Why Switzerland is so special Switzerland is one of the best destinations in Europe if you love dramatic mountain landscapes and breathtaking nature. One of the things we love most about the country is that there's something for every type of traveler. Whether you enjoy challenging hikes or prefer taking a cable car to a spectacular viewpoint, Switzerland has it all. During our one-week road trip through Switzerland, we combined scenic hikes with easy-to-reach viewpoints. Below you'll find our favorite places and the destinations that, in our opinion, belong among the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Zermatt and the Matterhorn The Matterhorn is undoubtedly one of Switzerland's most iconic landmarks and should be on every Switzerland itinerary. The best place to admire the mountain is from Zermatt, a charming alpine village at its foot. Keep in mind that Zermatt is completely car-free, so if you're traveling by car, you'll first need to drive to Täsch and continue by train. The Matterhorn is famous not only for its distinctive pyramid shape but also for inspiring the Toblerone chocolate logo. From Zermatt, you can enjoy several beautiful hiking trails with incredible views of the mountain, but even from the village itself, the scenery is spectacular. During winter, Zermatt transforms into one of Switzerland's best ski resorts, making it a fantastic destination throughout the year. Read more about visiting the Matterhorn here. Rhine Falls – Europe's largest waterfall If you're driving to Switzerland from the Netherlands, Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) makes an excellent first stop just after crossing the German border. As Europe's largest waterfall, it's an impressive sight. Located on the Rhine River near Schaffhausen, you can admire the falls from several walking trails or take a boat trip that brings you remarkably close to the roaring water. Oeschinensee – Switzerland's most beautiful mountain lake Oeschinensee is one of our favorite places anywhere in the world. The lake's turquoise-blue water is so vibrant that it almost doesn't look real. To reach the lake, take the cable car from Kandersteg, followed by an easy 30-minute walk. Once there, you can go swimming, relax by the shore or hike around the lake. We chose the Oeschinensee–Heuberg Trail, an 11-kilometer hike that takes around four hours. The trail climbs high above the lake and offers breathtaking panoramic views of both the water and the surrounding mountains. Visit the Rhône Glacier ice cave The Rhône Glacier is one of Switzerland's most accessible glaciers and makes for a fascinating stop during a road trip. Located along the scenic Furka Pass, it's the country's second-largest glacier. The main attraction is the Rhône Glacier Ice Cave, where you can walk through a tunnel carved directly into the glacier. If you've never visited an ice cave before, this is a unique experience that's well worth adding to your itinerary. The entrance is located opposite Hotel Belvédère, where parking is also available. Lauterbrunnen – Switzerland's most beautiful mountain village Located just 15 minutes from Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen is one of Switzerland's most picturesque villages. The valley surrounding Lauterbrunnen is home to more than 70 waterfalls, several of which are visible directly from the village. Even if you're only passing through, it's worth taking the time to stroll through the streets and enjoy the incredible scenery. Admire the Aletsch Glacier The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in Switzerland and one of the country's most impressive natural wonders. Because of its enormous size, there are several viewpoints where you can admire it, including Moosfluh, Eggishorn and Bettmerhorn. We visited the glacier from Moosfluh, which can easily be reached by cable car from Riederalp. Grindelwald and the Jungfrau Region First Cliff Walk One of the highlights near Grindelwald is the spectacular First Cliff Walk. This metal walkway clings to the side of a mountain at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, offering incredible panoramic views over the surrounding Alps. Take the cable car from Grindelwald to First and stay on until the final station. From there, it's only a few minutes' walk to the Cliff Walk. The walkway itself is relatively short, making it easy to combine with a visit to Bachalpsee. Bachalpsee After visiting the First Cliff Walk, continue along Trail 1 towards Bachalpsee. The hike takes approximately one hour and is relatively easy, making it suitable for most visitors. When we visited, the weather was perfect—around 25°C (77°F)—and the calm lake beautifully reflected the surrounding mountain peaks. It was the perfect place to stop for a picnic before heading back. Explore Rosenlaui The final destination on our list is the beautiful Rosenlaui Valley. Although it's less well known than many of Switzerland's famous attractions, the scenery here is absolutely stunning. There are several hiking trails through the valley, but it's also a wonderful area to explore by car. Stop along the way for short walks, scenic viewpoints or simply to admire the dramatic alpine landscape.

Yosemite National Park is conveniently located in California and can easily be reached from several major cities. Covering more than 3,000 square kilometers (1,200 square miles), it's an enormous park. If you want to explore at a relaxed pace and enjoy some of the park's best hikes and viewpoints, we recommend spending 2 to 4 days here. Want to know everything you need to plan your visit? Read our complete Yosemite National Park Travel Guide. Below you'll find our favorite viewpoints and hiking spots in Yosemite National Park. Tunnel View As you drive from the park entrance toward Yosemite Valley, one of the first iconic viewpoints you'll encounter is Tunnel View. After passing through the tunnel, you're immediately rewarded with one of the most famous panoramas in Yosemite National Park. From here, you'll enjoy sweeping views over Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. At certain times of the year, the sunlight can create a reddish glow on Bridalveil Fall, making the view even more spectacular. Lower Yosemite Falls Our first stop inside Yosemite was Lower Yosemite Falls, located close to Yosemite Valley. Since we arrived early in the morning, parking was still easy to find. We took the short walk to the waterfall, although the water flow was fairly limited because we visited during summer. From here, you can continue on the much longer and more challenging hike to Upper Yosemite Falls. We decided to skip it so we had enough time to explore more of the park's highlights. Bridalveil Fall Although you can already admire Bridalveil Fall from Tunnel View, it's definitely worth visiting the waterfall up close. The trail is short and the waterfall is located directly along the road to Yosemite Valley, making it an easy stop during your drive through the park. While the waterfall is often less powerful in summer, it becomes especially impressive after periods of rainfall or during spring when snowmelt increases the water flow. Valley View Unlike Tunnel View, which overlooks Yosemite Valley from above, Valley View offers a perspective from the valley floor. Located beside the Merced River, this viewpoint provides beautiful reflections of El Capitan and the surrounding granite cliffs. It's the perfect place to stop, especially as you're leaving Yosemite Valley. El Capitan Rising nearly 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) above the valley floor, El Capitan is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Yosemite National Park. There are several roadside pull-offs where you can stop to admire this enormous granite cliff. We found ourselves stopping multiple times just to take photos. No matter how many times you see it, its sheer size is incredibly impressive. Glacier Point Unlike many of Yosemite's other highlights, Glacier Point is located outside Yosemite Valley. We recommend visiting either at the beginning or the end of your day. During summer, the road to Glacier Point is fully accessible, while in winter it's often closed because of heavy snowfall. For us, Glacier Point offered the most spectacular view in Yosemite National Park. Even the drive there is beautiful, but once you've parked, it's worth walking a little farther to enjoy even more breathtaking panoramic views over Half Dome, Yosemite Valley and the surrounding peaks. Although it requires a bit of extra driving time, Glacier Point is absolutely worth the effort. Mariposa Grove Located in the southern section of Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove is one of the park's most unique areas. If you're entering through the South Entrance, it's also one of the first major attractions you'll reach. Mariposa Grove is home to hundreds of towering giant sequoias, including some of the oldest living trees on Earth. As you walk through the forest, you'll pass both standing giants and fallen trees, giving you a real sense of just how enormous these ancient trees are. Several walking trails wind through the grove, with information panels explaining the history, ecology and conservation of these remarkable trees. Visiting early in the morning adds an extra touch of magic, as the forest is wonderfully peaceful before the crowds arrive. We recommend setting aside at least half a day to fully explore this incredible part of Yosemite National Park.

Mauritius is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, located around 900 kilometers (560 miles) east of Madagascar and part of the African continent. Although the island measures only 65 kilometers (40 miles) long and 45 kilometers (28 miles) wide, it offers an incredible variety of landscapes. From lush green mountains and pristine white-sand beaches to luxury resorts and a warm tropical climate, Mauritius has everything you need for an unforgettable holiday. How to get to Mauritius You can fly directly to Mauritius from several European cities, making it an easy tropical getaway. The island is also a fantastic addition to a longer trip through southern Africa, combining perfectly with destinations such as South Africa, Zimbabwe or Tanzania. We flew from Johannesburg to Mauritius in about four hours with FlySafair, and were pleasantly surprised to receive a snack box with crackers, chocolate and water during the flight. Renting a car in Mauritius Once you arrive at the airport, we highly recommend renting a car. Although Mauritius isn't a large island, having your own transportation makes it much easier to explore different beaches, viewpoints and attractions at your own pace. It's also the easiest way to travel between the airport and your accommodation. The airport is located in the southeast of the island, an area that's generally windier with rougher seas than the popular west coast. We almost always rent our cars through Sunny Cars, including during our trip to Mauritius, and had a great experience. If you have a Dutch driving licence, you can use it in Mauritius without any problems. Just remember that people drive on the left-hand side of the road, as is common in several African countries. How many days do you need in Mauritius? We recommend spending at least one week in Mauritius, although 10 to 14 days is even better if your schedule allows. Both the north and the south of the island offer beautiful resorts, beaches and plenty of attractions. To reduce driving time, we recommend splitting your stay between two locations. For example, spend 3 to 6 nights in the south, followed by 3 to 6 nights in the north. This way you'll experience two very different sides of the island without spending hours in the car every day. Things to do in Mauritius Mauritius offers something for every type of traveler. The island is best known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach holiday. Mont Choisy Beach in the north and Le Morne Beach in the southwest are two of our favorite places to spend a sunny afternoon. If you're looking for a more active holiday, Mauritius won't disappoint. The island offers excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and there are numerous boat tours that take you to coral reefs where you can snorkel or even swim with wild dolphins. Mauritius is also a fantastic hiking destination. Popular trails include the challenging hike up Le Morne Brabant and the scenic Seven Waterfalls (Tamarind Falls) hike. For a taste of local culture, visit the capital Port Louis, where you can explore the lively central market. Other interesting cultural attractions include the Hindu temple at Grand Bassin, a visit to one of the island's tea plantations, the Blue Penny Museum to learn about Mauritian history, or Château de Labourdonnais, one of the island's most beautiful colonial estates. Looking for more inspiration? Read our complete guide to the best things to do in Mauritius. Where to stay in Mauritius When choosing where to stay, it's good to know that the island has very different coastlines. The east coast is generally windier, with rougher seas, while the west coast enjoys calmer water and more sheltered beaches. That's why many visitors choose to stay on either the northwest or southwest coast. In the north, Grand Baie is one of the island's most popular destinations, offering beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants and a lively atmosphere. In the southwest, you'll find the iconic Le Morne Brabant, surrounded by luxury resorts and one of the island's most spectacular beaches. If you're staying for more than a week, we definitely recommend splitting your stay between these two regions to experience the best of Mauritius. Best time to visit Mauritius Mauritius is a wonderful destination throughout the year, although it does have both a wet and a dry season. The summer season runs from December to March, with average daytime temperatures of around 30°C (86°F). This is also the wetter season, when tropical showers are more common. The dry season, from July to November, generally sees the least rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures of around 25°C (77°F). One thing that hardly changes is the ocean temperature. The sea remains wonderfully warm all year, averaging between 24°C and 28°C (75–82°F), making Mauritius an excellent destination for swimming and snorkeling in every season.

The Maldives is a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, located southwest of India and Sri Lanka. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and iconic overwater villas, it's easy to see why the Maldives is considered one of the world's ultimate bucket-list destinations. It's also the perfect destination for a honeymoon! The Maldives is often known as an expensive destination, but that doesn't have to be the case at all. Read my budget tips for visiting the Maldives to discover how to experience this tropical paradise without spending a fortune. How to get to the Maldives The Maldives is easily reached by plane. From Europe, you can find both direct and connecting flights to Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The Maldives is also easy to combine with a trip to Sri Lanka. Flights from Colombo to Malé take just 1.5 hours, making it a popular twin-destination itinerary. Do you need a visa for the Maldives? If you hold a Dutch passport, you don't need to apply for a visa before traveling to the Maldives. Upon arrival, you'll receive a free Visa on Arrival, valid for stays of up to 30 days. To qualify, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, and you'll need proof of accommodation as well as a return or onward flight ticket. (If you're not traveling on a Dutch passport, be sure to check the visa requirements for your nationality before your trip.) Best time to visit the Maldives The Maldives has both a wet season and a dry season, but it's a fantastic destination year-round. The wet season runs from May through November and also coincides with the low season, making it a more affordable time to visit. Tropical rain showers are more common during these months, but they're usually short and heavy, often lasting no more than a few minutes before the sun returns. Temperatures stay warm year-round, averaging between 28°C and 30°C (82–86°F). The dry season, from December through April, is considered the high season. During this period, accommodation prices are generally higher and many hotels sell out well in advance. Where to stay in the Maldives When planning a trip to the Maldives, you basically have two accommodation options. The first, and most famous, is staying at one of the country's luxury resort islands. Each resort occupies its own private island, offering everything from comfortable all-inclusive resorts accessible by speedboat to ultra-luxurious properties costing thousands of euros per night that can only be reached by seaplane. You can easily spend your entire holiday at one resort, but if you're staying for a week or longer, it's also worth combining two or three different resorts. Since most resort islands are relatively small, switching locations adds more variety to your trip. The second option is staying on a local island, such as Maafushi. These islands are home to local communities and offer a wide range of hotels and guesthouses at much more affordable prices. While you won't find overwater villas, you'll still enjoy beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Keep in mind that alcohol is prohibited on local islands, and bikinis or swimwear are only allowed on designated tourist beaches. Want to know more? Read my complete guide about Maafushi. Getting around the Maldives Transportation between the islands depends on whether you're staying on a resort island or a local island. If you're staying at a resort, all transfers are arranged directly by the resort. Keep in mind that these transfers are not always included in your room rate and often come at an additional cost. Resorts located close to Malé are usually accessible by speedboat. Resorts farther away typically require a scenic seaplane transfer. If you're staying on a local island, you can travel by public ferry or (shared) speedboat. Public ferries are much cheaper but take considerably longer. They depart from Malé, which can be reached from the airport by a free shuttle ferry. You can also book a shared or private speedboat to your island. Although more expensive, it's by far the fastest and most convenient option. How long should you stay in the Maldives? I recommend spending at least five nights in the Maldives. Five nights gives you enough time to experience both a local island and a resort island, allowing you to get a great impression of the country. For example, you could spend the first three nights on Maafushi and the final two nights at a nearby resort. If you're staying seven nights or longer, I recommend changing locations at least once. Whether you switch from a local island to a resort island or simply stay at two different resorts, it allows you to experience more of what the Maldives has to offer. Is the Maldives expensive? The answer is both yes and no. A trip to the Maldives can be as affordable or as luxurious as you choose to make it. Staying on a local island is significantly cheaper than staying at a luxury resort that requires a seaplane transfer. You'll also save money by combining the Maldives with another nearby destination, such as Sri Lanka, or by traveling outside the peak season. Looking for ways to visit the Maldives without overspending? Be sure to read my budget tips for traveling to the Maldives.

Maafushi itself isn't very big, but despite its size, there's plenty to do both on the island and in the surrounding area. Thanks to its convenient location, Maafushi is the perfect base for booking some of the best excursions in the Maldives. You can arrange most tours through your hotel, at one of the many excursion desks on the island, or book them in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide. Want to know more about Maafushi itself? Read my complete guide here! Lunch on a sandbank One of the most unique excursions from Maafushi is having lunch on a secluded sandbank. This experience can be booked on its own or combined with another tour, such as a snorkeling trip. You'll be taken by speedboat to a sandbank where you'll spend a few relaxing hours. A picnic blanket, beach umbrella and lounge chairs are already waiting for you. Most tours include a barbecue lunch, although you can usually choose a cold lunch instead. For a few hours, you'll have the sandbank almost entirely to yourself, making it the perfect place to enjoy lunch, relax and take some incredible photos. Don't forget to bring plenty of sunscreen, as there's very little shade. Are you planning a trip to The Maldives? Read our guide here! Snorkeling with Nurse Sharks The Maldives is one of the best places in the world for both snorkeling and diving. From Maafushi, you can join several excursions that focus on spotting specific marine animals, such as whale sharks, nurse sharks or rays. If you prefer a bit of everything, you can also book a general snorkeling tour that stops at several reefs, giving you the chance to encounter a wide variety of tropical fish and other marine life. Visit a local uninhabited island There are many small, uninhabited islands near Maafushi that are well worth visiting. These tiny islands are often covered in lush vegetation, and some even have mangrove forests that you can explore on foot. As you wander around, keep an eye out for small wildlife, including the adorable hermit crabs that can be found all over the island. You can also take a day trip from Maafushi to another inhabited local island to experience everyday life in the Maldives. Resort island day trip or evening visit Don't want to spend a fortune on a luxury resort stay but still want to see the famous overwater villas up close? A resort island day trip is the perfect solution. There are usually several luxury resorts within easy reach of Maafushi that offer day passes. You'll be picked up in the morning and returned to Maafushi before dinner. During the day, you can enjoy almost all of the resort's facilities, take a look inside an overwater villa, relax by the pool with an alcoholic cocktail (something you won't find on local islands!), and often use complimentary paddleboards or kayaks. If you prefer, you can also visit a resort in the evening instead. Enjoy dinner at one of the resort's restaurants before ending the night with a drink while listening to live music. Dolphin cruise or sunset cruise Besides snorkeling trips, you can also book one of the many boat cruises from Maafushi. Some cruises focus on spotting dolphins, while others take you to beautiful viewpoints or combine the trip with a visit to a sandbank or local island. Another popular option is a sunset cruise, where you'll head out onto the ocean just before sunset. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the stunning colors of the Maldivian sky and capture some beautiful photos. Some sunset cruises are combined with a traditional fishing trip, giving you the chance to catch your own fish straight from the boat. It's a fun way to spend a few hours off the island. Traveling on a smaller budget? Then be sure to check out my tips for affordable travel in the Maldives as well.

When you think of the Maldives, you probably picture powder-white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, luxurious overwater villas, and a hefty price tag. But there's a much more affordable way to experience this tropical paradise. Maafushi is one of the best destinations in the Maldives for travellers who want to enjoy beautiful beaches without spending a fortune. If you're planning a budget-friendly trip, be sure to read our guide on how to visit the Maldives on a budget. Maafushi is a small local island measuring just 1.2 kilometres long and 265 metres wide, meaning you can easily walk around the entire island in about 20 to 30 minutes. Unlike the famous private resort islands, Maafushi is home to around 2,500 local residents, so instead of luxury overwater villas, you'll find cosy hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. Located only 30 kilometres from Malé International Airport, it's also one of the easiest islands to reach after arriving in the Maldives. How to get to Maafushi Once you've landed at Velana International Airport, there are two main ways to reach Maafushi. The quickest option is taking a speedboat. You can either book a seat on a shared speedboat or hire a private transfer. Shared transfers usually cost around €25 per person, while private boats charge a fixed price regardless of how many people are travelling. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. The cheapest option is the public ferry. First, take the free airport shuttle ferry from the airport to Malé. From there, head to the ferry terminal and catch the local ferry to Maafushi. Tickets cost only around €3 per person, but the journey takes considerably longer, usually 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. Keep in mind that local ferries do not operate on Fridays. How many days do you need in Maafushi? Because Maafushi is such a small island, 3 to 4 days is usually enough. This gives you plenty of time to explore the island itself, relax on the beach, and join a few of the popular day trips. If you're mainly visiting for a relaxing beach holiday, you could easily spend a week or more here enjoying the sunshine and crystal-clear water. Where to stay in Maafushi Unlike the luxury resort islands, Maafushi doesn't have overwater villas or beachfront bungalows. Instead, you'll find a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and boutique accommodations, with rooms starting from around €50 per night. Since the island is so compact, the exact location of your accommodation doesn't matter too much—you can walk everywhere within minutes. The western side of the island is home to Bikini Beach and many of the island's nicer hotels. On the eastern side, you'll find something completely different: the largest prison in the Maldives. It might sound surprising, but don't worry, you won't notice it's there during your stay. Tips for visiting Maafushi The Maldives is an Islamic country, which means there are a few local customs worth keeping in mind. Unlike many Western countries, Friday is the main day of rest. Most visitors won't notice much difference, although some shops may be closed and the local ferry doesn't operate. Alcohol isn't served in restaurants on Maafushi or any other local island. There's also no point bringing alcohol from the duty-free shop, as it will be confiscated when you arrive at the airport. Alcohol is only available on private resort islands. If you'd like to enjoy a cocktail or beer during your stay, you can visit the famous floating bar: a boat anchored just offshore where alcoholic drinks are served. Because Maafushi is a local island, wearing swimwear outside designated beach areas isn't considered appropriate. You'll notice that one section of the beach is officially called Bikini Beach (yes, that's really its name!). This is the only public beach where visitors are allowed to wear bikinis or swim shorts. At the island's other public beaches, you'll need to wear more modest swimwear, such as a T-shirt or rash guard together with longer swim shorts. Best things to do in Maafushi Although Maafushi is a small island, there's plenty to keep you busy. Of course, relaxing on the beautiful white beaches or by your hotel pool is part of the experience, but there's much more to do. Bikini Beach is a great place for snorkelling, and if you're lucky, you may even spot dolphins swimming close to shore. The island also has several small souvenir shops and plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing mocktail. At Bikini Beach, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards and jet skis. If you're looking for more adventure, almost every hotel and several local tour operators offer fantastic half-day and full-day excursions, including: Snorkelling trips Sandbank picnics Swimming with whale sharks Dolphin cruises Day trips to luxury resort islands Looking for more inspiration? Read our complete guide to the best excursions and day trips from Maafushi.

Everyone knows the Maldives for its picture-perfect scenery: crystal-clear turquoise water, dreamy overwater villas, and white sandy beaches so bright they almost hurt your eyes. It's the ultimate tropical paradise. The only downside? Most people think it's incredibly expensive... but does it have to be? We've visited the Maldives several times and have learned plenty of ways to keep the costs down without missing out on the experience. Here are our favourite tips for visiting the Maldives on a budget. Looking for more information about a holiday to The Maldives? Read our guide here! Combine the Maldives with Sri Lanka Of course, you can fly directly to Malé, the capital of the Maldives. There are direct flights from several European cities, although prices can vary significantly depending on the season. A much cheaper option is to combine the Maldives with another destination. Our favourite combination is Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka is an incredible country to explore and much closer to the Maldives than many people realise. A flight from Colombo to Malé takes only about one hour, and tickets are often available for as little as €50 return. The Maldives is also well connected to other Asian destinations, including India, Bali, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Flights from these cities are usually under €150, making the Maldives an ideal stop before flying back to Europe. Stay on a local island instead of a resort The Maldives can roughly be divided into two types of islands: luxury resort islands and local islands where Maldivians actually live The famous private resorts often charge hundreds or even thousands of euros per night. Staying on a local island is considerably cheaper. Popular local islands include Malé, Maafushi, and Thulusdhoo. While Malé is the capital and located next to the international airport, it's more of a busy city than a tropical holiday destination. We recommend heading straight to Maafushi instead. Although the island is small, you can walk around it in about 30 minutes, it offers the same stunning white beaches and turquoise water as many luxury resorts. You'll find plenty of hotels and guesthouses, with rooms starting from around €50 per night, making it one of the best ways to experience the Maldives without breaking the bank. Looking for inspiration? Read our guide to the best things to do on Maafushi. Travel during the low season The high season in the Maldives coincides with the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, you'll generally enjoy calmer seas, more sunshine, and perfect beach weather. The rainy season lasts from May to November. While humidity is higher and tropical showers are more common, these rainstorms are usually short and followed by sunshine again. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, averaging between 28°C and 30°C (82–86°F). We've visited several times during July and August and rarely experienced more than a brief shower. The biggest advantage? Hotel prices during the low season can be hundreds of euros cheaper per night. Use the local ferries There are several ways to reach the local islands from the airport. First, you can take the free airport shuttle ferry to Malé. From there, local ferries operate to islands like Maafushi. These ferries are incredibly affordable, usually around €5 one way, but they are also much slower. Expect the journey to Maafushi to take around three hours. If you'd rather arrive faster, shared speedboats are a great alternative.A shared speedboat typically costs around €25 per person, while a private speedboat starts at approximately €200. Unlike the local ferry, speedboats usually depart directly from the airport, saving you the transfer to Malé. Avoid expensive seaplane transfers If you're staying at a luxury resort, you usually won't be able to use the local ferries. Instead, resorts arrange either speedboat or seaplane transfers, depending on how far the island is from Malé.Keep this in mind when booking, as transfers are often charged separately. Return speedboat transfers generally cost between €75 and €200 per person, while seaplane transfers usually start from around €250 return. Fortunately, some resorts include complimentary speedboat transfers in their room rates. Always read the fine print before booking, you might save yourself quite a bit of money. Split your stay between a local island and a resort Dreaming of staying in one of those famous overwater villas but don't want to spend your entire budget? A great compromise is to split your trip between a local island and a luxury resort. Start your holiday on Maafushi and spend a few days exploring the island. Book your excursions here, such as: snorkelling trips, sandbank picnics, dolphin cruises and island hopping tours. These activities are usually much cheaper than booking them directly through a luxury resort. Afterwards, treat yourself to a few nights at a resort to experience the Maldives' famous luxury while keeping your overall travel costs much lower. Visit a resort on a day pass Can't justify spending a night at a luxury resort but still want those iconic overwater bungalow photos? No problem! Many hotels on Maafushi organise day trips to nearby luxury resorts. You'll be picked up by speedboat in the morning and spend the entire day enjoying the resort. Depending on the resort, prices generally range between €50 and €150 per person. Some day passes include only access to the resort, while others include meals, drinks, or even an all-inclusive package with a champagne brunch. You'll often have access to the resort's swimming pools, private beaches, restaurants and bars and sometimes kayaks and paddleboards. It's a fantastic way to experience the luxury side of the Maldives without paying resort prices for accommodation. Looking for more ideas? Read our guide to the best day trips from Maafushi.

The Dolomites are one of the most spectacular destinations in northern Italy, especially if you love hiking, breathtaking viewpoints, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and of course, delicious Italian food. It's no surprise that millions of visitors travel here every year. Since the Dolomites cover such a large area, we recommend spending at least one week here to explore the region's highlights at a relaxed pace. Planning your trip? Read our guide to the perfect Dolomites road trip itinerary. Below you'll find our list of most beautiful places to visit in the Dolomites. Lago di Braies Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee) is probably the most famous lake in the Dolomites—and for good reason. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, this beautiful alpine lake is famous for its iconic wooden rowing boats. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended, when the lake is calm and the crowds are still small. Visiting the lake itself is free, although you'll need to pay for parking. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finding a parking spot close to the entrance. Once you're there, you can rent a boat, take a refreshing swim during summer, or simply enjoy the easy walking trail that circles the lake. Tre Cime di Lavaredo The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is one of the most famous walks in the Dolomites. The circular trail is around 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) long and usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how often you stop for photos, which will probably be quite often. The views of the three iconic peaks are absolutely spectacular. At the trailhead, you'll find a cosy mountain hut where you can grab lunch or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate before or after your hike. It's worth arriving early here as well. The final stretch is a toll road, queues can build up during busy periods, and the parking area fills up quickly. Cadini di Misurina Cadini di Misurina is the perfect addition to your visit to Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Since both hikes start from the same parking area, you only have to pay the toll once. We recommend visiting the Cadini viewpoint first before starting the Tre Cime loop. The walk is short and takes around 30 minutes. At the end, you'll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Dolomites, overlooking the dramatic jagged peaks of the Cadini mountain range. Definitely don't skip this one. Lago di Carezza Unlike Lago di Sorapis or Tre Cime, you don't have to hike to reach Lago di Carezza. The lake is located directly beside the road, with a parking area just across the street. Within a few minutes, you'll already be standing at the water's edge. Although the lake itself isn't very large, it's incredibly picturesque. During summer, the combination of turquoise water, colourful wildflowers, and towering mountains makes it one of the most photogenic stops in the Dolomites. Alpe di Siusi Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) is easily reached by cable car. Compared to many other parts of the Dolomites, this area is relatively flat, with several wide and well-maintained walking paths. That makes it ideal if you're looking for a more relaxed day outdoors rather than a challenging hike. You can choose one of the longer walking routes or simply stroll around and enjoy the scenery. We walked to one of the area's famous viewpoints overlooking the alpine meadows with the Dolomite peaks rising in the background. There are also several mountain restaurants where you can enjoy lunch or a drink while taking in the views. Seceda The easiest way to reach Seceda is by taking the cable car from Ortisei. You can park your car near the lower cable car station and purchase a return ticket. Once at the top, you'll find several hiking trails with incredible views of Seceda's dramatic rock formations, which almost seem to rise vertically from the landscape. When we visited, the morning started with low clouds covering the mountains, but thankfully the weather cleared up and the views were more than worth the wait. Lago di Sorapis Last but certainly not least: Lago di Sorapis is our favourite place in the Dolomites. Reaching the lake requires a hike along Trail 215, a round trip of approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles). The hike itself is already an adventure. You'll walk along narrow mountain paths carved into the cliffs, and if you're lucky, you might even spot deer along the way. Once you arrive, you'll understand why this lake is so famous. Its bright turquoise, almost milky-blue water, surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks, creates one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Dolomites. It's the perfect place for photography, relaxing by the shore, or simply soaking in the incredible scenery. Swimming isn't recommended, though. Mountain lakes in the Dolomites are always cold because they're fed by melting snow and glaciers, but Lago di Sorapis is particularly freezing.

Why the Dolomites are so special If you love breathtaking hikes, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and delicious Italian (and Austrian!) cuisine, then a road trip through the Dolomites should definitely be on your bucket list.Located in northern Italy, mainly in the South Tyrol region, the Dolomites have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. The mountain range is famous for its dramatic limestone peaks, rugged cliffs, and spectacular alpine scenery—making it one of the most beautiful places in Europe. A large part of the Dolomites lies within South Tyrol, which was part of Austria until 1919. As a result, you'll notice that German is still widely spoken, and many towns have both an Italian and a German name. It can be a little confusing at first, but it's also part of what makes this region so unique. The Dolomites cover a vast area and can easily be explored by car. We drove to South Tyrol ourselves and started our road trip in Bolzano, which we found to be the perfect base for exploring the western Dolomites. After a few days, we continued our journey to Cortina d'Ampezzo. If you're flying to Italy, I recommend arriving in Bolzano and starting your road trip there. Renting a car is essential, as the distances between the main attractions are too great to walk or cycle, and public transport doesn't reach every hiking trail. Having your own car also gives you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way—and trust me, there are plenty of them. The perfect Dolomites road trip itinerary Days 1–3: Bolzano Bolzano is a wonderful city to spend a few nights in.Besides its cosy restaurants and charming shopping streets, it's also home to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, where you can see the famous Ötzi the Iceman. This remarkably well-preserved mummy was discovered in the Alps in 1991 after spending more than 5,000 years frozen in the ice. Bolzano also makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains. From here, you can easily visit some of the Dolomites' most famous locations on day trips. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) and Seceda are both around 45 minutes away by car, while the beautiful Lago di Carezza can be reached in approximately 30 minutes. If you prefer, you can also stay in one of the smaller mountain villages closer to nature instead of Bolzano itself. Days 4–7: Cortina d'Ampezzo After a few days around Bolzano, continue your road trip to Cortina d'Ampezzo. We stayed just outside the town in a lovely apartment with a kitchen, which was perfect for preparing dinner after enjoying long lunches during our hikes. Once again, this region offers countless opportunities for unforgettable day trips. One of the most famous destinations is Lago di Braies, a stunning mountain lake surrounded by dramatic peaks where you can rent one of the iconic wooden rowing boats. Another absolute highlight is Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Plan to spend a full day here, especially if you combine the famous Tre Cime loop with the shorter hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. Since both trails start from the same area, they're easy to combine into one incredible hiking day. Our personal favourite, however, is Lago di Sorapis. The trailhead is located just 20 minutes from Cortina d'Ampezzo, and although the hike itself is already spectacular, the reward at the end is unforgettable: a striking turquoise-blue lake surrounded by towering mountain peaks. It's easily one of the most beautiful places we've ever visited. Looking for more inspiration? Read our guide to the most beautiful places in the Dolomites here. How many days do you need in the Dolomites? We recommend spending at least three nights in both the Bolzano and Cortina regions. This gives you enough time to visit the area's most famous hikes, viewpoints, and lakes without feeling rushed. If you enjoy taking things a little slower—or simply want some extra time to relax at your accommodation, enjoy a long lunch, or soak up the mountain views—you could easily extend your stay. Overall, one week is enough to see the main highlights of the Dolomites, but spending longer here certainly won't disappoint. Can you combine the Dolomites with other destinations in Italy? Absolutely! After our stay in the Dolomites, we continued our trip to Venice, which is only about two hours' drive from Cortina d'Ampezzo. If you're staying in Bolzano, you can also take a day trip to Verona, located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes away by car. Another great option is to combine your Dolomites road trip with a visit to Milan or Lake Como, both of which are around three hours from Bolzano. The Dolomites are not only an incredible destination in their own right, they're also the perfect starting point for exploring even more of northern Italy.

Cinque Terre, literally meaning "Five Lands", is made up of five colourful seaside villages perched along the Italian Riviera. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare are all located on the Ligurian coast, just outside La Spezia. Since the villages are difficult to reach by car, travelling by train is by far the easiest way to explore them. Together, they have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and attract more than two million visitors every year. It's easy to see why, each village has its own charm, colourful houses, dramatic cliffs, and stunning sea views. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know before visiting Cinque Terre, including transport tips, accommodation advice, costs, and how many days you should plan for your trip. How to get to Cinque Terre Although driving directly into the villages isn't practical, visiting all five villages is surprisingly easy. The best base is La Spezia, located just 16 kilometres from the first village, Riomaggiore. You can also stay in Levanto, which lies on the opposite side of Cinque Terre and is another popular starting point. From La Spezia Centrale, the train reaches Riomaggiore in just 8 to 10 minutes, and from there it's easy to continue to the other villages. Travelling between neighbouring villages takes only about five minutes, while a direct train from La Spezia to Monterosso al Mare takes around 27 minutes. The easiest way to travel between the villages is on the Cinque Terre Express. From March to November, trains run approximately every 20 minutes. During the winter months, services are less frequent but still operate once or twice every hour. You can purchase individual train tickets, but if you're planning to visit multiple villages, a Cinque Terre Train Card offers much better value. The pass is available for one, two, or three days, with prices ranging from approximately €22 for one day during the low season to around €81 for three days during the high season. You can find more information about the costs here. You can buy the pass at any train station within Cinque Terre, at La Spezia, or online before your trip. Before visiting Cinque Terre, you'll first need to travel to La Spezia. The city is easy to reach by car but doesn't have its own airport. The closest airport is Pisa International Airport, located around 80 kilometres away. You can also fly into Genoa or Florence, both of which have train connections to La Spezia. If you're planning to explore more of Tuscany or northern Italy, renting a car is also a great option. Just keep in mind that you'll want to leave it in La Spezia before continuing to Cinque Terre by train. Where to stay in Cinque Terre When choosing accommodation, you essentially have two options. Stay in one of the five villages or stay in La Spezia or Levanto. Both have their advantages. If you stay in one of the villages, you'll have the biggest advantage of all: you can experience Cinque Terre before the day-trippers arrive and after they leave. You'll also have complete freedom to explore without worrying about train schedules. The downside is that accommodation is generally much more expensive. Large hotel chains are almost non-existent, so you'll mostly find locally owned guesthouses, apartments, and small boutique hotels. While they can sometimes be fairly simple, they're often full of character—and many come with spectacular sea views. If you don't mind taking the train into Cinque Terre each day, La Spezia or Levanto are excellent alternatives. Accommodation is generally more affordable, you'll have a wider range of hotels to choose from, and restaurants are usually cheaper as well. For many travellers, staying outside the villages offers the best balance between comfort, convenience, and budget. How many days do you need in Cinque Terre? Although the villages themselves are relatively small, each one has its own atmosphere and is well worth visiting. Besides wandering through the colourful streets, you can relax on the beach during summer or hike the famous coastal trails that connect several of the villages while enjoying breathtaking views over the Ligurian Sea. If your schedule allows, I'd recommend visiting all five villages. To do this comfortably, you'll need at least two full days. If you'd also like to go hiking, spend time at the beach, or simply enjoy long lunches with sea views, three to four days is even better. If you only have one day, visiting all five villages can feel rushed, and you'll spend a significant part of your day travelling by train. Instead, I'd recommend focusing on two or three villages. Vernazza is often considered the most beautiful and is usually the busiest, while Manarola and Riomaggiore are equally popular thanks to their colourful harbours and iconic viewpoints. Ultimately, it depends on what kind of experience you're looking for. Want to know what makes each village unique? Read our complete guide to the five villages of Cinque Terre here.

Cinque Terre isn't just incredibly beautiful, it's also a surprisingly diverse destination. Each of the five villages has its own unique atmosphere, making it well worth exploring more than just one. Whether you're spending a week on the Italian Riviera or simply visiting as a day trip, there's plenty to see and do. If you're travelling through northern Italy, Cinque Terre is definitely a destination you shouldn't miss. Looking for practical information about transport, accommodation, and planning your visit? Read our complete Cinque Terre travel guide here. The five villages of Cinque Terre Cinque Terre is made up of five picturesque fishing villages. Although they're located just minutes apart by train, each village has its own character. Below you'll find what makes each village unique and which ones we enjoyed the most. Riomaggiore If you're travelling by train from La Spezia, Riomaggiore is the first village you'll reach and it's also our personal favourite. If you love cosy restaurants and lively evenings, this is the place to be. The colourful harbour is absolutely stunning, with brightly painted houses built into the cliffs and plenty of restaurants and cafés overlooking the water. On warm summer evenings, the village comes alive with people enjoying takeaway pizza, a glass of wine, and the beautiful sunset. Because Riomaggiore is one of the smaller villages, it can become quite crowded during the day. For the best photos, try visiting early in the morning or during the shoulder season. If you're planning to have dinner here, booking a table in advance is highly recommended, especially during summer. Manarola Manarola is the oldest of the five villages and one of the most photographed. Its colourful houses cling dramatically to the cliffs above the sea, creating one of the most iconic views in Cinque Terre. Our favourite spot here is Nessun Dorma, a restaurant with spectacular panoramic views over the village. The Aperol Spritz is excellent, the food is delicious, and it's the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed Italian aperitivo. You can even join one of their popular pesto-making workshops during the afternoon. Because the restaurant is so popular, you can't simply reserve a table in advance. Instead, you join a digital waiting list through their website. While you wait, you can explore Manarola, and you'll receive a notification when your table is almost ready. I recommend taking a good look at the website. Corniglia Corniglia is both the smallest and the least visited village in Cinque Terre. Unlike the other four villages, it isn't located directly on the sea. Instead, it sits high on a rocky hill surrounded by vineyards, giving it a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. To reach the village from the train station, you'll need to climb 382 steps. The walk takes around 15 minutes, so it's something to keep in mind when planning your day. If you're looking for a quieter experience away from the crowds, Corniglia is definitely worth visiting. Vernazza While Corniglia is the quietest village, Vernazza is arguably the busiest. Many travellers consider it the most beautiful village in Cinque Terre thanks to its picturesque harbour, colourful buildings, charming piazza, and small sandy beach. It's also one of the most popular places to stay overnight. One of our favourite things to do here was hiking part of the trail towards Monterosso al Mare. You don't have to complete the entire route, walking just a short section rewards you with one of the best viewpoints overlooking Vernazza. Monterosso al Mare Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages and the perfect destination if you're looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach. Unlike the other villages, Monterosso has a large sandy beach where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. The village is divided into two parts. The historic centre is full of narrow streets, small shops, and traditional restaurants, while the newer section is home to the beachfront promenade, hotels, and beach clubs. The train station sits conveniently between both areas, making it easy to explore everything Monterosso has to offer. The best things to do in Cinque Terre Hike between the villages One of the things that makes Cinque Terre so unique is the network of hiking trails connecting the villages. You can hike all the way from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare, passing through Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza along the way. Of course, you don't have to complete the entire route. Many visitors choose to hike just one section, such as the popular trail between Vernazza and Monterosso. Before setting off, make sure you're well prepared.Some sections of the trails are surprisingly steep, and during summer the heat can make hiking quite challenging. Always bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear sturdy walking shoes. Since 2019, flip-flops and unsuitable footwear have officially been prohibited on parts of the hiking trails. Visitors wearing inappropriate shoes, including shoes with smooth soles, can receive fines of up to €2,500. The rule was introduced after numerous hikers underestimated the trails, leading to accidents and even rescue helicopter call-outs. Just as you'll need a train pass to travel easily between the villages, you'll also need a Cinque Terre Trekking Card to access many of the hiking trails. The pass can be purchased at any train station within Cinque Terre, as well as at La Spezia. You can also buy it online before your trip, making it easy to start hiking as soon as you arrive.

Jordan is one of the best countries for a road trip. It's relatively small, making the driving distances easy to manage, yet it's packed with incredible landscapes, ancient history, and unforgettable experiences. One of the biggest advantages of travelling through Jordan is the Jordan Pass, which includes entry to Petra as well as more than 40 other attractions across the country. It's excellent value for money and something I'd highly recommend purchasing before your trip. Looking for practical travel tips, transport information, and costs? Check out our complete Jordan travel guide here. We spent just under a week exploring Jordan by car and followed the itinerary below. Of course, you can easily adjust the route depending on how much time you have or add extra stops along the way. Amman (1–2 days) The easiest place to begin your Jordan road trip is Amman, the country's capital. You don't need to spend many days here, but it's a convenient place to stay if your flight arrives late in the evening. Before continuing your journey, I recommend visiting the Amman Citadel. This archaeological site dates back to around 1800 BC and contains fascinating remains from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods, all located in the heart of the city. If you have an extra day, consider taking a trip to Jerash, located about 45 minutes north of Amman. Often called one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, Jerash is filled with impressive temples, theatres, and ancient streets that are well worth exploring. Petra (2–3 days) The drive from Amman to Petra takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on how often you stop to admire the scenery. The landscapes along the way are stunning, so the journey itself is part of the experience. We recommend spending at least two full days in Petra. If you prefer a slower pace or enjoy hiking, adding a third day is definitely worthwhile. To experience Petra at its best, try to arrive before opening time. We reached the entrance about 15 minutes before the gates opened, and for a while it felt as though we had the famous Treasury almost entirely to ourselves. It was truly magical. Later in the day, Petra becomes much busier, but don't worry—the archaeological site is enormous. Beyond the famous Treasury and the Siq, there are countless trails, viewpoints, and ancient ruins where you'll often find yourself away from the crowds. Looking for practical tips? Read our complete guide to visiting Petra here. Wadi Rum (1–2 days) From Petra, it's about a two-hour drive to Wadi Rum Village. Depending on where you're staying, you'll usually leave your rental car in the village before being picked up by your accommodation in a 4x4 vehicle to continue into the desert. Accommodation ranges from simple Bedouin camps to luxurious glass-domed tents with panoramic desert views. If you're travelling during winter, keep in mind that temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, so some of the more basic camps may get quite cold. Most camps offer guided jeep tours through the desert, with options ranging from half-day to full-day excursions. In our experience, one full day is enough to explore Wadi Rum's spectacular landscapes and famous rock formations. Aqaba (1–2 days) We only spent a short time in Aqaba, but if you're interested in diving or snorkelling, this is the place to be. The drive from Wadi Rum Village takes just over one hour. Aqaba offers plenty of luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and excellent opportunities to explore the colourful coral reefs of the Red Sea. Whether you're a certified diver or simply want to snorkel, Aqaba is one of Jordan's best coastal destinations. The Dead Sea (2–3 days) The Dead Sea lies much further north than Aqaba and can be reached from Amman in under an hour. We drove directly from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea, which took us just over four hours. Since we visited Jordan in February, ending our trip here was the perfect choice. After the cooler temperatures in Petra and Wadi Rum, it was noticeably warmer at the Dead Sea and gave us the chance to relax for a few days before flying home. Of course, you could just as easily start your Jordan itinerary here instead. Most resorts are located along the northern shoreline of the Dead Sea. Staying at one of these resorts is highly recommended, as they usually have private beaches with direct access to the water. One of the highlights is covering yourself in the famous mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, which is often provided in large containers on the beach for guests to use. Although the water is far too salty for swimming, floating effortlessly on the surface is an unforgettable experience and something everyone should try at least once.