Experience Asheville in all new ways this weekend by checking out some highly anticipated grand openings including the revamped Asheville Art Museum and a new National Craft Innovation Hub in downtown. Learn about these and other breweries, restaurants and lodging that have recently opened in our roundup of November openings.
Holiday festivities are under way in Asheville this weekend. Get into the spirit of the season with a trip Christmas at Biltmore to see all of the holiday grandeur on display. Here's a sneak peek of the gorgeous décor.
If you’ve ever researched a travel destination online, you’ve probably come across Matt Kepnes. He’s been blogging & writing about travel for many years.
Today, I wanted to chat with Matt about his newest book, saving money on travel, plus some of his most memorable misadventures. Here’s Matt:
Tell Us About Yourself!
My name is Matt Kepnes, but these days most people know me as Nomadic Matt. The short version of my story is that I grew up in the Boston area and went to school to be a high school history teacher. I ended up taking a job at a hospital doing administrative work while I tried to find a teaching job and ended up there for three years. I hated the job and found it really mundane and boring. I mean my co-workers were nice but the job itself was awful.
In 2006, after meeting some backpackers and falling in love with the idea of long-term travel, I quit my job to travel the world. My plan was to travel for about a year.
I came home eighteen months later, decided the “real world” was right for me, and left again. I ended up spending a decade on the road.
And here we are now.
In addition to my blog, I also I co-own a hostel in Austin, Texas called HK Austin, I teach a few online courses, I organize an annual travel conference for bloggers, writers, photographers, and other creators in the travel industry called TravelCon, and I run a charity called FLYTE that helps students in underserved communities around the US experience transformative trips abroad.
Matt Exploring Madagascar
What Have Been Some Highlights Over The Years?
After a decade on the road, there’s been a lot of great moments. But some highlights includes the month I spent on Ko Lipe in Thailand (barefoot mind you). We had a great group of people there and I would have stayed longer if my visa hadn’t expired.
Something similar happened in Greece on the island of Ios. I ended up meeting some amazing people and staying for a couple of months just hanging out and working on my tan (and blog).
Then there was learning to scuba dive in Fiji, living in Bangkok for a couple of years, playing poker in Amsterdam for a few months, hiking Patagonia, visiting Madagascar, and having a job that lets me travel.
What Do Most Budget Travelers Do Wrong On Their First Trip?
As a backpacker or budget traveler, money management is key to your success — especially when you’re traveling long term. You have an infinite amount of time but not an infinite amount of money so backpackers who fail to keep track of their spending are going to find themselves going home early.
When you aren’t working, it’s easy to spend money — you have a lot of free time after all! Meals, tours, and night’s out — they all add up pretty quickly. So, if you’re not keeping track of where that money is going, you aren’t going to know how to pace your spending. I still keep a budget journal so I know what I’m spending. It allows me to go, “Ok, I’ve been spending too much on X (alcohol/Starbucks/tours/taxis/whatever) so it’s time to cut down so I can get back to what my daily spending needs to be.”
If you’re on a budget or need to keep an eye on your spending, keep a journal to track your expenses. There are apps you can use too, like Trail Wallet or Mint. Whatever method you prefer, track your expenses. It’s the only way to make sure you don’t go home early broke!
Hiking in Patagonia
How Can Travelers Save Money On Their Next Trip?
Travel has never been more accessible or affordable thanks to a large number of deal websites online, the sharing economy (which lets you avoid traditional travel gatekeepers), and just all the information out there that lets you find out cheap and affordable things to do in a place. Here are a few money-saving tips worth considering for your next trip:
Visit the tourism offices. Every city has one, and they are a great way to learn about discounts, coupons, free activities, events, and money-saving tourism passes. In short, they’re a great resource that is often overlooked. Don’t make that mistake!
Start travel hacking. Collecting points and miles is a great way to earn free flights and free hotel stays. I’ve saved thousands and thousands of dollars over the years — and you can too!
Go on free walking tours. Most major cities have them, and they are a great way to learn about the history and culture of a new destination. You’ll get access to a local guide too, which means you can get any and all of your questions answered as well. Just be sure to tip your guides!
You Usually Travel Solo. Why?
Well, I learned a long time ago that if I wanted for people, I’d never go anywhere. If I wanted to travel, I just had to be willing to go alone. But, what’s kept me traveling solo, is the freedom. As a solo traveler, you’re free to do whatever you want! Want to change your travel plans on a whim? You can. Want to stay in and watch Netflix all day? You can. Hate museums? Skip them!
When you travel solo, the world is your oyster. You’re free to do whatever you want, whenever you want.
But more than that, solo travel teaches you a lot about yourself. Without anyone around you, you have to solve problems. You have to figure out how to get from point A to B, deal with people who speak a different language, get comfortable eating alone, find things to do, and work out problems that arise. It’s you and your wits. That teaches you a lot about yourself and forces you to grow in ways you won’t in the comfort of your home or with a group.
I encourage everyone to try solo travel at least once. Even if you don’t love it, you’ll still learn a ton about yourself in the process. Travel is an amazing personal development tool after all, and solo travel is one of the best ways to learn and grow and challenge yourself.
What Tips Do You Have For Planning A First Solo Trip?
Planning a trip can seem daunting — especially if it’s a longer trip. Buying the right bag, researching cheap flights, comparing travel insurance plans – there seems to be never-ending list when you are planning a trip. Three things I would recommend that would make the planning process easier are:
Try to always break your trip planning down into steps so you have a roadmap to follow. This checklist will ensure you cover all your bases, which will also give you some added confidence and eliminate any anxiety about missing things.
Book your first few days of accommodation before you arrive. This will give you time to settle in and adjust to a new environment without worrying about where to go and where to stay. From here, you can plan your next steps if you haven’t done so already.
Be flexible. On shorter trips, this is challenging because you want to maximize your experiences. But for longer trips, don’t plan out every minute of every day. Give yourself time to relax, to stumble into something unplanned. No matter how much research you do, you’ll always discover new things to see and do. And you’ll meet people, as well. Give yourself time to accommodate these things. A little serendipity goes a long way!
Any Travel Misadventures You Want To Share?
I’ve had some minor hiccups, like when I fell in the water when I was in Italy and ruined my brand-new camera. I popped an eardrum scuba diving, got food poisoning in Costa Rica, and I’ve had some less than stellar hostel experiences, like when I woke up and someone had shit themselves in the dorm and got shit everywhere.
And I’ve had some terrifying experiences, like when I was stabbed in Colombia.
Fortunately, I was able to learn something from each experience. As a traveler, things will go wrong. It’s inevitable. From minor hiccups to major incidents, you always need to be willing to roll with the punches. Just like life at home, life on the road will take some unexpected turns. But with the right mindset, you can always find a silver lining and learn from your experiences.
10 Years A Nomad
You’ve Just Written A New Book. What’s It About?
My new book is called Ten Years a Nomad. Unlike my previous book, How to Travel the World on $50 a Day, this book is a memoir and not a “how to” kind of book. It’s about my ten years traveling around the world, the lessons I learned from the experience, my advice on being a better traveler, and how people can apply it to their own travels.
It features stories I’ve never told on the blog and goes deeper and into more detail with some I have shared.
In short, this book follows the emotional journey of a trip around the world: getting the bug, the planning, setting off, the highs, the lows, the friends, what happens when you come back — and the lessons and advice that come hand in hand with all that.
I spent years writing it (literally) and I’m really proud of how it turned out so I’m looking forward to hearing what people think!
Why Write A Memoir, Instead Of Another “How To” Book?
While “how to” content is certainly helpful, travel is about more than just how to get from A to B. Travel is about learning. It’s about growing and connecting with people. It’s about opening yourself up to the world and seeing things with your own eyes.
I wanted to share my thoughts and experiences and stories in a way that could do them justice. A simple blog post can never really capture every little detail. How do you condense 10 years of experiences into a few thousand-word blog post? You just can’t do it.
So that’s why I wanted to write this book. I want to share my story, my philosophy, and my reflections on the art of travel in the most honest way possible.
I’m really proud of how it turned out and I’m looking forward to traveling around the US and Canada (and eventually Europe) to see what people think! ★
Ireland. It’s a scenic country full of rolling green hills, photogenic cliffs, impressive castles, cozy Irish pub, friendly locals, and a lot of Irish charm.
My first trip was a quick 24-hour visit to Dublin, but, I loved it so much I’ve gone back about four times since. Ireland has a special magic to it that makes every visitor fall in love. (Ok, not everyone, but most people love it here!)
While the cities are incredible and have a lot to offer, Ireland is best seen by car so you can get off-road and visit the small little villages, castles, and parks that dot the country.
However, if you’re like me, and not a fan of driving (especially driving on the left!), the next best thing to driving or just city hopping on buses is going on a tour in Ireland. Given the country’s small size, you can see a lot of it in a little time and a tour can be a good way to pack it all in without the hassle of organizing all the details yourself.
There are lots of tour options here — from walking tours in Dublin to multi-day tours around all of Ireland. Here is a list of my favorite tour companies in Ireland, each of which have something unique to offer:
1. Historical Walking Tours of Dublin
The city of Dublin is such a fascinating place to explore, and it’s full of historical spots that you might just wander past if you’re not with a guide from Historical Walking Tours of Dublin. They’ve been operating tours since 1986 and one of the reasons they’re so good is their guides all have postgrad history qualifications – but also know how to lead a tour with a good Irish sense of humor.
Each walking tour is just over two hours long and they start from the front gate of Trinity College at 11am every day, with an extra tour at 3pm from May to September. They’ll take you to many of the highlights of Dublin like the House of Lords, Temple Bar, Christ Church Cathedral, and Dublin Castle and you’ll end up with a great overview of Irish history. Tickets are 14 EUR.
2. Paddywagon Tours
An Irish born-and-bred tour company that started in 1998, Paddywagon Tours offers both day tours for lots of popular tourist attractions in Ireland as well as multi-day tours ranging from two to nine days long, with accommodation choices ranging between B&Bs and hostels.
If you’re time-pressed and looking for some day trips from Dublin to quickly see a bit more of Ireland, Paddywagon has trips to places like the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and even up to the Giant’s Causeway and other highlights of Northern Ireland. Costs range from 45 EUR to 65 EUR for these trips. They also run day trips out of other centers like Belfast, Limerick, and Cork.
Paddywagon’s multi-day tours range from 149 EUR for a two-day trip up to 689 EUR for their All Ireland nine-day tour, with backpacker accommodation (or 999 EUR if you want B&B stays). Even though you could easily spend a month in Ireland, given its relatively small size you can actually get a lot out of nine days. If you’re a student they also run some student special trips at even lower costs so keep an eye out for them.
3. Shamrocker Adventures
Shamrocker is a great option for budget travelers looking for multi-day tours of Ireland. Their approach is to try and combine the best of independent travel and group trips. That means they give you choices like different levels of accommodation and you can self-cater when it comes to food. They also have great guides who are passionate Irish storytellers — even their bus drivers have a great sense of humor!
Tours range between three and seven days, with the shorter trips focusing on just one part of Ireland — the south or the west — and costing around 300 EUR per person. Shamrocker’s seven-day trip covers all the main sights like the Giant’s Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and Blarney Castle and is 609 EUR for adults and 589 EUR for students.
4. Wolfhound Adventure Tours
Wolfhound Adventure Tours is a boutique tour company run by Trinity College history-graduate Dave O’Connor. Tour groups have a maximum of 12 travelers and tours include some biking and hiking, which are optional but definitely a big part of the fun.
Tours range between five and ten days — the shorter tours give you an option of going to the north to the Giant’s Causeway or heading west to see the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, both of which are 985 EUR. Wolfhound trips can include kayaking, horseriding, whale watching, and even surfing lessons and are a great choice for anyone looking to get active!
5. Vagabond Tours
Vagabond Tours is an Irish company and offers two kinds of small group tours, Driftwood Tours if you want to take it easy, and Vagabond Tours which include activities like hiking, sea kayaking, and cycling.
Tours range in length from six to eleven days, and in price from 1,550 EUR to 2,900 EUR per person. They have some of the common itineraries such as a Northern Ireland tour taking in the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast and the Giant Irish tour which circumnavigates the country, but they also have a few specialty trips like a foodie tour, an adventure trip which includes a visit to the Skellig Islands, and a tour for history buffs focusing on castles and kingdoms.
Rob Rankin, co-founder of Vagabond Tours, is a huge advocate of responsible and sustainable tourism and the leader of Ecotourism Ireland, and Vagabond Tours has been eco-tourism gold-certified since 2017.
6. Extreme Ireland
Extreme Ireland offer adventure tours around Ireland, with several Wild Atlantic Way trips available, ranging from six to 12 days long. They take small groups (a maximum of 16 travelers) led by skilled guides who have all the skills necessary to help you have a safe and adventurous tour.
Their 12-day trip will take you all over Ireland — it doesn’t just show you the regular sightseeing highlights!. The tour also includes several bike rides, a stint of stand up paddleboarding, hikes along sea cliffs and wild coastlines, kayaking, and surfing. This one comes in at 2,200 EUR while their shorter tours start at 1,100 EUR.
7. Intrepid
An Intrepid trip is always a good option — they’re my go-to multi-day tour company no matter where in the world I’m heading. With small groups (a maximum of 12 travelers for Ireland), carefully-hired local guides, and a relaxed pace, Intrepid tours really can’t be beaten. They offer just one trip in Ireland but it covers all the major sights and attractions, an eight-day adventure that spans from Belfast in Northern Ireland to Killarney in the south-west.
Their Ireland tour will take you through Dublin and Galway and includes sightseeing hotspots like the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, as well a chance to explore the Aran Islands. Accommodation is in a mix of hotels and hostels, with breakfast included. The tour costs 2,300 EUR per person.
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From walking tours to help you understand the history and culture of the great city of Dublin to multi-day adventures circumnavigating the whole of the island, taking a tour in Ireland will make sure you get to know lots of interesting locals and learn more about what makes the Irish tick.
Whether it’s the crazy ritual of kissing the Blarney Stone, exploring the incredible landscapes in Northern Ireland Game of Thrones was filmed, or simply knowing which pub in Galway is the best spot for a Guinness, these Ireland tour companies will help make your Irish experience the best it can be!
Book Your Trip to Ireland: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My favorite hostels in the country are:
Generator Hostel (Dublin) – Generator is one of the best hostel chains in Europe. Their places are always clean and comfortable, though a bit generic if you’re looking for something unique.
Barnacles Quay Street (Galway) – With free breakfast, a free walking tour, and lots of fun events, this is a great hsotel for budget travelers looking to be social.
Kinlay House (Cork) – This is another social hostel that has lots of common area space, including an outdoor patio. The staff are great and the bathrooms clean (always a plus in hostels!).
Neptunes Town Hostel (Killarney) – This hostel is in a great location and the staff are super friendly and helpful!
Don’t Forget 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. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!
Venice feels like it shouldn’t exist. Beautiful floating palaces of stone surrounded by a network of canals. Here are some of the best things to do in Venice for your first visit!
Venice is one of the most popular Italian cities for tourists, even with all the other beautiful & historic places there are in Italy.
But there’s a good reason. The City of Water is celebrated because of its unusual circumstances, sitting on 100+ small islands connected by over 400 bridges.
There are basically no roads, transportation is accomplished via boats on a confusing network of canals. It’s truly unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before!
There are many quirky, unique, unusual, and secret spots to discover in Venice.
I traveled here with Anna for the famous Carnevale di Venezia in February, a crazy annual festival of costumes and masks. We had an awesome time!
Because most travelers visiting Italy stop by the city for a few days, I wanted to recommend some fun and unusual things to do in Venice during your trip.
Venice Highlights Map
How To Use This Map
Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Venice, Italy. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking a route or points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!
Best Things To Do In Venice In 2019
1. Explore Saint Mark’s Square
Piazza San Marco in Venice
St. Mark the Evangelist is Venice’s patron saint. Signs of this connection can be found throughout the city, with an excellent example being St. Mark’s Square.
Also called Piazza San Marco, it is Venice’s main public square, basically the social heart of the city. There are a bunch of famous landmarks here, like the Clock Tower, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace, and the Winged Lion of Venice.
St. Mark’s is also home to many public events that have been held here for centuries. You’ll find TONS of friendly pigeons, although keep in mind that feeding them has been banned.
Cafes line the North end, so it’s a nice place to sit with an Aperol spritz or hot chocolate and people watch. Visit around sunrise to enjoy it peacefully before the large tour groups show up.
USEFUL TIP: Cafe’s in St. Mark’s often have live music, but they tack a €6 EURO cover charge onto your bill automatically. Just be aware.
2. Libreria Acqua Alta Book Store
Venice’s Coolest Book Store!
Perhaps unsurprisingly, flooding is a frequent problem for a city built on water. So various Venetian institutions have come up with unique responses to the problem.
A cool book store called Libreria Acqua Alta placed its books and magazines in bathtubs, waterproof containers, and even a full-sized gondola! It makes for a very unique and very whimsical setting.
This Venice book store has become an Instagram hotspot, with quirky little “backdrops” for photos around the store. Keep an eye out for some adopted stray cats who roam the shelves too.
Normally I’d tell you to pick out a good book, find a quiet corner, and do a little reading. Unfortunately, an onslaught of Instagram “influencers” yelling at you to get out of their shot is more likely…
3. The Bridge Of Sighs
The Famous Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge Of Sighs is a unique enclosed bridge of white limestone spanning the Rio di Palazzo in Venice. There’s an interesting story behind the name.
It once led to a notorious Venetian prison, the beautiful view through its stone “bars” was a convict’s last sight of Venice before losing their freedom… and often their life. Hence the “sighs” as they passed.
These days tourists can walk through the bridge during a tour of Doges’ Palace, or more frequently, line up for photos outside with it in the background. You can also book a gondola ride that passes under it.
Locals often lie and tell tourists that it’s named after the “sigh” of couples sailing under it, falling in love due to the magic of Venice. The reality is a bit darker!
4. The Grand Canal (Canale Grande)
Take a Trip Down the Grand Canal
Venice was once the capital of a maritime empire, and a center of commerce and culture during Europe’s Renaissance period. The Grand Canal is the most important channel running through the city.
It’s also the largest and forms a recognizable “reverse S” through Venice when the city is viewed from above. Some of the most spectacular buildings in Venice line The Grand Canal!
Many of these buildings can only be accessed by boat. So you’ll find boats of all sorts heading up and down the canal in a fascinating form of organized chaos.
You’ll see plenty of traditional wooden gondolas, the large public Vaperetto water taxis, fancy private water taxis, small locally-owned motorboats, police boats, and my personal favorite, the garbage collection boats!
5. Ponte Di Rialto Bridge
Cross Over the Rialto Bridge
There are four large bridges that span the Grand Canal. The original of them all was Rialto Bridge, which started out as a pontoon bridge in the 12th century but has since been rebuilt into what you see today.
The current bridge was built in the late 16th century, at a time when critics claimed that it would soon fall into ruin. But more than four centuries later, the Rialto Bridge still stands in splendid defiance.
The Rialto is Venice’s most popular bridge, with a great view of the city from the top. It gets a bit crowded, especially in the middle of the day during the summer!
Shops line the center of the bridge, the perfect place to pick up a Venitian souvenir — like jewelry or some famous Murano glass.
6. Ride A Gondola In Venice
Anna & I Enjoying Our Gondola Ride!
Are the Venice gondola rides worth it? Well, it depends. Are you the type of person to visit Egypt and skip the pyramids? If so, go ahead and skip the gondola.
But if you’re genuinely curious about history and new travel experiences, suck it up and pay the €80 EURO price to rent one for 30 minutes.
One of the most iconic images of Venice is that of a traditional gondola being propelled by a professional gondolier. I will say, not all gondola rides are created equal. You could get a bored, unfriendly gondolier.
Or you could luck out with a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide (like we did), who also sings, as you float through the canals! It’s really just a part of the whole Venice experience.
USEFUL TIP: For a more thorough 2-hour guided tour of the canals, on a normal boat, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE
7. Gallerie Dell’Accademia
The riches that once flowed into Venice made it a leading center for the arts, and artists. Examples can be found at Gallerie Dell’Accademia, a museum that specializes in pre-19th-century Venetian art.
Suffice to say that the Venetian art scene had a profound impact on European art as a whole in more than one way, thus making the museum that much more of a must-see for art lovers everywhere.
Inside you’ll find artwork by renowned artists such as Bellini, Da Vinci, Titian, and Canaletto.
The old building itself is pretty cool, a former convent that was converted to a museum in the 1700’s. It sits right on the water’s edge of the Grand Canal.
8. Visit Doges’ Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
The Courtyard of Doges’ Palace
The Republic of Venice came into existence in the 8th century and continued to exist until the late 18th century when Napoleon embarked on his conquest.
During that period, the republic was presided over by The Doge, a chief magistrate elected for life by Venetian nobles. Think of him as a combination of Pope & President.
Nowadays, the iconic Palazzo Ducale (Doge Palace) that housed the Doge has become one of the most famous landmarks of Venice, and a popular museum.
The interior of Doges’ Palace is quite opulent, with some wonderful views of the city. To walk through the Bridge Of Sighs mentioned earlier, this is how you do it.
9. St. Mark’s Basilica
Beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica, located in St. Mark’s Square, is the most famous of Venice’s churches and the cathedral of the Patriarchate of Venice.
Style-wise, the church is a mix of influences, having been built in the 11th century before being embellished again and again over the course of centuries. Today it boasts gold-leaf mosaics and beautiful domed ceilings.
Make sure to visit the small basilica museum inside, as well as the outdoor terrace with excellent views of the public square below.
As a lavish and much-beloved symbol of Venetian history, it’s totally worth a stop. Visiting on your own is free, although keep in mind there are often long lines.
USEFUL TIP: To skip the line for a full guided tour of St. Marks Basilica as well as Doges’ Palace, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE
10. Go Up San Marco Campanile
One of Venice’s Popular Landmarks
St. Mark’s Campanile is one of the most recognizable landmarks in St. Mark’s Square, a massive 98 meter (323 ft) bell tower that looms over its surroundings.
Galileo himself used the tower as an observatory to study the skies and in 1609 he demonstrated his telescope to the Lords of the city.
There is an elevator that goes to the top providing you with an unforgettable view of one of the most magnificent parts of Venice, including the Venitian Lagoon and Santa Maria Della Salute.
The ride to the top costs €8 EURO, or €13 EURO to skip the line (buy tickets here). Because drones are banned over Venice, it’s one of the only ways to get a cool aerial and panoramic view of the city.
11. Take A Day Trip To Burano
The Colorful Island of Burano
Burano is one of the smaller islands that can be found around the Venetian Lagoon. It’s reached via a 40-minute water taxi from St. Mark’s Square.
This small fishing village is unique for its brightly painted homes of pink, blue, yellow, and green. It’s a kaleidoscope of color with its own network of canals too.
Burano is also a center for lace-making, though the traditional methods see very little use these days because of their complicated and time-consuming nature.
The main square is filled with bars and outdoor restaurants, make sure to order some fresh fish risotto for lunch! Burano is a nice half-day trip to get out of Venice and see something different.
USEFUL TIP: For a complete guided day tour of both the islands Burano and Murano, check out this option: ➜ BOOK IT HERE
12. Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute
Basilica di Santa Maria
In the 17th century, Venice suffered a particularly bad outbreak of the bubonic plague when 80,000 people died.
As thanks for its deliverance from the plague, Venetians built the Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary who they believe saved them from much worse.
The result was a wonderful Baroque style structure which came complete with a beautiful dome that has become an iconic part of the Venetian skyline.
The basilica is positioned near the entrance to the Grand Canal. Entrance is free, and many people simply chill out on the church staircase. The Vaporetto water taxi has a stop right out front.
13. Climb San Giorgio Maggiore
San Giorgio Maggiore Island
San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the Venetian islands. Moreover, it is also the name of a Benedictine church that can be found upon said island.
Built in a Renaissance style out of shining white marble, one of San Giorgio Maggiore’s most stand-out features is the bell tower with an elevator to the top and excellent views of Venice.
If you only have time for one bell tower, I’d actually recommend this one over San Marco Campanile. Because this tower is on an island further away from the city center, you get a better view of Venice proper.
Entering the church is free, but if you want to go up the tower, it costs €3 EURO. San Giorgio Maggiore can be reached by public water taxi.
14. Check Out The Canareggio District
The Quiet Canareggio Neighborhood
Need a break from the crowds? Canareggio is the northernmost of Venice’s six historic districts, and where the last of Venice’s true residents call home, and the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice.
The other areas of Venice which line the Grand Canal are popular destinations for tourists, but the Canareggio neighborhood is residential in nature, featuring various cafes, shops, and a more local experience.
One of the biggest complaints about Venice is the crowds, but it’s totally possible to leave the busy areas behind and explore less-crowded parts, like Canareggio.
15. Eat A Traditional Tramezzino
The Traditional Sandwich of Venice!
Tramezzini are Italian sandwiches that use two pieces of soft white bread with their crusts removed.
Venetian Tramezzini are famous for being stuffed fuller than most of their counterparts, with the most traditional examples using either ham or tuna.
They are great as a snack, particularly for people who want something substantial. Probably the best place to grab a Tramezzino is Bar alla Toletta (Bar at the Toilet).
This tiny local cafe & Tramezzini shop in the Dorsoduro district is always packed, but the food is excellent and a perfect example of this traditional Venetian snack.
16. Get Lost In Venice’s Narrow Alleys
The Narrow Alleys of Venice
Space comes at a premium in Venice. As a result, there are a lot of places with VERY narrow alleys, which can be a fun way to explore one of the most romanticized cities on the planet.
If you want to know what to do in Venice, my favorite was to just get lost in these narrow streets. Pick a direction and start walking. See what hidden places you can find!
There are all kinds of little shops, public squares, and lesser-visited canals and bridges if you are willing to be adventurous and put down your phone or map.
Not that your smartphone will help much, GPS doesn’t work very well in these confusing, narrow alleyways. You’ll almost certainly get lost even if you weren’t planning to!
17. Buy A Venetian Carnival Mask
Even if you’re not visiting Venice during their annual Carnival in February, it’s still possible to pick up one of the famous Venetian Carnival masks!
Scholars speculate the masks were a way to shrug off the structure of class, enabling participants to enjoy a temporary measure of freedom.
The upper class and peasants would mingle together, the masks hiding their true identity. But they’d also allow people to engage in gambling, robbery, assassination, and other illicit activities.
You can easily pick up one of your own as a souvenir. There are cheap versions sold from street carts, or the more elaborate hand-made art pieces can be bought in specialized mask shops.
18. Scala Contarini Del Bovolo
Cool Spiral Staircase
View From the Top
If you’re looking for a cool hidden attraction in Venice, there’s a palazzo in San Marco with a spiral staircase called Scala Contarini Del Bovolo, as it resembles a snail shell.
This curved set of stairs is a perfect example of Renaissance art spreading through the city in the 15th century. It became associated with not just the palace but the Contarini family who lived there.
On the top floor, you can walk out onto the “Belvedere”, getting a wonderful view of Venice, including the domes and Campanile of San Marco. Entry fee is €7.00 EUR.
19. The Fight Club Bridge
There was a time when Venice saw frequent fist-fights between rival factions on its bridges, which were popular spectacles for Venetian crowds.
The fist-fights were not held in high regard by the Venetian authorities, but they were tolerated for a time because they were an improvement on the earlier practice of stick-fights.
The Ponte Dei Pugni (aka The Bridge of Fists) was the most popular place for these fist-fights. The surface bears four footprints rendered in white marble, supposedly where fighters would stand to start their matches.
Right next to the bridge there’s also a family-owned floating vegetable market, called “La Barca”, that was featured in the classic travel movieIndiana Jones And The Last Crusade.
20. Crypt Of San Zaccaria
The Flooded Crypt
San Zaccaria is a central Venetian church built using a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. However, the church tends to be best-known because of its flooded crypt.
Curiously, the water has enhanced the overall feel of the space, perfectly suitable as a resting place for some of Venice’s earliest Doges (religious and political leaders).
The stone columns and vaulted ceilings combined with the standing water make for a creepy tomb. Totally worth a quick visit while you’re in Venice!
21. Catch An Epic Venetian Sunset
Colorful Venice Sunset at San Marco Pier
Venice has some amazingly colorful sunsets. They are complemented by the city’s magnificent architecture built along all the waterways and canals. Not to mention the gondolas floating about.
Sunsets often boast deep pink, yellow, purple, and orange colors. Unfortunately this partly due to all the smog hovering over the city… but it’s great for photography!
One of the best places to view the sunset in Venice is along the ferry pier at San Marco. There are a few docks that jut out into the Grand Canal, where you can set up a tripod [MAP].
22. Rialto Market Shopping
No visit to Venice would be complete without visiting the Rialto Market, seeing as how one of the city’s chief claims to fame was as a commercial hub.
The Rialto Market’s canal-side location means that it has played an important part in the day-to-day lives of Venetians for a very long time.
You can find fruit, vegetables, and fresh fish in the food section, plus countless souvenirs in the tourist section. The market is open from 9am to 9pm, and is situated near the big white Rialto Bridge.
USEFUL TIP: If you’d like a local guide to help you navigate all the great food in Venice, maybe consider going on a food tour! ➜ BOOK IT HERE
Squero di San Trovaso Boatyard
23. Watch A Gondola Being Made
Squero di San Trovaso is one of the last remaining Venetian gondola boat yards, where local craftsmen build and repair the €20,000 traditional boats.
While the boatyard isn’t generally open to tourists, you can watch them work from across the canal. If you’re lucky, they’ll be outside varnishing one of the boats.
Only about 10 new gondolas are built each year, made from eight different kinds of wood including mahogany, cherry, fir, walnut, oak, elm, larch and lime. The last of a dying artform!
24. Cool Off With Venetian Gelato
Eating Gelato from Suso
After a long day wandering through the city, I recommend stopping by the Suso Gelatoteca for a cold and refreshing cone of tasty Italian gelato.
One way to know if you’re getting authentic, Italian gelato is to check the colors. Are they bright and florescent? Skip it! Real gelato is much more subdued.
Another great spot for gelato in Venice is Gelato Di Natura in San Croce. Make sure to eat it fast before it melts all over your hand!
25. Teatro La Fenice
Beautiful Old Theater
Sometimes called Phoenix by English speakers, Teatro La Fenice is a beautiful old Venetian opera house.
It has been destroyed and rebuilt two separate times following different fires, hence the “phoenix” name.
The interior is the star of the show, designed in classic Italian fashion, with lots of gold and seating in closed boxes for an extra measure of privacy.
Just keep in mind that photos from inside aren’t allowed during concert/play rehearsals, which we didn’t realize on our visit. Make sure to ask at the door.
26. Grab A Drink At Hotel Danieli
Hotel Danieli’s Awesome Staircase
If you want to see how the other half does Venice, stop into the lavish former 14-century palace Hotel Danieli and grab an evening drink at Bar Dandolo.
This 5-star hotel has hosted such notable people as Charles Dickens, Harrison Ford, and Peggy Guggenheim.
In the lobby, there’s also a beautiful grand staircase decorated in red and gold. The bar features antique furniture, Murano glass chandeliers, and even more gold.
The lobby bar was featured in 3 different James Bond films: Casino Royale (2006), From Russia with Love (1963) and Moonraker (1979). Totally worth a martini!
27. Basilica Of Saints John & Paul
The Basilica of Saints John & Paul
The Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a smaller basilica that can be found in Castello, and the public square around it is a popular place for families to hang out.
Curiously, it isn’t named for John the Baptist and Paul the Apostle. Instead, it is named for a more obscure pair of saints who are said to have been eunuchs belonging to the Emperor Constantine’s daughter Constantina.
Regardless, the Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a treasure trove of art and culture, as well as the place where funeral services for the Venetian Doges were held following the 15th century.
28. Ride The Vaporetto Water Taxi
The Cheapest Way To Travel Venice
By now you’ve already heard me mention the Vaporetto water taxi a few times. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Venice.
It’s basically a floating public bus, that stops frequently at different docks around the city. It may not be quite as romantic as a wooden gondola or private boat, but it gets the job done.
Vaporettos usually run between 6am and 10pm, and you can buy a 24-hour ticket for €20 EUR, or 48-hours for €30. A single ticket costs €7.50.
You can also use them to reach some of the other islands around Venice, like Murano & Burano. If you’re traveling to Venice on a budget, this is the way to go!
29. Glass Making On Murano Island
Famous Murano Island Glass
Murano is another small island just outside Venice, reachable via water taxi. It’s become known around the world for its glass-making artisans.
You can stop into the Museo del Vetro – Museum of Glass to learn about the history of Murano glass and how its made, or even sign up for a glass blowing class and make some yourself!
If you are looking to bring home some souvenirs from your trip to Venice Italy, I highly recommend picking up some authentic Murano glass.
30. Attend Venice Carnival!
Crazy Costumes at Venice Carnival
Modeled after ancient Greek and Roman festivals, Venice Carnival is a holiday that allowed regular citizens to dress up in anonymous costumes, making fun of the aristocracy without fear.
But it eventually backfired, allowing criminals to get away with all kinds of crimes behind the masks, and Carnival was banned in 1797. The celebration & parties returned though during the 1960’s.
These days, Venice Carnival lasts for two weeks in February, with all kinds of parades, concerts, private parties, and people dressed up in elaborate costumes.
We had a ton of fun photographing all the different costumes and masks, as people pose for you at the most iconic spots around the city.
Best Time To Visit Venice
High season for Venice Italy is during the summer from June to August, when everyone is on summer break. It’s hot and very crowded! Try to avoid the summer if you can.
The best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder seasons, March – May and September – November. Still busy, but not as bad as summertime.
If you are looking to travel on a budget, visit Venice during the acqua alta, or “high water” months of October through January. This is when the city floods on a regular basis.
Venice Carnival is during February. 2020 Carnivale de Venezia dates are February 8th to February 25th.
Venice in February was Perfect!
Where To Stay In Venice
Normally I’d recommend staying at an Airbnb, but for Venice, a vacation rental investment explosion has forced locals to leave the city because they can no longer afford rent. Which is kinda shitty. Use a hotel instead!
Most people get to Venice by flying into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. From there, you can jump on the ATVO airport transfer bus to Piazzale Roma, the main bus terminal. Buses run every 20 minutes and cost €6 EUR. From the terminal, you can pick up a Vaporetto and start floating down the Grand Canal.
Vaporetto
The Venice public “water bus”. A single ticket costs €7.50 EUR. 24-hour unlimited ticket for €20 EUR. 48-hours for €30. 72-hours for €40. Timetables here.
Water Taxis
For a slightly cooler experience, you can book a motoscafi (water taxi). It’s basically a wooden speed boat that travels much faster than the public Vaporetti. But it’s more expensive.
For up to five people, the price is €110 to or from the airport. Or €82 from the train station to Plaza San Marco. So if you’re sharing with a group, it isn’t so bad.
Gondola
€80 for 30 minutes before 7pm, €100 after 7pm. The price is good for up to 6 people. This is more of a tourist attraction than a practical way to get around the city. I’d recommend trying it at least once though!
Budget Travel Tips For Venice Italy
Don’t try and see absolutely everything in Venice if don’t have much time. Pick a few things to do each day. The large crowds can be stressful.
Speaking of crowds, mentally prepare for them. Unless you’re visiting off-season, Venice is ALWAYS packed, like 60,000 – 80,000 people each day!
To avoid the huge influx of cruise ship passengers that descend upon Venice, check out this Cruise Ship Calendar to help plan your trip around them.
Buy a Vaporetto ticket for the whole time you’re in the city. Visiting for 3 days? It’s worth it to get the 72-hour unlimited ticket for €40.
Don’t waste money on bottled water. Almost every public square has a free water fountain. Just bring a reusable water bottle!
Buy a Venice City Pass for discounted rates on museums and galleries, around 20% -30% off.
Travel Planning Resources For Venice
Packing Guide
Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.
I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to do in Venice! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
Evocative of the beauty and romance of Venice’s waterways, riding a traditional Venice gondola is sure to be on most people’s bucket list. Here are tips to have a great time!
With a rich history spanning as far back as the 11th century, the gondolas of Venice are a thing of beauty. It was the activity we were looking forward to most.
Gliding down Venice’s narrow canals, admiring the beautiful architecture, and relaxing to the sound of a classic Venetian song. It doesn’t get much better!
In this guide, I’ll share tips to get the most from your gondola experience.
A Historic Venetian Tradition
History Of The Venetian Gondola
Each part of a traditional Venetian gondola has a specific function; from the iron prow which balances against the weight of the gondolier, to the eight types of wood used in construction to ensure a smooth trip.
Centuries of refinement have turned the gondola into what we see today.
Such was the sheer variety of gondolas, that 10,000 gondolas are estimated to have been in operation during the 1500s, with the current design only perfected during the 20th century.
There are approximately 500 gondoliers working in Venice — the trained men (and a woman!) who pilot these unique craft.
Each gondolier is part of a guild, spending 6 months and 400 hours of training to learn the skills needed. Next, an apprenticeship is undertaken before the gondolier is able to take the helm of an actual gondola.
The boats themselves cost an astonishing €20,000 – €35,000 EUR! One reason why rides are so expensive…
An estimated 20 million tourists visit Venice every year, producing a strong demand that keeps the magic of Venetian gondolas alive and thriving.
Gondolas in Venice: Expensive, but Fun!
Should You Rent A Gondola In Venice?
While you can certainly say renting a gondola in Venice is an expensive tourist trap, in my opinion, it’s also a very unique travel experience in Europe.
If you’re genuinely curious about history and culture of Italy, renting a gondola in Venice at least once is totally worth it.
Gondolas were reserved for the elites of Venice, as they traversed these same waterways on their way to lavish parties, public fistfights, and to get around a network of islands in style.
It’s an activity that you can truly only enjoy properly in Venice. Those “gondola” rides (ha!) at Las Vegas’s Venetian Hotel just aren’t the same…
Official Gondola Prices
How Much Does A Gondola Ride Cost
Official rates for gondola rides are set by the City of Venice, and you’ll see them posted on signs near the docks.
Gondola trips start at €80 EUR for 30 minutes. Additional 20-minute increments are €40. After 7pm, the base rate climbs to €100 EUR, with €50 for an additional 20 minutes.
Singing during your ride often costs extra, usually another €20 – €30 EUR. But not all gondoliers sing so make sure to ask beforehand. We got lucky and ours did!
Up to six people can share a gondola — so sharing with a group will save you some money.
Public Traghetti have (2) Oarsmen
The Public Traghetto
Another, lesser-known option is the traghetto. This is the public version of a gondola that ferries people across canals. It’s a much shorter ride, without the fancy decorations, and locals prefer to stand up.
You’ll find a handful of traghetto piers if you keep your eye out for them. This is how you cross a canal when there is no bridge nearby. The ride costs only €4 EUR.
The most common routes for these are: Pescaria (Rialto fish market) – Santa Sofia (near Ca’ d’Oro), and San Tomà – Sant’Angelo. But there are others around too.
What To Expect On A Gondola Ride
By law, the color of gondolas in Venice is black. Six coats of black paint to be exact. This was to help prevent unfair competition.
When you first board your sleek black gondola, you’ll see that it has plush seating and is covered in gold decorations. Most have blankets during the fall & winter.
Your gondolier will be wearing the traditional costume of black pants and a striped shirt, possibly a straw hat.
If you get a good gondolier, they may act as a tour guide, sharing the history of the buildings you pass along the way. Many gondoliers speak multiple languages too.
If you get a bored or grumpy one, they might not talk at all.
Some gondoliers sing for free, most will probably want an extra tip, some just don’t sing no matter what you do.
If you book a gondola ride along the famous Grand Canal, it’s bound to be very busy with other boats, and not the most romantic experience. Try to find a less-busy location on the smaller canals for some romance.
Explore Venice’s Narrow Canals
Sunset Gondola Rides
Useful Venice Gondola Tips
There are tons of gondola stations (servizio gondole) on the canals in Venice. I recommend one away from the Grand Canal, in a quieter part of the city.
There’s something extra special about floating the canals in a gondola early in the morning before tourists take over. Sunset can also be good.
Up to 6 people can share a Venice gondola. If you’re traveling alone, teaming up with others from your hostel can help drive down the price!
To truly enjoy the magic of a gondola ride through Venice, tip the gondolier so they will be more likely to sing for you. It’s worth it in my opinion.
While it can be tempting to take a million photos while floating the canals, remember to put the camera down to truly enjoy the experience.
You can find wheelchair-accessible gondolas at the Gondolas4all Pier just South of the Hotel Santa Chiara. Here’s the location on Google Maps.
Private Venice Gondola Rides
Don’t want to risk a bad ride? You can book your own private gondola ride with guaranteed singing as well as a dinner and prosecco: ➜ BOOK IT HERE
Travel Planning Resources For Venice
Packing Guide
Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to Venice gondola rides! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
Use my special Airbnb coupon code to get a big discount off your next vacation apartment booking. Save money & travel like a local with Airbnb!
I’m sure you’ve already heard about Airbnb by now. It’s the super popular vacation rental company that lets you stay in other people’s houses, apartments, or spare rooms at exciting travel destinations around the world.
I’ve been using Airbnb for years as a money-saving alternative to staying at expensive hotels, allowing you to rent a cool place directly from the owners.
To help you take the plunge and give the service a try, I’m sharing a big 10% Airbnb coupon code (good for up to $400) that you can use for your next booking to save some money!
I guarantee you’ll start using Airbnb more often after your first stay, but my promo code here should give you a nice little incentive — who doesn’t love a great discount!
Read on to learn how to redeem this free Airbnb credit for your dream travel experience.
When you use this link, you’ll get a 10% Airbnb coupon code, after spending over $75 on your first booking.
My Airbnb discount code is currently 10%, but sometimes the exact amount can vary. Airbnb changes the figure from time to time, something I have no control over. So use it now while you still can!
Sometimes the discount is $30, $40, $55, or even 10% off your whole stay (up to $400!)
You can also save another $10 – $15 off Airbnb Experiences, fun tours led by locals in different destinations.
What If You Already Have An Airbnb Account?
This Airbnb discount code is for new accounts. Already have an Airbnb account? Don’t worry!
Maybe your partner or friend doesn’t have an account yet. You can help them sign up for one — using a different email address! Or, just open a new account using a new email address. It’s simple!
How To Claim Your Airbnb Discount
1. Access My Airbnb Coupon Code
➜ CLICK HERE to access my Airbnb coupon code. The only way to receive credit is to use someone else’s code! Yes, I’ll get some free credit too for refering you. We both win!
2. Sign Up For A New Account
This only takes a minute. You just need to share your email address, name, and birthdate (you must be at least 18 years old to create an account). You’ll need to create a password too.
3. Find A Cool Place To Rent!
The Airbnb home screen will take you to some featured destinations, properties, and Experiences. Just type your travel destination into the search bar at the top left. Italy? Mexico? Costa Rica? Where do you want to go?
4. Play With The Filters
Don’t forget to use Airbnb’s many filters to choose the number of beds, pet friendliness, hot tubs, wifi, and more. Good amenities can really enhance your stay. You can even filter property types — like castles or treehouses!
5. Read The Reviews
Worried about staying in someone else’s home? That’s where the Airbnb reviews come it. For your first stay, I recommend booking a place with TONS of good reviews — so you know you won’t be disappointed.
6. Book Your Stay & Confirm
Once you find the home or experience you want, you can apply your 2019 Airbnb coupon code and input your credit card information to make the booking. Try to use a travel rewards credit card to earn some points/miles.
Tips To Save Money Traveling With Airbnb
Staying long-term? Message the host to ask for an extended-stay discount. Sometimes you can save up to 25% if you book a place for a month or longer. A great option for digital nomads!
One of the nice perks of staying at someone’s home is access to your own kitchen. Rather than going out to eat every night, you can save a lot of money by cooking some of your own meals.
Beware extra fees! Some properties set higher cleaning fees than others. A $100 cleaning fee can make a big difference in the final price you pay.
Some Of My Favorite Airbnb Properties…
Our Airbnb in Costa Rica
Alajuela, Costa Rica
We were looking for a place to stay near Poas Volcano in Costa Rica, so we could hike up early the next morning for photos. This huge ultra-modern 4 bedroom house was only $80 a night! Such a cool place.
Joshua Tree Airstream
Joshua Tree, California
Looking to do some star-gazing in Joshua Tree National Park, we stayed at this awesome 25-foot modern Airstream trailer in the desert. It came equiped with a full kitchen & bathroom! Perfect spot to base ourselves.
Unique Big Island Airbnb
The Big Island, Hawaii
While road tripping around the Big Island of Hawaii, we spent a few nights at this cool treehouse (more like a house on stilts). They had a giant hammock, outdoor shower, and great views over the jungle!
I’ll Stay in These One Day!
My Airbnb Bucket List
I’ve also been saving a bunch of cool properties on my account, hoping to stay there someday in the future. Here are a few of the craziest ones I’ve found!
While anyone with a new account can use my coupon code to get a discount off Airbnb, I also wanted to sweeten the deal even more. I’m giving one lucky reader a $100 gift card to Airbnb.
Personally, I love renting Airbnb properties when I travel and want to show other people how they can save money on hotels while staying in a really cool place too!
WE HAVE A WINNER!
Congratulations Greg from These New Latitudes! You’ve won the Airbnb Gift Card!
Enjoy Your Airbnb Coupon Code!
Have you ever wanted to stay in a treehouse? How about a cave? Maybe you’d like to be a princess for a day, living in a castle? Or high above the clouds in a remote mountain cabin?
Well, now you’re one step closer to making that dream come true. Book something super cool and save some money on your next vacation with Airbnb! ★
I hope you enjoyed my guide to Airbnb coupon codes! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
Plan your Mexico trip with my advice for the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen (hotels, budget hostels, and resorts) for each unique neighborhood around the city!
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mexican city of Playa Del Carmen was once just a small ferry port for people on their way to the island of Cozumel.
Over the years it grew into a popular beach town in its own right due to a beautiful coastline, tasty Mexican cuisine, sunny weather, and central location along the “Riviera Maya” route.
Playa Del Carmen became a cheaper and less-busy option to Cancun – exploding in popularity in recent years.
Visitors can explore nearby Maya ruins, swim in underground rock pools called “cenotes”, or go scuba diving to see one of the largest reefs in the world.
For those planning a visit and wondering about the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen, I’ve put together this free guide to the city’s best neighborhoods and accommodation options!
Best Places To Stay In Playa Del Carmen
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Playa del Carmen, all-inclusive resorts are typical, however, there are many other accommodation options like smaller hotels and guesthouses if you want to save money.
It’s important to book Play del Carmen hotels early to get the best deals.
Especially if you plan to visit during the winter high season, when finding a good place to stay can be much more difficult.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything from budget backpacker hostels to luxury Playa del Carmen resorts, vacation rentals, local guesthouses, and more — you’ll learn exactly where to stay in Playa del Carmen to have a great time.
Airbnb is also a great option for finding a cool apartment to stay at in Playa del Carmen. Check out my Airbnb article for a $35 discount!
Best Neighborhoods In Playa Del Carmen
El Centro “Downtown” Playa
For the typical tourist experience of Playa Del Carmen, El Centro (downtown) is the place for you. This is where all the action is. Stay right on (or close by) La Quinta 5th Avenue for easy walking access to great restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. This is the beating heart of the city.
The North End
North of Avenida Constituyentes is where the city has been growing, and it’s a little more “trendy”. There are more condos and vacation rentals up here than hotels. It’s a bit quieter than El Centro too — but still easily within walking distance to all the nightlife and action on 5th Avenue.
Playacar
Playacar is a residential development just South of Playa del Carmen. It’s split into two “Phases”. Playacar Phase 1 is quieter and more local, with just a few hotels (but some excellent beaches). Playacar Phase 2 is home to a variety of hotels, golf courses, an aviary park, and shopping centers targeted at tourists.
Luxury Resort Area
This area has a handful of luxury resorts for travelers with larger budgets. There are four Mayakoba resorts up here, as well as the Grand Velas. It’s not really walkable from here into the city center, so you’d need to take a taxi or shuttle bus.
Playa del Carmen Hotel Guide
Where To Stay In Playa Del Carmen
Most people prefer to stay near Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue walking street because that’s where all the action is. There are a variety of accommodation styles when it comes to finding a place to stay. The following list showcases some of the best options no matter what your budget — from Backpacker to Baller.
Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Hostal MX is right next to shopping, dining, nightclubs and the beaches. They have access to hammocks, a hot tub, good local transport and free wi-fi. A great place to stay if you’re trying to save money!
The Yak Hostel offers a free breakfast to all its guests, with a bathroom for every bedroom and even a charming little book exchange. It’s a simple but pleasant place to stay, close to the beach, and just around the corner from some of Playa del Carmen’s best nightclubs.
One of the best things about Selina Hostel is its social atmosphere, including a great outdoor pool area (often with good parties), bar, lounge, and a restaurant with a shared kitchen. The hostel rents out bikes too.
Hotel 52 is located right in the center of Playa del Carmen with fun decorative touches from the owner, including a rooftop pool and great beach views. They offer massage services and are completely smoke-free for the health-conscious!
One of my favorite places to stay in Playa del Carmen, it has a very tranquil atmosphere that really lets you escape the noise of downtown. The ornate hotel balconies frame a central swimming pool located right in the middle of the courtyard.
Despite being a budget hotel, Fiesta Inn has all the luxuries you might expect from a higher-priced place, including air conditioning in every bedroom and private showers. A shuttle to and from the airport is also very convenient.
Looking for a romantic hotel in Playa del Carmen? Reina Roja is for adults only. Enjoy your free welcome cocktail before settling into one of their very quirky themed rooms or relax in the rooftop pool. Keep an eye out for the creepy mannequins too!
The Magic Blue has a great swimming pool and garden area, along with in-house massage services, and a selection of gourmet restaurants. You get excellent value for your money, with a perfect location only one block away from 5th Avenue.
Hotel Morgana features 20 rooms designed to reflect Mexican history and culture. Every room is completely unique and the furniture is custom-made. They also have a rooftop terrace with pool and solarium, along with a local crafts gallery featuring Mexican artworks.
A 5-star all-inclusive resort, Fairmont Mayakoba gives each party their own private terrace, access to water sports and bicycle rentals. This resort is one for the luxury-hunters, with every bedroom kitted out with everything from a flat-screen TV to free toiletries. Staff can welcome you in any language, and the on-site restaurant caters to all manner of dietary requirements.
The Thompson is located right on 5th Avenue, known for their great outdoor terrace infinity pool parties. All rooms have jet bathtubs and many have private terraces with Jacuzzis. Guests get free beach access through their sister property located only two blocks away. This hotel is pet-friendly too!
The Hilton Playa del Carmen is one of the top hotels in the city. Located right on the beachfront, with every room offering either an ocean or a garden view. The Hilton has a hot tub placed in every room, along with a great sound system, and a premium minibar.
So I’ve covered a bunch of different great places to stay in Playa del Carmen, however, hotels aren’t always the best deal out there. Especially if you’re part of a large group.
Choosing to stay in a vacation rental apartment is a great alternative to hotels, and might even save you money. They offer more space, better amenities, a kitchen, and give you a feeling of home.
I’ve rented from Bric Vacation Rentals before and had a great expereince. They have options for all budgets.
Enjoy Your Trip To Playa!
So there you go, my roundup of the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen while on vacation.
Playa del Carmen is a perfect place to base yourself in Mexico, and each day will bring something new and entertaining to your trip – whether you prefer a relaxing holiday or a hefty dose of adventure. ★
Travel Planning Resources For Mexico
Packing Guide
Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip.
I hope you enjoyed my guide on where to stay in Playa Del Carmen! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
A visa is a document issued by a country to allow entry to foreign travelers. A visa will have terms and conditions for travel may include the date of entry, length of stay, limits of where you may travel internally, and work restrictions. It is different from a passport in that a passport is issued …
Whether it’s relaxing on a picturesque beach, exploring Mayan ruins, or snorkeling the world’s second longest barrier reef, you’ll discover that Belize is full of amazing and adventurous things to do. The country is one of the most unique destinations in Central America and among my favorite countries in the region. It’s also where I did my first solo backpacking trip and, since that first trip, I’ve loved every minute I’ve spent there.
From the Latin culture of the interior to the Caribbean Rasta vibe of the coast to the old English feel of some of the islands, Belize is a mash-up of vibrant and historic cultures.
The country is popular with backpackers, vacationers, dive enthusiasts, and honeymooners alike, offering something for every travel style and interest.
And tourism is on the rise, too.
In 2018, Belize saw an all-time high of 1.5 million visitors — which is a lot for a country of just over 400,00 people! Tourism will no doubt continue to increase here as Belize is one of the safest countries in the area to visit.
But just because it’s safe doesn’t mean you can let your guard down fully. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during your visit:
9 Safety Tips for Belize
1. Avoid isolated areas – If you’re somewhere isolated, you’ll be at a greater risk for getting robbed, especially at night and in the cities. Try to stay where the crowds are — that’s the best way to avoid being singled out by potential muggers.
2. Be aware of your surroundings while in crowds – While sticking to where the crowds will help you avoid getting mugged, it will also make you a target for petty theft. Tourists are usually easy targets for pickpockets, so when you are in the popular tourist areas make sure your valuables are secure.
3. Don’t wear flashy items – Petty theft is the most common threat here, so remove any jewelry or watches, and don’t wave your phone around. Do your best to blend in, so you don’t become a target for pickpockets. If you happen to find yourself a victim of armed robbery, follow the instructions of the robber and give up your valuables; these material items can be replaced — but your life cannot.
4. Don’t leave your items unattended – If you are spending the day on the beaches of Placencia Peninsula, Hopkins Village, or Caye Caulker, do not leave your belongings unattended while swimming or walking along the sand, as locals and tourists alike can easily swipe your valuables. If you can, find friends at your hostel to hit the beach with so you can take turns watching over each other’s things while you swim and relax.
5. Avoid the bus at night – If you need to get somewhere at night, take a taxi. It will be safer than any public transportation. Have your accommodation call the taxi for you so you can be sure you’re getting a reputable driver. Make sure you get in a taxi with a green license plate, as those indicate authorized taxis. If you’re a solo female traveler, make sure you travel with other people at night (even in taxis).
6. Be careful on public transit – If you must take public transit, keep your valuables on you and well secured, especially on “chicken buses” (colorfully decorated school buses that have been converted to public transportation for goods and people). Theft is common on night buses, so avoid them if you can. (Buses also tend to not run on time, and sometimes they are extremely slow, packed, or both. Be prepared for the experience!)
7. Don’t do drugs – Cartels in Belize have made life very difficult for the local population. Don’t support them by buying their products. Drug penalties are also harsh in the region, and you don’t want to end up in jail!
8. Stick to the touristy parts of Belize City – Belize City (the largest city) has some sketchy neighborhoods that unfortunately have been taken over by local gangs. There are areas, however, that are relatively safe, such as the main tourist part of town. If you don’t wander too far from there, you should be fine.
9. Buy travel insurance – Travel insurance will protect you if you get injured or ill, are a victim of theft, or must deal with delayed or canceled flights. It’s a worthwhile investment and can save you thousands of dollars. Don’t risk traveling without it. I always buy travel insurance before I leave home — a lesson I’ve learned the hard way!
FAQ on Safety in Belize
Below are answers to common questions I get on safety in Belize so you can be better prepared for your trip!
Is there a risk of Zika in Belize?
Belize has a history of Zika virus transmission, but there is currently no evidence of an ongoing outbreak. While the risks are low, travelers are advised to take the following precautions:
Use mosquito repellent on your body (on top of any sunscreen) to prevent bites, and sleep under a mosquito net to avoid getting bit while when you’re asleep.
Wear breathable garments that cover your arms and legs.
Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible to prevent mosquitos from entering your room.
Pregnant women or couples considering pregnancy should consult a healthcare practitioner prior to travel.
Is hitchhiking safe there?
Hitchhiking in Belize is quite common, easy, and — most importantly — safe. My friends and I hitchhiked throughout the country and saw lots of locals doing it too. HitchWiki has a lot of information on hitchhiking in Belize to help you get started.
Is the street food safe?
It sure is safe to have street food in Belize! The best and most affordable way to experience the local cuisine is through their street food, which has Afro-Caribbean and Mexican cultural influences. Sample conch fritters, ceviche, or coconut curry and enjoy the variety of delicious flavors!
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Belize’s Ministry of Health has taken steps toward making tap water drinkable for locals. However, during the rainy season, some areas experience flooding, which may contaminate the tap water. The best way to make sure your drinking water is safe is to bring a SteriPen or Lifestraw for your reusable water bottle. This way you’ll be able to purify the tap water, so you don’t get sick — and avoid single-use plastic bottles in the process.
Are the taxis safe?
Taxis are safe — and preferred — when getting around at night. You can ask your hostel or hotel to call a taxi for you. Be sure to get take an authorized taxi (they have green license plates). Use your smartphone and track the route on your offline map, and if the driver seems to be going off said route, speak up and ask why they’ve decided to take this direction instead. At the end of the day, always trust your gut: if a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out.
If you’re a solo female traveler, I suggest traveling with a friend or another traveler at night, just to be safe.
Is Belize safe for solo travelers?
Solo traveling in Belize is safe, although petty theft is one of the most common types of crime in Belize. The people involved in some sort of incident tend to be drinking or doing drugs or taking part in illegal activity. If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it in Belize! Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.
Is Belize safe for solo female travelers?
Belize is a safe place for solo female travelers, especially if you’re new to solo travel. It is one of the safer countries in this region. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful. Always be aware of your surroundings and have a downloaded map so you can find your way home. Don’t flaunt any valuables, and avoid taking taxis alone at night.
If you’ve done your research and still have concerns, I’d suggest asking to join other groups at hostels when going out or sticking to group travel or tours, just to be safe.
Here are a few helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:
I loved my time in Belize. The country may be small, but it had so much to offer, from dense jungles to massive caves and, of course, the famous Belize Barrier Reef, where the marine life is astonishing. (And in my opinion, the Blue Hole is one of the best places to go scuba diving.) The toughest challenge for you will be deciding what to do first!
While Belize is considered generally safe for traveling and backpacking, there’s no denying that some precautions should be taken. Read and follow this safety guide, and your experience in Belize will be a safe, fun, and memorable one.
Book Your Trip to Belize: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My favorite hostels in Chile are:
The Red Hut Inn (Belize City) – This is a chill social hostel with lots of areas to relax in — includng a pool. The staff are great too!
Dirty McNasty (Caye Caulker) – This is one of the biggest hostels in the country and known for its wild parties.
Anda Di Hows Hostel (Placencia) – A cozy hostel on the beach with great staff and free kayaks and snorkeling gear you can use for free.
Don’t Forget 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. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use – and I think they will help you too!
Holiday festivities are under way in Asheville this weekend. Get into the spirit of the season with a trip Christmas at Biltmore to see all of the holiday grandeur on display. Here's a sneak peek of the gorgeous décor.
