high-end restaurants or made at home, Samosas never fail to bring a sense of joy and satisfaction.

16. Dal

Hailing from the vibrant land of Punjab, Dal Makhani is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Indian cooking. It is a delightful combination of whole black lentils (urad dal) and red kidney beans (rajma), slowly cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. The name ‘Makhani’ translates to ‘buttery,’ aptly describing the velvety texture and rich taste of this popular Indian dish.

The magic of Dal Makhani lies in the slow cooking process. The lentils and beans are simmered on low heat for several hours, allowing them to absorb the flavors of tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and an array of aromatic Indian spices. A dollop of cream and butter added towards the end gives the dish its characteristic richness and a creamy texture that is hard to resist.

Served with a side of naan or rice, Dal Makhani is a hearty, comforting dish that’s a staple in Punjabi households and a popular choice in Indian restaurants worldwide. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor, the slight tanginess of the tomatoes perfectly balancing the creaminess of the lentils, while the spices add a hint of warmth that lingers on the palate.

17. Saag Paneer (Palak Paneer)

Venture into the heartland of North India, and you’ll come across a verdant culinary delight known as Palak Paneer. This dish, loved by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, elegantly combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the earthy goodness of spinach (palak). A staple in households and restaurants, Palak Paneer offers a delightful way to include greens in your diet without compromising on taste.

The dish’s origins are traced back to the verdant fields of Punjab, where both spinach and dairy are in abundant supply. The preparation involves blanching fresh spinach leaves and grinding them into a smooth puree. Paneer cubes are then simmered in this puree along with a medley of spices, resulting in a vibrant green, creamy curry.

Each mouthful of Palak Paneer offers a comforting blend of subtle spinach sweetness and the mild creaminess of paneer, all tied together by the warm undertones of spices like cumin, garam masala, and garlic. Served alongside warm roti or fragrant basmati rice, Palak Paneer is a testament to the comforting, homely side of Indian cuisine.

18. Malai Kofta

When it comes to indulgent, decadent dishes in Indian cuisine, Malai Kofta tops the list. This dish, which hails from the Mughal kitchens, is a delicious amalgamation of rich, creamy gravy and soft, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (deep-fried balls). Malai Kofta is proof that vegetarian dishes can be just as luxurious and satisfying as their meat counterparts.

The koftas are made from a mix of mashed potatoes, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and a handful of nuts and raisins for a hint of sweetness. These koftas are then drowned in a silky smooth gravy made from tomatoes, onions, cashews, and a medley of spices. Each mouthful of Malai Kofta is an explosion of flavors and textures, making it a dish you’ll remember long after your meal. With its rich taste and elegant presentation, Malai Kofta is truly a celebration of Indian vegetarian cuisine.

19. Dhokla

Dhokla, a fluffy, tangy snack from the Indian state of Gujarat, stands out with its light, airy texture and mild flavors. Dhokla exemplifies the versatility of Gujarati cuisine, combining simple ingredients with delicate cooking methods to create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.

To make Dhokla, a fermented batter of rice and chickpea flour is steamed until it rises into a soft, sponge-like cake. A tempering of mustard seeds, green chilies, and a pinch of sugar is then poured over it for added flavor. The end product is a subtly sweet, mildly tangy, and utterly delightful snack often served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney. Dhokla is a perfect example of a dish that is light on the palate yet leaves a lasting impression.

20. Aloo Gobi

A simple yet satisfying dish, Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian curry that combines two humble vegetables – potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi). Despite its simplicity, Aloo Gobi holds a special place in Indian cuisine, with its homely flavors making it a staple in households across the country.

The beauty of Aloo Gobi lies in the delicate balance of flavors. The vegetables are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, resulting in a dish that’s subtly spiced yet profoundly flavorful. The mild sweetness of cauliflower and the earthy taste of potatoes complement each other perfectly, making Aloo Gobi a delightful treat for the palate.

Aloo Gobi’s versatility is another aspect of its appeal. It pairs equally well with Indian breads like roti and naan, and with rice dishes. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, its comforting flavors make it a popular choice for any meal.

21. Masala Chai

Although not Indian food, Masala Chai belongs on this list because no cuisine experience in India would be complete without it. Masala Chai is spiced black tea with milk later added and the tea has roots spanning back thousands of years.

Flavors can vary depending on the region you try, but generally, the masala is a blend of cloves, green cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. If you’ve had chai at home, expect a more vibrant, herbal, and spiced beverage.

22. Chole Bhature

A match made in culinary heaven, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpea curry (Chole) and deep-fried bread (Bhature). This dish’s appeal lies in its contrasting textures and robust flavors, making it a popular choice for breakfast or lunch across North India. With every bite, Chole Bhature offers a sensational gastronomic journey that leaves one craving for more.

Chole, the chickpea curry, is a symphony of tastes and aromas, created by simmering chickpeas in a spicy, tangy sauce made of tomatoes, onions, ginger, and a blend of Indian spices. On the other hand, Bhature is a fluffy, golden bread, deep-fried to perfection, providing a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior. Together, these create a pairing that’s nothing short of magic.

Served typically with a side of pickles and a cooling yogurt raita, Chole Bhature is a hearty meal, each mouthful a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of India. The tanginess of the pickles, the cooling effect of the yogurt, and the spicy warmth of the chole create a delightful contrast, making this dish an absolute must-try in any Indian restaurant.

23. Poha

A quintessential breakfast dish hailing from the heartland of Madhya Pradesh, Poha, or flattened rice, is a beloved Indian dish, savored in various forms across the country. It encapsulates the simplicity of Indian cuisine, transforming humble ingredients into a flavorful, nutritious start to the day. With a delicate balance of tastes and textures, Poha offers a culinary experience that is both comforting and invigorating.

The process of making Poha involves gently cooking the flattened rice flakes in a tempering of mustard seeds, turmeric, and green chilies. The dish is then adorned with fresh coriander, a sprinkle of lemon juice, and a handful of crunchy peanuts. Every bite of Poha presents a playful mingling of flavors, the heat from the chilies counterbalanced by the freshness of the lemon, and the soft texture of the flattened rice contrasted by the crunch of peanuts. It’s this beautiful interplay that makes Poha not just a dish, but an emotion, a warm, comforting embrace to start the day with.

24. Goan Prawn Curry

Moving towards the sun-kissed beaches and swaying palm trees of Goa, we discover a seafood lover’s paradise. The Goan Prawn Curry, also known as Ambot Tik, is a dish that beautifully marries local seafood bounty with the region’s Portuguese influences and Indian spices, presenting a flavorful escapade for your palate.

In Goa’s coastal climate, fresh seafood is a staple, and the Goan Prawn Curry has evolved as a beloved classic. This dish features succulent prawns simmered in a fiery, tangy sauce made from dried red chilies, tamarind, and a blend of spices unique to the Konkan coast. The secret to this dish’s extraordinary flavor lies in the balance of heat from the chilies, tanginess from the tamarind, and the sweetness of the prawns. Paired with steamed rice, the Goan Prawn Curry offers a taste of the Arabian Sea with every spoonful. As you explore the breadth of Indian cuisine, don’t miss out on this coastal gem, especially if you’re a seafood aficionado.

What To Know About Traditional Indian Food

What are the top 10 Indian Dishes?

By far the top 10 Indian Dishes you should try at an Indian restaurant are Biryani, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, Samosas, Pav Bhaji, Rogan Josh, Masala Dosa, Pani Puri, Chole Bhature and Gulab Jamun.

What is the Most Popular Indian Dish?

In terms of popularity, Biryani takes the crown. This layered rice dish, with its fragrant spices, tender meat, and flavorful rice, has a universal appeal that transcends borders and cultures. Its popularity is not only confined to India, but it has also won the hearts of food lovers around the globe, making it a mainstay in Indian restaurants worldwide.

What is the No 1 food item in India?

If we were to identify the number one food item in India, once again, Biryani would take that honor. Its popularity in various regions of India, each with its unique twist on the dish, combined with its rich, indulgent flavors, makes Biryani the undisputed champion of Indian cuisine.

Final Thoughts

With endless dishes to try, especially as your palate gets used to the spices, you may never get bored with Indian food. Throughout the country, you will discover an abundance of different culinary styles that add a fresh take on popular dishes. Back home, many Indian meals are easy to recreate owing to both their simplicity and presence within our shopping aisles.

Whether you’re cooking up a butter chicken or treating yourself to some Gulab Jamun, your Indian culinary journey is one of a thousand steps.

Ladies and gentlemen, we present the Amalfi Coast. An absolute must in every southern Italy itinerary, the Amalfi Coast is a stretch of glitzy town after town with – what seems like – a sandy beach at every turn. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this section of the beautiful coastline is full of things to do. In fact, the Amalfi Coast towns and scenery are so spectacular that people even factor the coastline in as a day trip from Rome. Visiting the Amalfi Coast is consistently ranked as one of the top things to do in Italy, and its towns are the best of the bunch.

Choosing an Amalfi Coast Town

There are so many beautiful Amalfi Coast towns. In this guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit along the Amalfi Coast. You don’t even need an Amalfi Coast map – these incredible spots are listed in east-to-west order.

Amalfi Coast Map

1. Vietri Sul Mare

Vietri Sul Mare is a beautiful coastal town and the only town on the coast with its own train station. It has a classy vibe, with burned orange rooftops and bright white buildings. On the far east of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri Sul Mare is the closest town to the major city of Salerno. And as far as accessibility goes, it is one of the easiest day trip spots. Busy, well-connected, and full of nightlife, Vietri Sul Mare is a brilliant place to experience ‘larger than life’ Amalfi.

Vietri Sul Mare isn’t all sandy beaches and beach clubs, despite being one of the more modernized Amalfi coast towns. Culturally, Vietri Sul Mare offers a lot, including the Museo della Ceramica Vietrense – a museum dedicated to colorful ceramics. The vineyard Le Vigne di Raito is another must-visit. Vietri Sul Mare has a definite slow pace and an extroverted personality.

Best way to get here: Train from Salerno, bus, rental car, or ferry.

Top activities: Museo della Ceramica Vietrense, Le Vigne di Raito, and Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista.

2. Cetara

Cetara is classy to its heart and easily one of the best Amalfi Coast towns. Typical of the region’s smallest towns, Cetara doesn’t have many attractions and instead offers more of a traditional all-around aesthetic. The small town has the Torre di Cetara – a massive tower on the east end of the beach that dates back to the 14th century – and a large, extravagantly decorated Catholic church in the town center. Cetara definitely gives off more of a fishing village vibe than a town.

So if you want somewhere compact and cultural (without appearing as ‘try hard’ by museum cramming), Cetara is one of the most natural towns on the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi town is where to visit for a beach day amid beautiful architecture and family-run cafes and restaurants.

Best way to get here: Bus, ferry, or rental car.

Top activities: Torre di Cetara, Chiesa Parrocchiale di S. Pietro Apostolo, and the beach.

3. Erchie

Erchie is tiny. And by tiny, we mean that if you blink, you’ll almost miss it. As you drive out of Cetara, pay close attention to a left-hand turndown Via Provinciale – the only road that takes you in and out of little Erchie. The village has a lovely beach on a dramatically rocky coastline. Spiaggia del Cauco is a quiet beach, only reachable by regular paddle boats and canoes from a neighboring beach. It is overlooked by Torre La Cerniola, an exclusive wedding venue atop a sheer cliff with a traditional watchtower and terrace.

Erchie doesn’t have much else apart from a handful of bar restaurants. However, it is great fun for a day trip spent on the beach. And the hidden aspect of the village’s second beach, Spiaggia del Cauco, gives it an adventurous vibe if you want to spice things up.

Best way to get here: Bus or rental car

Top activities: Spiagga del Cauco, Spiaggia di Erchie, and cafes.

4. Maiori

Maiori might be a small coastal town, but it is by no means under the radar, and trust us, it never has been. Maiori has been a popular holiday destination since the Roman times, and you can still visit the Roman villas and historical sites left in the town and its almost directly adjacent town, Minori. The two towns run into each other, with town centers just a 20-minute walk apart. While we will treat them as different destinations for this guide, it is good to remember that you can complete both towns (and their respective attractions) in a single excursion.

This Amalfi Coast town is packed with history – from the medieval period and beyond – and is somewhere to visit if you want historical attractions and sightseeing. Picture castles, Roman villas, and hikes to historical churches. Maiori itineraries are full of more than local food and a small beach. So this town is best suited to go-getter types of tourists.

Best way to get here: Rental car, bus, or ferry.

Top activities: Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens, Villa Romana e Antiquarium, Sentiero dei Limoni, and Spiaggia di Maiori.

5. Tramonti

However, before we venture west to Minori, let’s quickly cover Tramonti. Tramoniti is one of the most mountainous collections of Amalfi Coast villages you can visit. And to get to this mountain area, you’ll need to drive or catch a bus (or otherwise brave an hour and 20 minutes on foot just one way from Maoiri). Tramonti is much more agricultural than the touristy towns and villages along the shoreline. It is where you’ll find olive groves, farmers grazing sheep, and lemon trees.

Historically, many believe Tramonti to have been founded by Romans. The area isn’t actually just one village or town, but a collection of hamlets – aka very small villages. Expect hikes and stunning coastline views, a significant bonus of heading up into the mountains for a better vantage point. Heading to Tramonti is one of the best ways to get a scenic panorama of the coast below.

Best way to get here: Car or bus.

Top activities: Viewpoints, Falesia Pietrapiana climbing area, Malopasso hikes, and cafe hopping

6. Minori

Minori is Maiori’s little historical counterpart. Like its neighbor, out of all towns on the Amalfi Coast, this Amalfi town is one of the most historically significant. You can expect far more than just a sandy beach. Minori has Roman attractions and lots of culture on offer – plus fantastic access to the path of the lemons and the scenic hike that links Maiori and Minori. If you decide to hike this path, be prepared for steep staircase after steep staircase; there are almost 400 steps along the way. A day trip to Minori is spent at its Roman Villa and Museum, hiking the lemon path, and checking out fantastic architecture like the Santa Trofimena church.

It is impossible not to love little Minori. Despite its modest size, it has a huge character and offers a packed full-day itinerary. It is also amazingly combined with a visit to Maiori or Tramonti.

Best way to get here: Car, ferry, or bus.

Top activities: Roman Villa and Museum, Santa Trofimena church, and scenic hike.

7. Ravello

Ravello is one of the prettiest Amalfi coast towns, set slightly in the mountains with a stunning vantage point over the coastline below. This Amalfi Coast town is most famous for the luxury hotel Villa Cimbrone, specifically Villa Cimbrone Gardens. However, if you are looking for an attraction, not a hotel, Villa Rufolo is equally beautiful, and you can visit to see its infinity terrace overlooking the ocean. Ravello is very much a resort town on the Amalfi Coast. It is all about good food, wine, and Amalfi views. And to top off this cultural atmosphere, there’s even a grand auditorium in the little town. Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium is a bizarrely curved concert hall hosting regular events.

Ravello is somewhere to stay for a definite culture fix. It thrives on its collection of art, music, architecture, and beautiful views.

Best way to get here: Bus, ferry then bus/walk, and drive.

Top activities: Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, Villa Cimbrone, and Villa Rufolo.

8. Scala

Scala is another gem amongst the mountainous towns on the Amalfi Coast. Despite being one of the main 13 towns on the Amalfi Coast, Scala doesn’t attract anywhere near the crowds that major hubs like Positano see. Scala is still a brilliant candidate if you are looking for lesser-visited day trips along the Amalfi Coast.

It might shock you, given its quieter vibe, but Scala is actually the oldest town on the Amalfi Coast. It is said to have been founded after a shipwreck in the 4th Century AD, meaning the Romans created this spot. Scala is one of the most beautiful towns and one of the most historically significant in the Campania region. The perfect day in Scala is spent wandering between different historical churches and enjoying the dramatic views down to the ocean.

Best way to get here: Car, bus, or ferry then bus/walk.

Top activities: Churches, views, and cafes.

9. Atrani

Atrani is the Amalfi Coast town that would arrive overdressed to any party. Out of all the towns on the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is the most colorful and dramatic. Its buildings are bright yellows, pinks, oranges, with extra details like green rooftop domes and blue-painted shutters. The town screams authenticity with cobbled streets and a road propped up by archways that jut up from the beach and are illuminated at night. Atrani is a peacock against the rocky cliffs of the Amalfi coastline. It is photogenic and, to be honest, very fairytale-esque.

Atrani is somewhere along the coast that you should consider basing yourself for a few days. It is a little eccentric, and you need more than a day to appreciate its vibrant scenes. Plus, it is an excellent base to explore other Amalfi Coast towns while visiting.

Best way to get here: Ferry, car, or bus.

Top activities: Collegiate Santa Maria Maddalena, Spiaggia di Atrani, and Via Valle de Dragone

10. Amalfi

Next up is the namesake of all the Amalfi Coast towns. If you had an Amalfi Coast map, you’d see that Amalfi is centrally located right in the heart of the coastline, and it’s one of the main hubs of all the towns on the Amalfi Coast. Amalfi sees some gorgeous sunsets from its beautiful beach, Tonino’s Beach. And it also has plenty of attractions to justify it as one of the coast’s top day trips. You can stop by Duomo di Amalfi, a grand medieval cathedral with architecture that would fit in a Game of Thrones scene. Or you can visit the Diocesan Museum of Amalfi or Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi – a museum dedicated to a rich history of local maritime.

Amalfi is well-suited to its name, like a little microcosm of the Amalfi Coast towns and the wider region. It is full of beautiful architecture and exciting attractions, and Amalfi is where to visit for a summary of the different towns. If you plan on driving most of the Amalfi coastline, prioritize a stop at Amalfi.

Best way to get here: Bus, car, or ferry.

Top activities: Diocesan Museum of Amalfi, Tonino’s Beach, and Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi.

11. Conca dei Marini

Conca dei Marini is stunning, and we really mean it. This town is set on such a dramatic section of cliff that it is almost built on a vertical cliff face. Conca dei Marini juts up from rocky swim spots with brightly colored buildings ranging from light pinks to intense yellows. Once little more than a fishing village terrorized regularly by pirates, Conca dei Marini is now one of the most exclusive places on the Amalfi Coast. The town has breathtaking views and is an absolute guarantee on any boat tour worth its salt. If you can, spend a full day here.

From Conca dei Marini, you can visit the Emerald Grotto, aka Grotta dello Smeraldo. This bright green sea cave is created from refracted light and is 30 meters high. It was discovered by local fishermen and can be reached by boat or a steep staircase from the Amalfitana highway.

Best way to get here: Guided tour, bus, or car.

Top activities: Emerald Grotto, viewpoints, the beach, and cafes.

12. Furore

If you want a town with a statement aesthetic, Furore is the one. Only a few Amalfi Coast towns have ‘feature’ style bridges (the sort of bridges that become attractions in themselves). So crossing the narrow gorge of Fiordo di Furore to enter the town becomes a double novelty thanks to its dramatic arched bridge. This popular destination has a real sense of individuality. And, since the Amalfi Coast is famed for its beautiful beaches, it’s only fitting to visit one of its smallest beaches – a tiny beach unnamed by Google at the end of Fiordo di Furore.

Furore is somewhere to stop and admire the unique town layout before kicking back on the beach. It might be small, but it certainly packs a punch with its striking gray stone buildings and dramatic bridge.

Best way to get here: Bus or car.

Top activities: The Fiordo di Furore beach, Fiordo di Furore, and the bridge.

13. Pianillo

Ready for a hiking day trip? Pianillo is the best town if you want to get up to the mountain trails in this section of the Amalfi Coast. You drive up from the main highway (or enjoy a bus ride if you’d prefer), curving up some dizzying switchbacks as you pass through other towns like San Michele on your way.

Once you reach Pianillo, you are absolutely spoiled by some of the best hiking trails on the coastline. Pianillo is very much a hiking destination. So bring a camera and hiking boots. Path of the Gods is one of the most famous routes in Pianillo, alongside the slightly trickier Tre Callii Mountain, which offers 360-degree views of the Amalfi Coast. From Tre Calli Mountain, you can even see Capri on a clear day.

Of course, Pianillo isn’t all about hiking. You can admire views more sedately from the viewing platform at Parco Corona – Bomerano. Or just enjoy fresh local cuisine at the numerous restaurants and cafes in the town.

Best way to get here: Bus or car.

Top activities: Tre Callii Mountain, Path of the Gods, and Parco Corona – Bomerano.

14. Praiano

Praiano is one of the Amalfi Coast towns right on the oceanfront and the best place to visit for an intense aesthetic. The shoreline of Praiano is dramatic and full of character, with the squeezed sunbathers on the alcove beach, Marina di Praia, and historical ruins of the Torre Asciola to the east. Praiano’s coast is rocky and unhospitable looking in sections, with alcoves and sea caves scooped out of the cliffs randomly.

And a rocky outcrop sits offshore as a tiny jagged island. Luckily for Praiano, its rather wild first impression is rescued by much more hospitably colored buildings and a maze of pastel-painted private residences. It is also a prime hiking destination, with access to the Path of the Gods from Praiano, which snakes up into the mountains above the town.

Praiano is now visited as one of the most aesthetic spots along the Amalfi Coast. If you book a boat tour, you can almost guarantee it will stop at Praiano. It is one of the most iconic towns on the Amalfi Coast. Even if you visit for a day trip, we suggest squeezing Praiano onto your itinerary.

Best way to get here: Car or bus.

Top activities: Path of the Gods, Marina di Praia, and Torre Ascoila.

15. Nocelle

Nocelle is the definition of a small-town hidden gem. Frequently described as an ‘ancient hamlet,’ Nocelle sits above the organized chaos of Positano in a comfy little perch overlooking the ocean and coastline below. It is accessible on foot from Positano by a 1,700-step staircase or, if you aren’t feeling the attack on your quads, by car or bus. Nocelle is a highly strategic town, historically speaking. Centuries ago, when pirate raids were rampant along the Amalfi Coast towns, the high-ground vantage point was not only less accessible but a useful watch tower.

Nocelle is an amazing day trip from Positano. It is also a hiking hotspot, with direct access to the beautiful Path of the Gods. If you want to get out of the primary tourist radar, Nocelle is an incredible place on the Amalfi Coast. It sees much fewer tourists than elsewhere on the coast.

Best way to get here: Bus, car, or hike.

Top activities: Path of the Gods, Nocelle to Positano hike, viewpoints, and cafes.

16. Arienzo

Arienzo is a tiny village on the Amalfi Coast, most famous for the Arienzo Beach Club. The beach has a regular shuttle of partiers from Positano. It is an absolute hive of cocktails and blaring music between partying hours. However, get the best of both worlds by basing yourself on Arienzo. You can enjoy the partying and the village atmosphere when the partying finishes and the boats return to Positano. At these quieter times, you have spots in Arienzo, like Vallone Porto, to explore. This scenic hiking area is a stunning network of trails from which you spot waterfalls and enjoy beautiful scenery.

If you wish, you can journey to Nocelle easily from Arienzo to start the Path of the Gods trail. Or you can take a day trip to the busier Positano. Arienzo is too often day-tripped, too, when actually it makes the perfect base for day trips to other places.

Best way to get here: Bus or car.

Top activities: Path of the Gods’ trail, Vallone Porto, and Arienzo Beach Club.

17. Positano

You are definitely already familiar with Positano – or at least will realize you’ve seen it before once you check out some Positano pictures. Countless movies have been filmed in this central Amalfi town, and Positano has some serious wow factor. If you want somewhere that is equal parts electric and equal parts a beautiful, relaxed atmosphere, Positano is for you. Positano has an undeniably luxurious undercurrent thanks to its Hollywood paychecks and plethora of luxury hotels. However, it has a slow, indulgent pace that literally forces you into relaxation.

Positano’s clifftop roads are full of scenic pullovers where you can admire the ocean views and indulge in freshly squeezed lemon juice from a street vendor. And you can laze on the beach during the day before enjoying some upscale nightlife after dark. If you stay on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is one of the most popular bases. It is one of the largest towns and has many attractions (make sure to research where to stay in Positano because it has some distinct different areas).

Best way to get here: Car, bus, or guided tour.

Top activities: MAR Positano Villa Romana, Le Tese di Positano, Belvedere Santa Maria del Castello, Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, and Arienzo Beach Club Positano.

18. Nerano

Nerano is the most western of all these Amalfi Coast towns and villages. Most people tick off the significant towns between Positano and Salerno and call it a day. So by venturing out to Nerano, you are really treating yourself to an off-the-beaten-path experience. The town is overlooked by the ruins of the castle Torre di Montalto atop a rocky hill, and Nerano feels almost entirely cut off from the modern world thanks to its surrounding nature reserves and dense undergrowth. What more could you want when trying to escape the crowds of other camera-happy tourists?

So, what does Nerano actually offer as a destination? The village itself has been around for centuries and was actually a favorite spot of the emperor Tiberius Nerone (the village namesake). The emperor chose the quiet fishing village as his summer residence, and it’s easy to see why. The village sits in the vast Punta Campanella Natural Marine Reserve, surrounded by beautiful beaches and wildlife. You can kick back on Spiaggia La Perla beach, hike Sentireo Baia di Leranto, or just enjoy local cuisine. As you may expect, the local seafood is sublime – with the freshest catch and shortest food-to-plate journey. It is a top place to visit on the coast for great food. It is an amazing place to enjoy incredible food and a tiny but historic center.

Best way to get here: Bus, bike, or car.

Top activities: Punta Campanella Natural Marine Reserve, Spiaggia La Perla beach, eating local seafood, and hiking Sentireo Baia di Leranto.

Amalfi Coast FAQS

Ticking off any of these Amalfi Coast towns is bucket list worthy. Visit the main towns and UNESCO sites, but don’t fear getting off the beaten track either. The Amalfi Coast has the best of both worlds. But before you go, pay attention to these commonly asked FAQs.

What are the 13 towns on the Amalfi Coast?

The 13 Amalfi Coast towns are Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, and Vietri sul Mare.

What are the Amalfi Coast towns in order?

From east to west, the Amalfi Coast towns run from Vietri sul Mare, Cetara, Maoiri, Tramonti, Minori, Ravello, Scala, Atrani, Amalfi, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Praiano, and Positano.

What towns are between Amalfi and Positano?

Conca dei Marini, Praiano, Laurito, and Furore are all between Amalfi and Positano.

To Conclude

Amalfi Coast towns are something else, and all the towns and villages in this guide are worth visiting- even for a day trip. Day trips to this incredible coastline are extremely popular in southern Italy. And with so many bus and ferry routes, you don’t necessarily need a rental car. The Amalfi Coast has a stunning aesthetic, with traditional houses that spill from the mountains to the sandy shores.

If you stay on the Amalfi Coast, you can still take amazing day trips. You could tick off a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Pompeii day trip. You could go on a day trip to Capri – where you explore historical sites and the Blue Grotto. Or you could even tick off one of the major cities in Italy.

While searching through our travel photos, we noticed that we’ve been to most of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. Dave and I treat our travels like a honeymoon. We’re married, so why can’t every trip be like going on a honeymoon? Even on our greatest adventures, we look for romance. While our actual honeymoon was in the Dominican Republic where we went horseback riding on the beach for the first time, we have upped the romance factor over the years to include some of the most romantic destinations on earth from the Caribbean and beyond.

Popular Honeymoon Destinations

Whether you are looking for romantic honeymoon destinations or adventurous honeymoon destinations we’ve rounded up the best things to see in do from strolling hand in hand on white sand beaches to going whale watching or hiking through national parks, these ideas will help you decide where to create your very own romantic getaway.

1. Santorini

2. St. Lucia

St. Lucia has often been voted the number one Caribbean honeymoon destination and after visiting, we understood why. With white sand beaches and resorts boasting jaw-dropping views of the Petit and Grand Pitons, there are luxury resorts in St. Lucia catering to couples only. It is one of the best places in the Caribbean for scuba diving with coral reefs and clear waters.

Straddling the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, St. Lucia has two sides. The secluded beaches and natural beauty of the wild south and the long sandy beaches or the nightlife, and hustle and bustle of the north. We had the best private swimming we’ve ever seen with a billion-dollar view in the South of St. Lucia at Stonefield Villas. Or stay on the north end of the island to enjoy the silky white sand beaches and luxury watersports for a romantic getaway in the thick of the action.

Where to Stay in St. Lucia

Jade Mountain Resort: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the Pitons from each suite, all of which feature their own private infinity pool. Stonefield Villas: All suites in this resort have an open wall facing the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea, providing breathtaking views from their private pools. Calabash Cove: This luxury e-resort offers a wide range of amenities, including a beautiful beach, a restaurant, and extensive water sports options.

The best time to visit St. Lucia is between May and June when you’ll find lower rates and still enjoy good weather before the rainy season.

3. Maldives

4. Venice Italy

Venice, the “City of Canals,” is one of the most romantic cities in the world. Get lost in the Venice canals, take a romantic gondola ride, or better yet, hire a private water taxi to see its historic buildings. Strolling through its narrow, winding streets creates an atmosphere that’s unlike any other city in the world. Exploring Venice can feel like stepping back in time, and the city’s unique features are sure to make your honeymoon memorable.

Visit iconic structures like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge, and don’t miss visiting the Islands of Murano and Burano. Take a boat trip to these nearby islands known for their glassmaking and lace-making traditions, respectively.

Plus, Venice’s location makes it easy to explore other romantic cities in Italy. Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, is just a short train ride away, as are Florence and Rome.

Where to Stay in Venice

The Gritti Palace: This historic and luxurious hotel, located on the Grand Canal, offers exceptional service, elegantly decorated rooms, and a private dock for gondolas. Belmond Hotel Cipriani: Situated on the tip of Giudecca Island, this hotel offers stunning views of Venice and features beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and a complimentary private boat service to central Venice.  H10 Palazzo Casanova – Steps to the Grand Canal, modern hotel with great amenities. One of the best hotels in Venice if you are looking for a modern interior. 

The best times to visit Venice are from April to June and September to November when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. However, Venice’s timeless beauty makes it a stunning destination no matter the season.

5. Tanzania

If you are looking for a memorable honeymoon Tanzania is a place you will never forget. Nothing is more thrilling than spotting the Big 5 African wildlife with the one you love. Book a luxury safari to Tanzania where you can stay in a tented camp in one of its national parks.

If you really want a honeymoon to remember, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. And for the ultimate in a luxurious experience float over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge: This luxurious lodge in the heart of the Serengeti offers stunning views, an infinity pool, and the chance to see wildlife right from your room. Fairmont Ngorongoro Crater Lodge: Perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, this lodge offers unique architecture, spectacular views, and easy access to game drives.

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you want to do. For a safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, the dry season (June to October) is best for wildlife viewing. For climbing Kilimanjaro, the best times are January to March and June to October. Zanzibar is pleasant year-round, but it’s driest from June to October and December to February.

6. Zanzibar

When you are finished with your safari, make your way to Zanzibar for a relaxing honeymoon on one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever witness. Zanzibar is an archipelago off the east coast of Tanzania. : Zanzibar is renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. Places like Nungwi and Kendwa in the north, and Paje and Jambiani in the east, offer idyllic settings for relaxation and sunbathing.

The Mnemba Atoll and the marine reserves around the island offer a rich diversity of sea life making it perfect for snorkeling. Known as The Spice Island, Zanzibar offers aromatic tours of its spice farms, where you can learn about the cultivation of spices like clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon. To up the romance factor take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset for a romantic experience.

Where to Stay in Zanzibar

Zuri Zanzibar: Located in Kendwa, this resort offers bungalow-style rooms, a beautiful beach, and stunning sunset views. The Residence Zanzibar: Set in a lush, forested 32-hectare estate where five-star luxuries sit harmoniously alongside nature’s untouched beauty. Park Hyatt Zanzibar: Located in Stone Town, this luxury hotel offers easy access to the city’s attractions, as well as a private beach area.

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to February.

7. Fiji

As one of the most popular honeymoon destinations, Fiji has 333 islands just waiting for couples to book a luxury honeymoon. With white sand beaches, lush jungles, and crystal clear waters, Fiji is an island paradise. If you are looking for one of the best honeymoon destinations for beach lovers with a mix of adventure, Fiji is your best bet!

Fiji is home to many luxury resorts located on your own private island, that offer the utmost privacy and tranquility, perfect for honeymooners. Many of these resorts offer beautiful ocean-view villas, private pools, and personal butler services. Fijians are known for their welcoming and friendly nature that will make your trip one to remember. With its blend of stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, rich culture, and a multitude of activities, Fiji offers a uniquely romantic and adventurous honeymoon experience.

Where to Stay

Likuliku Lagoon Resort is Fiji’s first and only resort with overwater bures (traditional huts), offering a unique Fijian experience with luxury amenities. Tokoriki Island Resort: An adults-only resort known for its luxury and privacy, offering beachfront villas with private pools. We loved the Fiji Pearl on the mainland for adventures.

The best time to visit Fiji is from July to September, during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant, and the chance of cyclones is low.

8. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, a 50-kilometer stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, is a dreamlike honeymoon destination, offering picturesque landscapes, historic sites, world-class cuisine, and charming seaside towns.

This region is home to several iconic towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each with its own unique charm. These towns offer beautiful beaches, quaint shops, historic churches, and stunning views. he Amalfi Coast boasts several historical sites including the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, the well-preserved Villa Romana in Minori, and the stunning Cathedral of Amalfi.

Indulge in Italian cuisine Italian with fresh seafood, locally grown produce, famous Neapolitan pizza, and delicious local wines. Don’t forget to try the region’s famous lemon liqueur, Limoncello. Hire a private boat charter to take you to the Grotta dello Smeraldo Cave or go to Capri for a night. Be sure to get a balcony room overlooking the Gulf of Salerno.

Where to Stay

Le Sirenuse, Positano: A beautiful luxury hotel in Positano, offering stunning sea views, excellent dining options, and a pool terrace. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello: Set in an 11th-century palace, this hotel offers infinity pools, lush gardens, and an exceptional dining experience. Santa Caterina Hotel, Amalfi: This family-run hotel offers spacious rooms with sea views, a private beach club, and a wellness center.

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the area is less crowded.

9. Maui

Maui is the ultimate romantic getaway. Playground to the rich and famous, this Hawaiian island is our favorite with breathtaking scenery and adventures from whale watching to volcano hiking. Known as the “Valley Isle,” is the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands and a fantastic choice for a honeymoon destination.

Maui boasts more than 30 miles of beaches from the golden sands of Ka’anapali Beach to the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, there’s a beach for every taste. Couples can take a whale-watching tour (best from December to April), swim with sea turtles, or simply observe the diverse bird species found on the island.

Some of the best Maui highlights include driving the scenic Road to Hana or snorkeling at Molokini Crater. For those seeking more thrills, there’s surfing, ziplining, and even helicopter tours. Maui offers numerous romantic experiences, from couples’ spa treatments to beachside candlelit dinners. Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala volcano is a truly unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: This luxury resort offers spacious rooms, a fantastic spa, and three restaurants. It’s also located on Wailea Beach, one of the best beaches in Maui. Fairmont Kea Lani Wailea Resort: Prime beachfront location, incredible rooms, . The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: Located near the beautiful D.T. Fleming Beach, this resort offers luxury amenities, a golf course, and a Hawaiian cultural program. Read more: Best Places to Stay in Maui – The spacious suites and villas, coupled with exceptional service, ensure comfort. The diverse dining, world-class spa, and cultural activities provide

The best time to visit Maui depends on what you’re looking for. April through June and September through November are shoulder seasons when you might find lower prices and fewer tourists. However, the weather in Maui is warm year-round, making it a great honeymoon destination at any time. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, rich culture, and romantic experiences, Maui offers a honeymoon that’s both relaxing and full of adventure.

10. Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, offers a unique honeymoon destination for adventurous couples. Just a five-hour flight from the East Coast of Canada and the USA, Iceland makes for a truly memorable honeymoon. It may be surprising but Iceland has some beautiful beaches. Its black sand beaches are world famous and shown in every Viking movie and fantasy series from Game of Thrones to the Secret Life of Walter Midi.

It’s a place where you can experience an array of natural wonders, from geysers to glaciers, waterfalls to volcanoes, all within a truly dramatic landscape. Experience the powerful waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, black sand beaches, and starkly beautiful lava fields.

One of the major draws for visitors to Iceland is the chance to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This can be an incredibly romantic experience to share. Drive the Golden Circle Tour to see the waterfall at Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park and visit the visit black sand beaches, waterfalls, and the beautiful Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Where to Stay in Iceland

Blue Lagoon Retreat: This luxury hotel offers access to the private waters of the Blue Lagoon, as well as a restaurant and a subterranean spa. Hotel Rangá: Located in the countryside, this hotel offers a great location for Northern Lights viewing, as well as a gourmet restaurant and outdoor hot tubs. ION Adventure Hotel: This hotel near Thingvellir National Park offers a modern, eco-friendly option with stunning views and an outdoor geothermal hot pool.

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience. For the best weather and access to all areas, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. However, for Northern Lights viewing, the dark winter months (late September to early April) are the best.

11. Bali

The spiritual volcanic island of Bali, Indonesia is one of a kind honeymoon destination. Its endless beaches draw sun seekers to the island but its diverse landscape offers honeymoon ideas in idyllic settings among picturesque rice terraces, jungle escapes and cliff-top resorts. Bali has countless honeymoon options, luxury boutique hotels, and five-star resorts complete with the famous Bali infinity pool.

Bali is renowned for its spectacular beaches, from bustling Kuta Beach to the peaceful sands of Nusa Dua and the surfer’s paradise of Uluwatu. These provide a perfect setting for relaxation and watersports. Visit the Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, and the traditional market. Don’t miss the beautiful Tegalalang Rice Terrace. After all that activity, make sure to book a Balinese massage with a floral bath.

It offers an extensive selection of luxury resorts and private villas that cater to honeymooners. Many feature private pools, lush gardens, and spa services. Bali is also well-known for its beautiful and affordable accommodations, allowing you to enjoy luxury at a lower price point than many other popular honeymoon destinations.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: Located near the cultural town of Ubud, this resort offers luxurious villas and suites amidst a lush tropical landscape. The St. Regis Bali Resort: This luxury resort in Nusa Dua features both suites and villas, some with direct access to the beach and private pools. The Legian Bali: An all-suite hotel located in Seminyak, known for its sunset views, beachfront infinity pool, and excellent service. Amankila: Located in East Bali, Amankila offers stunning views of the Lombok Strait and features a three-tiered pool.

Bali is a year-round destination, but the dry season (April to September) is considered the best time to visit. It’s worth noting that despite its popularity, Bali offers many secluded areas for honeymooners, particularly in the upland area of Ubud and the lesser-traveled east and north coasts.

12. Paris

Paris, often known as “The City of Love,” is a classic honeymoon destination, and for good reason. It offers an intoxicating blend of culture, history, art, fashion, and, of course, some of the world’s finest food and wine. Here’s why Paris is perfect for a romantic getaway:

It is always listed as one of the best honeymoon destinations around the world. Couples can spend their honeymoon walking hand in hand through the city of light. Sip champagne on the Eiffel Tower, have a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, and take a riverboat along the Seine. Paris is the city of love and honeymooners will find the romance intoxicating.

For an unforgettable experience, have dinner at Le Jules Verne, a restaurant located in the Eiffel Tower itself.

Where to Stay

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris: Once the home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew, this hotel offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. Le Meurice: Overlooking the Tuileries Garden, this luxury hotel combines exceptional 18th-century opulence with contemporary chic. Saint James Paris: A neoclassical chateau turned hotel, it’s surrounded by its own private garden and offers a quiet, romantic stay.

The best time to visit Paris is from April to June and October to early November when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

13. Morocco

If you are the type of couple that is looking for something different, Morocco is a hot spot for exotic honeymoons. The Moroccan Dessert oozes sex appeal with camel caravans and Bedouin camps. Spend your honeymoon in a luxury Riyad (traditional Moroccan house with interior gardens or courtyards) in Marrakech dining on nuts and olives. Or fly into Casablanca and relive the love story of Ingrid Bergman and Humphry Bogart. Here’s looking at you kid.

This North African country offers spice and variety. From the sandy beaches of Agadir, the stunning Atlas Mountains, the verdant valleys of the Rif and Tell Atlas, to the mesmerizing dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco boasts a wide variety of landscapes, providing endless adventures.

Visit the Blue City, Chefchaouen, book a guided Sahara Desert Tour and spend a night in a desert camp under the starlit sky and bond while taking a cooking class.

Where to Stay

La Mamounia in Marrakech: A luxurious hotel offering a wonderful blend of Moroccan design with modern comfort. It features beautiful gardens, a large pool, and a comprehensive spa. Riad Fes in Fes: This luxury riad in the heart of the old Medina offers rooms decorated in various styles representing the country’s rich history and culture. Berber Luxury Desert Camp in Erg Chebbi: For a unique experience, spend a night or two at a luxury desert camp in the Sahara, complete with a private tent, bathroom facilities, and gourmet meals under the stars.

The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (mid-March to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm but not too hot.

14. Lanai

Every Hawaiian Island could make for the perfect honeymoon destination. But we’re going to take you off the beaten path to the island of Lanai. This small Hawaiian Island is just a short ferry ride from Maui but it is a world away.

Lanai, the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, is an exclusive and extraordinary honeymoon destination. It’s a place of unspoiled natural beauty, luxury resorts, and adventure activities, providing a tranquil and intimate atmosphere away from the crowds.

For adventurous couples, Lanai offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and 4×4 off-road driving. Water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing are available too, allowing you to explore the surrounding Pacific waters and marine life. Lanai is also home to the world-renowned Manele Golf Course, with stunning sea views and challenging holes, perfect for golf-loving couples.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort Lanai: This beachfront resort offers panoramic ocean views, world-class dining, a lagoon-style pool, and a variety of outdoor activities. Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat: This wellness-focused resort set in the uplands offers personalized wellness programs, yoga, and meditation, alongside luxury accommodations.

The best time to visit Lanai is between January and April when the weather is pleasant, and you might even catch the humpback whale migration.

15. Exuma Cays

With 365 islands, one for every day of the year, there are many places you can find a private retreat for a honeymoon in the Exumas. With all inclusive resorts that cater to adults only, these islands in the Bahamas were made for romance.

Its white sand beaches span emerald blue waters that are just waiting for you to dive in.

It’s lifestyles of the rich and famous as mega yachts anchor offshore in the gin blue waters. Take a sailing trip to see the nurse sharks of Compass Cay, swim in the famous Thunderball Grotto or go scuba diving in its clear waters. With Five star resorts and or private boutique hotels, the Exumas has it all. G Island hopping on a private boat charter and stop to see the swimming pigs on the tiny island at Major Bay.

Where to Stay in Exumas

Sandals Emerald Bay: This all-inclusive resort offers luxury accommodations, several restaurants, a spa, a championship golf course, and a marina. Fowl Cay Resort: A private island resort offering six private villas, each with a personal boat for exploring the surrounding cays. Grand Isle Resort & Spa: This oceanfront resort offers private villas with beautiful views, a pool, a spa, and various dining options.

16. Tuscany

There is a reason every romantic loves the novel and movie Under the Tuscan Sun. For the ultimate stay in wine country, what could be better than the rolling hills of Italy? Imagine a honeymoon set within rolling hills, expansive vineyards, olive groves, in charming villas.

Staying at a Tuscan Villa in the Tuscany region of Italy will create lifelong memories for newlyweds. Sip Chianti Classico as you learn to make homemade pasta. Tour romantic castles, take walks through vineyards, and stroll hand in hand through medieval villages. From the art-filled streets of Florence to the medieval skyscrapers of San Gimignano and the unique tower houses of Lucca, Tuscany is rich in history and culture.

Where to Stay in Tuscany

Belmond Castello di Casole: A luxury resort set in a historic castle, offering cooking classes, wine tours, and a full-service spa. Il Borro: A medieval village turned into a luxury resort owned by the Ferragamo family. It offers vineyard tours, horseback riding, and a wellness center. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: A luxury urban resort set in a former palace and convent, with an incredible garden, a top-tier restaurant, and a high-end spa.

17. Rio de Janeiro

Known for its famously beautiful beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro is the ultimate luxury escape. These are excellent places to relax, people-watch, and enjoy watersports. For a quieter, more romantic atmosphere, Prainha Beach is a secluded spot surrounded by nature.

A city of music, dance, and festivals, you’ll immerse in its lively culture. Samba shows are a must-see, and for couples visiting during Carnival, the city comes alive with parades and parties. Art lovers can visit the Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of Fine Arts to explore Brazil’s artistic heritage.

Take in the sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain, visit Christ the Redeemer, enjoy a romantic boat ride in Guanabara Bay and explore Tijuca National Park

Where to Stay

Belmond Copacabana Palace: This historic hotel offers luxury accommodations, a large pool, and top-notch service. It’s located right on Copacabana Beach. Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro: This stylish hotel in the trendy Ipanema neighborhood offers beautiful views, a rooftop pool, and a renowned restaurant. Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery: Located in the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, this boutique hotel features a tropical design and panoramic views of the city.

Rio de Janeiro is a destination that can be visited year-round, but the city’s biggest party, Carnival, typically takes place in February or early March, and it can be an exciting (though also very crowded) time to visit. The weather from May to October is a bit cooler and drier, which can be more comfortable for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

18. Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, make for one of the most unique and exciting honeymoon destinations for couples looking for adventure, wildlife, and unique landscapes. Renowned for its incredible biodiversity. The islands are home to a myriad of unique species, many of which can be found nowhere else in the world. This includes the famous Galapagos tortoise and marine iguanas.

The islands offer a range of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking. These activities not only give couples the chance to witness the stunning wildlife but also to share adventurous and unforgettable experiences. Go hiking or mountain biking, Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, and don’t miss diving and snorkeling.

There are numerous luxury cruises that tour the islands, providing top-notch service and comfort while giving you the opportunity to explore different islands each day. Many of these offer private cabins with ocean views, perfect for honeymooners. The Galapagos Islands are remote and far less crowded than typical honeymoon destinations, providing a sense of tranquility and privacy

Where to Stay

Pikaia Lodge: One of the most luxurious accommodations in the Galapagos, Pikaia Lodge offers stunning views, a private turtle reserve, and all-inclusive packages that include guided tours and activities. Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel: This eco-friendly hotel provides a range of activities including yacht tours, snorkeling, and diving, as well as top-notch dining options. Galapagos Safari Camp: For a unique experience, this luxury tented camp offers a safari-style stay with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the national park. Silver Galapagos Cruise: This luxury cruise offers 7-day all-inclusive itineraries, covering various islands. Cabins are spacious and well-equipped, and the ship offers amenities such as a spa and a fitness center.

19. Mayan Riviera / Cancun

20. Bermuda

Bermuda is just a short three-hour flight from New York but it is a world away. This island in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean is one of the most underrated honeymoon destinations. With pink sand beaches, colorful colonial architecture, and world-class dining, Bermuda is a honeymoon to remember.

Stay at the Fairmont for five-star luxury or at one of its boutique hotels for a quieter experience. Rent a scooter to have the freedom to boot around the island with the one you love. If you are the type of couple that likes to golf together, there’s a world-class golf course and plenty of water sports. For romantic evenings dine at the lighthouse for the best sunsets in Bermuda.

Famous for its pink sand beaches, such as Horseshoe Bay Beach and Elbow Beach, clear blue waters and a subtropical climate Bermuda is an excellent choice off the beaten path. Couples can visit the Crystal Caves, go Boating or sailing and spend the day in the historic town of St. George.

Where to Stay in Bermuda

The Reefs Resort and Club: This resort is perched on limestone cliffs overlooking its private beach, offering panoramic ocean views, a spa, and three high-end restaurants. Rosewood Bermuda: An upscale resort offering elegant rooms, a private beach club, golf course, spa, and multiple dining options. Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa: This adults-only resort features cottage-style rooms and a private beach, making it a romantic option for honeymooners.

The best time to visit Bermuda is during the spring and fall when the weather is warm and the crowds are fewer.

21. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of our all-time favorite travel destinations and it’s another unforgettable honeymoon destination. Stay in a luxury lodge in the middle of a national park with elephants walking through the grounds or book an exclusive suite on the beach. Sri Lanka has everything a honeymooner could ask for with the perfect blend of affordable luxury and adventure.

This island nation in the Indian Ocean offers a mix of culture, adventure, natural beauty, and luxury. With eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya you’ll never run out of things to do. The country offers a variety of luxury accommodation options ranging from beachfront resorts to tea estate bungalows and eco-lodges in the jungle.

Sri Lanka is home to a plethora of wildlife that rivals Africa for safaris, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. You can visit national parks like Yala and Udawalawe for safari adventures. For pure old fashioned romance, take a scenic train ride through the lush green tea plantations and mountain ranges to the town of Ella.

Where to Stay

Cape Weligama: Located on the south coast, this resort offers private pool villas with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Ceylon Tea Trails: This is a collection of colonial-era tea planters’ bungalows turned into luxury accommodations in the midst of tea plantations in the Central Highlands. Wild Coast Tented Lodge: On the edge of Yala National Park, this unique luxury lodge blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering the thrill of a safari adventure with all the comforts of a luxury resort.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region due to its two monsoon seasons. The south and west coasts and Hill Country are best visited from December to March, while the east coast is best from April/May to September.

Start Planning your honeymoon in Sri Lanka

22. Jamaica

With couples resorts on every coast, Jamaica is one of the most affordable honeymoon destinations on our list. But don’t worry, you can also splurge on a luxury resort and break the bank here as well. Jamaica makes for such a romantic vacation, we wrote an entire article about a Honeymoon in Jamaica.

Jamaica has many all-inclusive five-star resorts that offer pure luxury and cater to couples. It has perfected the couples travel experience making it the ideal honeymoon destination with a white sand beach to go with nearly every resort, plenty of honeymoon packages, and tons of adventure.

Romantic honeymoon excursions include dining on a private beach, taking jerk cooking classes, couples massage, and bamboo rafting the Martha Brae River. Spend a day a Dunn’s River Falls, walk Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, or swim in its warm waters on horseback.

Where to Stay in Jamaica

Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios: This is an all-inclusive luxury resort for couples only, offering a tranquil escape with a private beach and world-class amenities. The Cliff Hotel, Negril: A beautiful boutique hotel with a stunning cliffside location, offering spacious and elegant accommodations with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Half Moon, Montego Bay: This luxury resort features a beautiful private beach, an award-winning spa, and an equestrian center.

The best time to visit Jamaica is November to mid-December when the weather is most pleasant, and the hotel and flight prices are generally lower.

23. Queensland, Australia

For that epic honeymoon destination giving you complete bragging rites, Queensland, Australia tops our list. Even though the entire country is a popular honeymoon destination, we would rank Queensland as one of the best honeymoon destinations in Australia.

This romantic getaway is high on our list because of its natural beauty and diversity. From the second largest and oldest rainforest in the world to the largest coral reef on earth, this dream destination has it all. From the sandy beaches of the Gold Coast and Whitsunday Islands to the lush jungle of the Daintree Rainforest you have plenty of places to choose from.

Queensland boasts some of Australia’s best beaches, like those on Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island and Queensland’s capital, Brisbane, which offers a thriving arts scene, stylish boutiques, and rooftop bars with views of the city and river.

Where to Stay

Qualia, Hamilton Island: This luxury resort in the Whitsundays offers beachfront villas, a spa, and access to the Great Barrier Reef. Daintree Ecolodge: For an eco-friendly option, this resort in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest offers treehouse-style accommodations. Emporium Hotel, Brisbane: If city living is more your speed, this boutique hotel in Brisbane offers a rooftop pool and is close to some of the city’s best attractions.

The best time to visit Queensland depends on the region, but generally, the winter months (June – August) offer milder temperatures and lower rainfall.

24. Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is the land of fairytales. It offers an enchanting blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, historical towns, and warm hospitality. Neuschwanstein Castle is often called the “fairy-tale castle,” and is a must-visit but there is so much more to Bavaria.

Home to the Romantic Road, this place was made for romance. From its majestic Alps, serene lakes, and rolling meadows to its cities like Munich, Nuremberg, and Regensburg offering a mix of medieval charm there. is something for everyone.

Whether you want to hike in the Bavarian Alps, take a romantic boat ride on Lake Chiemsee, or cycle through picturesque vineyards, Bavaria offers a wealth of outdoor activities.

Where to Stay

Schloss Elmau, Krün: This luxury spa retreat and cultural hideaway is nestled in the Bavarian Alps and offers an array of wellness and cultural activities. Hotel Bayerischer Hof, Munich: One of Germany’s most renowned hotels, it offers luxury accommodations in the heart of Munich. Burg Colmberg, Colmberg: Stay in a historic, yet comfortably furnished, castle hotel in Franconia, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

The best time to visit Bavaria is between May and September when the weather is warmer and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

25. Bhutan

Bhutan is a tiny kingdom nestled in the Himalayas between China and India and is truly a trip that will kick off any relationship after the intense pressure of weddings. It’s rich in cultural heritage, it’s a spiritual retreat, and an adventure all wrapped into one vacation.

Known as the Last Shangri-La, Bhutan has a well-preserved culture and traditions that are deeply rooted in Buddhism. Visit ancient temples, monasteries, and dzongs (fortresses) to immerse yourself in the country’s spiritual heritage. Bhutan is the only country in the world that measures its success through Gross National Happiness, rather than GDP. This focus on well-being and environmental conservation creates a peaceful and serene environment that’s perfect for a romantic retreat.

Couples can hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, visit the Punakha Dszon and enjoy a hot stone bath.

Where to Stay

Amankora: This luxury lodge chain has five lodges across the country in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang, allowing you to experience different parts of Bhutan without sacrificing comfort. COMO Uma Paro: Located in Paro, this hotel offers luxury rooms and villas, a spa, and Bhutanese and Indian cuisine. Gangtey Lodge: Located in the Phobjikha Valley, this lodge offers stunning views and easy access to nature and cultural activities.

Bhutan has a policy of “High Value, Low Impact” tourism, which means it’s never crowded, preserving its tranquility and natural beauty. The best times to visit are during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the skies are clear.

26. Banff Lake Louise

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Banff, and Lake Louise are the most beautiful places in Canada. When you come upon Lake Louise, you will literally gasp in awe at its beauty.

There’s a wealth of activities to choose from, regardless of the season. In the warmer months, hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing are popular. In winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

Couples can take a romantic canoe ride on the emerald waters of Lake Louise. After a day of outdoor activities, relax in the natural hot springs in Banff, a perfect place to unwind together. Or perhaps you can hit the road and spend the day exploring the Icefield’s Parkway. With awe-inspiring mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes Banff is truly a gem of Canada.

Where to Stay

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Overlooking the stunning Lake Louise, this luxury hotel offers world-class accommodation, dining, and spa services. Banff Springs Hotel: Known as the “Castle in the Rockies”, this historic hotel provides luxurious rooms and suites, a golf course, a spa, and several dining options. Deer Lodge: Located beside Chateau Lake Louise and just a five-minute walk to Lake Louise, this is a great alternative to the more expensive Fairmonts.

The best time to visit depends on the activities you’re interested in. June to August and December to March are the peak seasons for summer and winter activities respectively.

27. Nikko Japan

Nikko, a small city in Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture, is an excellent honeymoon destination for couples who appreciate history, culture, and nature. Surrounded by Nikko National Park, Nikko is an outdoor lover’s dream combined with incredible culture and history.

Japan is such a sensitive and spiritual destination and staying at a Ryokan in Nikko is one of the most unique honeymoon destinations that you’ll ever experience. The rituals that take place in a Ryokan make you feel like ancient Japanese royalty. Japan is famous for its hot springs, and Nikko is no exception. Couples can relax together in a private onsen which is a quintessentially Japanese experience.

The city is located in the mountains and is famous for its beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, hot springs, and the tranquil Lake Chuzenji. Nikko is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage site – the “Shrines and Temples of Nikko”, a complex of over a dozen Shinto and Buddhist buildings set in a beautiful natural environment. And don’t miss visiting the Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan’s highest.

Where to Stay

Ryokan Yunishigawa: This traditional Japanese inn is located in a historic area, offering indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, as well as traditional kaiseki dinners. Kanaya Hotel: The oldest Western-style hotel in Japan, it is located near the World Heritage area and offers a blend of Japanese tradition and Western convenience. Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel: Located by Lake Chuzenji, this hotel offers beautiful views, relaxing hot spring baths, and exquisite French cuisine.

The best time to visit Nikko is during the fall (October to November) when the autumn colors are in full display. However, it’s beautiful year-round, with cherry blossoms in the spring and snowscapes in the winter.

28. Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, abundant marine life, and luxury resorts. Grace Bay Beach is often voted as one of the best beaches in the world, perfect for sunbathing, beach strolls, and watersports.

Beyond the beaches, explore nature reserves, marine parks, and hidden cays. Visit the Conch Bar Caves, the largest cave system in the Caribbean, or kayak in the mangrove channels of Princess Alexandra National Park. Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Turks and Caicos is less crowded, offering a peaceful and intimate setting for honeymooners.

Where to Stay

Amanyara: This luxury resort offers secluded pavilions and villas, a world-class spa, and a beautiful natural setting. COMO Parrot Cay: This private island resort offers beachfront villas, a top-notch wellness center, and a range of activities. The Palms Turks and Caicos: Located on Grace Bay Beach, this resort offers a mix of rooms and suites, a fantastic spa, and several dining options.

The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is April to May, where you’ll find comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices than the peak winter season.

29. Niagara Falls

It was once called the Honeymoon Capital of the world and Niagara Falls is still one of the best honeymoon destinations in Canada. If you have never seen Niagara Falls, you will be in awe of its size. It may be surrounded by a city, but the falls are wild and untamed.

Book a jacuzzi suite overlooking the falls and enjoy champagne and strawberries by the fireplace. There are as many adventures as there are romantic excursions in Niagara Falls.

But Niagara Falls isn’t only about the views, it has adventures too from Journey Behind the Falls to Ziplining and boat tours right into the center of Horseshoe Falls, you’ll be sure to stay busy. Make sure to visit nearby Niagara on the Lake on a wine tour.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

Marriott Fallsview – Hands down our favorite hotel in Niagara Falls. Best view, best location, best rooms. Sheraton on the Falls: This luxurious hotel on the Canadian side of the falls offers rooms with spectacular views, a spa, and several dining options. Radisson Fallsview has one of the best room views in Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is the numero uno honeymoon destination in Canada.

Niagara Falls is a year-round destination, though the warm months of summer (June to August) are the most popular time to visit.

30. Big Sur

California has had a rough time with fires and erosion, but it is still a beautiful stretch of highway along the Pacific Ocean with gorgeous scenery, secluded beaches, and rocky sea cliffs. Big Sur offers a variety of unique lodging options, from luxurious resorts nestled on cliffs overlooking the ocean to cozy cabins in the forest.

There are numerous trails for hiking and places to camp, as well as beautiful beaches to explore making. It’s the perfect destination for active couples. Big Sur is just a short drive from other notable California destinations like Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea which are also awesome honeymoon locations. Unlike crowded city destinations, Big Sur offers a sense of tranquility and privacy that is perfect for a romantic getaway.

Where to Stay

Post Ranch Inn: This luxurious adults-only resort is perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and a variety of spa services. Ventana Big Sur: Another luxury option, Ventana offers suites and villas, many with private decks and hot tubs overlooking the ocean or forest. Glen Oaks Big Sur: For a more rustic experience, Glen Oaks offers cozy cabins and cottages in the redwoods, some with private outdoor fire pits or hot tubs.

The best time to visit Big Sur is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the summer crowds have subsided.

Where to Stay in Big Sur

31. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a honeymoon getaway for the adventure lover. With volcanoes and jungles, wildlife, and endless beaches, it is a great adventurous honeymoon destination. We were actually on a cruise with people celebrating their honeymoon in Costa Rica.

The country is bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offering an array of stunning beaches. From the golden sands of Guanacaste to the black sand beaches of the Osa Peninsula, there’s a beach for every taste.

Explore cloud forests, rainforests, and national parks to see exotic wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and countless bird species. If you’re an adventurous couple, Costa Rica is perfect. Activities include white-water rafting, ziplining, hiking, surfing, and snorkeling.

Thanks to its volcanic activity, Costa Rica is home to several natural hot springs. Many resorts offer spa services where couples can unwind and enjoy a relaxing massage or treatment.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa: Nestled in the heart of the rainforest near Arenal Volcano, this resort offers luxury accommodations, thermal hot springs, and a world-class spa. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo: This luxury resort offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, multiple pools, and several dining options. Nayara Gardens: Near Arenal Volcano, this hotel offers luxurious villas, beautiful gardens, a top-rated spa, and the chance to see wildlife like birds and sloths right from your room.

Costa Rica’s dry season, from mid-December to April, is generally the best time to visit. However, the green season (May to mid-December), while rainier, offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists. With its abundance of natural beauty and adventure, Costa Rica offers couples a unique and exciting honeymoon destination. Read more at Things Do to in San Jose, Costa Rica

32. Krabi, Thailand

There is a reason that everyone on Earth wants to visit the islands of Thailand. Whenever we go back, we take note that it truly has the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are so many of them on all the different islands in the south. Go Island hopping from Phuket to Ko Lanta, to Koh Phi Phi and Railay. The possibilities are endless.

Our pick for a honeymoon is Krabi. Located on the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, is a paradise for honeymooners. Its breathtaking natural beauty, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life make it an unforgettable destination.

Krabi is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering limestone cliffs, and clear turquoise waters. With over 150 islands and a mainland coastline that boasts beautiful beaches like Railay Beach and Ao Nang Beach, couples can enjoy lounging on the sand, taking in sunsets, and swimming in the clear waters. Krabi offers numerous outdoor activities, including rock climbing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea kayaking. Exploring the area’s marine parks and limestone caves can be a memorable part of your trip.

Couples can bond by rock climbing in Railay or simply relax in the Emerald Pool and Hot Springs. Book a Four Island Tour or take a Thai Cooking Class.

Where to Stay

Rayavadee: Nestled in the heart of the stunning Phranang Peninsular, this luxury resort offers private villas and a unique setting amidst tropical gardens and coconut groves. Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: This resort offers spacious villas with private pools, an infinity pool with views of the Andaman Sea, and several restaurants serving both international and Thai cuisine. The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort: Overlooking the stunning Tubkaak Beach and surrounded by the natural beauty of Krabi, this resort offers private villas, a spa, and a beachfront pool.

The best time to visit Krabi is during the dry season, from November to April when the weather is pleasant and suitable for beach activities and island hopping. Its combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation makes Krabi an ideal destination for a romantic and exciting honeymoon.

Thailand has pristine white sand beaches at an affordable price. It is definitely one of the most affordable honeymoon destinations on this list. You can get 5-star luxury hotels at 3-star prices in Thailand.

33. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town South Africa is a dream destination. With gorgeous beaches, impressive wildlife, luxurious hotels and hop urban settings, Cape Town has it all. Head out to wine country to taste some of the best wines in the world, go whale watching or if you are feeling adventurous dive with sharks.

Known as the “Mother City” of South Africa, Cape Town is a fantastic romantic destination due to its unique combination of natural beauty, vibrant culture, exciting outdoor activities, and world-class food and wine.

It seriously is one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Table Mountain. Cape Town’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Whether you prefer the trendy vibe of Camps Bay, the penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach, or the tranquil setting of Llandudno, there’s a beach to suit every mood.

With hiking trails up to Table Mountain or Lions Head, surfing, paragliding off Signal Hill, and cage diving with Great White sharks this makes for an epic honeymoon destination.

Where to Stay

The Silo Hotel: This luxurious hotel, located above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, offers panoramic views of the city and an exclusive experience. Ellerman House: Situated in Bantry Bay, this hotel offers beautiful ocean views, a private art collection, and a top-notch wine cellar. Cape Grace: Nestled on a private quay in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace offers stylish rooms, a luxury spa, and easy access to shopping and dining options.

Cape Town can be visited year-round, but its summer season (November to February) is particularly appealing for a honeymoon. With its combination of natural beauty, exciting activities, and rich culture, Cape Town offers an unforgettable honeymoon experience.

34. Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora, an idyllic island in French Polynesia, is often considered one of the most romantic places in the world and is an excellent choice for a honeymoon. Here’s why: Bora Bora’s luscious green landscape and crystal-clear turquoise waters are breathtaking. The island’s beauty is genuinely second to none, with its iconic overwater bungalows and dramatic volcanic peaks, creating a postcard-perfect setting.

Many of Bora Bora’s resorts are located on private motus (islets), offering unparalleled privacy and tranquillity – ideal for newlyweds looking for a secluded retreat. Known for its luxury accommodation Bora Bora is famous for its luxurious overwater bungalows, offering panoramic views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. These accommodations often come with private plunge pools, sun decks, and glass-bottom floors, providing a unique and luxurious lodging experience.

The island’s lagoon is a protected sanctuary brimming with colorful reefs and an array of marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving. Book a private lagoon tour to enjoy snorkeling with stingrays or enjoy a sunset cruise. Have a private beach picnic or splurge on a helicopter tour around Mount Otemanu

Where to Stay in Bora Bora

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Offers luxurious overwater bungalows and beachfront villas. They provide a dedicated Honeymoon Package that includes a romantic dinner on the beach and other treats. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort: Known for its spacious overwater villas, some of which feature private pools. Their romance concierge can organize a range of tailored experiences. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa: Famous for its award-winning spa, it’s a great option for couples seeking rejuvenation alongside romantic indulgence.

And these are our choices for the best honeymoon destinations on earth. Where did you go for your honeymoon? Or, where are you planning to go when you get married? Let us know in the comments below, we’re always looking for romance.

35. Udaipur India

Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East,” is one of the most romantic cities in India. A city filled with palaces Udaipur is enchanting. It is famous for its beautiful lakes like Lake Pichola and Lake Fateh Sagar, and for its majestic palaces, such as the City Palace and Lake Palace. Looking over Lake Pichola at sunset is one of the most romantic things we did in India.

Couples can take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to enjoy stunning views of the city’s palaces and havelis and explore the grand architecture of City Palace. A visit to Saheliyon-ki-Bari is a must to see its garden adorned with kiosks, marble elephants, delightful fountains, and a delightful pool. And at night, attend a traditional Rajasthani dance and music performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.

Where to Stay

The Oberoi Udaivilas: This luxury hotel is located on the banks of Lake Pichola and offers stunning views, opulent rooms, and world-class service. Taj Lake Palace: One of the most romantic hotels in the world, this hotel floats on Lake Pichola and offers a royal experience. The Leela Palace Udaipur: Overlooking Lake Pichola, the Leela Palace combines modern luxury with traditional Rajasthani elegance.

The best time to visit Udaipur is during the cooler months from September to March.

Discover Wisconsin, where cheese and football come to life. It may be best known as “America’s Dairyland,” but there are a lot of things to do in Wisconsin that will surprise you. This midwestern haven is full of wonders for adventurers – from waterside resorts like the infamous Wisconsin Dells to big cities and small towns along its many picturesque landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Wisconsin

Whether you’re an outdoor lover or a culture vulture wanting to learn about this vibrant state’s history exciting experiences await! There are some amazing things to do in Wisconsin, so get ready to start planning your next trip today!

1. Harley-Davidson Museum – Milwaukee

The Harley Davidson Museum was our favorite attraction in Wisconsin and we aren’t even Harley fans. It puts on an awesome display of interactive exhibits that explore the historic American brand.

This museum has a collection that includes more than 450 motorcycles and artifacts. From vintage models to modern marvels, the museum showcases the evolution of Harley-Davidson over more than a century.

Explore exhibits such as the Engine Room, which delves into the mechanics behind these powerful machines, or the Experience Gallery, where you can saddle up and get a feel for the freedom a Harley-Davidson motorcycle can provide.

Whether you’re a lifelong Harley fan or new to the world of motorcycles, this museum offers an engaging and enlightening experience. Check out all the Best Things to do in Milwaukee here!

2. Milwaukee Art Museum

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee Art Museum is one of the largest and most significant art museums in the United States. With a collection of over 30,000 works, it spans everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

The museum’s Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, is a work of art in itself and has become an iconic symbol of the city. Just walking up to this museum is an event.

Spanning four stories, this remarkable museum offers an extensive array of exhibitions, from European masters to influential contemporary artists.

3. Historic Third Ward – Milwaukee

Experience a blast from the past when you wander through Historic Third Ward. Once a bustling warehouse district, it is now a hub for art, shopping, and dining. Its renovated buildings are home to an array of businesses that maintain a connection to the area’s past while offering modern amenities.

The area is designated as a National Historic District which exhibits beautiful designs of architecture and is home to both captivating shops and top-notch restaurants.

Stroll the neighborhood’s streets to explore boutique stores, art galleries, and eateries. The district also hosts the Third Ward Art Festival and the popular Milwaukee Public Market, where you can sample a range of foods from local vendors. The Historic Third Ward presents a blend of the old and new, giving visitors a taste of Milwaukee’s vibrant urban scene.

4. Uncover Wisconsin Dells

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled destination for families. The Midwest’s premier vacation destination boasts an impressive number of indoor attractions and outdoor water parks, providing year-round entertainment regardless of the weather.

The term “Wisconsin Dells” refers to both the city of Wisconsin Dells and the surrounding area. The name “Dells” comes from “dalles,” a French word used to describe the narrow, gorge-like passages typically carved by rivers.

The Dells is situated along the Wisconsin River, which has, over millennia, shaped the area’s landscape, creating dramatic cliffs and canyons. The unique beauty of this area has made it a draw for tourists, artists, and nature enthusiasts for over a century.

5. Waterpark Resorts

Wisconsin Dells is famous for its high concentration of water parks, leading to the nickname “The Waterpark Capital of the World.” These include major indoor and outdoor water parks such as Noah’s Ark, America’s largest water park, and Kalahari Resorts, which features one of the country’s largest indoor water parks.

For those who want to step up their game, Mt. Olympus Resorts offers intense roller coasters plus outdoor Go-Kart tracks around this magical part of Wisconsin for all you daredevils out there. Everyone in the family will find something they love here!

6. Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours

Explore the gorgeous region of Wisconsin Dells with a boat tour from Dells Boat Tours. Take in the views of Lake Delton, along with Blackhawk’s Profile and Chimney Rock, impressive sandstone formations set against lush pine forests that have made this destination so popular for generations. All while gliding on through the pristine waters of the Wisconsin River!

Experience all that stunning natural beauty right from your vessel as you marvel at it during scenic sunrise or romantic dinner cruises offered by our tours- there’s something special about navigating its beautiful waterways that will make lasting memories no matter what time of year you visit in beautiful Wisconsin Dells.

Whether you are touring on an Original Duck (World War II amphibious vehicle) or enjoying a sunset dinner cruise – Wisconsin Dells will provide a fun-filled holiday for the whole family.

7. Adventure Parks at Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for those seeking an action-filled day. At the Knuckleheads trampoline and indoor amusement park, you can leap around, while Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf offers mini golf with a pirate twist.

The Tommy Bartlett Exploratory has interactive exhibits that invite hands-on exploration of new ideas and concepts – all wrapped up in Wisconsin’s charming atmosphere!

8. Bello’s Circus Extreme Variety Show

Wisconsin Dells’ Palace Theater was a professional venue for the performing arts. Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, the theater used to showcase a variety of top-tier shows, ranging from Broadway musicals to classic plays and concerts.

The Dells Palace Theater closed down in December 2022 but has now re-opened as the Bello’s Circus Extreme Variety Show. This is fun for the whole family and features cool stunts, comedy, magic, and a whole host of other performers.

For those seeking more natural experiences, the Wisconsin Dells area is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can explore the Wisconsin Dells and its scenic gorge known for its sandstone bluffs and formations, via a boat tour or a hiking trail. Whether you’re sliding down a thrilling water slide or marveling at the rock formations, Wisconsin Dells offers diverse experiences that make it a top choice for any Wisconsin itinerary.

9. Explore Lake Geneva’s Charm

If you’re looking for a little break from the hustle and bustle of city living, Lake Geneva is your perfect spot. Located between Milwaukee and Chicago, this picturesque small town brings with it an atmosphere that’s calm and serene. From leisurely strolls along its scenic lakefront to amusement at Tristan Crist Magic Theatre shows, there are countless attractions all around!

Take in some truly stunning views when exploring Black Point Estate or boating on one of the nearby lakes. Plus, downtown shopping & dining experiences offer even more fun activities too.

Whether it be wandering through quaint Victorian estates or getting lost in timeless illusion shows – come explore everything beautiful Lake Geneva has to offer!

10. Lake Geneva Cruise Line

Take in the beautiful sights from an enjoyable boat cruise with the acclaimed Lake Geneva Cruise Line. Glide across tranquil waters and be captivated by stunning vistas of elegant mansions, lush landscapes, and more!

You’ll find a voyage to suit any taste – ranging from group outings, themed tours or exclusive charters. A sunset dinner cruise is a great way to take in the views of the lake at golden hour.

11. Immerse in Green Bay’s Attractions

Nestled at the mouth of the Fox River on Lake Michigan, Green Bay is known for its celebrated football team, the Green Bay Packers, but also has a wide variety of attractions suitable for all.

Be it enjoying serenity in The Green Bay Botanical Garden and its four seasons garden or Wildlife Sanctuary or taking in a game, there is something for everyone.

12. Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

Football fans can’t miss a chance to attend a game at Lambeau Field, home to the Packers, one of the oldest teams in the NFL. Known as “The Frozen Tundra,” this stadium has a storied history and an electric atmosphere that’s palpable on game day.

Even if you’re not a die-hard Packers fan, the energy of the crowd is infectious and the experience is uniquely Wisconsin.

Apart from the game itself, there’s plenty to do at Lambeau Field. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the Packers and the stadium, or visit the Hall of Fame, which celebrates notable players and memorable moments. Also inside is a replica from Vince Lombardi’s office, which gives insight into his illustrious career with the team.

13. National Railroad Museum

The National Railroad Museum offers an exciting journey through the history of American railroading. As one of the oldest and largest institutions of its kind in the United States, it has been preserving and interpreting the nation’s railroad history since 1956.

Visitors are greeted with an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts. Highlights include the Union Pacific Big Boy, one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, and the British-made Dwight D. Eisenhower, a steam locomotive that served a crucial role during World War II.

14. Explore the State Capitol in Madison

The State Capitol in Madison, with its magnificent architecture and historical significance, is worth a visit. Completed in 1917, the Capitol building is known for its elegant dome, which is one of the largest in the world. Inside, the building features beautiful murals, ornate decorations, and exquisite craftsmanship.

Visitors can explore the Capitol on their own or take one of the free guided tours available. These tours provide insights into the history, architecture, and functions of the building.

Don’t miss the observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Madison and its surroundings.

15. Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison

Spread over 16 acres, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison is a beautiful oasis that features various thematic gardens and a tropical conservatory. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely walk, a family outing, or a quiet place to read a book.

The gardens showcase a range of plant life and garden styles, from a traditional English-style sunken garden to a Thai Pavilion and Garden, the only one of its kind in the continental U.S.

The Bolz Conservatory houses a tropical paradise filled with exotic plants, colorful flowers, and free-flying birds. The gardens offer a peaceful escape in the city and a great way to connect with nature.

16. Cave of the Mounds

Located near Madison, Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark located in the town of Blue Mounds. It is often regarded as one of the most beautiful caves in the United States.

Discovered in 1939, the cave offers tours to view its vast array of stalactites, stalagmites, and other mineral formations.

The cave maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the top indoor attractions for any season. Plus, the walking paths are well-lit and easy to navigate.

Knowledgeable guides provide in-depth tours that are both educational and fascinating. You’ll learn about the cave’s discovery, geology, and the delicate mineral formations it houses. These tours are well-suited for visitors of all ages.

17. Wisconsin Great River Road

Take a journey along the Wisconsin Great River Road, designated as an American scenic byway. Meandering for 250 miles on the western border of Wisconsin and following the Mississippi River, you will be mesmerized by breathtaking sandstone bluffs that can reach 400 feet in height.

Charming towns offer insight into the rich history and culture embedded throughout this spectacular route. Make sure to check out all attractions such as Wabasha’s National Eagle Center during your trip!

18. Discover Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architectural Gems

The state of Wisconsin has long been associated with the works of iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright. His remarkable designs, such as Taliesin Preservation, Monona Terrace, and Seth Peterson Cottage, have all become modern-day masterpieces.

For those interested in understanding more about this architectural genius’ creations, a visit to any one of his structures is essential.

19. Taliesin Preservation in Spring Green

Travel to the stunning Spring Green and discover Frank Lloyd Wright’s home, Taliesin Preservation. This 600-acre estate is a must for any fan of architecture or design, offering an immersive tour into this legendary architect’s life and work complete with his renowned Prairie School designs on display.

It showcases his unique architectural style, rooted in harmony with nature. Here, you can tour his home, studio, and 800-acre estate filled with other structures he designed.

The house offers glimpses into Wright’s personal life and his evolution as an architect. Beyond the buildings, you can explore nature trails, gardens, and a working farm. A visit to Taliesin is not just an architectural tour but an immersion into Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture and his vision of living in harmony with nature.

20. Monona Terrace

In Madison sits Frank Lloyd Wright’s impressive Monona Terrace, an iconic organic-style convention center with unforgettable views of Lake Monona. It is possible to take a guided tour of the building and get more insight into this exceptional architect’s work.

Strolling through the superbly crafted spaces in Monona Terrace helps one understand why Frank Lloyd Wright has had such influence on architecture today.

21. Seth Peterson Cottage

For a truly unique escape, come and stay at the Seth Peterson Cottage located in Mirror Lake State Park. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright himself, this charming cottage offers its guests an incredibly rare chance to be enveloped within the style of one of his masterpieces while also taking advantage of all that Wisconsin’s beautiful state parks have to offer.

Couples looking for some time alone, families seeking quality bonding experiences or groups wanting to share good times, everyone will love what they find here! Come relax and enjoy yourself surrounded by serenity as you experience something extraordinary with your friends or loved ones.

22. Experience Door County’s Coastal Charm

Door County, often referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” is the perfect place to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, you’ll find more than 300 miles of coastline located on the shores of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Door County, is home to majestic lighthouses, expansive state parks, and pristine beaches, making it the perfect place for outdoor adventures.

During your visit, be sure to check out some of the county’s famed lighthouses, like the Cana Island Lighthouse, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Baileys Harbor Range Lights, Old Bailey’s Harbor Lighthouse, or Sturgeon Bay Canal North Pierhead, all set against breathtaking scenery.

Take a drive through the county’s rustic roads, stop by a local winery for a tasting, or savor the sweetness of a freshly picked cherry from a roadside farm stand. If you’re a nature lover, Door County won’t disappoint, with ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and water sports. Door County encapsulates what makes Wisconsin special, making it an essential stop on your itinerary.

23. State Parks and Hiking Trails

Outdoor enthusiasts in Door County can enjoy a vast selection of outdoor recreation and spectacular views all thanks to its many state parks and trails.

Those looking for an exhilarating adventure or peaceful respite should explore some popular spots like Peninsula State Park, Newport State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, or Potawatomi State Park. All offer various terrain along with breathtaking scenery. With so many available hiking paths boasting amazing scenes around every corner, you won’t be disappointed!

24. Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Located on Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore consists of 21 islands and a 12-mile stretch of the mainland that offers a wealth of recreational opportunities.

From historic lighthouses and sandstone sea caves to diverse wildlife and clear, blue waters, the Apostle Islands are a true paradise for nature lovers.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the sea caves of the Apostle Islands. Located on the largest of the Great Lakes, kayaking is not to be taken lightly, so a guide is highly recommended.

During winter, these caves turn into an otherworldly landscape of ice formations that can be visited on foot when conditions permit.

In addition to paddling and hiking, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, sailing, and birdwatching. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or looking for tranquility, the Apostle Islands offer a memorable getaway.

25. Savor Wisconsin’s Culinary Delights

Wisconsin boasts an incredible array of culinary offerings, from the vast selection of Madison’s ever-growing restaurant scene to Milwaukee’s beer heritage.

For those wanting a taste of what this Midwestern state has to offer, food tours and farm-to-table establishments can provide delicious local fare while locally crafted brews quench any thirst. Whatever your preference may be, Wisconsin is sure to tantalize you with its diverse flavors and keep you coming back for more!

26. Madison’s Food Scene

Discover Madison’s rich and varied culinary offerings. From farm-to-table eateries to food tours, your options are plentiful! Try Graze for an international experience or Pig in a Fur Coat for something unique. Also, check out the Madison Eats Food Tours – it’ll take you on a delicious journey of local businesses around town.

If you’d like to get closer to homegrown flavors, head over to Dane County Farmers’ Market and Willy Street Coop where fresh ingredients await as well as artisanal products made by locals just waiting to be discovered!

So come explore what the city has prepared – taste its delights until your heart is satisfied!

27. Milwaukee’s Brewing Legacy

Take a trip through Milwaukee’s brewing tradition by visiting the Pabst Mansion, an impressive reminder of the city’s beer-making heritage. After touring this historic spot, why not continue on your journey and explore some of its local craft breweries? You can sample all sorts of beers from classic lagers to inventive IPAs that are sure to satisfy whatever tastes you have in mind.

28. Wisconsin’s Dairyland

Wisconsin is famous for its dairy products, and no trip would be complete without tasting its cheese and ice cream. Visit a local cheese factory for a tour to see how cheese is made and sample a variety of cheeses. Farmers’ markets, like Dane County Farmers’ Market in Madison, offer a chance to taste fresh local produce and dairy.

Another essential Wisconsin food experience is a traditional fish fry. These events, often held on Fridays, serve up fried fish accompanied by sides like coleslaw and rye bread. Also, don’t miss out on trying Wisconsin’s craft beers. Many breweries offer tours and tastings, providing an insight into the state’s rich brewing tradition.

29. Hike the Ice Age Trail

The Ice Age Trail is one of the unique highlights Wisconsin has to offer, offering more than 1,000 miles of scenic trails. This massive network stretches across the state, following the edge of the last continental glacier in Wisconsin. The trail offers stunning views of glacial landscapes plus forests, prairies, and wetlands.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful place to appreciate nature, the Ice Age Trail has something to offer. You can embark on a multi-day backpacking adventure, enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk, or even attempt a “thru-hike” if you’re up for a significant challenge.

With clearly marked hiking trails and numerous access points, the Ice Age Trail is a fantastic way to experience the Wisconsin outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do people travel to Wisconsin for?

Head to Wisconsin for an experience that offers the best of city culture and outdoor fun. The impressive State Capitol in Madison, as well as Cave of the Mounds, are popular attractions. Also worth visiting is Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture which adorns many parts of this state. For those who like adventures, the Apostle Islands provide plenty of opportunities for exploration while water parks around Wisconsin Dells offer excitement all year round.

What is the most visited town in Wisconsin?

Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a popular tourist destination, welcoming an estimated 105,000 visitors annually.

What is there to do between Milwaukee and Madison?

Take a drive from Milwaukee to Madison and explore some of the attractions on the route, including Octagon House in Watertown, Mullins Dairy Bar for classic American cuisine, pottery galleries at Cambridge and sights in Jefferson & Lake Mills. Check out Harley-Davidson Museum as well as Milwaukee Art Museum, Tristan Crist Magic Theatre or Fireside Dinner. Theatre while there too!

Take a peaceful walk along the enchanting views of Lake Geneva Shore Path, an experience like no other.

What are some popular attractions in Wisconsin Dells?

Visiting Wisconsin Dells is ideal for a fun-filled family vacation. Visitors can experience thrilling waterparks, scenic boat tours, and other exhilarating parks in the area. It’s no wonder it has been one of Wisconsin’s most popular destinations!

In Conclusion

Wisconsin is a midwestern state packed full of captivating experiences and places to explore. Home to exciting attractions like the Wisconsin Deer Park in Wisconsin Dells, romantic towns in Door County, architectural works from Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as Madison’s exquisite food culture, it has something for everyone! So don’t hesitate any longer: start planning your journey today and discover all that this wonderful area can give you. An unforgettable experience surrounded by its breathtaking beauty.

California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the right place for a highway journey to take pleasure in its limitless stretches of sand. While many individuals can title a number of of its extra well-known seashores like Venice Beach, San Francisco’s Ocean Beach, or San Diego’s Coronado Beach, among the greatest seashores in California aren’t actually recognized and subsequently much less busy.

So, to introduce you to some locations you could not know, here’s a round-up of the perfect California Beaches that you simply already know and love, and a few lesser-known gems across the state.

Best California Beaches

Beaches in California are nature’s unspoiled treasures and so they supply nice alternatives for solitude, wildlife watching, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve lived in California for a yr, so we had sufficient time to find not solely the well-known touristy locations however some hidden gems, too. (This publish was initially written by Csaba & Bea of Our Wanders and has been up to date by The Planet D staff for 2023.)

1. Venice Beach – Los Angeles

Venice Beach is positioned in Los Angeles County and is a type of locations that’s recognized extra for its bohemian really feel than for the seashore itself.

Most individuals who go to Venice Beach stroll alongside the Venice Beach Boardwalk, taking in the road performers, watching the bodybuilders carry weights, and witnessing the numerous artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.

Venice Beach itself is beautiful so it’s no surprise it’s a favourite among the many locals in the realm. Just a few of the issues that make it considered one of our favourite California seashores are the cool little retailers, nice cafes, and among the hippest espresso locations in L.A.

2. Manhattan Beach – Los Angeles

There is a purpose that Manhattan Beach is likely one of the most costly locations to reside in Los Angeles. Situated completely on the Pacific Ocean, the large sandy seashore is delicate and dotted with stunning homes, upscale eating places, fashionable boutiques, and a few very costly lodges.

Weekends deliver out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seashore volleyball gamers. Manhattan Beach looks as if an odd title for a seashore in California, but it surely was named after actual property developer Stewart Merrill who was from Manhattan New York.

It’s becoming that it’s named after a developer as a result of the true property alongside Manhattan Beach is spectacular with house promoting for as much as $36 million {dollars}

Being positioned so near downtown LA it’s a nice add-on to your day of visiting Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, or the Sunset Strip. Manhattan Beach is unquestionably considered one of our favourite southern California seashores. Read extra: 37 Best Things To Do In Los Angeles In 2023 – By A Local

3. Malibu

Zuma Beach

Malibu has among the most stunning seashores in California. Most individuals will likely be accustomed to Zuma Beach, with its large sandy seashore that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seashore volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and many amenities it’s no surprise this seashore is so common.

Other seashores in the realm like Paradise Beach, Point Dume State Beach, and Puerco Beach are smaller and supply a extra household environment than Zuma Beach.

If you might be up for one thing distinctive, be certain that to take a look at the Malibu Beach Inn which provides you the possibility to spend a night on the “Billionaires Beach” stretch of the coast. It might not be low-cost but it surely offers you a glimpse into how the opposite half lives. Read extra about Malibu: 20 Best Things To Do In Malibu In 2023 By A Local

4. Huntington Beach – Orange County

Huntington State Beach has grow to be fairly the vacation spot currently and for good purpose. Located in the town of Huntington Beach (nicknamed Surf City) it boasts a gorgeous 2-mile-long sandy seashore that stretches from Beach Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel.

This seashore has some nice breaks for surfers. The Huntington Beach Pier is a superb place for leisurely stroll in addition to to strive your hand at fishing.

Make certain to get to the tip and take a look at Ruby’s Surf City Diner for some nice views and good meals.

Make certain to go to downtown which has an incredible choice of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream retailers, and boutiques. Huntington Beach is a type of locations that was made for a trip.

5. Newport Beach – Orange County

With a whopping 10 miles of shoreline, Newport Beach is positioned in the well-known playground of the wealthy and exquisite, Orange Country.

This southern California seashore group boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.

Not solely do you will have the lengthy sandy stretch of Newport Beach, however there are additionally loads of sights for the entire household together with Balboa Fun Zone amusement park, Lido Marina Village buying heart, and nice browsing.

6. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is a spot for enjoyable in the solar. With the well-known Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park amusement park and its Ferris wheel, and historic carousel, that is a type of seashores in California that’s enjoyable for the entire household.

This California seashore group is house to the wealthy and well-known.

Head out to the Beach to benefit from the sand and solar, but in addition to discover the Santa Monica State Beach Park, climbing trails, buying alongside the Third Beach Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Beach Trail.

Santa Monica Beach can be house to glorious browsing identical to so many seashores in California.

7. Santa Barbara

We by no means thought we’d have the chance to go to Santa Barbara however whereas working with California tourism on their advisory board, we had the possibility to spend a few days exploring the realm.

Located on the Pacific Coast, there are many seashores to discover in Santa Barbara however it’s East Beach positioned proper in city that makes it particular.

Santa Barbara has many seashores. Known as The American Riviera, you’ll really feel like a millionaire strolling alongside its sandy shores as palm bushes sway in the Pacific wind.

Visit Summerland Beach for horseback using, take a crusing journey, take pleasure in some kayaking alongside its shores or take in the gorgeous sundown at Hendry’s Beach.

8. Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur

Located alongside the Pacific Coast Highway, Pfeiffer Beach is likely one of the most stunning settings in California.

Famous for its keyhole arch positioned offshore in the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Beach is a gorgeous lengthy sandy seashore recognized for its purple sand.

It’s a bit off the crushed path making it one of the secluded seashores in California. To get to Pfeiffer Beach, from Highway 1, take the second flip one mile south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It shouldn’t be part of the State Park. drive down

There are tide swimming pools to be explored at low tide, excessive lookouts to view the limitless ocean, and rocks and bluffs. Read extra concerning the Pacific Coast Highway at Big Sur Road Trip – The Best Viewpoints

9. Coronado Beach – San Diego

Coronado Beach homes the Silver Strand with seven miles of glowing sandy seashore. It is positioned simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the record as one of many prime seashores in California.

The iconic Hotel Del Coronado on the beachfront of San Diego Coronado Island was the setting for the film Some Like It Hot. It’s an incredible place to cease for lunch if you’re not able to splurge on an evening.

This seashore is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll have the ability to see ocean life reminiscent of starfish, crabs, and barnacles.

Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank outside bar for sundown cocktails with a view. For extra on San Diego learn: A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in San Diego

10. La Jolla Shores Beach – San Diego

La Jolla Shores is positioned in stunning San Diego. This seashore is great for exploring tide swimming pools and basking in the solar. It can be one of many wildest stretches of the Southern California coast housing the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

If you like seashores, you’ll additionally love La Jolla Cove the place sea lions bask in the solar. La Jolla Cove can be a superb place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.

11. Main Beach – Santa Cruz

Hit up Main Beach of Santa Cruz to take pleasure in this California seashore that is only one hour from San Francisco. Take a stroll alongside the mile-long Santa Cruz seashore boardwalk or go to the historic amusement park.

Santa Cruz Park is the oldest surviving amusement park in California. There are loads of seashore actions together with seashore volleyball courts, browsing, and kayaking. You’ll see sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and even whales offshore.

12. Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz

Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz is one other must-visit seashore in California. The stone formation is one thing you’d count on to see off the coast of Portugal.

Natural Bridges State Beach is known as for precisely what you suppose it’s, the pure bridge that’s positioned offshore. There are climbing trails, and tide swimming pools to discover at low tide.

Plus there’s a boardwalk and it is a crucial sanctuary for Monarch Butterflies migrating by the realm from October to January. The panorama alone makes this top-of-the-line seashores in California.

13. Pismo Beach – San Luis Obispo

I’ll always remember watching Clueless in the Nineteen Nineties and questioning the place Pismo Beach was. Cher donated her ski gear to the Pismo Beach Disaster. I had all the time needed to go there ever since.

We had our probability when exploring the wine area of Santa Maria. Located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway, it is a stunning sandy seashore.

There are loads of issues to do round this small seashore city and whereas it is likely one of the greatest seashores for browsing, we hit the sand dunes for a severe dune buggy journey.

If you aren’t up for an journey, take a stroll alongside the boardwalk and pier, discover the close by wineries or take a selfie in entrance of the Pismo Beach signal.

14. El Matador State Beach, Malibu

El Matador Beach is unquestionably top-of-the-line seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slender seashore is in the shade of giant cliffs and stairs led us down there from the car parking zone.

We had been amazed by the fascinating rock formations on the shore and in the water, and in addition by the right ocean sundown this seashore gives. It’s probably not a seashore for swimming or browsing, but it surely’s a photographer’s and {couples}’ favourite due to its wild and romantic environment.

15. Beach at Alamere Falls, Point Reyes National Seashore

A seashore with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Big Sur’s common and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Point Reyes National Seashore.

We aren’t certain if this seashore has a reputation, really, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows immediately into the ocean. But it undoubtedly exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main right down to it close to the highest of the falls.

However, this distinctive seashore requires some climbing, as a result of it could possibly solely be accessed by way of Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead. This means an 8 miles reasonable roundtrip which has simply grow to be a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seashore.

If you like these try extra Unique Beaches from Around the world.

16. Rodeo Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Golden Gate National Recreation Area is simply north of San Francisco and it gives a number of good coastal hikes, some with a shocking panorama of Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.

Rodeo Beach is a superb seashore for hikers as it’s the place to begin of a number of shorter and longer hikes and in addition a pleasant seashore itself bounded by a lagoon. Its darkish, pebbly sand is exclusive in California.

It’s a preferred browsing seashore, however swimming is harmful due to the sturdy currents. We loved strolling on the seashore, doing among the coastal hikes, and getting amazed by the wild ocean.

17. Laguna Beach, Orange County

Laguna Beach is an area’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is alleged to be top-of-the-line swimming seashores and there’s additionally scuba diving in the realm. But we warn you the water is way from heat even in the summer season – simply as anyplace else alongside the coast.

It was a pleasant refreshing cease although in South California’s sizzling summer season. There are loads of seashore actions right here at Laguna Beach nicely together with seashore volleyball courts, a motorbike path, and basketball courts.

18. Pescadero State Beach – San Mateo County

Pescadero is an extended, quiet, wild seashore in Central California with nice wildlife-watching alternatives. We’ve seen tons of harbor seals resting on the cliffs close to the shore and Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve is true behind the seashore.

There are a number of shorter trails in the marsh and they’re glorious for bird-watching. Pescadero State Beach additionally has stunning (although often windy and chilly) sunsets. Read extra: Things to do in San Mateo, California

19. Half Moon Bay State Beach – San Francisco

Located a few half-hour from San Francisco is the group of Half Moon and is a well-liked California seashore escape from the town. It homes Half Moon Bay State Beach, Dunes Beach, and Francis Beach.

Take a hike alongside the California Coastal Trail for panoramic views of the shoreline. Dreaming of an island getaway? Check out our record of The Most Beautiful Tropical Islands in the World

20. Andrew Molera State Beach, Big Sur

Again, an adventurous seashore! It’s positioned in Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur alongside the Pacific Coast Highway. Accessing Andrew Molera State Beach requires a brief stroll from the car parking zone.

This scenic stretch of freeway is 2 hours and thirty minutes south of San Francisco and makes for one of many nice California Road Trips. The stroll features a river crossing as nicely if the seasonal bridge is eliminated.

The crystal clear river was not deep in any respect after we had been there, we may pleasantly stroll by it. Uhm… we may have completed it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. But it was nonetheless enjoyable.

Andrew Molera Beach is on the mouth of Big Sur River, it’s an extended undeveloped seashore and we additionally liked climbing on the great bluff climbing trails above it. Read extra: A information to the perfect campgrounds in Big Sur

21. Gold Bluffs Beach, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Gold Bluffs Beach is a part of Northern California’s Redwood National and State Parks and the foggy redwoods in the background give a mystic environment to it. This places it proper up there as top-of-the-line seashores in California.

Usually, there aren’t many individuals on the seashore which is able to solely strengthen this environment.

One of essentially the most particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Trail which took us again to Jurassic occasions – really, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film had been filmed there.

It begins from Gold Bluffs Beach – or ends on the seashore in the event you begin at James Irvine Trail as we did. The seashore itself can be accessible by automotive and there’s a small campground on the car parking zone. Read: 7 Epic Places to Visit in Northern California

22. Limantour Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore

This lengthy and excellent sandy seashore on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Point Reyes National Seashore.

Thanks to the close by wetlands there’s a excessive probability to identify seabirds. Harbor seals additionally just like the shallow water of Drakes Bay and they’re typically seen mendacity on the shore.

Limantour Beach is accessible by automotive and it has a pleasant giant car parking zone. But in the event you ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the highway and hike there by pine forests and wetlands. We’ve completed the Laguna Trail – Limantour Beach – Muddy Hollow Trail – Bayview Trail loop which was a gorgeous numerous day hike.

23. Carmel Beach City Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea

The group of gorgeous Carmel by the Sea additionally has top-of-the-line California seashores. Located proper on Central California’s Monterey Peninsula Carmel is a superb base for exploring the Pacific Coast Highway.

It’s a type of typical Central California seashores with a beautiful strolling road, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, an extended, sandy seashore (that can be canine pleasant.) Explore it extra at The Best Stops on 17 Mile Drive

We liked strolling on Carmel Beach and in addition on the scenic highway above the seashore. The seashore was filled with households having a picnic, children swimming or enjoying in the water and canines operating round, and naturally, the seashore volleyball that California is so well-known for.

Carmel Beach is likely one of the few locations left on the California coast the place individuals can nonetheless collect round a hearth to toast marshmallows and benefit from the environment of a seashore bonfire. Read extra: Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California

24. Cowell Ranch Beach, Half Moon Bay

The most hidden seashore and top-of-the-line seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Beach. While driving south of Half Moon Bay State Beach on California 1 we had been searching for a small car parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Beach.

It’s straightforward to overlook it, but it surely’s price searching for, it rewarded us with a gorgeous, barely recognized seashore. The seashore is accessible by a brief bluff path with picket stairs on the finish and it took us about quarter-hour to get there.

There’s one other seashore south of the path which isn’t accessible as a result of it’s a seal protect. Binoculars are all the time a good suggestion on the California Central coast, however right here you will have an particularly good probability to watch seals. On the opposite hand, Cowell Ranch Beach is dealing with completely west, so it’s a peaceable getaway for sundown lovers.

25. Crystal Cove State Park – Orange County

Crystal cove state park is a real gem with its stunning landscapes and scenic views. The park boasts a 3-mile shoreline one of many largest uninterrupted pure seashores in California. It additionally options a number of seashores, tide swimming pools, and an underwater park good for outside lovers.

An 18-mile climbing path can be out there for all. While unleashed canines aren’t allowed on the seashore, they’re allowed on the path. Restaurants and rooftop lounges are additionally out there that can assist you wind down after a day on the seashore with iconic views of the sundown.

26. Sand greenback seashore – Big Sur

Don’t let the steep stroll down the seashore deter you as you can be rewarded with one of the scenic seashores in California. A phenomenal shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.

While Sand Dollar Beach won’t be greatest for swimming, it’s an incredible picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seashore makes for a tremendous place to chill out as you admire nature in all its glory.

It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Big Sur. Watch them experience waves all day. In low tide, you possibly can strive your luck at catching some crabs or muscle tissues.

If you’re up for it, you can too go looking for jade stones. However, stick with rules to your security.

27. Glass seashore – Fort Bragg

Located in Fort Bragg, the glass seashore is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seashore is filled with coloured stones that had been as soon as dumped items of glass choking the life out of the ocean. Mother nature in flip broke down the rubbish and turned it into stunning items of frosted glass, a course of that takes about 30 – 100 years to finish.

The fixed pounding of the ocean waves breaks and softens the glass turning it into completely different sizes and shapes. Common colours you’ll discover embrace clear, brown, and inexperienced.

Kids will particularly love visiting this seashore as they’re solely however a number of glass seashores in the world.

Years of holiday makers taking the glass stones has depleted the seashore and has resulted in the apply being declared unlawful. A strict measure that helps to make sure that there are glass stones left for future guests to take pleasure in.

Remember to maintain your flip flop on always as you stroll alongside the seashore as among the stones are sharp.

28. Marin County Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is positioned alongside the scenic shoreline of Marin County, simply north of San Francisco. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged slopes of Mount Tamalpais, the seashore is a prime choose for its delicate sand and crescent form.

Stinson Beach boasts a large expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for roughly three and a half miles. The pure magnificence surrounding Stinson Beach is a serious draw for guests.

To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which gives climbing and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean supplies a fascinating backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.

You can swim in the ocean (though the water may be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just chill out on the sand. The seashore can be common for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Nearby Mount Tamalpais gives quite a few climbing and biking trails that showcase the realm’s beautiful coastal and forested landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Beach Beaches in California

From Ocean Beach in San Fransico with the perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Southernmost Beach in California – Imperial Beach close to San Diego, there are numerous seashores in California. You may like these Best Beaches in Florida

We barely scratched the floor of all of the sandy locations in California. One factor is for certain, California is considered one of our favourite locations to go to in the United States.

Visiting Australia is at all times thrilling. From the wildlife to the surf tradition and implausible highway journeys and sights, the nation is full of pleasure at each nook. But what about Australian delicacies? What are standard Australian meals ‘Down Under’?

There is an unlimited vary of Australian meals. The delicacies has an enormous European affect, and also you’ll steadily spot tailored staples from British and Italian delicacies. Australian delicacies can also be influenced by Asian delicacies, particularly Chinese, so be ready to see meals variations like spring rolls. And, in fact, a few of Australia’s most interesting meals are created initially in Australia itself – just like the beloved Tim Tam chocolate biscuits.

Best Dishes To Try in Australian Cuisine

This information will whisk you thru the perfect dishes to strive from Australian delicacies. If you’re visiting Australia, these Australian meals are positive to get you impressed earlier than you go. While if you’re searching for new recipes to strive in your individual kitchen, many of those are appropriate for cooking at residence. Ready? Let’s start.

1. Vegemite

Vegemite is one among Australia’s most beloved and hated spreads. It is an acquired style, and also you’ll both fall head over heels for it. Vegemite is one among Australia’s most iconic spreads. We’ve personally discovered that the majority Australians we’ve met don’t hate it.

Vegemite is a darkish brown paste with a powerful yeasty, salty style. It is an acquired style, and also you’ll both fall head over heels for it, slathering it onto your toast every morning, or rush to the sink for a glass of water. So, what precisely is vegemite made from?

Vegemite is made from brewers yeast, onion extract, malt, and celery – a bizarre-sounding concoction. It is offered in a small jar and might be bought at most supermarkets. Vegemite is one thing apart from one thing that’s made at residence. It may be very related to the British sauce Marmite, and that’s as a result of, in 1922, a meals producer wished to recreate an Australian model. Over 100 years later and the little jar remains to be prevalent. And right here’s a cool reality, Veggemite is nice for a hangover. With its excessive salt content material blended with vitamin B, it should assist your physique replenish these electrolites.

2. Anzac biscuits

It could possibly be argued that scrumptious Anzac biscuits are the preferred Australian meals. Anzac biscuits are commemorative biscuits that pay respects to the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. They are popularly eaten on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day as a tribute to those that served in World War I, those that served all through historical past, and people who proceed to serve at this time. As its identify suggests, it doesn’t simply acknowledge Australian troopers but additionally the New Zealand Army Corps.

An Anzac biscuit is tremendous candy. It consists of rolled oats, desiccated coconut, sugar, butter, golden syrup, flour, and baking soda. The elements are blended in a big bowl, after which boiling water is added. Anzac biscuits are baked like some other biscuit – within the oven till golden.

While Anzac biscuits are mostly eaten on ANZAC Day or Remembrance Day, you will see them in bakeries throughout Australia all year long. Thanks to its simple recipe, the Anzac biscuit can also be straightforward to recreate at residence.

3. Fairy bread

Fairy bread is likely one of the strangest Australian meals. This dish appears to be like prefer it was ready and masterminded by a small baby. It is becoming, contemplating it’s normally served at kids’s events. Fairy bread consists of slices of white bread topped with butter and lots of and 1000’s. It has a colourful attraction and a barely candy style. The dots of shade are what give it its identify ‘fairy bread’.

The Hobart Mercury newspaper first talked about Fairy bread in Australia within the Twenties. The article cited that fairy bread was being eaten at kids’s events, and the development caught on. Fairy bread has been eaten ever since. It is a budget-friendly Australian meals shut to a cake but additionally uncommon sufficient to warrant novelty attraction. The white bread is good and fluffy, and the lots of and 1000’s add sweetness. Give it a go, and also you’ll be impressed. Fairy bread is finest tried at residence since you will have assist discovering it in cafes as a homecooked Australian meals.

4. Tim Tam slam

For these at nighttime about this iconic Australian meals, Tim Tams are Australias favorite chocolate biscuit. British readers will know Penguin biscuits, and Tim Tams are primarily the very same factor. A Tim Tam is made up of two malted biscuits break up by a yummy layer of chocolate sauce, then completely coated in a chocolate layer. The biscuit was masterminded by the Aussie biscuit firm Arnott’s in 1964. Now, Tim Tams are lovingly devoured all throughout Australia. The humble Tim Tam is even shipped internationally.

It gained’t shock you that Tim Tams style candy and chocolatey. Tim Tams are finest loved with a scorching beverage like a tea or espresso, and you should buy them in most supermarkets in Australia and organize them on-line to be shipped overseas. An Aussie ritual when having a Tim Tam with a scorching drink is to create a Tim Tam Slam, the place you chew off reverse corners on every finish of the biscuit after which suck the drink by way of like utilizing a straw. This is especially standard with scorching chocolate.

5. Kangaroo meat

Next to koalas, kangaroos are Australia’s nationwide animal. However, in contrast to koalas, kangaroos are additionally a preferred Australian meals. Kangaroos are extraordinarily widespread throughout Australia and have such excessive inhabitants numbers that they’re thought of pests in lots of areas. Kangaroo meat was unlawful till the top of the twentieth century, when it was legalized for human consumption. However, Indigenous Australians have been consuming kangaroo meat for hundreds of years.

When staying on the Gold Coast, our pal Duncan introduced over some kangaroo meat for us to strive. I advised him I wouldn’t eat it, however when he cooked it, I appreciated it higher than my steak! The lean crimson meat is exceptionally excessive in protein and low in fats – making it a wholesome dish to eat.

Kangaroo meat has a a lot stronger, richer taste than beef or lamb. It can also be stuffed with iron and actually excessive in nutritional vitamins and minerals like zinc. Kangaroo meat is sourced from wild kangaroos, sourced throughout Australia from Queensland to Western Australia. The meat might be cooked in a pan, oven, or true Aussie model, grilled on the barbecue.

6. Pavlova

A pavlova is a scrumptious dessert that’s famed throughout the globe and truly originated in New Zealand. The pavlova acquired its identify from the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. It is usually eaten in Australia for particular events and public gatherings. The dish is meringue-based but appears to be like extra like a domed cake. It is steadily embellished with whipped cream and recent fruits and has a crisp exterior and tender inside.

Baking a pavlova is kind of a fantastic artwork. It includes whisking egg whites and including sugar steadily. It is a type of desserts that everybody is aware of one achieved dessert maker and depends on them to convey a pavlova. If you’re feeling courageous, strive making a pavlova at residence or deal with your self to a pleasant slice whereas visiting Australia’s finest cafes.

7. Barramundi

Barramundi is my favourite Australian fish. It is a white fish with an exquisite buttery taste. Barramundi might be present in nearly each seafood dish and is by far one among Australia’s hottest fish. Trust me, if you’re visiting Australia you don’t need to miss attempting the barramundi. Even if you’re not a fish lover you’ll love the style of this one. If you’re anyplace alongside the coast it will likely be straightforward to monitor it down.

If you’re looking to catch and eat one your self then Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory provide the perfect barramundi fishing.

Barramundi might be cooked in some ways, together with being steamed, baked, barbecued, or fried. An Australian favourite is to barbecue it, or alternatively, marinate the meat with lemon earlier than baking it within the oven. No matter which approach you put together it you’re assured nice taste.

8. Fish and chips

Fish and chips are a traditional British dish, so it’s no marvel that the recipe adopted British settlers to Australia. The Australian model of fish and chips may be very related – you’ll nonetheless discover battered white fish and chunky potato chips. The foremost distinction is that the Aussie model makes use of Australian fish like basa, New Zealand Hoki, and john dory. In Britain, white fish like cod or haddock are rather more standard.

The fish is coated in a light-weight batter (with beer normally added as an additional contact) and deep-fried. The potatoes are chopped into tough chunks and in addition deep-fried in oil. Aussies have a tendency to serve fish and chips drenched in malt vinegar with loads of salt.

Fancy attempting the Australian tackle this traditional dish? There are fish and chips outlets everywhere in the nation, and every store will favor completely different fish, providing a unique expertise of this Australian meals relying on the place you choose. Fish is normally recent and regionally caught. For occasion, john dory is quite common round Sydney, so that you’ll discover a lot of john dory fish and chips across the metropolis.

9. Meat pie

Good previous meat pies are beloved by Australians nationwide. The pies are sometimes across the dimension of your hand and are served as the best takeaway snack. The finest meat pie consists of minced meat, gravy, and sometimes additional elements like mushroom, onion, melted cheese, or spice components. Aussies take the title of the ‘best meat pie’ very severely, although, and there are even specialty pie outlets dotted across the nation.

Hot meaty pies have been round for hundreds of years and are believed to have been developed as a approach to include and maintain scorching meat. It is such an age-old culinary idea that meat pies might be traced again to the 2nd century AD. However, Australia caught on to the meat pie within the early nineteenth century when a wheat mill was opened in Sydney.

Meat pies are straightforward to put together, and it simply includes filling a short-crust pastry base with fillings and cooking in an oven. Simple however scrumptious, a meat pie is a superb Australian meals to strive when visiting.

10. Chicken Parmigiana

Chicken parmigiana consists of rooster schnitzel (breaded rooster) breast lined in tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Nobody is aware of the place this tasty dish caught maintain to change into a pub favourite, however variations of ‘chicken parma’ have popped up the place it has change into a staple dish in Australian delicacies. The earliest reference might be discovered within the US in 1944. Still, for the aim of this information, we will probably be treating rooster parmigiana as an Australian meals. Besides, the Aussies do it finest.

Chicken parmigiana is ready with a mix of crushed eggs, breadcrumbs, cheese, and a particular tomato sauce with garlic, olive oil, and oregano. It is cooked within the oven and served alongside veggies or carbs like pasta and potatoes.

Chicken parmigiana is discovered in lots of Australian eating places and cafes. You may also discover a decent-priced rooster parma in most Australian supermarkets, like Woolies. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, recreate the dish at residence.

11. Salt and pepper calamari

Salt and pepper calamari is a massively standard Australian meals. Squid is caught throughout Australia by way of strictly sustainable fishing, and calamari is simply squid chopped into chewy meat rings. Calamari might be served in lots of kinds, together with battered or served amongst recent seafood. However, salt and pepper calamari is the preferred use of squid and is especially scrumptious.

The calamari is dipped in wheat flour and egg to create a salt and pepper batter. The smothered calamari is deep-fried till it’s mild, crispy, and golden. The result’s scrumptious. The salt is probably the most obvious style within the dish, though the distinction between the batter and the softness of the squid meat provides a pleasant texture.

It won’t shock you that calamari is an Italian dish. The phrase calamari means squid in Italian. The dish was adopted in Australian delicacies within the mid-to-late 90s. The recipe is so nicely suited to Australia. It shortly turned a match made in heaven for the reason that nation’s waters are surrounded by excessive squid populations. The relaxation is historical past.

12. Sausage sizzle

Sausage sizzles are massively related to fundraising and social occasions like a great previous Aussie BBQ, from the Sydney Royal Easter Show to a faculty barbecue. So, what’s it? A sausage sizzle is a skinny sausage served diagonally on a slice of bread, a sausage sandwich. It is cooked on a barbecue and is normally served with tomato or barbecue sauce. You’ll typically discover fried onions as an addition to the tasty tomato sauce.

Sausage sizzles are shortly cooked at residence, particularly when you have a barbecue. But for those who go to Australia, you’ll positively come throughout one or two in your travels. There are loads of public barbecues too, the place you’ll be able to cook dinner up a storm for those who don’t have one at residence.

13. Smashed avocado

Smashed avocado is a scrumptious meals in Australia’s native delicacies. While usually served as a standalone dish, simply with avocado on toast, smashed avocado may also be added to poached eggs on toast and eggs and bacon. It is a stunning, versatile staple that Aussies add to many traditional dishes – normally at breakfast or brunch.

Avocados are prevalent throughout Australia, and actually, many working vacation visa holders assist out with harvesting avocados to qualify for his or her second and third-year visas. Because avocados are produced regionally, they’re among the finest on the planet. Forget shopping for avocados that appear too ripe and brown earlier than you’ve even acquired them residence.

Smashed avocado is easy and includes peeling and eradicating the big seed from the middle. You then simply mash up the ‘avo’, including seasoning and a squirt of lemon or sprint of seed if you want. Avocado is vastly standard in Aussie cafes and eating places, and for those who exit for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, you’re sure to discover it on the menu.

14. Fresh prawns

Australians eat loads of recent seafood. However, prawns are an enormous staple and a particular Aussie traditional. They are farmed throughout the nation’s shoreline and are among the many hottest Australian meals selections. It is frequent to have a bowl of recent prawns when assembly buddies for a social occasion. It is taken into account a staple Australian dish at summer time backyard events and at an Australian BBQ.

Fresh prawns might be served peeled or unpeeled. If served unpeeled, keep away from being postpone by the dish, as you’ll be able to simply tear off the pinnacle finish and flip off the arduous shell by the ft. You shortly get the hold of it, and the prawn meat is chilly and refreshing – price the additional effort.

What would possibly sound unusual to non-Australians is that recent prawns are thought of a Christmas particular in Australia. Seafood, generally, is a agency favourite festive meals, however prawns have a tendency to take heart stage. Try some for those who go to; if not, think about including them to your subsequent Christmas dinner.

15. Lamb leg roast

Australia has a big sheep business. And whereas farmers have skilled some ups and downs, particularly throughout latest droughts, it’s nonetheless thriving at this time. British settlers virtually instantly started farming after they arrived within the 18th century, and lamb leg roast is a traditional from the early days. Lamb leg roast is an Australian assertion dish. It is usually the centerpiece of a dinner for a lot of individuals.

Lamb leg roast tastes slightly gamey and has extra fats than meats like beef. Lamb’s leg can also be one of the crucial tender cuts, preferrred for roasting slightly than braising or stewing since roasting makes use of dry warmth. It is cooked for an prolonged interval within the oven, for a few of which many individuals select to place foil over the meat to retain moisture. Some recipes add additional elements like rosemary and garlic.

16. Crab sticks

First issues first, crab sticks usually are not really crab meat. Crab sticks include white fish meat that’s blended up into tiny sticks and dyed crimson on the skin, meant to visually resemble a crab’s legs. The concept is a Japanese idea created to present an inexpensive various to costly crab legs. Crab sticks emerged in Japan within the Nineteen Seventies, and never stunning contemplating Australia’s love affair with seafood, they quickly made their approach Down Under.

Crab sticks have a really delicate taste, and the fish style is sufficiently subtle to not give away the crab disguise. You buy precooked crab sticks, that are finest eaten chilly, very like recent prawns. You can usually discover crab sticks paired with salads and dips. As a straightforward finger meals dish, it’s a standard addition to a backyard celebration desk or social gathering.

17. Witchetty grub

Ready to go correct Aussie bush tucker? Witchetty grub doesn’t look appetizing however tastes surprisingly good. The monumental white moth larvae are historically eaten by Indigenous Australians. However, others have caught on to the wide-ranging well being advantages as nicely. Some go so far as to declare that witchetty grub tastes like almonds when eaten uncooked and rooster when cooked. The grubs are extraordinarily wealthy in protein, fats, and power. They additionally include excessive ranges of vitamin B1 and minerals like magnesium and zinc.

As you will have picked up on, you’ll be able to eat witchetty grub uncommon or cooked. We advocate attempting witchetty grub cooked, although. The grubs are finest cooked by roasting them on coals, which supplies them a light-weight smoky taste.

18. Emu meat

You don’t take a look at the large, flightless chook and instantly suppose ‘food’. However, emu meat has been eaten by Indigenous Australians for hundreds of years. The big chook is the largest native chook in Australia and an ostrich relative. Its meat may be very lean, low in fats, and excessive in iron, good for human consumption. In the late 90s, emu meat instantly obtained loads of public consideration, with many calling it ‘the next red meat’. Only just a few international locations aside from Australia nonetheless have an emu business, although, with emu meat failing to overtake beef and show itself cost-effective.

Emu tastes loads like beef and accommodates loads of oils which are hailed for anti-inflammatory properties. It is taken into account a more healthy various to mainstream meats like beef, rooster, and pork. So be courageous and take a look at some for those who go to Australia.

19. Crocodile meat

Crocodile meat just isn’t one thing you’ll discover in your typical Aussie barbecue. You don’t even discover crocodiles residing wild in New South Wales, South Australia, or Victoria. So you’d have to head to the extra northern states to come throughout crocodile farms. However, the dish is likely one of the most uncommon Australian meals, and if you’re feeling adventurous, its price attempting. It has very excessive protein ranges and is usually in contrast in style and texture to rooster.

Because it’s farmed on a comparatively small scale, crocodile meat is taken into account an Australian delicacy. There is a historical past of Indigenous Australians consuming crocodiles. While crocodiles have been protected as a species in 1971, the inhabitants grew so giant once more that the crocodile meat business by no means ceased. As we stated, if you’re feeling adventurous, crocodile is likely one of the most uncommon Australian meals to strive. Make positive to analysis the product earlier than shopping for, although, because the crocodile business has a status for having some unethical farms. Anyone promoting ethically sourced meat must be clear and reply your questions fortunately.

20. Mango

Stepping away from Australia’s most controversial meals, let’s take a look at its primary recent fruit; mango. Mangoes usually are not native to Australia, however the Portuguese unfold the fruit worldwide and it started to spring up in Australia by the 1800s. The fruit is predominantly grown in Queensland, with some timber in Western Australia and New South Wales.

Mangoes are tremendous candy and juicy. Throughout the mango season (September till February), mangoes are offered within the majority of supermarkets and in some small outlets. They are eaten recent, skinned then sliced off the big seed within the heart. You can discover dried mango 12 months spherical, however it’s nowhere close to as standard because the ‘real deal’. Aussies love mango as a refreshing summer time snack.

21. Lamingtons

Lamingtons are a tasty dessert served virtually as bitesize. It is a classy candy deal with designed to be loved with a scorching drink similar to tea or espresso and lined with chocolate sauce. The dessert consists of a sq. of butter cake or sponge cake, evenly coated in jam and a layer of chocolate icing and sprinkled with desiccated coconut. Lamingtons style extremely candy, so these with a candy tooth will love this Australian meals.

The dessert was named in honor of Lord and Lady Lamington, the primary who served as governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. While the unique creator is unknown, the recipe was revealed in {a magazine} in 1900 and shortly caught on. Quickly, lamingtons turned commonplace in Australian cookbooks.

22. Chiko roll

picture courtesy of Wikimedia Commons by IanBailey at English Wikipedia, Public area

A Chiko roll is an adaptation of a Chinese spring roll. If meals could possibly be copyrighted, Chiko rolls would definitely be responsible, because the dish appears to be like an identical to a Chinese spring roll. The solely distinction is the filling, as Chiko rolls have beef and rice in addition to greens like carrot and cabbage – regardless of being offered initially as rooster rolls and never containing any rooster in any way.

Chiko rolls are an incredible savory snack and have a meaty taste from the meat. As a responsible pleasure processed meals, Chiko rolls are a traditional Australian meals to strive from the native Aussie grocery store or native fish and chip. store. While it’s a branded dish and there isn’t a set recipe to make them at residence shortly, you can additionally try to recreate the recipe as an additional problem. Otherwise, hold it easy and simply order some in.

23. Seafood pizza

Pizza, indubitably, belongs to Italy. It is, nevertheless, a preferred Australian dish. One pizza, specifically, is standard all through the nation: seafood pizza. We’ve already talked about how a lot Australians take pleasure in seafood, and pizza isn’t any exception. On your pizza, you’ll be able to anticipate to discover all the things from prawns to calamari and mussels. The flavors complement one another completely, particularly with a garlicky tomato sauce.

When pizza turned standard in Australia, the seafood pizza was launched. It wasn’t till the late Forties that there was a rush of Italian and Greek residents who migrated to Australia following World War II. So Australia was late to notice that the remainder of the world loves pizza. In reality, the primary pizza restaurant was opened in 1961, and after that, the pizza scene took off quickly.

24. Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are one of the crucial pure Australian meals. The tiny little nuts are one of many solely native merchandise that Australia exports on a colossal worldwide scale. The nuts are praised worldwide for his or her dietary worth, together with dietary fiber and pure antioxidants that assist circumstances like heart problems and diabetes. Macadamia nuts are very low in sugar and carbohydrates however excessive in protein and magnesium.

Macadamia nuts are predominantly grown in New South Wales and southern Queensland (by the way, New South Wales is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Australia). You can buy the nuts at most supermarkets and complete meals outlets and purchase them from outdoors of Australia as an exported good. If you go to New South Wales, you can too enterprise to macadamia nut hotspots like Byron Bay and take excursions of the farms. The nuts might be eaten uncooked or roasted at a low temperature in order not to lose their dietary worth.

Australian Food FAQs

Now that we’ve checked out the perfect Australian meals to strive at residence or in Australia let’s take a look at some frequent FAQs.

What is a well-liked meals in Australia?

Seafood, particularly prawns, is a well-liked meals in Australia. Prawns are even eaten at Christmas.

What meals are solely in Australia?

Kangaroo meat is barely present in Australia. Some meals, like macadamia nuts, are native to Australia however exported all around the globe.

What is Australia’s most favourite meals?

Australia’s favourite meals is avocado. You discover avocados all over the place in Australia, and avocado-themed breakfasts and brunches are tremendous standard.

What is Australia’s tradition meals?

Anzac biscuits are Australia’s cultural meals, representing the nation’s beliefs and respect for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

To Conclude

Food won’t have been your first thought earlier than a go to to Australia. Hopefully, now you recognize that it must be. Australian meals is scrumptious and assorted – having cherry-picked the perfect components of quite a few different cuisines and added some gems of its personal. Adventurous eaters may even love the novelty of surprising meats, which comes with the territory of getting such a captivating wildlife scene.

Looking for extra Australian journey inspiration and data? Check out these guides on probably the most superb issues to do in Tasmania and Brisbane. For non-surfers, we’ve additionally acquired a information on issues to do in Queensland apart from browsing and a useful assortment of the finest locations to keep for these visiting Melbourne.