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11 BEST Travel Guides for 2024 [Websites & Guidebooks]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The two best travel guides are Rick Steves for first time travelers—especially anyone going to Europe—and Bradt Guides for off-the-beaten-path destinations and “Slow Travel.” Both are reliable, will give you ideas for what to do, and help you plan the best trip.

The way we travel has changed drastically in my lifetime. Information is more readily available in the digital age, a massive plus for traveling. 

Everyone, including myself, wants to make the most of every trip abroad. That’s why I love reading travel guide books or online guides. 

Some of these guide books help you get off the beaten path. Others give information on tours you can take on your own to learn the history of a certain destination you’re visiting. 

But which are the best?

After years of reading and doing research, I have found the best travel guides for you to use when planning your next trip abroad!

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Here’s a quick look at our recommendations

• DK Eyewitness
• Bradt Guides
• Rick Steves
• Lonely Planet
• Blue Guides
• Footprint Guides
• Frommer Guides
• Tripadvisor
• Rough Guides
• Moon Travel Guides
• Insight Guides

Table of Contents

#1 DK Eyewitness

DK Eyewitness is one of the best travel guide books on the market today. But they offer more than just travel information. 

After publishing books for over 45 years, DK Eyewitness Books cover everything from travel, science, history, pop culture, and children’s topics.

Their travel guides give the information you desperately need for travel– such as maps, itineraries, accommodations, where to eat, and more! 

I also love how easy their visuals are to look at. I sometimes get lost in their maps and start imagining myself there (I’m a big daydreamer if you can’t tell!).

DK Eyewitness Travel guide books might not be the most in-depth on a particular location, but they help with travel inspiration. 

If you want more information, DK Eyewitness has a podcast called ‘Where to Go,’ which is another excellent way to get your travel information on the go!

• 100+ destinations
• Heavy on history
• It has both outdoor and city guides
• Amazing visuals
• Not as in-depth as other guides

#2 Bradt Guides

A Bradt travel guide is perfect if you’re interested in visiting countries that are less traveled to— written by experienced travelers with fantastic insider tips. 

Bradt travel guide books has a reputation as the “World’s leading independent travel publisher.” They are also the best India travel guide company.

Some unique destinations include Iraq, Sri Lanka, Galapagos Islands, and Grenada. But don’t worry. Bradt Guides also has a British series for those interested! 

Lately, I’ve been striving to travel like a local. Bradt has a ‘Slow Travel’ guidebook series, which I love using these days because it helps me travel like a local. 

The trip ideas are great in detail but might not be for your preferred country to visit. 

Bradt Guides prides itself on being the most comprehensive on the market. Their authors give cultural insights and expressions of interest and knowledge.

You can support Bradt’s Guides even further by subscribing to their Patreon! Here you can pay monthly for a specific tier and earn different things like one free e-book a month.

• More off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Slow travel series
• Has a Patreon page
• Unique style of travel not for everyone

#3 Rick Steves

Rick Steves books are the guide books your mom hands you when traveling to your dream destination in Europe. And that’s a good thing! They’re trusted by many for a reason.

These travel guide books are always up-to-date, thanks to Rick Steves’ research partners. 

Rick’s books will have you feeling like you’re on guided tours! He ensures you’ll have some fantastic cultural experiences. 

I love Europe, but there are many other cultures throughout the world that I’m even more interested in. So, since Rick Steves’ guidebooks are primarily Europe-focused, I’m not as drawn to them.

Also, traveling in Europe long-term can get expensive. His books cater to a more wealthy crowd. 

Pick any European country, and you will have high-quality content on that destination. Rick has visited Europe countless times, and other travel websites can’t compete. 

Rick’s bestseller is his Italy guide, which isn’t surprising. In that guide, he goes over the best places to eat and sleep and how to beat the crowds. 

It’s a good idea to grab a Rick Steves’ book simply for the detailed maps.

• Best guides for Europe
• It gives in-depth information for solo tours
• Perfect for a beginner traveler.
• Catered to upper and middle-class travelers

#4 Lonely Planet

I’m sure you’ve heard of Lonely Planet , as they’ve been a dominant force in the travel scene for quite some time now. Their goal is to make travel planning easy, and they’ve succeeded!  

I loved using Lonely Planet books when I first started traveling. These books helped me up my game as a budget traveler. 

Lonely Planet dominates the internet with a wealth of online resources. While the information they offer online is easy to access, it can be vague. 

You can subscribe to Lonely Planet on their website for free. I’ve done this, but I’ve found that there tends to be some destinations/articles that are low in detail. 

Considering Lonely Planet’s sheer amount of content, it’s not too surprising that they sometimes gloss over details. 

Their claim to fame is their numerous experts located worldwide. These experts cover adventure travel, family holidays, food and drink, and much more. 

Plus, a Lonely Planet magazine is an amazing coffee table piece, am I right?

• Backpacker friendly
• An extensive collection of guides for the entire world
• Free information is available
• Some of their content is outdated or not detailed

#5 Blue Guides

If you love the art and history of Italy, then Blue Guides is for you! People often plagiarize Blue Guide books due to the amount of accurate information each book has. 

With over 14 books on Italy alone, you won’t find more detailed information on a particular destination than with Blue Guides– they deliver it all! 

Italy was the first country that I visited outside of the United States, and I’m so glad that I had a Blue Guide book with me. 

Their award-winning maps and exceptional attention to detail made it feel like I was on a private tour! 

Be aware: there aren’t a lot of online articles from Blue Guides or many countries to choose from, which could be an issue if you like to visit more unusual locations.

Blue Guides’ first publication date was in the early 1900s, so it’s undoubtedly a top guidebook for a travel junkie!

• Helps travelers understand art and history
• Multiple guides on Italy
• Extremely thorough in their research
• Not a lot of destinations

#6 Footprint Guides

Footprint Guides is the go-to source for Latin American travel tips for all budgets! My love for this region of the world has only grown since I started using their books.

Even if Latin America isn’t one of your top destinations, they do offer other print books. All Footprint Guides are written by experts who have lived in that destination. 

Unfortunately, for North American travelers looking to plan a dream road trip, you won’t find much helpful information here, as their focus is decidedly on the south. 

Alongside their practical information, Footprint adds a layer of imagination to their guidebooks, giving them an edge that makes them one of the best travel guide series available today!

• Wide range of budgets
• Specializes in Latin America
• Practical information
• Not much content on the United States

#7 Frommer Guides

Does traveling on $5 per day sound appealing to you? Arthur Frommer thought so when he set out to create his Frommer travel guides . 

Alongside some of the best guidebooks, Frommer also offers other forms of information, including podcasts, online articles, and hotel deals!

I love using Frommer guides on road trips because they help me in many different situations. 

I usually like to have a podcast for when I’m driving , a guidebook on specific destinations while I’m in a hotel room, and online sources when on the go. 

Having Frommer guides in all their varied forms is essential since each one typically doesn’t go into heavy detail. 

If purchasing travel guide books doesn’t interest you, then keeping up to date with Frommer’s online travel guides is the way to go.

• Many styles of information are available
• Updates information frequently
• Offer hotel deals
• It covers only the main details

#8 Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is an online source that most travelers have heard about. It’s unique on this list of travel guides because you interact with other travelers!

If you’re looking for help with trip planning, look no further than the Tripadvisor forum . Here you can talk with fellow travelers about your upcoming trip! 

When I have a specific question that needs answering, I always check Tripadvisor first. They have information on most countries, but some info on the forums can be outdated. 

Tripadvisor is great because it’s free! But they’re more than just a review and forum-based platform; you can also book different travel deals and tours through their website.

Sometimes the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming to click through.  If that sounds relatable, you might want to purchase some guidebooks instead. 

Tripadvisor started the wave of online travel planning. They’re worth browsing, even if you just want to write down a few travel tips!

• Multiple reviews from other travelers
• Travel deals available
• Forum can be out of date
• The massive amount of information can be overwhelming

#9 Rough Guides

Rough Guides has grown into a leader in the travel industry with its amazing travel guidebooks and online travel guides. 

What I love about these books is their authenticity. Their recommendations from locals helped to grow them into who they are today.

It all started with their Greece travel guide, and it quickly blew up. Demand increased for more and more Rough Guide content; they released a guidebook series for people who were eager for more. In 2017, Rough Guides expanded even further.

Today Rough Guides are more than just a travel guide company that sells books. They offer tours, custom-made itineraries, and more! I love using their website when planning my next trip. 

These custom-made itineraries and tours are expensive but for a reason. Rough Guides’ experts are located worldwide to give you the best travel experience ever. 

Rough Guides best selling guides offer a ton of background information and local tips, making them worth the high price!

• Detailed itineraries
• Personal recommendations from locals
• An extensive list of countries
• High prices for tours and custom itineraries

#10 Moon Travel Guides

Moon Guides are my favorite guidebooks for traveling around the United States. Planning that perfect road trip is challenging but Moon Guides makes it easier.

Moon’s travel guidebooks are all about traveling sustainably. I’ve used them countless times in the Americas and have found them super helpful.

But Moon Guides don’t focus on the Americas only– they also offer some of the best travel guides for Japan in particular.

I’ve learned to use these books more for research instead of bringing them on my travels– they don’t always hold up with how rugged traveling can get for me.

Moon’s detailed maps are so good in their guidebooks that I fill my phone library with them. They are easy to read and use, which is what I think makes a good map. 

The best travel tips are from locals, and that’s what Moon’s travel guidebooks bring. They don’t have a fancy touring app or anything, but they don’t need it. 

If you want one of the best travel guides for families, then there’s no better choice than making Moon Guides your tour guide when traveling. 

Find your dream destination, get travel inspiration from their maps, and book that plane ticket.

• Emphasis on the Americas and the Pacific
• Easy-to-understand maps
• Many pages of information solely for hotels/accommodations
• Guidebooks aren’t durable

#11 Insight Guides

Insight is one of the best travel guidebooks on the market for a reason. The beautiful photographs in these travel guidebooks will have you daydreaming for days.

Insight guides are perfect for those history buffs out there like me. They combine great information with also some off-the-beaten-track activities. 

Insight has produced over 200 guidebooks and language books. Their books provide information on nearly any country you can think of (besides Mexico).

I love their books because they also have a mini-series.

During the Covid years, I was in the mood to read a lot. I picked a different destination each week and bought a new e-book. 

I could do this because they only cost five to ten dollars! Most of the best travel guidebooks are double this.   

Besides its guidebook series, Insight offers a handmade trip planned by experts to the destination of your choice. What more could you ask for?!

• Multiple countries in each continent
• Has language guides
• Sells hand-picked vacation packages put together by locals
• Offers mini versions of guides to sell for cheap
• No Mexico guide

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Guide

What to Look for in Travel Guides

Is the information up to date.

Picking the best travel guidebooks can be an overwhelming process. But the most important thing to watch out for is making sure the information is up-to-date.

Compared to online sources, guidebook information tends not to get updated as quickly for obvious reasons. 

You don’t want a travel guide taking you to a restaurant that doesn’t exist anymore, do you? No. You want to get off the beaten track but not THAT off that it gets you lost.

Pick Locally-Based Travel Guides

My ideal travel style is meeting locals, living, and eating like a local. I have the best travel experiences when I dive deep into the culture.

The best information about a destination comes from locals. When you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, wouldn’t you want to consult someone who has lived there for many years?

When you rely on locals’ recommendations, you’ll truly have an experience of a lifetime. 

Know What Type of Traveler You Are

This next tip can be difficult for some, and it can change from year to year. I have gone from being a true budget traveler to somewhere in the middle. 

I used to love history (I still do) and would base my travels around that. Now I seek adventure activities. 

Different types of guides will focus on different things, such as budget travel, adventure, expensive tours, food, or history. 

Finding the travel guide that fits your style will be more beneficial in the long run.

Know Which Destination You Want to Visit the Most

The best world travel guidebooks are often better for certain locations than others. For example, Rick Steves has a reputation for being the best travel guide for Europe and, specifically, the best travel guide for Italy. 

So, choose your travel guide based on which one specializes in the area you’re curious about.

Other Helpful Travel Guides

Travel is a huge industry which means there are more guides than you could ever possibly use. 

If you prefer your travel content in video form, one of the best travel guide Youtube channels is Ryan Shirley . 

His videos showcase the top places to visit in different countries with some of the best drone shots you’ll ever see. 

FAQs About Travel Guides

Should You Even Buy a Travel Guide?

A travel guide has its place. It may seem outdated to use one, but you can find some of the best information in them. 

Some guides take years to make and are very specific in the details they write for certain locations. The maps tend to be better and easier to read in these types of guides as well.  

Which is better: Lonely Planet or Rough Guide?

It depends on the style of travel you prefer. I prefer budget travel and tend to take fewer tours, so I like Lonely Planet. Rough Guide also has amazing tours if you’re interested in those.

What is the difference between Fodor’s and Frommer’s travel guides?

Frommer travel guides are excellent for those who want an easy read. Fodor is typically the better choice if you want more details about your activities. 

Fodor also has one of the best travel guides for Ireland, so check out Fodor if that’s your destination.

Is it better to travel with a tour guide or alone with a travel guide?

The answer differs from person to person! If you want your trip planned, then a tour guide is perfect. Going alone with a travel guide is nice because you can go at your own pace. 

Do people still buy travel guides?

Absolutely! There’s something different about having a travel guidebook to look at rather than scrolling through a website. 

Rick Steves and Bradt are my favorite travel guides.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Phillip Anderson

Phillip Anderson is a freelance travel writer, personal trainer, and adventure enthusiast. With years of travel experience under his belt, Phillip is an expert in finding the best deals through travel apps and websites. He knows how to find cheap domestic and international flights, like a flight to Peru for as low as $350.

When looking for cheap accommodations, Phillip combines his knowledge of websites like Airbnb, Booking.com & Hostelworld with more unique sites like TrustedHousesitters, for even more savings. Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or local experiences, he teaches travelers to make informed decisions, ensuring their adventures are both memorable and economical. For more from Phillip, check out his website, JaywalkTheWorld.com.

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Our 10 best City Guides, according to readers

Local favorites on what to eat, see and do from Texas to Tokyo

Do you know how to find the best fried rice balls in Rome ? Or where to see local jazz in New Orleans , in the heart of where it was born? We do, because we asked the locals who know best.

If you’re looking for the best places to eat or after-hours hangouts in a new city, chances are you’re asking a resident expert during your travels. That’s why By The Way’s City Guides tapped trusted hometown journalists and authors in 70 cities around the world to take you through their favorite neighborhoods, places to eat and things to do.

Our more than 200 city and neighborhood guides skip the tourist noise and reveal their city’s best-kept secrets — places to get a carajillo (coffee cocktail) in Mexico City and where to eat in Austin beyond the Tex-Mex and barbecue joints. They’re meant to feel like your best friend is taking you through their beloved city.

These are our 10 most popular guides, from America to Asia, in no particular order. So get planning — or at least daydreaming.

Paris is often seen from the outside as a place of love and light — a magical city bathed in romance. This can be true, but Paris is mostly a place of imperfection, a mixture of beauty and chaos. And this is why it’s probably the most charming city in the world. Far away from the Eiffel Tower, life vibrates from little cafes and restaurants (from fancy to quirky), public art and wide diversity found in few European cities. Show us you love our city as much as we do, and you may even walk away thinking Parisians are actually nice.

Read the full guide by Jennifer Padjemi.

Eat: Du Pain et des Idées

We could save you some reading and simply say that many Parisians regard this little bakery near Place de la République, one of the central meeting points of Paris, as the best in the world. It’s esteemed especially for its range of options. Located in a traditional Haussmannian building, it has a facade that recalls typical bakeries of the 1910s. Inside, you’ll find gilded mirrors and an ornate painted ceiling above the stacks of bread and pastries.

In Paris, frozen pastries pose as homemade. Here’s how to spot impostors.

Do: Palais de Tokyo

The Palais de Tokyo is the most contemporary museum you can find in Paris. Having originated as a simple museum of modern art, it quickly morphed into a multidisciplinary space, hosting conceptual exhibitions, fashion shows and cultural events. Within its enormous complex, it invites visitors to connect with art playfully and learn about the artists.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a city built on joie de vivre. Excess is the order of the day, whether you’re a first-timer hunting for cheap beads and bad booze on Bourbon Street or a lifer deciding what to order on your po’ boy. Everyone’s mom or grandma makes the best gumbo, and — yes — they do want to talk about it. Food is synonymous with identity here, one that all New Orleanians hold equally regardless of race or class. Art is everywhere — even on the water-meter covers. There are at least as many ways to experience New Orleans as there are people who have contributed to its revered culture.

Read the full guide by Stephanie Carter.

Eat: Gabrielle

A dozen long years after Hurricane Katrina forced it to shut down, this beloved family-owned restaurant made a triumphant return in 2017. Gabrielle enjoys a loyal following because it embodies the ideals of New Orleans hospitality: pitch-perfect service and a gracious attitude that seems effortless. The fan-favorite slow-roasted duck sits on a bed of duck dirty rice with a crispy duck cracklin’ as a crown.

A tale of two Mardi Gras

Do: Live music in Tremé

Tremé is the oldest African American neighborhood in the United States, home to the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts and Congo Square, where jazz developed. The legacy lives on in high-energy, no-frills music venues. Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge , the funky, color-soaked club where musician Kermit Ruffins himself can often be found tending the barbecue on the back patio, is an excellent spot to catch live, local music.

Mexico City

One of the largest urban centers in the world, Mexico City overflows with life, traffic and great food; you can find street vendors and fine dining on the same block. There’s always something happening, a new restaurant to try, a new museum or art exhibit, a concert from artists who travel from around the globe.

Residents are known as “chilangos,” and while the roots of that nickname have been scrutinized, many of us carry it with pride. It’s like a badge that means we can endure anything. We take long drives to work, eat quick lunches and stretch out long chats with post-meal coffee and desserts. At this sobremesa, or roundtable, there is always room for a carajillo, a coffee spiked with sweet liqueur.

Read the full guide by Issa Plancarte.

Eat: Los Cocuyos

In the world of tacos, Mexico City is best known for suadero: brisket slowly stewed in a pot full of meats. A suadero taco is the go-to at this little window downtown, and the best way to enjoy it is with a dash of lime, cilantro, onion and salsa. Be sure to try some other delicacies such as longaniza (sausage) and lengua (beef tongue).

6 Mexico vacations that check every travel style

Do: Arca Tierra

When the Mexicas ruled 500 years ago, Mexico City was like Venice. The city was built in the middle of a lake, so people used to travel by boats in canals. You can still get a glimpse of this lifestyle in the Xochimilco neighborhood. Arca Tierra is a project devoted to rescue this model of agriculture, and its weekly experiences bring on some of Mexico’s most recognized chefs.

Rome is beautiful chaos and contradictions, and this should absolutely be expected from a city whose thousands of years of history and personalities have formed its pulsating present. There is no patience, and there shouldn’t be. This is Rome, where anything goes. The energy can be overwhelming. Keep walking around; eventually, you’ll realize that Rome is not quite as big as you thought — geographically and socially. Everyone knows everyone. If you visit the same places and piazzas a few times, you’ll find that they know you, too.

Read the full guide by Erica Firpo.

Eat: Suppli

The supplì — a deep-fried rice ball in ragù with a piece of melted mozzarella in the center — is a beloved Roman delicacy. For nearly 50 years, Suppli in the Trastevere neighborhood has been the spot for supplì and pizza al taglio. Fresh out of the oven and crunchy, you eat them streetside, no questions asked.

An ancient pastry is having a rebirth in Rome. These are all the ways to eat it when you’re there.

Do: Bike the Appia Antica

Loving Rome means getting out of the city, so we’re lucky the Romans built amazing streets crossing the country. The oldest and longest is the Via Appia Antica , and you need to travel only a tiny stretch to feel like you’re in the country. The ride is lined with ancient monuments, tombs and Roman pines along fields of green. Expect to pass flocks of meandering sheep.

Washington, D.C.

To know Washington is to peel back its suit: The briefcases and blazers the rest of the world sees are just covers for a vibrant, creative community. Whether it’s the food scene — one of the country’s best — or the murals tucked away in historic alleys, the city D.C. residents know is quirky — and inspiring.

After you sit in on a Supreme Court hearing, you can explore an eccentric mansion with more than 70 hidden doors. Once you are done reading the oldest book in the Library of Congress, you can take a wine tour through a haunted cemetery. There is kayaking, urban hiking, rare-book hunting, brunching and rich history beyond the white buildings.

Read the full guide by Austin Graff.

Daru , a corner restaurant with a growing list of accolades, is just a right turn away from restaurant-lined H Street NE. Chef Suresh Sundas fills his Indian menu with playful twists, such as a dal makhani burrata, blue-cheese-marinated chicken kebabs or za’atar olive naan. The creativity of the cocktails matches the food: Bartenders mix drinks with toasted coconut, green papaya and masala chai.

Take a walk in D.C. and find these 7 murals off the beaten path

Do: Congressional Cemetery

Congressional Cemetery has been dubbed “the hippest cemetery in America,” and it lives up to the title. Located in Hill East, it was America’s first national cemetery, established in 1807, with several VIP eternal residents, including former D.C. mayor Marion Barry and several congressmen. Once in disarray, the cemetery started promoting itself as a dog park and charged people for it. Beyond hosting the city’s pets, the cemetery has tours with wine, horror-novel book clubs, yoga and free live music on Sundays in the chapel.

Why we love a good cemetery

Change is inevitable in any city, but in Austin , it’s a particularly sensitive subject. New high-rises crowd the skyline, old music venues have shut down, and the sidewalks are clogged with scooters. But it’s not all changing. While Austin’s restaurant scene has blossomed and its reputation as a high-tech hub has grown, the city has retained a lot of its laid-back, slacker vibe. It’s still a university and state-government town with idealists and budding artists trying to make their marks alongside Bitcoin-mining start-up CEOs.

Read the full guide by Omar L. Gallaga.

Eat: Ramen Tatsu-Ya

The middle of Texas is not where you’d expect to find one of the finest bowls of ramen, but Ramen Tatsu-Ya has overperformed for years, outgrowing its North Austin strip mall beginnings and expanding into three locations. The restaurant has spawned several great offshoots, including Dip Dip Dip Tatsu-Ya (hot pot restaurant), Tiki Tatsu-Ya (tiki bar/restaurant) and Kemuri Tatsu-Ya (smokehouse with shareable plates).

In Austin’s coolest restaurants, Japanese food gets a Texas twist

Do: Hamilton Pool Preserve

Less than an hour’s drive from downtown, this gorgeous swimming hole lies beyond a quarter-mile hike. Just off the Pedernales River, it includes a pool and grotto alongside a 50-foot waterfall. You’ll want to take plenty of photos, and you’ll want to plan ahead; online park reservations fill up quickly and are required from March to October.

Tokyo is such a sprawling metropolis that even lifelong residents will never really know certain neighborhoods. There is always something to uncover or a new area to explore. Here, it’s easy to eat like an emperor, even on a budget. There is respect for others, which explains why packed trains are quiet. The city is devoid of litter despite the relatively few trash cans. The attention to detail is evident across the landscape, from how stores present items for sale to how food is packaged. It’s a peaceful society. Our transit-system cars are clean and frequent. And we have the best toilets in the world. It all makes visitors fall hard for Japan.

Read the full guide by Yukari Sakamoto.

Eat: Taniya

Handmade flour noodles are cut in the front window of Taniya , whose udon noodles have a rich, al dente texture. Aficionados will tell you they prefer the cold noodles over hot. Be sure to order some tempura with your noodles, such as Kashiwa-ten chicken, soft-boiled egg, lotus root or a minty shiso leaf. The owner, Tani-san, is from Kagawa prefecture, famous for its udon.

How to ride the train in Tokyo like a local

Do: Niwa no Yu onsen

Our island nation is home to active volcanoes, so the country is blessed with many onsen — hot springs — used for relaxing and health. If your travels outside of Tokyo don’t take you near an onsen destination, then be sure to hit up one in or near the city: Niwa no Yu , in the suburbs, is the perfect choice. Sourced by an all-natural spring, this one has a variety of water features and saunas, an outdoor bath, a bar and a Japanese restaurant. You could park yourself here for an entire half-day.

With Copenhagen’s ample green spaces, an inner-city harbor clean enough that anyone can — and does — swim in it, and laws that require all housing to be within 500 meters of public transportation, it’s a city that takes its citizens’ well-being seriously. But so, it seems, does everyone else: Cafes brighten the long winter nights with candlelight; the summer is full of outdoor dance classes, movie screenings and music festivals; and bars and cinemas hold “baby and me” happy hours, during which parents park their prams and their infants outside. And as Copenhagen consolidates its leadership in fields like cuisine, design and sustainability, it’s also becoming a more diverse and interesting place.

Read the full guide by Lisa Abend.

Eat: Juno The Bakery

The project of Emil Glaser — a former chef at Noma and Amass — Juno opened in 2018 and quickly began attracting crowds. Juno’s sourdough loaves, made from a blend of Danish and Swedish flours, are visually striking (topped with pumpkin seeds, or in the case of the Morning Bread, shaped in a rectangular mold that makes it perfect for sandwiches). And its seasonal cakes — from a very French pistachio frangipane tart to a fluffy Swedish semla, filled with fresh raspberries and cream — are swoon-inducing.

Copenhagen is in a bakery boom. Get on a bicycle and try these 7.

Do: Bike to Dyrehaven

Cycling is, of course, the best way to get around the city, but it also allows you to explore a little farther afield. A 10-mile ride up the coast to Dyrehaven will take you past the stately mansions of Hellerup, the swimming docks and beach at Bellevue, and an Arne Jacobsen-designed gas station that also functions as an ice cream parlor. And Dyrehaven itself makes an excellent destination: The former royal hunting grounds is today a sprawling reserve punctuated with forests, fields and a herd of wild deer. At its edge sits the charming Bakken, Europe’s oldest amusement park still in operation.

Wander the streets, people-watch from a cafe or spend the evening in Dublin’s old pubs, and soon you’ll understand its essence. This is a city where you’ll find excellent live music — even on the streets, in atmospheric pubs and in innovative restaurants serving Irish produce with a clever twist. You can tour old castles and cathedrals, visit art museums and theaters, see street art or read local writers. Shoppers will find the latest fashions alongside antiques and vintage clothes that are hundreds of years old. Best of all, you can just relax, make new friends and find your own favorite haunts in this small but vibrant Irish city.

Read the full guide by Yvonne Gordon.

Eat: The Winding Stair

This Dublin favorite, with bare wood floors and tables and bookcases in the corners, is full of character. Each of the restaurant’s two levels (reached by stairs, of course) has some of the best views in Dublin: The huge windows look over the River Liffey and the Ha’penny Bridge. The menu changes seasonally, but favorites that remain year-round include cockles and mussels and smoked poached haddock. After lunch, browse the great collection of Irish titles (new and secondhand) in the Winding Stair bookshop on the ground level.

The best way to explore Dublin is by sea

Do: Drink in an old pub

Dublin has some pubs that are hundreds of years old (one dates back to 1198), but our favorites are those from Victorian times in the 1800s, with lots of wood, glass, mirrors and snugs (small rooms beside the bar, from the times when women weren’t allowed at the main bar). The Swan Bar on Aungier Street first opened in 1661; its wooden interior dates from 1897. The pub is in the center of the city but a little off the main tourist track. Grab a stool at the counter and listen to the locals while you watch your Guinness being poured.

Sydney is the emerald jewel in the crown of Oz, a sparkling, seaside city that works hard and plays harder. It’s in a period of substantial growth, with commercial and residential development battling with the cultural and historical backbone of a city known globally for its art, design, food, flair and beaches. Despite the rising cost of living, Sydney — home of the Indigenous Eora nation — is exceedingly accessible: botanical gardens, cliffside walks and white-sand beaches are open year-round. We sometimes forget that we live in a place that celebrates social diversity, good food, coastal swells and pub culture with almost the same reverence.

Read the full guide by Riley Wilson.

Harry’s Cafe de Wheels

This spot is a stalwart for sailors (the navy base is next door), theater patrons and locals alike. It’s the site of the original Harry’s pie caravan, which Harry Edwards opened in 1938 before heading to war. He reopened it in 1945, and it has been continuously running since. These days, the pies are a little pricier, but the peas are still mushy, and the gravy is still hot.

The ultimate travelers guide to Australian food

Bronte Beach

Most visitors make a beeline for Bondi and the photogenic Icebergs Pool. Check out Bronte instead, two beaches south. A park next to the beach has picnic tables, and there’s a free-to-use ocean pool at the right of the beach. When you’re done in the suds, or before you even make your way to the sand, stop in at the Bogey Hole Cafe. Locally famous Iggy’s Bread is used in the sandwiches, and the mango-and-banana smoothies are thick and tangy.

More spring travel tips

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Best in Travel 2024

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The Best in Travel for your bookshelf

The top 10 countries, cities, regions, value destinations and sustainable spots around the world right now.

Let a local expert craft your dream trip

Elsewhere's local experts can handle the planning to create your perfect itinerary.

All of Best in Travel 2024

Kirtey Verma | 25 March 2020

10 of the best guidebook series to help plan your dream trip.

Start dreaming of your next adventure, with the help of the experts, insiders and locals who create the the world's best guidebooks. There's one for every destination, interest and type of traveller...

1. DK Eyewitness

(DK Eyewitness)

Who:  Succinct but expert advice, beautifully detailed illustrations that transport you right into city streets and historic buildings,  detailed maps and interesting facts – is there really any wonder why DK's Eyewitness guides impress us so much? 

It's safe to say that you hold them in high regard yourselves, as DK topped the list of best guidebooks at the 2020 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards .

DK has been going strong since 1993, taking us to more than 200 destinations in this time. Their real standout feature is the brand's compelling use of inspirational visuals and illustrations.

Incredibly user-friendly, the photo-packed books paint a clear picture of exactly what you can expect on your travels.

What to read: Check out the latest updates to DK's collection here   – the new 2020 editions offer fresh insights into popular cities across the world, including  Paris  and New York City .

See the city of love in a new light with hand-drawn illustrations showing the interiors of its most iconic sights, from the  Notre-Dame to the Panthéon, and a calendar of exciting events happening throughout the year.

2. Lonely Planet

(©Lonely Planet 2020)

Who: Lonely Planet's travel guides narrowly missed out on the top spot in the 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but they're popular for a reason.

The brand's origins are certainly romantic, too, having been founded by married couple Maureen and Tony Wheeler after their epic overland expedition from London to Australia in the early 70s.

While Lonely Planet's first offering was, of course, the stapled 94-page booklet  Across Asia on the Cheap in 1973,   the brand has come a long way since then. 

With more than 100 million guidebooks printed, the books are t horough, informative and packed with ideas for responsible travel escapes.

What to read:  Pick up a copy of the best-selling   The Travel Book  (2006) – a visual bible on every UN-approved country in the world – or look out for their most up-to-date guides here .

We also suggest updating your bookshelf with Lonely Planet's new edition of the Poland guide, which includes insider tips on everywhere from  Warsaw to the Carpathian Mountains. 

Who: Another perennial favourite, Bradt guides are pretty much the gold standard when it comes to independent travel guides.

Founded by Hilary Bradt in 1974, the pioneering brand is one of your favourites, having taken the top spot  at the Reader Travel Awards many times in recent years.

Delving deep beneath the surface, Bradt's guides are always packed with high quality content , while advocating for sustainable and slow travel. Best known for covering off the beaten track destinations, they are also loved for their guides to the UK. 

What to read: If you're looking for a new insight into Africa, take a look at the recently published guides on Gabon   and Zimbabwe .

After the significant political upheaval of recent years, Zimbabwe is an excellent guide for travellers wanting to dip their toes into the country's attractions, covering everywhere from Victoria Falls to the Zambezi River. 

For more off-the-beaten-track destinations, dive into Bradt's online shop  here  – there's currently 50% off for shoppers who use the code DREAM50. What are you waiting for? 

4. Rough Guides

Rough Guides (APA Publications)

Who? If you're looking for an easy way into a destination, Rough Guides ticks all the boxes.

Famous for its 'tell it like it is' approach to places, the guidebook series initially provided founder Mark Ellingham a way out of getting a 'real job' – but now offer thousands of readers practical and hands-on advice on more than 120 countries across the world, as well as being strong on cultural insights..

What to read? Fans of Japan should look out for the  Rough Guide to Tokyo  (out on 1 April 2020) which promises comprehensive coverage on everything from the dizzying neon lights of Shinjuku to sushi and sake.

Or you can look out for new releases on Rough Guides' online shop here . 

5. Insight Guides

Insight Guides (APA Publications)

Who:  Insight have been in the business for more than 45 years, so it's safe to say that these guides know what they're talking about.

Detailed maps, accurate information and beautiful photography combine within to connect readers to places through their history and culture. 

What to read: Look out for one of Insight's latest offerings – Insight Guides Pakistan – to uncover the country's turbulent past and present, and  encounter its people and politics from an interesting new perspective. 

You'll find more books online here . 

6. Time Out

Who:  Time Out's city guides have long been a trusty travel companion for those of us seeking the freshest take on a city – especially in Europe – but we nearly lost them for good back in 2016.

Now those dark days are over, they're back and better than ever, proving that we still want to discover the latest trends on art, culture, design, food and hotels. 

What to read: Delve into the latest guides online here – there's some excellent European coverage, including Time Out: Amsterdam , the brand's most recent offering, highlighting all that's afloat in the city of canals. 

Detailed street maps will help you find your way when your phone battery dies, leading you to best  museums, restaurants, bars and coffee shops to recharge in the city.

7. Footprint

(Footprint)

Who:  Travelling to Latin America? Footprint Guides are your best bet, having specialised in all things under the South American sun for nearly 100 years.

That's not to say they don't specialise in other parts of the world, though – their shelves include books on the Caribbean and South Asia, only written by expert authors who have lived in that region and can truly capture its essence.

Perfect for travellers who want an intimate insight into a country. 

What to read: Footprint's iconic  South American Handbook is your new best friend for any adventure to the continent, with advice on everything from swinging from the treetops in epic rainforests to dancing in Andean villages and exploring the plains of Patagonia.  

First published in 1924, it's now in its 94th edition, so you're sure to find the answer to any of your burning questions. If you've already crossed that continent, you can explore Footprint's latest releases online here . 

8. Blue Guides

Blue Guides on a bookshelf (Blue Guides)

Who:  With more than a century of history to back them up, Blue Guides are the go-to guides for cultural capers.

From art to architecture and archaeology, these guides aim to inform travellers unsure about where to go next or who want to know more about the museum they're visiting with a series of award-winning maps, diagrams and photographs at your disposal – a great source of knowledge for any trip you're planning. 

What to read:  Don't worry if you can't get to Rome at the moment – you can still plan your next trip to the Eternal City with the help of  Blue Guide: Rome ,  the brand's latest updated guide.

New mentions are  the ruins of Ostia, the port of ancient Rome, as well as information on Tivoli and its famous gardens, but you can also look out for other guides online here .

We also recommend  Travels in Transylvania: The Greater Târnava Valley  – a fascinating insight into Romania's great green heart beyond the blood-sucking stereotypes. 

9. Cicerone

(Cicerone Guides)

Who: Wild walking adventures across the globe have been Cicerone's USP for more than half a century.

If you want to know where to walk, trek, climb, mountaineer or cycle, these guides s panning the UK and Europe are are really the ones to watch out for with clear maps and directions paving the way for an epic hike.

Is it time to dust off those hiking boots yet? 

What to read:  Cicerone celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, marking the occasion with Cicerone: Celebrating Fifty Years of Adventure .

Featuring  50 inspirational tales and trails, the book collates the memories of Cicerone's seasoned writers who have weathered all storms on their adventures, with laugh-out-loud moments and jaw-dropping accomplishments in the mix.

To see Cicerone's latest guides, check their online shop here .

10. Marco Polo

(Marco Polo)

Who: Want to be more like Marco Polo? The pioneering 13th-century Venetian explorer has inspired many adventurers – Columbus, for one – as well as these handy little guides.  

As well as revealing the best things you can do for free, Marco Polo guides are fully equipped for the digital age – download the Touring App and you can freely access detailed  routes and maps on your smartphone.

No internet? No problem – you can access them offline, too, so you won't get an expensive phone bill, either. They really are your best friend when travelling on a shoestring budget. 

What to read: From Marrakech to Mallorca, there's lots of sunny destinations to look out for this year, but if you're dreaming of beaches, forests and mountains in the USA, check out the recently released  California Marco Polo Travel Guide .

Want an Australian adventure, instead? We all do – especially when there's tropical climes, island paradises and epic road trips to be had. Check out the latest info for a trip down under in the   Australia Marco Polo Travel Guide or see what else the brand has to offer here .

More essential travel reading:

Wanderlust 's 77 ultimate travel experiences bookazine is here, the best travel books of 2020 (so far), our favourite travellers share the books that inspired them, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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Time Out City Guides: our insider travel guidebooks

Wherever you’re travelling, our pocket-sized City Guides are your best friend in the city. Here’s the lowdown on Time Out’s travel guidebooks

If you’re paying a visit to one of the world’s greatest cities , then b rowsing the Time Out website or picking up one of our magazines isn’t the only way to get clued up on all the great things to do while you’re there. For a handy guide to the essential stops in London , New York , Berlin , Amsterdam and plenty of other locations around the world, it’s well worth checking out our range of Time Out City Guide travel guidebooks, published in partnership with  Heartwood .

Put together with the help of local writers and experts from each city as well as our own Time Out editors, our pocket-sized guidebooks will take you off the tourist trail and into the spots where the locals really hang out, helping you d iscover all the unmissable things and places to eat, drink, do, shop, stroll and experience the city’s culture scene. There’s also a condensed guide for each city, the Shortlist, which is less comprehensive and more focused on the highlights. Whichever version you’re using, local knowledge and insider tips will help you skip the boring stuff, get more for your money and live like a local.

‘Reassuringly savvy… Time Out’s “written by locals” franchise excels in finding zoomed-in, in-the-know, tips in urban nooks across the world’  The Guardian

‘A trusty travel companion for those of us seeking the freshest take on a city’ Wanderlust

‘Time Out’s city guides are unsurpassable’ The Times

With area guides taking you around each part of the city and additional sections unpacking the city’s history, architecture and vibe, it’s the perfect handbook for visitors, newcomers and even locals to get the most out of the most exciting cities on the planet. Check out our full list of Time Out City Guides below.

And for regular travel inspiration and the latest features from  the world’s best destinations, sign up to our Time Out travel newsletter .

An email you’ll actually love

Discover the latest Time Out City Guides

Amsterdam City Guide

Barcelona City Guide

Berlin City Guide

Copenhagen City Guide

Florence City Guide

London City Guide

Lisbon City Guide

Madrid City Guide

New York City Guide

Rome City Guide

Venice City Guide

Learn more about time out.

A short history of Time Out

Tony Elliott founded Time Out in London in 1968. It was an insider’s guide to getting the best out of the British capital, and it was set to change city life.

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City Travel Guides: Top Things to Do in Cities Worldwide

Let’s dive into the heart of what makes this blog your go-to spot for city guides that span the globe. We’re not just talking about the usual suspects. Oh no, we’re taking you from the coffee-sipping streets of North America to the ancient, cobblestoned pathways of Europe. We’ll then venture down to the vibrant heartbeats of Central America, over to the bustling, neon-lit corners of Asia, whisking you away to the mystic deserts of The Middle East, and finally, landing you in the breathtaking, natural beauty of Oceania.

Your Globe-Trotting Begins Here

Imagine having a friend in every city, someone who knows all the secret spots, the history, the places you must see, and those you might never find without a local tip. That’s us! We’re here to be your virtual travel buddy, offering up insights and tidbits about each city like we’re showing an old friend around. You’ll feel like you’re there before you’ve actually set foot in the destination. At least, that’s our goal.

Dive into History

Every city tells a story, and boy, do we love to share those tales. From ancient ruins that whisper legends of old to modern metropolises that buzz with the new, we’ve got the scoop on the history that shapes each place. Prepare to be transported through time as we uncover the layers of civilizations past and present. In our opinion you can’t properly appreciate a place without first knowing its history. So we’ll prepare you in that regard.

What’s On the Itinerary?

No need to scour the internet for “things to do” – we’ve got you covered. Our guides are brimming with activities, from those bucket-list landmarks to hidden gems only the locals know about. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a culture vulture, or someone who simply likes to wander and see where the day takes you, there’s something for everyone. Our goal is that you’ll transform from tourist to local.

Sleep Tight, Wander Right

Where to crash at the end of a bustling day of exploration is a big deal. We’ve snoozed in various spots to bring you firsthand advice on where to book your stay. From quaint guesthouses dripping with charm to luxe hotels that offer a slice of heaven, you’ll get the lowdown on where to lay your head. A decent sleep, a comfortable pillow and engaging hosts can make a world of a difference when it comes to connecting with a place. Our goal is to make your stay memorable.

Tours & More

Ever wanted to explore a city like a local? We highlight tours that offer unique, authentic experiences, taking you beyond the tourist traps and into the heart of the city’s true vibe. Plus, we’ve got tips on making the most of day trips that’ll enrich your visit with new adventures. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture or foodie experiences we’ve got you covered.

From Day Trips to Deep Dives

There’s always more to explore just beyond the city limits. We’ll clue you into the best day trips that amplify your travel experience, offering up even more culture, beauty, and memories to collect.

So, why settle for a mundane travel guide when you can have a dynamic, conversational buddy by your side? Our city guides are here to make sure your next trip is not just a journey but an epic adventure. Follow along as we continue to explore the nooks and crannies of the world, sharing every discovery with you.

Here’s to making your travel dreams a vivid reality! Cheers to the journeys ahead, and remember, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered. 🌏💫

City Guides: Around The World Destinations

USA, Canada and Mexico: North American Cities To Visit

Alert Bay Campbell River Cape Breton Comox Valley Fredericton Gold River Jasper Mount Washington Nanaimo Parksville Port Alberni Port Alice Port Hardy Port McNeill Sointula Telegraph Cove Woss

South America, Central America and The Caribbean: Cities To Explore

Bariloche Cordoba Mendoza

Africa: Best Cities To Visit

Addis Ababa Antananarivo Bamako Cape Town Dakar Dar Es Salaam

Asia: Top Cities To Visit

Alishan Andong Angeles City Asahikawa Atami Bagan Batangas Beppu Bicol Boracay Busan Cameron Highlands Changchun Cheonan Chuncheon Dali Dalian Gangneung Haikou Hainan Hakodate Hat Yai Hikone Himeji Istanbul Jeonju Jodhpur Karakol Macau Morioka Multan Nanning Pohang Pyeongchang Sanya Sasebo Semporna Sihanoukville Shenzhen Sokcho Suwon Vigan Wenzhou Zhuhai

Europe: City Guides

Alesund Bari Batumi Brindisi Bucharest  Budva Constanta Dubrovnik Dusseldorf Edinburgh Glasgow Hamburg Helsinki Kaunus Istanbul Milan Podgorica Salzburg Split

The Middle East: City Guides

Antalya Istanbul Medina

Oceania: Top Cities To Visit

(Coming Soon!)

City Travel Guides Final Thoughts

From the lively streets of North America to the ancient allure of Europe. We plunged into the vibrant life of Central America and weaved through Asia’s bustling markets. We’ve felt the pulse of The Middle East and breathed in Oceania’s natural beauty. Let’s take a moment, breathe in, and dream of where to wander next.

The Rhythm of Each City

Every city had its own rhythm. We wanted to bring that to you. Sometimes it was a fast-paced buzz. Other times, a gentle hum. We explored both the glaring lights and the hidden nooks. Our aim? To make you feel as if you were right there with us.

A World of Cultures

Our travels were a deep dive into a cultural kaleidoscope. Festivals, food, and newfound friends added layers to our experience. Each city painted a vibrant piece of a larger picture, showing us the beauty of diversity and the warmth of connection.

Beyond the Main Streets

Sure, we hit the famous spots. But the hidden gems? They were the real treasures. Like finding that quaint café or stumbling upon a scenic day trip spot. These moments, often unexpected, turned into our most cherished memories, embodying the essence of exploration.

Where Dreams Meet Pillows

After days filled with discovery, finding the perfect place to rest was crucial. Whether it was a quirky hostel or a plush hotel, we aimed to offer you the best options. Places where you could rest, dream, and wake up ready for another day of adventure.

What Awaits You

As we hit pause on our city explorations (just for a moment!), remember: the world is vast, and your adventures are far from over. Our city guides were merely the beginning, each one an open invitation to discover, learn, and connect more deeply with the world around you.

So, what’s on your travel horizon? Whatever it is, go forth with an open heart and a curious spirit. We’re here, ready to offer more guides, share more stories, and inspire your next unforgettable journey.

Here’s to the roads we’ve traveled, the paths yet to be explored, and all the memories waiting to be created.

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5 Travel Planning Apps for Free City Guides and Recommended Itineraries

The next time you travel to a new city, check out these sightseeing recommendation tools that other guidebooks might overlook.

The internet is your best travel buddy today. The next time you travel to a new city, check out these apps and websites. You will find offbeat attractions, walking tours, and sightseeing recommendations that guidebooks might overlook.

These apps assume you have already picked your travel destination, so you are now researching what to do once you get there.

From renowned brands offering city guides to local experts giving their insights, there's a healthy mix for every type of traveler. Plus, you don't have to research in advance every time. Some of these tools will dynamically recommend items based on your current location.

1. Visit A City (Web, Android, iOS): Readymade Itineraries Up to One Week

A travel agent will whip up an itinerary of where you should go, what you should see, and so on. Visit A City already has that prepared, ranging from a day's plan to seven days worth of sights and attractions in most tourist destinations.

Each city has multiple guides that cover major sights, tours, and activities. For example, if you pick Barcelona, you'll get a 3-day guide for top attractions, or a 5-day guide for visiting Barcelona with kids, and so on. There's a surprising amount of variety on the website, letting you choose exactly the type of trip you want.

Any itinerary you choose will open with a map and a day-by-day schedule. You can remove or add items, and buy tickets in advance. Other tabs recommend alternative things to do and attractions. The full itinerary can be printed for free, or you can download it for offline use on the Visit A City app.

The website and the app are easy to use and shockingly thorough. Even if you're someone who loves planning your own trips, use one of Visit A City's itineraries as a starting point to make your job easier.

Download: Visit A City for Android | iOS (Free)

2. WhatsHere (Android, iOS): Map of Nearby Tourist Attractions

WhatsHere is a map-based travel guide. Search for a place or let it zoom into your current location, and the app will recommend myriad tourist attractions. As simple as that seems, there are a few features that make it even better.

For starters, WhatsHere has a list of categories to narrow down the places of interest to you: historic, museum, tourist attraction, landmark, trail, UNESCO heritage spots, and so on. Choose one or all, and see them in list form. Each place has multiple tags and you can see how far it is from your current location.

Alternately, open the Map view, which is where WhatsHere really shines. Each pin has a different color and icon, depending on its category. Tap it to get a popup with a brief description about why it's important, and to see how far it is from you. You can bookmark the place, view pictures from others, and even get a quick link to its Wikipedia entry.

Download: WhatsHere for Android | iOS (Free)

3. Spotted By Locals (Web, Android, iOS): Non-Touristy Guides From Locals

Spotted By Locals currently has guides for only 79 cities, spread across Europe, parts of Asia, and North America. But if a city you're visiting is featured on the website, then you won't get a better guide for offbeat tourism.

If you've hosted a tourist in your hometown, you know that there are must-see places that every travel agent will recommend, and a few local secrets that you'd like them to see. That's what makes this special. Each city's guides are written by locals who have lived there for some time.

You will find articles across a range of categories, or view them chronologically. The latter might be better since you get a local's recent recommendation, rather than a place they visited a long time ago.

Spotted By Locals also has mobile apps. While the app is free, each city's guide costs $3.99 to download. In return, you get offline maps and information, but you can see all of the same data on the website for free.

Download: Spotted By Locals for Android | iOS (Free)

4. Awayn (Android, iOS): Visually Rich Guides and Free Magazine

Awayn is a design-focused app with a good mix of features to find travel inspiration. Among the highlights is the free Awayn digital magazine, packaged as part of the app, which tackles one type of travel or region, and includes an interview too.

On the main page of the app, you can search for a city, browse by country, or look at "featured adventures" as recommended by Awayn's community. These featured adventures are actually quite cool and a good place to discover something new. I also liked the idea of browsing by country instead of a city because you might come across an activity that alters your itinerary.

If you like to browse by location, head to Map to find your current GPS coordinates. Awayn will highlight points of interest and travel attractions in your vicinity. The app deserves credit here for recommending places that you wouldn't find in most other travel guides.

Download: Awayn for Android | iOS (Free)

5. CityBook (Android, iOS): Booking.com's Travel Guide

CityBook is the new kid on the block, a product of one of the best hotel booking websites Booking.com . Currently, it hosts city guides for only London, Amsterdam, and Paris, but the number of cities will increase with time.

Depending on the time of the day, CityBook will suggest activities. For example, if you check the app in the morning, you'll find breakfast recommendations. Later in the day, it'll give you evening activities, shows, or bars. It's a nice mixture of historical and cultural places, food and drinks, and events.

The app is a combination of recommendations for places to visit as well as a ticketing office for places like museums. You can add places of interest to your "bucket list" and tick them off as you go about your travels.

Get a Truly Local Experience

One of the joys of traveling is to discover how people from a different culture or lifestyle go about their daily lives or celebrate major events. Most hotels and tour packages will offer some activities, but these are often tourist traps and don't feel genuine.

Instead, as the internet breaks down barriers, use an app. Whether it's enjoying a home-cooked meal with a local or partying with a native, check out these cool travel apps to get a truly local experience .

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

You may also like:

Where in new york should you stay.

• The 33 Absolute Best New York Attractions
• New York on a Budget

Now, sit back and enjoy our New York Travel Guide to help you have a wonderful time in New York City!

By the way, we now have over 1,600 spots in the city on our site. So, if you’re looking for suitable tours, bars, restaurants, and awesome spots to visit, then you’re in the right place!

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience.  The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the  Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi:  In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog:  Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

• Observation decks:  New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
• Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
• Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
• Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
• Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
• Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
• Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

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The 36 Absolute Best Museums in New York

The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York  with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the  best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you:  January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

How to Pick the Best Travel Guide Books

Ann-Marie Cahill

Ann-Marie Cahill will read anything and everything. From novels to trading cards to the inside of CD covers (they’re still a thing, right?). A good day is when her kids bring notes home from school. A bad day is when she has to pry a book from her kids’ hands. And then realizes where they get it from. The only thing Ann-Marie loves more than reading is travelling. She has expensive hobbies.

View All posts by Ann-Marie Cahill

Travel. I love it. I live it. I breathe it . In my view, it all starts with the rush of exhilaration when I choose the magical destination for my next trip…only to come crashing down when I have to choose a damn travel guide to start my research. Because you don’t want to be lugging around every travel guide. You need to narrow it down to the best travel guide books. And I mean, really narrow it down. 

I hate that part.

We’re not talking the travel-inspiring books . We’re talking the more practical side of travel planning. And seriously, there are so many travel guides on the market, it is a nightmare of global proportions to choose only one. Add to that how q uickly the information can date, and you are left wondering if this really is such a good idea.

The thing is, each travel guide has its pros and cons. Some are perfect for the USA, some have a better understanding of the winding roads of New Zealand. There are guides perfect for your architectural adventures through Rome while others take you on a culinary tour of Paris. But unless you have nine months to read up on every travel guide, it’s really hard to know which is the best travel guide books. 

So I did the hard work for you. I narrowed it down to 11 of the best travel guide books and the reasons why (just so you know I didn’t simply accept whichever book was left on the library shelf). And how did I choose the best? Well, I read each of their editions for a city or country I am already VERY familiar with. Now, usually, we would only be reading travel guides of places we want to learn more about, right? What better way to ‘test’ a travel guide than to see if they know it as well as a local!

Before you start buying up on guidebooks, here are a few tips to help you choose your own:

The Best Travel Guide Books

Lonely planet guide.

Great for: Big picture travel across a whole country for most regions but especially Oceania, Asia, and the “Shoestring” range. New Zealand is the best ever.

Not so great : They need to update their South America collection. The most recent edition for Ecuador was lacking in detail and encouragement to try new things, especially for the Galapagos Islands. Really felt like at least two of the white male writers phoned it in from their NY base.

Great for: The best highlights of any city, especially in Europe (e.g.  Paris ). 

Not so great: Personal local touch, or if you plan to stay in one place for longer than a week at a time.

Recently, they have been changed their focus to a more budget-friendly approach, but I don’t think it is coming through with their local writers.

Great for: Mainstream Travel with an upmarket touch, especially Western Europe (see Frommer’s Europe ).

Not so great: “One block over” travel, stepping away from the regular, e.g. the Melbourne guide did little to entice me into exploring the city’s famous laneways of culture, coffee, and bookshops.

DK Eyewitness

Great for : visually inspiring your holidays. Beautiful for places like Rome or London. Great guide for Italy . 

Not so great: Day-to-day travel details. Once I stepped out of the Vatican Museum, it was pretty much useless.

Rick Steves

Great for: First-timers travellers visiting one of the major cities of the world, like London or  Paris

Not so great: Anyone looking for a little more depth, e.g. do not use for Venice—that’s a city you need to be lost in at least once.

Rough Guides

Great for : Historic or off-the-beaten-track adventures, like SE Asia, NZ, South America

Not so great: Big cities or glossy photos for visual cues. It was of no help in Kuala Lumpur.

Bradt Guides

Good for: Cultural highlights of countries and regions, especially Macedonia .

Not so great : Asia. The Borneo guide was lacking in details about the various cultures and land issues for the locals.

Blue Guides

Great for : Book Riot, history and literary buffs, that big cultural holiday you were taking through the Romantic History of Europe. The Blue Guide: Greece (The Mainland) is especially lovely to read!

Not so great: The rave scene in Berlin. Not really the Blue Guide style.

Footprint Travel Guides

Great for : transport. Really useful in busy, stretched out places like Bangkok and Thailand

Not so great : Budget details.

Insight Guides

Great for: Giving you an idea in your mind of where you want to go. The Insight Guides Turkey  is especially memorable

Not so great: Actual travel. Don’t rely on these books to get you around a city like Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

This is… by Miroslava Saska

As always, I’m open to suggestion and we LOVE suggestions here at Book Riot. So, if I have missed your favourite, please tell us all about it in the comments. Or if you are looking for a suggestion for your dream destination, ask us!

Bon Voyage!

[Ed.’s Note: This article originally incorrectly stated that The Insight Guides is produced by the Discovery Channel; they’re produced by APA Publications, which is not affiliated with the Discovery Channel.]

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Plan, Ready, Go®

The Best Travel Guides (Online and Books)

Even in the digital age, travel guide books are an important part of my travel planning journey. I have read and tried many different travel books and online travel guides. And I pulled together a list of what I think are the best travel guides (books and online resources). 

I return to my favorite travel guides again and again with each trip that we plan. Once you find a travel guide series that you know and trust, it can really speed up the travel planning process.  

But which travel guides are the best? Keep reading for the full list!  

Need help with planning your trip? Check out our guide to the best travel planning resources .  

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Are travel guidebooks still used now? 

Absolutely! Although you can find a wealth of travel planning help online, the good old-fashioned travel guidebooks are still very much available and in use. 

Some people prefer to use paper travel guidebooks. You can flag important sections and highlight things you want to remember. We’ve even ripped our books up (they’re meant to be used!) and traveled only with the sections covering the cities and sites we visited. 

E-books are also a great option for travel guides. If you use e-books, you can easily travel with several guides without adding a single ounce to your luggage. It’s a perfect option for those who travel carry-on only .

Rick Steves: best travel guides for Europe 

Rick steves guidebooks .

Some seasoned travelers look down their noses a bit at Rick Steves guide books . There’s no reason for that. Rick Steves knows Europe inside and out from decades of traveling, leading tours, writing books, and producing episodes of his wonderful series  Rick Steves’ Europe.  

Rick Steves books are excellent guides and well worth the money. I highly recommend them, especially for travel planning beginners or for anxious travelers who are looking for an expert to tell them where to visit and how. 

His books are kept up to date and quite detailed, even to the point of including full guided walking tours (often several) and detailed guided tours through major sites. 

• Steves, Rick (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 604 Pages – 09/06/2022 (Publication Date) – Rick Steves (Publisher)

Rick Steves online 

You can also get a lot of good free travel tips and help on the Rick Steves website, including the forums . There are forums specifically for countries, reviews, and several forums about general travel tips topics. 

They’re a great way to get insight and tips from other experienced travelers…even those who disagree with Rick Steves itinerary suggestions. (Shocked face.)

Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App 

I also highly recommend the Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App . It’s loaded with audio guides for walking tours and top travel destination sites like the Colosseum in Rome and The Louvre Museum in Paris.  

Download the audio tours for your destination so you can listen to them on your mobile device as you explore your destination. 

Rough Guides: my favorite travel guidebooks overall 

Super practical and easy to read, Rough Guides are my top choice for any destination that isn’t in Europe (for which I prefer Rick Steves guide books ). 

The UK-based company was founded in 1982 with the  Rough Guide to Greece . Since then, they have published travel guidebooks for well over 100 destinations all over the world. 

In addition to their main guidebook series, they also offer Pocket Rough Guides, On a Budget, Snapshots, phrasebooks, and inspirational guides like “Make the Most of Your Time on Earth.” 

• Guides, Rough (Author)
• 840 Pages – 10/18/2022 (Publication Date) – Rough Guides (Publisher)

Rough Guides website 

Rough Guides isn’t just a guidebook publisher though. Since 2017 they have offered tailor-made trips to over 70 destinations. created by local travel experts. 

Their website provides some basic itineraries, travel recommendations, and basic destination information for free that can help get you started on planning your travel itinerary . 

Fodor’s 

The great travel writer Eugene Fodor once said “You don’t need to be rich to travel well.” And that’s been kind of my mantra for the last several years. 

In 1936 Fodor wrote the first modern travel guide book . It was for British audiences and he wrote all 1200 pages himself. The book was O n the Continent: An Entertaining Travel Annual .

According to Fodors.com , “The guide went beyond reporting on the sights and for the first time included information about Europe’s culture and people, practical information like how to tip, and was the first to be annually updated.” 

Since  On the Continent  was first published, Fodor’s has been a trusted name in travel guides. They now claim that their travel writers have covered more than 8,000 destinations around the world . 

In addition to the Signature Guides, their other series include Fodor’s Inside, In Focus, and 25 Best. Fodor’s says that  Fodor’s   Italy  is the company’s top-selling guide book. 

• Fodor’s Travel Guides (Author)
• 896 Pages – 12/20/2022 (Publication Date) – Fodor’s Travel (Publisher)

Fodor’s website 

Fodors.com was one of the first travel websites when it launched in 1996 . Today the site offers destination guides, general travel content, and forums about specific destinations or general travel topics such as air travel. 

Frommer’s 

The venerated Frommer’s travel guides were launched by Arthur Frommer in 1957 with a guide to visiting Europe on $5 a day (yup. $5.). That guide followed his book about how to travel Europe as a GI (Frommer was in the Army at the time). 

Frommer’s quickly grew to become one of the most trusted names in travel guidebooks. 

Several years ago, Frommer’s was acquired by Google, which pulled the plug on their print books in the spring of 2013.

Arthur Frommer reacquired the company shortly thereafter and then quickly made a deal to get the books back in distribution. Frommer’s then started emphasizing their Easy Guides and Day by Day series, which were smaller and easier to read and carry than the typical large guidebooks they saw on the market. 

• Gordon, Yvonne (Author)
• 602 Pages – 08/23/2022 (Publication Date) – FrommerMedia (Publisher)

Frommer’s website 

Frommers.com is a fine place to start planning for a trip for free. Destination information includes city layouts, how to get around, and their top picks for hotels and dining. 

They also provide other general travel content and feature articles plus trip ideas for honeymoons, arts and cultural travel, national parks, family travel, road trips, and more. 

The Frommer’s Travel Show (podcast) 

Pauline Frommer, daughter of Frommer’s founder Arthur Frommer, hosts The Frommer’s Travel Show podcast . New episodes come out approximately once per week or several times a month. 

Bradt Guides 

Known for publishing guides for lesser-traveled destinations (though certainly not less deserving), Bradt bills itself as “the world’s leading independent travel publisher.”  

Bradt guides are the go-to for destinations not covered by other publishers. They say that “over two-thirds of Bradt guides still have no direct competition from other publishers.” 

The Bradts’ first book,  Backpacking Along Ancient Ways Peru & Bolivia , was the first to detail the Inca Trail.

Later they became known for writing guides to destinations “post-conflict.” These included Rwanda, Kosovo, and the Baltic States after the fall of the Iron Curtain. 

In addition to their destination guidebooks, Bradt also publishes a Slow Travel series of UK destinations, a Wildlife series, and general travel literature. 

• McIntyre, Chris (Author)
• 456 Pages – 06/01/2022 (Publication Date) – Bradt Travel Guides (Publisher)

Bradt Guides Travel Club 

Avid travelers can support Bradt by joining their Travel Club through Patreon. There are three tiers: Bradtpacker, Globetrotter, and First-Class Traveller. Each tier offers differing levels of subscriber benefits including things like e-books and access to their bespoke travel planning service. 

Lonely Planet  

Lonely Planet books for a long time were quite popular especially with younger backpackers looking to travel on a budget. The books can be light on the details that certain travelers (beginners, anxious travelers) might wish for when making good decisions about where to spend their travel dollars. 

Lonely Planet books are good for independent and adventurous travelers . Or for those who just want some recommendations but not a prescribed itinerary with a ton of detail.  

In addition to their popular guidebooks, Lonely Planet also publishes phrasebooks, general travel books, food books, and children’s books. 

• Mayhew, Bradley (Author)
• 288 Pages – 03/16/2021 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Lonely Planet website  

You can get some basic, inspirational travel information to start your travel planning from the Lonely Planet website . Sadly, they set their forums to “read-only” some time ago. In my opinion, the forums were the best (and most valuable) part of the website. 

Marco Polo 

Marco Polo is best known for its compact and colorful pocket travel guides. They also offer spiral-bound itinerary-based guides, phrasebooks, folding maps, travel handbooks, travel journals, city maps, and road atlases. 

• Marco Polo Travel Publishing Marco Polo Travel Publishing (Author)
• 136 Pages – 10/15/2022 (Publication Date) – Marco Polo Travel Publishing, Ltd. (Publisher)

Marco Polo Discovery Tours App 

The free Marco Polo Discovery Tours app offers travelers a variety of guided itineraries through many destinations. For example, you can download a 23-day driving tour of New Zealand with a step-by-step driving tour over both islands. 

DK Eyewitness: among best travel books for visuals 

I enjoy reading DK Eyewitness guides, especially when I’m looking for information about the history and culture of my destination.  The glossy full-color books feature beautiful photographs and illustrations perfect for inspiring your travel itinerary. They cover more than 100 destinations. 

DK was founded in 1974 by Christopher Dorling and Peter Kindersley. They published their first travel book in the early 1990’s promising to show you “what others only tell you.”

They also cover all the usual grounds for travel guidebooks: itineraries, maps, dining and accommodations recommendations, top sites, etc. 

• DK Eyewitness (Author)
• 592 Pages – 04/26/2022 (Publication Date) – DK Eyewitness Travel (Publisher)

Where to Go podcast 

Produced by the team behind the DK Eyewitness books, each episode of the Where to Go podcast dives deep into a particular destination. New episodes come out every two weeks or so. 

Insight Guides 

For more than 40 years, Insight Guides have published guidebooks covering more than 200 destinations. 

In my experience, they’re quite a bit heavier on destination history and culture than any other travel guide I’ve encountered. So, if that’s not something you enjoy, then these guidebooks might not be your top choice. 

Insight Guides series include: Explore Guides, City Breaks, Pocket Guides, City Guides, and Experience Guides. 

• Guides, Insight (Author)
• 144 Pages – 04/01/2018 (Publication Date) – Insight Guides (Publisher)

Insight Guides website

You will find some travel information on the Insight Guides website , making it a decent place to start if you’re unsure of your destination.

The emphasis of their website seems to be on advertising their Insight Guides trip offerings…not that there’s anything wrong with that. 

Atlas Obscura 

Atlas obscura book .

Unlike all of the other travel guidebooks listed above, Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders is not a series of guidebooks but rather one book that details an incredible array of oddities and wonders around the world. 

Here’s how the authors describe their book and website (more on that below): 

“The site, and this book, are a kind of wunderkammer of places, a cabinet of curiosities that is meant to inspire wonderlust as much as wanderlust. In fact, many of the places in this book are in no way ‘tourist sites’ and should not be treated as such. Others are so out of the way, so treacherously situated, or (in at least one case) so deep beneath the surface, that few readers will ever be able to visit them. But here they are, sharing this marvelously strange planet with us.  Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras & Ella Morton,  Atlas Obscura , revised second edition, (New York: Workman Publishing, 2019) vii

The revised second edition (published in 2019) added more than 100 new sites to the 2016 first edition. The book is delightful reading if you’re into oddities around the world. I definitely recommend picking up a copy. 

• Hardcover Book
• Foer, Joshua (Author)

Atlas Obscura website 

Make sure you stop by the Atlas Obscura website  during your travel planning if you like finding out-of-the-way sites, or unusual places to visit, or want to make it a priority to get off the beaten path. 

You can even take Atlas Obscura trips to some pretty unusual places and even with some unusual activities…such as assisting biologists with bee research at Redwood National Park. 

Atlas Obscura podcast 

Atlas Obscura launched a podcast in March 2021, which I’ve really enjoyed listening to. Early episodes covered sites such as the Gates of Hell in Turkmenistan, the Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts, and the old Widow Jane cement mine in Rosendale, New York. 

Final thoughts on the best travel guidebooks 

The best travel guides will be the ones that you use and that help you plan a trip that you truly love. I personally like to use a combination of travel guidebooks and online travel planning resources. 

But don’t just follow my advice. Try these guidebook series and online travel guides for yourself and find the ones that you will like and use for your trip planning. 

What are your favorite travel guidebooks?

More articles related to travel guides 

• Travel planning resources  
• The top books about travel and self-discovery 
• Best books to read before you travel to Paris  
• The best books about the South 

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Michelin guides (the green books) are great!

I used to use the “Let’s Go: Europe” guides, which were great. They were targeting college age students mostly, but they had lots of good information re: trip planning for everyone.

Which guidebooks (and/or websites) are best for planning train/plane travel while in Europe? Any standouts?

Thanks for your very helpful information!

You’re welcome, Wayne. The Man in Seat 61 is THE expert in European train travel. His website is: https://www.seat61.com/ . He’s also pretty active on Twitter. I’d also recommend checking out https://www.rome2rio.com/ for helping with planning transportation for any trip. Thanks for reading!

My family had a great time in Paris. We had a wonderful time there and enjoyed the culture of the region. The nightlife was fantastic, and the city’s elegance is indescribable. We are in love with the place and explore so many places like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Cruise on the Seine, etc. After reading your blog I would like to revisit there.

Oh, I’m so glad you enjoyed your trip. Thanks for reading!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

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• Mexico City

How to Plan a Trip to Mexico City — Including the Best Restaurants, Hotels, and Things to Do

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Mexico City with this travel editor–curated guide.

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Tenochtitlan, el Distrito Federal, la Ciudad de México — Mexico City has been known by many names in its centuries-long history. Home to more than 21 million residents, this sprawling metropolitan area is the capital of Mexico and one of the  best cities in the world , as determined by Travel + Leisure's reader-voted 2022  World's Best Awards .

"You can’t understand Mexico without first understanding Mexico City," Zachary Rabinor , a T+L A-List advisor and the CEO of Journey Mexico , said. "The vibrant capital encapsulates the country’s diversity culturally, historically, politically, artistically, musically, creatively, and more. If you want to know what is going on in Mexico, start with Mexico City."

Museums, cultural experiences, top-rated hotels , and incredible food can be found around every corner in CDMX. Even if you're in town for a single day, try to balance your itinerary with old and new. Head downtown to admire classic Mexican murals inside the Palacio de Bellas Artes and to grab an elote from a street vendor along the Zócalo, Mexico City's main square. Museum hop through town, stopping at Museo Frida Kahlo, Castillo de Chapultepec, and Museo Soumaya. And once you've worked up an appetite, get tacos al pastor from a local taquería — it won't be hard to find. And if you can't see everything in one trip, Mexico City will happily welcome you back. Here are our top recommendations for travelers in this incredible capital city.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Casa Azul was once the home of famed artist Frida Kahlo and now functions as a museum filled with her work.
• Stop in at Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela for handmade goods from all over Mexico.
• Café de Tacuba in Mexico City's center is more than 100 years old and has been frequented by many famous guests.
• Museo Soumaya houses one of the most impressive art collections in the city, and it has a stunning exterior made of more than 16,000 reflective hexagons.
• Galería Mexicana de Diseño sells incredible home goods, perfect for those looking to take a little of Mexico City back home.

The St. Regis Mexico City

The St. Regis Mexico City sits on Reforma Avenue, one of the capital's busiest streets and a hub for business headquarters and embassies. It also puts you close to several key landmarks, including the iconic Ángel de la Independencia statue and Chapultepec Park. Check out on-site restaurant Diana — named after the fountain of the Greek goddess just outside — for classic Mexican dishes like tuna tostadas, or modern creations like avocado pizza and cauliflower ceviche. This hotel is consistently voted one of the best hotels in Mexico City in 2022 by T+L readers.

In January 2024, the hotel rolled out eight new Garden Suites. "The Garden Suites have been meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life," Rodrigo Rizzi, the general manager of The St. Regis Mexico City, told Travel + Leisure . "Step into an oasis of tranquility where the stresses of urban living melt away, allowing you to immerse yourself in a sanctuary of peace and relaxation."

Courtesy of The St. Regis

Casa Decu Condesa

On the tree-lined streets of Condesa, you will find Casa Decu , an art deco dream filled with funky tile floors, private patios, and a rooftop restaurant and garden space. The 27-room boutique hotel is pet-friendly and offers continental breakfast each morning. Its location is great, too; it's just a short walk from Parque México, a former horse-racing track turned into a park, plus lots of cozy cafés and the famous Esquina de Chilaquil, a street stand serving up only-in-Mexico City tortas de chilaquiles that locals line up for.

Ignacia Guest House

At Ignacia Guest House , guests choose from black, yellow, pink, blue, or green rooms, each one decked out from floor to ceiling in its named hue. This historic estate house is in La Roma, one of Mexico City's trendiest neighborhoods, and just blocks from Metro and Metrobús stations and across the street from the cool community space and outdoor garden, Huerto Roma Verde .

Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mexico City

Las Alcobas , a 35-room boutique hotel, is in the posh Polanco neighborhood, right near Chapultepec Park. It was voted the  No. 2 city hotel in Mexico  in T+L's 2022 World’s Best Awards, and travel writer Sophie Dodd reported for T+L that her favorite part of the hotel is its bath service. "I ordered a 'Jet Lag' bath, which meant a staff member came to run the bath for me (a spectacular luxury) and infused it with a sachet of herbs designed to help me relax and reset after the nearly six-hour flight."

El Patio 77

Each accommodation in the eight-room El Patio 77 is named and styled after states surrounding Mexico City. It's an intimate space, occupying an 1890s mansion in the San Rafael neighborhood, and the hotel prides itself on its eco-friendliness, with a rainwater collection system and gray water recycling program. Even some of the furniture is upcycled, giving the hotel an eclectic (yet still luxurious) feel.

El Centro Histórico

Mexico City's Centro Histórico, or Historic Center, is where centuries-old constructions clash with American-inspired skyscrapers, street markets, and more museums than you can count. "From ancient Aztec times to modern-day Mexico, the square has been an important gathering place through the centuries," Rabinor said. "Within the Zócalo, you'll see symbolic buildings from pre-Colombian, colonial, and contemporary Mexico."

Highlights here include the Palacio de Bellas Artes , filled with Diego Rivera murals and fine arts exhibitions; the Zócalo and its Metropolitan Cathedral ; and Mercado Ciudadela, home to aisles and aisles of craft stalls selling artisan goods. Rabinor also recommends visiting Avenida Francisco Madero, a pedestrian-only street where "you can best soak in all the energy of the busy capital."

La Casa Azul/Museo Frida Kahlo

Get your tickets well advance to tour Casa Azul , which is where Frida Kahlo lived most of her life. Expect to see many pieces of her artwork here, plus rooms left so untouched that it feels like the artist could return at a moment's notice. A ticket to this museum also gives you entry to Diego Rivera's Museo Anahuacalli , a 15-minute drive away.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Bosque de Chapultepec

Not even New York's Central Park can beat this green space, a massive urban forest spanning nearly three square miles. The Bosque de Chapultepec is packed with gems, including the Castillo de Chapultepec (the only castle in the Americas ever occupied by European royalty), Museo Nacional de Antropología , and Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo .

Museo Soumaya

Arguably the most dazzling museum in Mexico City, with an exterior that twists to the sky and is made of more than 16,000 reflective hexagons, Museo Soumaya houses one of the most impressive art collections in town. Not-to-miss works include Auguste Rodin's "La Porte de l'Enfer" and "The Thinker."

Parque México

Parque México is sometimes called "the lungs of the city" — the tree-lined green space can either be a place to pick up the pace for a good walk, or a place to catch your breath and slow way down. Head to the park's main plaza to watch break dancers, musicians, and quinceñeras collide. When you're ready for a snack, go to Churrería El Moro for delicious ready-made churros and a Mexican hot chocolate

Read More: 26 Best Things to Do in Mexico City, From Fine Art to Fine Dining and Shopping

Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela

If you're looking for handmade goods, Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela is the place to go. This market in Colonia Centro has ceramics, silver jewelry, wool blankets, and art made from all over Mexico. Be sure to bring some cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards.

Barrio Alameda

The Barrio Alameda , constructed in the late 1920s, bills itself as an "urban meeting point," where food, drink, fashion, and art mingle. Shop for vintage clothes, old-school vinyls, and handmade patches from various storefronts, all under one roof.

Jorge Castro/Travel + Leisure

Galería Mexicana de Diseño

If you're looking to take a piece of Mexico back home, hit up this gallery for its variety of modern Mexican wares. Whether you opt for an Acapulco chair, hand-felted print rugs, or a monstera-leaf gold lamp, every item can be shipped home for you.

Routinely picked as one of the best restaurants in Mexico City, Contramar serves the freshest seafood in town. Make a reservation beforehand, and be sure to order the tuna tostadas, and pescado a la talla — Contramar's signature snapper, split in half and topped with red chili sauce on one side and parsley sauce on the other.

Panadería Rosetta

This spot may have gotten viral social media fame but it's far from gimmicky. Lines build up quickly here — thanks to tourists and locals, alike — but it's worth the wait. The guava roll is its most popular, but a server told us you shouldn't sleep on the ricotta pastry.

Café de Tacuba

Mexico City's historic center has a number of well-known restaurants, but perhaps none as famous as Café de Tacuba . More than one hundred years old, this restaurant has been popular among presidents and artists alike, and is even where Diego Rivera had his (first) wedding reception. If you're looking for a true, traditional Mexican meal, you'll find it here.

Taquería Orinoco

Get a taste of northern Mexico at Taquería Orinoco , a chain from Monterrey with seven locations. Try tacos de chicharrón , bistec , or al pastor , all served up on flaky flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are an option, too, as is a  costra , or a crust of cheese layered across the top. Since these taco shops are sometimes open until 4 or 5 a.m., they're very popular with the city's late-night partygoers.

Los Danzantes

Snag a patio spot at Los Danzantes in Coyoacán, one of the best places in the neighborhood's central square to grab a bite and watch as street performers, vendors, and locals pass you by. Here you can try dishes like chapulines (fried grasshoppers) served with queso fresco and guacamole, duck tacos, and squash blossom–stuffed chicken breast.

Mexico City is always bustling, no matter what time of the year you decide to go. According to Rabinor, the sunniest and driest months are the end of October through March.

In late October, you'll see Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations and decor. Orange and pink marigolds pop up all over town, adorning altars to the city's departed. If you check-in before Sept. 15, that's the day that Mexico's president yells out in celebration at 11 p.m. from the National Palace, marking the country's independence from Spain and ushering in further cries (and parties) from locals. If you're looking for a more low-key time to visit, wait until spring, when the purple jacarandas bloom all over town.

Rabinor also noted that locals go to the beach during major holidays and in the summer, so while this "diminishes the local color," it also means visitors can enjoy a "quieter time, with less people and traffic in our famously congested city."

Mexico City is best reached by flying into its international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (MEX). While there are direct flights from U.S. hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), New York City (JFK), and Phoenix (PHX), travelers can get better fares with layovers closer to the border, like the Dallas/Forth Worth area (DFW) and Miami (MIA).

Mexico City is a little bit like New York in that it's made up of  alcaldías , which are similar to boroughs. There are 16 total, but during your stay, you'll most likely only stop through three or four. Each  alcaldía  is made up of  colonias , or neighborhoods. Below are five that are popular with guests.

El Centro Histórico : Mexico City's downtown is always bustling, and it's where many of the city's residents go on weekends. You might see protesters in the main square, vendors hawking their wares through the streets, and visitors brunching among the surrounding terraces. According to Rabinor, "[Centro Histórico is] the beating heart of not just the city, but the entire country."

La Roma : Filled with fin de siècle mansions, art deco dwellings, and art nouveau–style storefronts, any architecture lover needs to stroll through this colonia . Originally a middle-class residential neighborhood, it was left destroyed after a massive earthquake rocked Mexico City in 1985. Today, La Roma has found new life as a hot spot for artists, 20-somethings, and tourists from all over.

La Condesa : La Roma's fancier cousin next door, La Condesa is a tree-lined paradise built for walking. Parque México and Parque España are popular places for residents to relax, and cafés, bookstores, and restaurants abound in this neighborhood. (Note: Rabinor's expert advice to travelers is to remember that "Mexico City is much more than Roma, Condesa, and Polanco.") Coyoacán : This is the neighborhood that Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera called home, and Coyoacán has built a reputation for itself as a bohemian haven. Don't miss the performers around the main square's kiosco and the Parroquia San Juan Bautista Coyoacán next door – which has a cafe in the back if you're ready to take a break – along with the Mercado de Artesanias and the Mercado de Coyoacán, each selling snacks, artisan goods, and more.

Polanco : A trip to Mexico City isn't complete for any shopping lover without a visit to Polanco's Avenida Presidente Masaryk. If that's not your style, a number of Michelin-worthy restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil are just down the road, and the neighborhood's brick-lined streets are just a few blocks from the Bosque de Chapultepec. Rabinor recommends this neighborhood for first-time visitors, noting that it's ideal for "those who prefer their travel scenery and vibe very manicured and posh."

Cars and bikes : You most likely won't need a car to get around in Mexico City, though it can be more convenient if you're making a day trip to a neighboring town. (Rabinor swears by Waze to manage the congestion and traffic.) You can also rent bikes from the city's Ecobici program, or apps like Dezba .

Trains: Mexico City's Metro system is one of the most expansive and affordable in the world. Buy a reloadable card to get around (for 15 pesos, or about 75 cents). This card will work across the city's transit system, and you can load it up in Metro ticket booths or the machines outside Metrobús stations. Each ride costs five pesos, which is roughly 20 cents. Note that both the Metro and Metrobús have women-only cars, and that they usually have separate boarding zones.

Buses: In Mexico City's central neighborhoods and wherever the Metro doesn't go, the Metrobús does. They have their own lane of traffic, so they can be faster than taking a car or taxi, and a ride is just six pesos. The city's trolebús functions similarly, while the RTP buses (for Red de Transporte de Pasajeros , or Passenger Transport Network) cost between two and seven pesos. At the same bus stops, you may see non-city buses or vans taking passengers. If you're curious where these go, they'll have their stops scrawled on the windshield.

Taxis: It won't be hard to flag down a pink and white taxi in most parts of town. You can also order one by downloading the city's official "App CDMX," available on iPhone and Android. You can use the app to pay with a debit or credit card, but most drivers still prefer cash.

Ride service: Uber, Beat, and Cabify are just a few of the rideshare apps in town. (Pro-tip: Rabinor said the quickest and easiest way to get a taxi in Mexico City is Uber.) If Uber's surge rate seems pricey during rush hour, check Beat or Cabify to see if you can find a deal.

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The R&K Guide To Moscow

The World Cup is upon us, but you could argue that it’s already a relic from another era, a time when Putin was looking for peaceable engagement with the West, before he annexed Crimea and unleashed his trolls on the world. But if ordinary Russians are supposed to play the part of pariah, they haven’t been told. It has been a long time since Moscow was this pleasant to visit. The city center is safe, sanitized, ready for your visit. Yes, the calm is a sign of an increasingly efficient autocracy. But we’ve known Moscow through many iterations, and for the casual visitor, this is one of the best yet. (Visit our St. Petersburg guide here.)

How To Do Moscow

Quick hits what to eat, quick hits what to drink, quick hits what to see, features from moscow, more city guides, r&k insider.

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• Tommy Hilfiger's New York is Bold, Classic, and Luxe

The man who dresses America (and the world) indulges in the best Manhattan has to offer.

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For some, New York is the epicenter of the world where ideas are born and thrive. For native New Yorker Tommy Hilfiger, Manhattan is his home and continual source of inspiration. "New York is defined by its unmatched style, pulsating energy, and unwavering optimism," says Hilfiger. "As the melting pot of America, it's both diverse and vibrant." That ethos translates into Hilfiger's approach to enjoying the city, but also his collections and campaigns, most notably, the figures he's selected to represent the different facets of his label.

Kendall Jenner, Sofia Richie Grainge, and the Stray Kids all appear in distinct spring 2024 campaigns highlighting the breadth of Hilfiger's collections, similar to how he and wife Dee take in the culinary delights of the city. "Kendall rocks the modern American vibe effortlessly. She's got this cool, laid-back style that mixes classic and contemporary pieces flawlessly," adds Hilfiger. This description could easily apply to a Hilfiger city staple, Three MICHELIN Key winner Aman New York which the designer loves for its spa and unparalleled luxury and service.

Trendsetter Richie Grainge emerged as one of the year's most coveted style stars, a moniker that's led to her appointment as a Hilfiger womenswear ambassador. "Sofia brings a unique flair to everything she wears, embodying confidence and sophistication," says Hilfiger. Not dissimilar would be Hilfiger's preferred lunch boîte, Three MICHELIN Star Le Bernardin, which the designer appreciates for its consistency and deliciousness.

However, leave it to Hilfiger to get global rock stars the Stray Kids to front and style the new season pieces. "[They] embody a unique blend of talent, energy, and global appeal that perfectly aligns with the spirit of our brand," says Hilfiger. "Their authenticity and passion for what they do shine through in everything they touch, making them fantastic artists to feature." 

So what's next for the man who dresses America (and the world)? "The Tommy Jeans International Games collection reimagines our sporting and collegiate roots with a fusion of nostalgia and style," shares Hilfiger who cast athletes including pro-footballer Stefon Diggs, Formula 1 driver Mick Schumacher, and college basketball guard Deja Kelly. The goal was to celebrate the upcoming Olympics but with an American slant. "This collection celebrates unity and athleticism with a modern twist." And much like Hilfiger's New York picks, it's all about classics with a hint of today's freshness.

Explore more insights on New York from our Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities.

The Grill  is always a must visit when in NYC. The food is incredible, and the atmosphere brings back the elegance of the 1950s.

We always make a pit stop at Viand when we’re in town. We like their breakfast and coffee best.  

Le Bernardin  is a great spot for business lunches . They constantly rank as one of the best establishments in the city, so you know you’re going to be taken care of and served a delicious meal.

Joe’s Pizza on 40th and Broadway has the best slice in the city – no contest.

The best place for a perfect cocktail: 

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle  serves amazing vodka martinis. 

The best place for a classic, traditional NY meal: 

You can’t go wrong with food from  Katz's Delicatessen . The pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball are outstanding. It’s the most authentic NY experience you could ask for.

What is the perfect spot for a date night?

Dee and I love Nobu New York Fifty Seven for date night. Its ambiance provides the ideal setting for us to unwind and reconnect after busy days.

What’s the ideal family friendly spot? 

Cipriani on 59th Street and Fifth Avenue is one of our favorite dining spots, and Sergio is, hands down, the best maître d' in all of New York City. 

The best place to be seen: 

Carbone is the epitome of a "seen and be seen" hotspot. You’re always guaranteed to run into someone.

Which museum is your must see in New York?

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is my go-to museum in NYC because of its vast collections – you can spend hours exploring and still uncover new exhibits, no matter how many times you've visited before.

Where’s your hidden gem in the city?

Having a home in The Plaza Hotel for years, I found solace in Central Park's proximity, making it convenient to escape the city's hustle and bustle by crossing over 57th Street. Belvedere Castle atop Vista Rock offers stunning panoramic views of the park and city skyline, making it a hidden gem for both its architecture and scenic vistas.

The best place to hide:

Aman spa has state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to wellness that allow guests to completely disconnect and focus on themselves.

Dee and I love checking out Christie's and Sotheby's during auction season. It's a fun way for us to see what's up for grabs and soak in the buzz of the auction floor.

Bergdorf Goodman Men's and Women's have great offerings from the latest collections. 

Health  

The Atria Institute provides full service, 24/7, coordinated healthcare – it’s the future of medicine. It’s run by scientists, researchers and doctors that focus on personalized, proactive care instead of the typical reactive approach. I believe they are going to change the healthcare system.  

The  Aman NY  is our home away from home in NYC.  The hotel has an unparalleled blend of luxury, serenity, and impeccable service – it’s exactly the type of hospitality that my wife and I seek out when traveling.

Hero image: Tommy Hilfiger / Craig McDean, Art + Commerce

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

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Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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A neighbourhood guide to Busan

Wander through artistic alleyways and along modern beachfronts in South Korea’s second city — a place where tradition and innovation go hand in hand.

South Korea's southeastern city of Busan is a lively modern metropolis, home to the country's largest port. This once rough-and-tumble maritime hub has developed into a bustling centre for commerce, culture and technology —   pockets of the old port town, however, remain thriving neighbourhoods where the past rubs shoulders with the bright, shiny and new. From colourful hillside villages to bustling beachside strips, each of Busan’s local districts offers its own unique flavour and a window into what makes the city tick. Combine this with fresh seafood and an emerging restaurant and bar scene, and it’s no wonder people are starting to take notice of Busan. Here are four of the city’s most exciting districts .

1. Haeundae

Haeundae is a district synonymous with its beach, a mile-long stretch of sand where travellers can experience the tranquillity of the ocean while strolling through a modern cityscape. This area is one of Busan’s main tourist attractions, located on the eastern side of the city, at the southern tip of the Korean peninsula. Seagulls soar, swoop and squawk as some of the city’s newest and loftiest buildings gaze out across the rolling waves. These include the Haeundae LCT The Sharp complex, which opened in 2019 and consists of three skyscrapers. The tallest building features a 98th-floor observatory ( Busan X the Sky ) offering an eagle-eye view of the East Sea, as well as the tightly packed urban district surrounding it.    

Haeundae may be known for its impressive views, but there’s plenty to do here, too. Visitors can ride on the newly constructed Haeundae Blue Line Park Sky Capsule , a private elevated rail car that carries passengers through the picturesque pines and rocky outcroppings along the base of Dalmaji Hill. Club D Oasis is also worth a visit, a luxury spa complete with high-end amenities including an infinity rooftop pool, a garden terrace and a private bar. Additionally, this district is home to two restaurants that have recently been awarded a Michelin star each — Mori, serving authentic Japanese cuisine and Fiotto, offering pasta-only dishes. The legendary Haeundae Somunnan Amso Galbijip is also located here, which has been grilling Hanu beef over hot coals since 1964.  

The popular (and very delicious) Haeundae Traditional Market is also an excellent place to explore, with many stalls serving fresh raw fish, along with Haeridangil Street, where scores of historic houses and workshops have been converted into quirky cafes, bars and hole-in-the-wall eateries.  

Still, the beach is undeniably the highlight here, and Gorilla Brewing Haeundae occupies prime oceanfront real estate. This craft beer pub and eatery is located next to Haeundae Beach and is treasured all over town for its wide selection of brews. “Haeundae has a real big-city global vibe compared to other areas in Busan,” says Gorilla community manager Laura Jeon. “I’ve lived here for more than 13 years, but spending a day at the beach still feels like I’m on holiday.”  

2. Gwangalli

If Haeundae is the star of the show, Gwangalli surely gives it a run for its money, with Busan’s most iconic structure, the Gwangan Bridge, serving as an impressive backdrop. Gwangalli Beach is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, pursuing their passions throughout much of the year.    

Gwangalli is also known for the lively road of restaurants, pubs and cafes lining its beach road, known as the Gwangalli Beach strip. These options range from chic cafes to old-school basement karaoke rooms and include HQ Bar , a popular spot for visitors looking for cold drinks and live music overlooking the famous bridge. After dark, the restaurants’ neon signs cast colourful reflections on the dark surface of the sea. “I was born and raised in Busan”, says HQ Bar co-owner Jee Kim. “Like a lot of areas in this city, Gwangalli has gone from a quiet and humble beach enclave to a fun and lively destination.”  

In an already seafood-rich city, it’s high praise that Gwangalli is known as one of the best spots to tuck into a plate of hoe (thinly sliced white, raw fish). Among the scores of options is Millak Raw Fish Town , a complex that allows visitors to select their entrées, which are plucked from the tanks and served sliced up at tables within minutes.    

At dusk, Gwangalli is home to a number of hip nightlife establishments which have sprung up in the neighbourhood’s backstreets, including Bar DiLan, which stocks a superb wine selection.   However, the beach still manages to maintain its old-school feel. “It’s very boisterous and unpretentious”, Jee says, “it’s a mixture of new high-rises and back-alley restaurants right in front of the sea”.

3. Gamcheon Culture Village

Busan has been a vital port and trading post for centuries, however it really didn’t come into its own as a city until the Korean War, when thousands of refugees poured in and set up shanty towns on the hillsides. Over time, the residents replaced the lean-tos and tin-roofed huts with permanent structures, although the haphazard feel of the temporary settlements often remained.  

A number of these historic neighbourhoods still exist, though Gamcheon Culture Village, also known as "Busan’s Machu Picchu", is by far the most famous. Terraced across a steep slope over a narrow valley, this jumble of tiny, brightly-coloured pastel homes is served by narrow staircases and a rabbit warren of alleys. What began as an attempt to add some life to the neighbourhood with a few murals and painted rooftops has blossomed into a fully-fledged art project, making it one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods and biggest tourist draws.

Touring the maze of alleyways in this village is free, however visitors can head to the city’s information centre where useful maps and guides can be purchased to assist in navigating the maze of colourful and complex passages. The Little Museum is located at the entrance of the village, where visitors can start their day by gaining insight into the area’s vibrant past, the local architecture and its artistic transformation.  

A couple of hours can be spent exploring these streets, taking in the lively murals. There are many art galleries, quaint cafes and shops located along the narrow lanes, as well as beautiful rooftops and observation decks that provide panoramic views of the city.

4. Nampo-dong  

Nampo-dong is Busan’s old harbour district and arguably the city at its most traditional, located in Busan’s southern centre. This is where it all began, and despite the arrival of the high-end stores that line its shopping street, the neighbourhood feels deeply rooted and oozes character. Nampo-dong is most famous for its markets, especially Jagalchi , which has been one of Korea’s important seafood exchanges for more than 600 years. A stroll through its vibrant pathways offers an insight into the lives of the local fishmongers and the city’s past.  

Across the street from Jagalchi is BIFF Square, where the Busan International Film Festival started. While films are still screened there during the festival, the square is better known for its street food carts, offering up Korean staples such as tteokbokki (a simmered rice cake), fried dumplings and eomuk   (fish cakes). The speciality here, however, is the ssiat hotteok , a fried pancake filled with gooey, melted brown sugar, topped with a sprinkle of seeds.  

The Nampo-dong alleys are worthy of further exploration, including the labyrinthine Gukje Market where visitors can stock up on souvenirs such as hand-carved wooden figurines; or the Bupyeong Kkangtong Market , for famous dishes such as guksu   (noodles) and pajeon   (green onion pancake). Close by is the Busan Tower in the historic Yongdusan Park . Now eclipsed by new stratospheric high-rises, this nearly 400ft construction still provides epic views of Nampo-dong and beyond. This is vintage Busan at its best, representing the city’s past skyline, a throwback to an era when this was the highest structure in town, an idea that seems quaint now.

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Discover Narita After Dark: A Guide to the City’s Best Nightlife

When the sun sets in Narita, the city awakens to a vibrant nightlife that promises unforgettable experiences. Known for its historic temples and close proximity to Tokyo’s international gateway, Narita Airport, this charming city offers more than meets the eye after dark. From traditional izakayas where locals gather to share stories over sake to modern bars and nightclubs pulsating with life, Narita’s nightlife scene is a fascinating blend of cultural tradition and contemporary entertainment. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best spots to enjoy Narita’s nightlife, ensuring every night owl finds something to thrill them.

Unmissable Nightlife Experiences in Narita

Beyond the bars and markets, Narita’s nightlife is rich with unique activities and experiences. Here are some must-do nighttime adventures:

Sake Tasting Sessions

Join a sake tasting session and learn about the different varieties of Japan’s iconic rice wine. Discover the nuanced flavors that make sake a beloved beverage around the world.

Karaoke Nights

Embrace a quintessential Japanese pastime and enjoy an evening of karaoke. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or a hesitant first-timer, karaoke in Narita is an experience filled with fun and laughter.

Where to Stay in Narita for the Best Nightlife

Finding the perfect base is essential for enjoying Narita’s nightlife to the fullest. Here are some top accommodations that offer easy access to the best night spots:

• Hotel Nikko Narita : Conveniently located near the airport, this hotel offers comfort and class with easy access to downtown Narita.
• Narita Tobu Hotel Airport : Ideal for those seeking proximity to both the airport and local nightlife attractions.
• APA Hotel Keisei Narita-Ekimae : A budget-friendly option located near Narita Train Station, offering easy access to the city’s nightlife scene.

Day-by-Day Itinerary for Narita Nightlife

Maximize your nights in Narita with our carefully crafted itinerary, highlighting different facets of the city’s nightlife over a week.

Day 1: Izakaya Hopping

Begin your adventure with an izakaya crawl. Start at Narita Yume Farm for a rustic setting and farm-to-table dishes, then move to local izakayas, where you can enjoy local foods with your sake.

Day 2: Night Markets and Street Food

Experience Narita’s vibrant street food scene at Omotesando Road . Sample local delicacies like yakitori and takoyaki under the neon lights.

Day 3: Sake Tasting Tour

Join a sake brewery tour to learn about sake production and indulge in premium tastings.

Day 4: Karaoke Night

Save your voice for a fun-filled karaoke night at The Cage  and sing the night away with friends.

Day 5: Bar Adventure

Feel the pulse of Narita’s modern side at JetLagClub , known for its electric atmosphere.

Day 6: Relaxing Spa Night

After a week of fun, unwind with a visit to Yamato-no-Yu Public Bath , a modern Japanese bath house for the ultimate relaxation.

Narita Nightlife Tips

To ensure you have the best night out in Narita, remember these tips:

• Public transportation in Narita can end early. Plan your return journey ahead of time or consider staying within walking distance of your nightlife destinations.
• Many smaller establishments may not accept credit cards. Carrying some cash is advisable for a hassle-free experience.
• Respect local customs and etiquette, especially in more traditional venues. Observing and emulating the conduct of locals is a good practice.

Narita’s nightlife offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern excitement. Whether you’re savoring the local cuisine, enjoying live entertainment, or simply soaking in the city’s nighttime ambiance, Narita promises an enriching experience for every type of traveler.

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The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024 – Digital Nomad’s Guide to the Globe

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

In the age of remote work, digital nomads have the unique opportunity to blend their professional lives with their love for travel. But with the whole world to choose from, deciding where to set up your laptop can be daunting. This guide highlights 15 international destinations that stand out for digital nomads, offering a mix of reliable internet, welcoming communities, and lifestyles conducive to productivity and exploration.

Bali, Indonesia

As a digital nomad in Bali, you’ll find yourself in an idyllic setting that balances work and leisure perfectly. The island is a hub for remote workers, thanks to its serene environment, affordable cost of living, and vibrant community of expatriates and fellow nomads. You can set up your workspace in one of the many co-working spaces or cafes, where high-speed internet and a supportive community are the norms.

Bali’s lifestyle is conducive to productivity, with its tranquil beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences providing a perfect backdrop for creativity and inspiration. The island also offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury villas, all catering to the needs of a digital nomad. This blend of work-friendly infrastructure and an enriching living experience makes Bali an ideal destination for those looking to combine their professional aspirations with a love for travel and exploration.

Visa Requirements: Indonesia offers a tourist visa for short stays and a social visa for longer stays, which can be extended.

Insider’s Tip: Ubud and Canggu are popular among nomads for their co-working spaces.

Getting There: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

In Chiang Mai, you’ll find an ideal haven for digital nomads, characterized by its low cost of living, fast internet, and a robust community of like-minded individuals. This city has become a preferred destination for remote workers, offering affordable housing options and numerous co-working spaces equipped with high-speed internet. Chiang Mai’s digital nomad community is welcoming and diverse, providing ample opportunities for networking and socializing.

The city combines modern amenities with rich cultural heritage, allowing you to work efficiently while experiencing the unique Thai culture, from bustling markets to serene temples. The affordability of living in Chiang Mai means you can enjoy a high quality of life without stretching your budget, whether you’re savoring local Thai cuisine, exploring the surrounding landscapes, or simply enjoying the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

Visa Requirements: Thailand offers a tourist visa and a special long-term visa for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the many cafes with excellent Wi-Fi and coffee.

Getting There: Chiang Mai International Airport has flights from major Asian cities.

Berlin, Germany

Thanks to its vibrant startup scene, cultural diversity, and excellent infrastructure, Berlin is a magnet for digital nomads. As a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, Berlin offers an inspiring environment for creative minds and tech enthusiasts. The city’s cultural diversity enriches your experience, providing a broad spectrum of perspectives and ideas. Its infrastructure is well-suited for remote work, with reliable public transportation and a plethora of co-working spaces.

Berlin’s rich history and dynamic arts scene adds another layer of appeal, allowing you to immerse yourself in a city that seamlessly blends its past with a forward-thinking ethos. Whether you’re networking in trendy cafés, collaborating in modern workspaces, or exploring the city’s many historical and cultural attractions, Berlin provides a stimulating backdrop for your professional and personal growth.

Visa Requirements: Germany offers a range of visas, including the freelancer visa for non-EU citizens.

Insider’s Tip: Explore co-working spaces in Kreuzberg and Neukölln.

Getting There: Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the main international gateway.

Lisbon, Portugal

In Lisbon, you’ll find yourself in a city becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads, thanks to its great weather, affordable cost of living, and burgeoning tech scene. The city’s mild climate allows for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle year-round, perfect for work and leisure. Lisbon offers a cost-effective living environment, especially compared to other major European cities, allowing your budget to stretch further.

The growing tech scene in Lisbon is also a significant draw, with an increasing number of startups and tech events fostering a dynamic and innovative atmosphere. The city’s blend of traditional charm and modern amenities makes it an attractive location for remote work. From its historic neighborhoods and vibrant cultural life to its beautiful beaches and welcoming community, Lisbon provides a balanced environment catering to your professional needs and personal interests.

Visa Requirements: Portugal has a digital nomad visa as part of its temporary stay visa.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy the numerous outdoor cafes and rooftop terraces.

Getting There: Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

As a digital nomad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, you’ll be immersed in a city renowned for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and surprisingly affordable lifestyle. This lively metropolis offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from tango music echoing in the streets to the colorful murals that adorn the city walls. The cost of living here is lower than in many other major cities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a high-quality yet economical lifestyle.

Buenos Aires is also a cultural hub, with various cafes, theaters, and bookstores catering to diverse tastes and interests. The city’s vibrant and diverse nightlife offers everything from traditional milongas to contemporary clubs and bars. As a digital nomad, you’ll find that Buenos Aires combines the excitement of a large city with the warmth of Argentine hospitality, making it a stimulating and enjoyable place to live and work.

Visa Requirements: Argentina offers a tourist visa, extendable for up to 90 days.

Insider’s Tip: Palermo is a trendy neighborhood popular with expats.

Getting There: Ministro Pistarini International Airport is the main entry point.

Prague, Czech Republic

You’ll be surrounded by a city steeped in rich history, evident in its stunning architecture and centuries-old streets. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate Prague’s robust infrastructure, including reliable public transport and high-speed internet, facilitating work and exploration. The city’s central location in Europe makes it a strategic base for traveling to other European destinations, offering convenience and adventure.

Prague’s historical ambiance and modern amenities provide a unique work environment. You can spend your days working in cozy cafés or modern co-working spaces and your evenings exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene, from its famed Charles Bridge to the numerous museums and galleries. Prague offers a perfect balance of work and leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage while staying connected and productive.

Visa Requirements: Czech Republic offers a long-term business visa for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Take advantage of the city’s excellent public transportation.

Getting There: Václav Havel Airport Prague offers numerous international connections.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city celebrated for its stunning architecture, from the whimsical works of Gaudí to the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm. As a digital nomad, the city’s pleasant Mediterranean climate provides an ideal backdrop for work and leisure, allowing for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle throughout the year. Barcelona also has dynamic co-working spaces, fostering a creative and collaborative environment for professionals from various sectors. These spaces often host community events and workshops, providing opportunities for networking and skill development.

Additionally, the city’s blend of cultural richness, from its world-class museums to vibrant street life, ensures there’s always something new to explore and draw inspiration from. In Barcelona, a favorable climate, innovative workspaces, and a deep cultural heritage create an enriching and balanced experience for remote work and living.

Visa Requirements: Spain has a non-lucrative visa suitable for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique vibe.

Getting There: Barcelona-El Prat Airport serves many international flights.

Mexico City, Mexico

Discover a vibrant metropolis teeming with rich culture and an exceptional culinary scene, making it a favored destination for expats and digital nomads. The city’s vast cultural landscape is dotted with historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries, providing a deep dive into Mexico’s heritage. The cuisine, ranging from street food to high-end restaurants, offers a gastronomic adventure with diverse and delectable flavors.

As an expat, you’ll find Mexico City’s atmosphere remarkably welcoming, with locals known for their warmth and hospitality. This sense of inclusivity extends into the thriving community of digital nomads and expats, where you can easily find networks and social groups. Whether working from a bustling café, exploring the colorful markets, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Mexico City offers a dynamic and enriching environment for personal and professional growth.

Visa Requirements: Mexico offers a six-month tourist visa upon arrival for many nationalities.

Insider’s Tip: Condesa and Roma neighborhoods are trendy among nomads.

Getting There: Mexico City International Airport is well-connected globally.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is at the forefront of digital innovation, recognized for its pioneering e-residency programs and vibrant tech community. As a digital nomad, this environment is ideal, offering advanced digital infrastructure and a supportive network for tech professionals. The e-residency program provides a unique opportunity for remote workers to establish and run a business virtually within the EU.

Tallinn’s tech community is not just about business; it’s also about collaboration and creativity, with numerous tech events, meetups, and co-working spaces fostering a sense of community and innovation. The city’s blend of medieval charm and modern amenities provides an inspiring backdrop for your work. Living in Tallinn means being part of a progressive, digitally advanced society where technology is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, making it a perfect match for those who thrive in a forward-thinking and dynamic environment.

Visa Requirements: Estonia offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the Telliskivi Creative City for co-working spaces.

Getting There: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the main international airport.

Bangkok, Thailand

Immerse yourself in the energy of Bangkok that buzzes with vibrant street life, bustling markets, and a skyline that blends traditional temples with modern high-rises. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate Bangkok’s affordable cost of living, which makes it possible to enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank. The city is also emerging as a hub for entrepreneurs and startups, offering networking opportunities and resources for those looking to grow their businesses or start new ventures.

The local community welcomes expats and fellow nomads, making fitting in and finding your niche easy. Whether working from a trendy café in Sukhumvit, exploring the rich cultural heritage in the old town, or enjoying the city’s renowned street food, Bangkok offers a dynamic and stimulating environment that is both inspiring and conducive to productivity.

Visa Requirements: Thailand’s special long-term visa accommodates digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the city’s diverse food markets for a taste of local cuisine.

Getting There: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport serve Bangkok.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is a city where affordability meets a rich tapestry of culture and history, making it an increasingly popular choice for digital nomads. The cost of living here is remarkably low compared to many European cities, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without stretching your budget. Tbilisi’s charm lies in its friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality, making it easy for you to feel at home and integrate into the community.

The city offers a unique cultural experience, blending its historic past with a growing contemporary arts scene. Stroll through the old town’s cobbled streets, visit the diverse array of cafes and eateries, and immerse yourself in the vibrant mix of Eastern and Western influences that define Tbilisi’s identity. This balance of affordability, welcoming atmosphere, and cultural richness makes Tbilisi an attractive destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience while working remotely.

Visa Requirements: Georgia’s Remotely from Georgia program welcomes digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy the city’s blend of modern and historic architecture.

Getting There: Tbilisi International Airport has regular flights from Europe and Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you’ll find yourself in a dynamic urban environment with an appealing mix of affordability and a lively international community. The city, known for its energy and bustling streets, presents a low cost of living, allowing you to enjoy a variety of experiences without a hefty price tag. Ho Chi Minh City is a magnet for expatriates and digital nomads, creating a vibrant and diverse community where you can easily connect with others from around the world.

The city’s landscape blends modern skyscrapers, French colonial architecture, and traditional Vietnamese elements, providing a stimulating backdrop for daily life. Whether working in a trendy café in District 1, exploring the rich history and culture, or sampling the renowned Vietnamese cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City offers a dynamic setting that caters to both your professional needs and your adventurous spirit.

Visa Requirements: Vietnam offers a business visa that can be suitable for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: District 1 is popular for its cafes and co-working spaces.

Getting There: Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the main gateway.

Medellín, Colombia

Often called the ‘City of Eternal Spring,’ Medellín has a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a comfortable environment to work and live. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation and now boasts a vibrant digital nomad community supported by numerous co-working spaces and a growing tech scene. Medellín’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, which perfectly balance urban living and natural beauty.

The city’s cultural richness, colorful neighborhoods, lively music scene, and friendly locals add to its appeal. Networking opportunities abound, whether in professional settings or casual meetups, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in the local and expat communities. Medellín’s combination of pleasant weather, affordable living, and dynamic community creates an attractive and stimulating environment for remote workers.

Visa Requirements: Colombia offers a tourist visa and has proposed a digital nomad visa.

Insider’s Tip: Poblado and Laureles are neighborhoods popular with digital nomads.

Getting There: José María Córdova International Airport serves Medellín.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town marries stunning natural landscapes with a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and a burgeoning tech scene. As a digital nomad, Cape Town offers you the unique opportunity to work in the backdrop of breathtaking scenery, from the iconic Table Mountain to the picturesque beaches along the coastline. The city’s diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, each offering a different cultural experience, from the historic streets of Bo-Kaap to the bustling waterfront.

Cape Town is also emerging as a tech hub, with a growing number of startups and co-working spaces fostering a dynamic atmosphere for innovation and collaboration. This combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tech-forward environment makes Cape Town an inspiring and productive location for digital nomads seeking a blend of work and exploration.

Visa Requirements: South Africa offers various visas, including a business visa for remote workers.

Insider’s Tip: The city has numerous beaches perfect for wind-down after work.

Getting There: Cape Town International Airport offers flights to major global cities.

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud is a serene oasis that’s become a haven for digital nomads worldwide. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ubud offers a tranquil environment where you can focus on your work amidst the inspiring beauty of nature. The town is celebrated for its artistic community, traditional crafts, and vibrant cultural events, providing a deeply immersive experience of Balinese culture.

Ubud’s well-established community of digital nomads means you’ll have access to a network of like-minded individuals, co-working spaces, and cafes that cater to a productive lifestyle. Whether working from a quiet café surrounded by rice fields or attending a local cultural workshop, Ubud offers a balanced lifestyle combining work, wellness, and cultural enrichment.

Visa Requirements: Indonesia’s social visa is a popular option for longer stays.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the local art markets for unique crafts.

Getting There: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport and then travel to Ubud.

The Bottom Line

For digital nomads, the world is their office. These 15 destinations offer the essentials like strong internet and co-working spaces and enrich the remote working experience with their unique cultures, vibrant communities, and scenic beauty. Each place provides a different backdrop to a digital nomad’s lifestyle, whether a bustling city life or tranquil beachside living. With the world slowly adapting to the needs of remote workers, the possibilities are endless for those seeking to balance work and wanderlust.

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The post The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024 – Digital Nomad’s Guide to the Globe republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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