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The Dordogne

(pronounced: dor-DOHN-yeh)

The Dordogne feels like several different versions of France squeezed into one beautiful river valley. There are medieval castles perched on cliffs, prehistoric caves hidden beneath the landscape, villages that tumble down toward the river, and some of the best food I've eaten in rural France.

The Vézère Valley is particularly fascinating. This area has an extraordinary concentration of prehistoric sites, including Lascaux, where the original cave paintings date back around 17,000 years! 

The original cave is closed to visitors for conservation, but Lascaux IV recreates it in remarkable detail. I was skeptical about visiting a replica until I saw how well it was done.

Along the Dordogne River itself, Beynac and Castelnaud castles face each other from opposing cliffs. Their positions make much more sense once you learn that they stood on opposite sides during periods of the Hundred Years' War.

Then there's Sarlat-la-Canéda, which is where I'd go hungry. The Saturday market fills the historic center with local specialties including duck confit, foie gras, walnuts, cheeses, and, when they're in season, the black truffles for which Périgord is famous.

One of my favorite memories of the Dordogne is simply spending a Saturday morning eating my way around Sarlat's market with absolutely no reason to hurry anywhere else.

How the Dordogne fits into your France itinerary

The Dordogne works particularly well in a southwestern France itinerary, especially if you're also visiting Bordeaux.

I'd travel east from Bordeaux, spend three or four nights based around Sarlat-la-Canéda, and use it to explore the river valley, castles, and prehistoric sites.

Brittany

(pronounced: BREH-tahn-yeh)

Brittany feels different from the rest of France almost immediately. The landscape is wilder, the Atlantic is always present, and Breton traditions give the region a cultural identity that feels entirely its own.

Saint-Malo is one of my favorite places to start. The old corsair city is completely enclosed by stone ramparts, and walking the walls gives you views over the rooftops on one side and the sea on the other. I'd go early in the morning, before the old town fills up.

From there, the coastline becomes the attraction. The Pink Granite Coast near Perros-Guirec is covered with enormous rose-colored boulders sculpted by the sea, while Pointe du Raz offers Brittany at its wildest, particularly when the Atlantic weather rolls in.

And then there's the food. Cancale is famous for oysters, which you can buy directly beside the harbor and eat overlooking the water. Brittany is also the place to order a traditional buckwheat galette followed by a sweet crêpe, ideally with a glass of Breton cider.

One of my favorite Brittany memories is sitting inside a tiny crêperie while the rain hammered against the windows, eating a hot galette and realizing I didn't particularly want the weather to improve.

That's part of what I love about Brittany. I don't think you need perfect blue skies to enjoy it. Give me granite villages, a grey-green Atlantic, dramatic clouds, and nowhere I particularly need to be, and I'm happy.

How Brittany fits into your France itinerary

Brittany deserves its own section of a France itinerary rather than a rushed day trip from Paris.

I'd start around Saint-Malo, combine it with nearby Mont-Saint-Michel, and then travel west along the coast toward Perros-Guirec and Pointe du Raz.

Alsace & Colmar

(pronounced: al-ZAS / kol-MAR)

Alsace is one of the places in France where I feel like I've crossed a border without actually leaving the country. French and German influences overlap everywhere, from the architecture and food to the wine and even the names of the villages.

Colmar is the place that initially grabbed my attention. La Petite Venise is filled with brightly colored half-timbered houses lining narrow canals, and this is one destination where I actually think the reality lives up to the photographs. I found myself constantly stopping because another little street, bridge, or flower-covered house looked even better from a different angle.

But I wouldn't come to Alsace just for Colmar.

The Alsace Wine Route stretches for around 170 kilometres through vineyards and small villages beneath the Vosges Mountains. Riesling and Gewürztraminer are two of the stars here, and stopping at smaller wineries for tastings makes the drive far more interesting than simply hopping between the most photographed villages.

I particularly love this region in October. Driving through the vineyards once the leaves have turned shades of yellow and gold gives Alsace a completely different feel from summer, and the crowds are generally easier to manage.

Food is also a huge part of why I'd return. This is where I'd happily spend an evening with a tarte flambée or flammekueche, followed by a slice of kugelhopf and a local glass of Riesling.

December transforms both Strasbourg and Colmar again. Their Christmas markets are among the most famous in Europe, although I'd book accommodation well in advance if that's when you're planning to visit.

How Alsace & Colmar fit into your France itinerary

Alsace works beautifully as the northeastern portion of a France itinerary.

I'd base myself around Colmar for the wine route and villages, spend a day in Strasbourg, and then continue west toward Paris or south toward Burgundy depending on the rest of your route.

Paris

(pronounced: pah-REE)

I've been to Paris enough to know that the romantic version people imagine and the city you actually experience aren't always the same thing. It can be crowded, chaotic, and occasionally frustrating. I still think everyone should experience it at least once.

Notre-Dame alone gives me a reason to return. After reopening in December 2024, the restored cathedral once again feels like the heart of historic Paris. Sainte-Chapelle is equally spectacular, especially when sunlight pours through its 13th-century stained glass.

For art, I'd choose the Musée d'Orsay. The Impressionist collection is extraordinary, but I also love the building itself, a former railway station with its enormous clock overlooking the city.

I've always enjoyed Paris most when I'm away from the biggest attractions. Give me a zinc bar, coffee and a croissant in the Marais, followed by a long walk with nowhere particularly urgent to be, and I'm much happier than I am standing in a queue near the Eiffel Tower.

November might actually be my favorite time to visit. I'd start early, walk around Île Saint-Louis while the streets are quiet, and book the first Sainte-Chapelle entry of the morning.

How Paris fits into your France itinerary

Paris is the easiest starting or finishing point for a wider France itinerary.

I'd spend three nights here, then use France's excellent rail network to continue toward whichever region you want to explore next.

Bordeaux

(pronounced: bor-DOH)

I went to Bordeaux expecting the wine to be the main event, but I ended up enjoying the city itself far more than I anticipated. The regenerated Garonne riverfront gives Bordeaux an energy that doesn't quite match its reputation as a traditional old wine capital.

The Place de la Bourse and Miroir d'Eau are particularly beautiful around sunset, when the 18th-century buildings reflect across the water. I also really enjoyed wandering the Chartrons district, especially around the Sunday market.

Of course, you can't separate Bordeaux from its wine. The Cité du Vin is genuinely worth visiting even if you're not a wine expert, and the tasting space at the top gives you panoramic views across the city.

For me, though, Saint-Émilion is essential. It's only around 40 minutes away by train, but suddenly you're walking through vineyards surrounding a medieval village. 

I loved exploring the underground monolithic church before settling in for a wine tasting. It felt like exactly the experience I'd hoped to have in Bordeaux wine country.

How Bordeaux fits into your France itinerary

Bordeaux is a natural starting point for exploring southwestern France.

I'd spend three nights here before continuing east into the Dordogne, making the two destinations an easy pairing for a longer France itinerary.

Normandy

(pronounced: nor-man-DEE)

Normandy affected me differently from most places I've traveled in France. 

There are beautiful medieval towns, dramatic cliffs, and wonderful food, but it's impossible to explore this region without repeatedly confronting the events that happened here.

Walking Omaha Beach was particularly strange. Today, it's a broad, peaceful stretch of coastline, which somehow makes knowing what happened there on June 6, 1944 even more powerful. 

Nearby, the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer contains row after row of white crosses and Stars of David overlooking the sea.

Pointe du Hoc stayed with me even longer. The bomb craters, concrete bunkers, and cliffs scaled by American Rangers remain visible across the landscape. I spent a long time walking around here trying to imagine what that coastline must have looked like in 1944.

Normandy's much older history is equally fascinating. The Bayeux Tapestry tells the story of the Norman Conquest in astonishing detail, while Mont-Saint-Michel rising from the tidal flats looks almost impossibly dramatic when surrounded by water.

I'd also make time for the coast around Étretat and some of Normandy's food. Camembert, cider, seafood, and apple-based dishes are reason enough to linger over dinner.

How Normandy fits into your France itinerary

Normandy is an easy addition to a northern France itinerary from Paris.

I'd base myself around Bayeux for the D-Day sites before continuing west toward Mont-Saint-Michel and, if you're traveling farther into northwestern France, Brittany.

The Loire Valley

(pronounced: LWAHR)

I knew the Loire Valley was famous for its châteaux before I visited, but I hadn't appreciated just how much they dominate the landscape. You don't visit one grand palace and call it a day. There always seems to be another château, vineyard, or historic village waiting farther along the river.

Chambord was the one that impressed me most for sheer scale. Its elaborate roofline is extraordinary, but I particularly loved the double-helix staircase, where two people can climb simultaneously without actually crossing paths.

Chenonceau is completely different. Built across the Cher River on graceful arches, it's probably the château I'd choose if I could only see one.

What really changed the Loire Valley for me, though, was getting out of the car. Cycling a section of the Loire à Vélo through vineyards and countryside made the region feel less like a string of historic attractions and more like somewhere I actually wanted to slow down and spend time.

I'd also stop at one of the Vouvray wine caves carved into the limestone cliffs. Better still, spend a night in a troglodyte cave dwelling or château hotel. I found the unusual accommodation here became part of the trip rather than simply somewhere to sleep.

How the Loire Valley fits into your France itinerary

The Loire Valley is an easy addition after Paris.

I'd spend three nights around Tours or Amboise, then continue southwest toward Bordeaux and the Dordogne or return to Paris for onward travel.

Provence

(pronounced: proh-VAHNS)

Provence is one part of France where I think the photographs actually undersell the experience. 

The landscapes are beautiful, but what stayed with me was everything surrounding them: the smell of wild herbs, morning markets, tiny villages, and that incredible southern light.

I loved exploring the hilltop villages of the Luberon. Gordes tumbles down its limestone hillside, Roussillon glows in shades of ochre and rust, and Les Baux-de-Provence sits dramatically above the surrounding countryside.

If you're dreaming of lavender fields, timing matters. The Valensole Plateau typically reaches peak color around late June into July, and yes, the purple really can be that intense.

But I'd happily return in May. The countryside is covered in wildflowers, temperatures are more comfortable, and I found Provence much easier to enjoy before the summer crowds arrived.

There's plenty beyond the villages, too. I loved seeing landscapes around Arles that Van Gogh painted more than a century ago and realizing how recognizable some still are. 

Then there's the Pont du Gard, where you can swim beneath a nearly 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct, which feels wonderfully surreal.

How Provence fits into your France itinerary

I'd give Provence about five nights as part of a southern France itinerary, using Aix-en-Provence and the Luberon as bases.

From here, it's easy to continue toward the French Riviera or travel north toward Lyon and Burgundy.

Lyon

(pronounced: lyohn)

I came to Lyon knowing about its reputation for food, but I didn't appreciate how eating would become part of exploring the city.

The classic experience is lunch at a bouchon. These small, traditional restaurants aren't particularly delicate or formal. I found them noisy, convivial, and unapologetically Lyonnais, with dishes like pike quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and plenty of local wine.

I could also happily spend hours inside Les Halles Paul Bocuse. The counters overflowing with cheese, charcuterie, seafood, pastries, and prepared dishes gave me a much better understanding of why Lyon takes its food reputation so seriously.

Between meals, I loved exploring Vieux-Lyon and its traboules, hidden passageways running through Renaissance buildings and courtyards. They're easy to walk straight past unless you know what you're looking for.

I'd finish the day on Fourvière Hill. The basilica is impressive, but I found myself lingering outside for the view across Lyon and the two rivers below.

December is particularly tempting because of the Fête des Lumières, when enormous light installations transform buildings and public spaces throughout the city.

How Lyon fits into your France itinerary

Lyon is an excellent link between northern and southern France.

I'd spend three nights here before continuing south toward Provence, or use the city as a jumping-off point for Burgundy and the French Alps.

Corsica

(pronounced: KOR-see-kah)

Corsica is my number one place to visit in France because it feels unlike anywhere else in the country. I knew the island had beautiful beaches before I arrived, but I wasn't prepared for just how mountainous and wild the interior would be.

The Calanche de Piana was a highlight for me. These enormous orange-red granite formations plunge directly into intensely blue water, and seeing them from the sea completely changed their scale. If I could repeat one experience in Corsica, I'd rent a small boat and spend the day exploring the coast between Porto and Girolata.

The south is equally spectacular. Bonifacio sits almost impossibly on top of white limestone cliffs, while Palombaggia has the kind of clear turquoise water I'd normally associate with somewhere much farther from mainland Europe.

What I also loved was heading inland. Around Corte, beaches give way remarkably quickly to mountains, chestnut forests, and villages where Corsica's distinct culture becomes much more apparent.

And then there's the food. I tried local charcuterie, brocciu cheese, chestnut-based dishes, and Corsican wine, all of which reinforced how separate the island's identity feels from mainland France.

How Corsica fits into your France itinerary

I'd treat Corsica as a separate stage of a longer France itinerary rather than trying to squeeze it between mainland destinations.

Allow at least a week and fly or take the ferry from Nice, Marseille, or Toulon.

France is far too varied to try to see everything in one trip, so I'd build your route around a handful of regions rather than trying to tick off destinations all over the country. With 10 days, I'd concentrate on Paris and western France. With two weeks, you have enough time to continue south and experience a very different side of the country.

France Itinerary: 10 Days

Why this route? This France itinerary for 10 days gives you a great first introduction without spending the entire trip in transit. You'll experience Paris before moving through the châteaux and vineyards of the Loire Valley, then continue southwest for Bordeaux and the medieval villages, castles, food, and prehistoric history of the Dordogne.

*If this is your first trip to France, I'd much rather explore these four areas properly than attempt to squeeze Provence or the French Riviera into the same 10 days.

France Itinerary: 14 Days

Why this route? This France itinerary for 14 days combines Paris with the Loire Valley and southwest before continuing to Lyon for some of the country's best food and finishing among the markets, villages, and landscapes of Provence.

*I'd save Normandy, Brittany, Alsace, and Corsica for future trips. Corsica in particular deserves at least a week of its own rather than being squeezed into a larger tour of mainland France.

Why France deserves a visit beyond Paris

I love Paris, but some of my favorite experiences in France have happened after I've left the capital behind. The more of the country I've explored, the more I've realized just how incomplete a trip can feel when Paris is the only destination.

Beyond the capital, I've cycled between châteaux in the Loire Valley, wandered through vineyards in Alsace, explored the prehistoric history of the Dordogne, eaten my way through Lyon, and slowed down among the hilltop villages and markets of Provence. 

I've experienced the D-Day sites of Normandy, followed Brittany's wild Atlantic coastline, and discovered an entirely different side of France among the mountains and turquoise water of Corsica.

That's what I love about traveling through France. Each region has its own food, architecture, landscapes, traditions, and personality.

If it's your first visit, don't feel like you need to see all 10 destinations. Some travelers will want wine regions and historic cities, while others will be happiest exploring castles, beaches, mountain landscapes, or tiny countryside villages.

FAQs about traveling to France

Ready to explore France? Optimise Travel is here to help

France is an enormous country to explore, and deciding how to divide your time between its cities, wine regions, countryside, coastline, historic sites, and mountain landscapes can quickly become overwhelming.

At Optimise Travel, we create personalized travel itineraries based on your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you're dreaming of exploring Paris, cycling between châteaux in the Loire Valley, tasting wine in Bordeaux and Alsace, wandering through the villages of Provence, discovering Normandy's history, eating your way through Lyon, or escaping to the beaches and mountains of Corsica, we'll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.

If you'd like help planning your trip to France, click here to learn more about our concierge travel services.

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Brighton

Brighton has always felt like one of England's most fun cities to me. It's close enough to London for an easy escape, but within a few hours I feel like I've traded the capital for somewhere much more relaxed, colorful, and wonderfully eccentric.

The Royal Pavilion captures that personality perfectly. With its Indian-inspired domes and extravagant Chinese interiors, it's unlike any other historic building I've visited in England. 

I also love wandering through North Laine, where independent cafés, vintage shops, record stores, and colorful storefronts make it easy to spend an afternoon without much of a plan.

One of my favorite memories from Brighton was spending an evening at Brighton Palace Pier. We played the arcade games, wandered between the rides and food stalls, and watched the light change over the English Channel. It's unapologetically old-fashioned seaside fun, and we had a great time.

Brighton also has the South Downs practically on its doorstep, so I can go from exploring busy city streets to walking through beautiful English countryside surprisingly quickly. For me, that's a huge part of its appeal.

How Brighton fits into your England itinerary

Brighton is only about an hour by train from London, so it's an easy day trip, but I prefer staying for two nights.

That gives me time for the Pavilion and North Laine, an evening at the pier, and a morning exploring the seafront or South Downs without squeezing everything into one day.

Durham

(pronounced: DUR-um)

Durham is proof that some of England's most impressive cities don't need several days to make an impact. 

It's compact enough that I can explore most of it on foot in a day, yet the combination of its cathedral, castle, river, and medieval streets makes it feel far grander than its size suggests.

Durham Cathedral is the obvious centerpiece. Begun in 1093, it's considered one of Europe's greatest examples of Norman architecture, and walking into that enormous stone nave for the first time really gives you a sense of its scale. The cathedral is also the final resting place of Saint Cuthbert and, remarkably, is free to enter.

But some of my favorite time in Durham has been spent outside. The wooded path following the River Wear loops beneath the cathedral and castle, giving you completely different views of the peninsula as you walk.

My favorite comes at dusk from Framwellgate Bridge. Watching the cathedral illuminated above the river as the daylight disappears is easily one of the most beautiful city views I've found in England. 

For a city that receives relatively little attention from international travelers, Durham delivers an incredible amount in a very small area.

How Durham fits into your England itinerary

Durham is particularly easy to add to a northern England itinerary because it's on the main rail line between London and Newcastle.

You can see the major highlights in one full day, but I'd stay overnight if possible so you can experience the cathedral and riverfront after the day visitors have left.

Oxford

Oxford is one of those cities where I find myself constantly looking up. There are centuries-old college buildings, Gothic towers, hidden courtyards, and elaborate stone details everywhere, and much of the historic center is compact enough to explore on foot.

The Radcliffe Camera is every bit as beautiful in person as it looks in photographs, but I think Oxford becomes much more interesting once you start stepping inside the colleges and university buildings. 

The Bodleian Library was a highlight for me, particularly the incredible vaulted ceiling of the Divinity School.

On a sunny afternoon, I also love the very Oxford tradition of punting along the Cherwell. You don't necessarily need to be good at it. Half the entertainment comes from watching everyone else attempt to steer without falling in.

One experience I'd especially recommend is attending Evensong at Christ Church, Magdalen College, or another college chapel. Services are generally free to attend, and sitting inside one of these historic chapels listening to the choir is a wonderful way to experience a side of Oxford that many visitors completely miss.

Oxford has plenty of famous sights, but for me, it's the combination of books, history, student life, and centuries of tradition that makes the city so enjoyable to explore.

How Oxford fits into your England itinerary

Oxford is only about an hour from London by train, making it an easy day trip, but I'd stay for two nights if you can.

The Cotswolds

(pronounced: KOT-swohldz)

The Cotswolds are pretty much exactly what I picture when I think of the English countryside. Honey-colored stone cottages, tiny villages, old pubs, rolling green hills, and miles of dry-stone walls make the entire region feel almost impossibly picturesque.

I've explored some of the famous villages, including Bibury and its much-photographed Arlington Row, but I actually prefer the quieter side of the Cotswolds. Burford is one of my favorite bases, with its beautiful high street sloping toward the River Windrush and plenty of smaller villages within easy reach.

The countryside itself is just as much of a reason to come. Some of the best wildflowers I've seen anywhere have been in the Cotswolds, particularly during spring when the footpaths and meadows burst into color. 

Walking between villages rather than simply driving from one famous viewpoint to another completely changed how I experienced the region.

Places like Bourton-on-the-Water are beautiful, but they can become incredibly busy. 

Give me a quiet footpath, a tiny village around Burford, fields full of wildflowers, and a country pub at the end of the walk, and that's my perfect Cotswolds day.

How the Cotswolds fit into your England itinerary

I'd spend at least three nights in the Cotswolds, ideally basing myself around Burford and combining driving with plenty of walking.

The region fits naturally between Oxford and destinations farther west and is also close enough to London to incorporate into a longer southern England road trip.

York

York is one of my favorite cities in England for simply walking around and seeing where I end up. Its Roman, Viking, medieval, and Georgian history all seem to exist on top of each other, and because the historic center is so compact, I can experience an incredible amount without ever needing a car.

York Minster is impossible to miss, and its sheer scale becomes even more impressive once you're inside surrounded by medieval stained glass. 

From there, I love wandering through the Shambles, where timber-framed buildings lean dramatically over the narrow street. It's touristy now, but the architecture alone makes it worth seeing.

JORVIK offers a completely different look at the city. It's built directly above the remains of the Viking settlement archaeologists uncovered here, and I think it does a particularly good job of making that period of York's history feel tangible rather than distant.

My favorite experience, though, costs nothing. Walking York's medieval Bar Walls early in the morning gives you fantastic views across the rooftops toward the Minster. 

Around Bootham Bar especially, I've found that if I go early enough, I can have stretches of the walls almost entirely to myself.

How York fits into your England itinerary

York is incredibly easy to incorporate into an England itinerary because direct trains from London take around two hours.

I'd stay for two nights, giving yourself one day for the Minster, Shambles, and JORVIK and another for the city walls and National Railway Museum. If you're continuing north toward Durham, York also makes a natural stop along the way.

Cornwall

(pronounced: KOR-nwul)

I could spend two weeks in Cornwall and never get bored. In fact, it's one of the few places in England where I think four nights should be considered the absolute minimum rather than a generous stay.

For me, the coastline is what makes Cornwall so special. There are around 300 miles of it, and it seems to change constantly. 

I've found turquoise coves that barely look English, enormous Atlantic beaches, tiny fishing harbors, rugged cliffs, and abandoned tin mine engine houses clinging to the coastline.

Walking the South West Coast Path is one of my favorite ways to experience it, particularly the stretch between St Just and Cape Cornwall. But I also recommend seeing the coastline from the water. 

The guided sea safaris are fantastic, taking you out along the Cornish coast in search of dolphins, grey seals, seabirds, and other marine wildlife. It's a completely different perspective of the cliffs and coves.

Then there are places like St Ives, Kynance Cove, the Lizard Peninsula, and the Eden Project. There's simply too much here to squeeze into a quick weekend.

Cornwall is somewhere I always want to linger, which is exactly why I recommend giving it more time than you think you'll need.

How Cornwall fits into your England itinerary

If you're exploring England by car, Cornwall works particularly well as the southwestern end of a longer road trip before making your way back toward the Cotswolds, Oxford, and London.

Cambridge

(pronounced: KAYM-brij)

Cambridge is one of those places I enjoy most when I don't try to see everything. The historic center is compact, the colleges seem to appear around every corner, and the River Cam gives the city a much softer, greener feel than I expected the first time I visited.

King's College Chapel is the building I think everyone should see. The enormous fan-vaulted ceiling is spectacular in person, and I could spend ages looking at the details inside. I also love walking along the Backs, where some of Cambridge's most famous colleges face the river and gardens rather than the busy streets.

But my favorite way to experience Cambridge is from the water. Hiring our own punt and attempting to navigate the Cam was far more fun than simply sitting on a guided tour. 

There's a bit of a learning curve, which is part of the entertainment, but once you get the hang of it, you can slow down, stop when you want, and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Cambridge also rewards anyone who enjoys museums and books. The Fitzwilliam Museum is excellent and free, while the Wren Library at Trinity College holds treasures including Isaac Newton's own annotated copy of Principia.

How Cambridge fits into your England itinerary

Cambridge is only about an hour from London by direct train, making it one of the easiest additions to a London itinerary.

You can see the main highlights on a day trip, but I'd stay one or two nights if you want time for the colleges, punting, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and an evening in the city after the day-trippers have returned to London.

The Lake District

The Lake District is England at its wildest, and it's one of the places I return to when I want landscapes rather than cities. 

The combination of mountains, deep glacial lakes, tiny stone villages, and weather that seems capable of changing every ten minutes gives this part of England a personality all its own.

Wastwater is my favorite place in the entire park. It's England's deepest lake, surrounded by steep scree slopes and some of the country's highest mountains, but what I love most is how little there is around it. 

No busy waterfront or string of cafés, just dark water, mountains, and an incredible sense of quiet. It's one of those landscapes where I'm perfectly happy to sit and do absolutely nothing for a while.

For more active days, there are countless walking routes. Scafell Pike is England's highest mountain, while Helvellyn offers some spectacular high-level hiking. You don't need to tackle the biggest peaks, though. I've found plenty of gentler walks that deliver equally beautiful views.

I also love the literary history here. Visiting Wordsworth's Dove Cottage in Grasmere or Beatrix Potter's Hill Top adds another dimension to the landscape, particularly when you realize how deeply these surroundings influenced their work.

Four nights might sound like a lot for one national park, but I think the Lake District deserves it.

How the Lake District fits into your England itinerary

I'd base myself in Ambleside or Keswick rather than trying to move hotels every night. From there, you can dedicate separate days to the western lakes and Wastwater, mountain walks around Helvellyn or Scafell Pike, Grasmere and Dove Cottage, and the Windermere area.

If you're following a longer England itinerary, the Lake District also pairs naturally with York and Durham as you explore northern England rather than repeatedly returning to London.

Bath

(pronounced: BAHTH)

Bath is one of those English cities where I think staying overnight makes a huge difference. During the middle of the day it can be incredibly busy, but early in the morning and later in the evening, I find it much easier to appreciate just how beautiful the city really is.

The Roman Baths are the obvious place to start, and they're absolutely worth the attention they receive. 

Walking around the Great Bath with steam rising from the mineral-rich water and Bath Abbey just beyond feels like one of the closest encounters you can have with Roman Britain. 

I recommend booking the earliest entry available so you can experience it before the biggest tour groups arrive.

But Bath isn't only about the Romans. I love walking through the Georgian streets toward the Royal Crescent, exploring around Pulteney Bridge, and spotting the places connected with Jane Austen. The uniform honey-colored Bath stone makes the entire historic center feel remarkably cohesive.

I also think it's worth experiencing Bath as an actual spa town rather than only visiting its historic baths. Spending an afternoon at Thermae Bath Spa, particularly the rooftop pool overlooking the city, is a wonderful contrast to a morning spent sightseeing.

For me, Bath works because history isn't confined to a museum. The entire city feels like part of it.

How Bath fits into your England itinerary

Bath is about two hours from London by direct train, so it's possible as a day trip, but I'd spend two or three nights here.

It also fits particularly well into a longer southern England itinerary with Oxford and the Cotswolds, or as a stop on the way southwest toward Cornwall.

London

I've been to London enough times to know that the London I enjoy most isn't necessarily the one people picture before their first trip. 

Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London are absolutely worth seeing, but they're only the beginning. For me, the real appeal is how quickly the city changes as you move from one neighborhood to another.

I could spend an entire trip just visiting London's museums. The British Museum, National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, and Science Museum are all world-class, and general admission to their permanent collections is free. That's something I never take for granted here. 

You can wander into the National Gallery for an hour, spend an afternoon at the V&A, or escape a rainy morning in the British Museum without building your entire day around an expensive ticket.

Food is another huge part of why I love London. Borough Market is one of my favorite places to start a morning, but I also recommend getting beyond central London's most famous restaurants. 

Some of my best meals have come from exploring neighborhoods where London's enormous international population has completely transformed the food scene.

Then there are the places that make London feel distinctly London: walking along the Thames at dusk, crossing the Millennium Bridge toward St Paul's, exploring the medieval streets of the City, browsing Portobello Road, or spending a Sunday morning wandering around Notting Hill.

What I've learned is that I enjoy London much more when I stop trying to conquer it. There will always be another museum, market, historic pub, neighborhood, or little street I haven't seen yet.

How London fits into your England itinerary

London will be the natural beginning or end of an England itinerary for most international travelers, and I'd give it at least four nights. Five or six is even better if it's your first visit.

London is also one of the best transportation hubs in Europe, making it easy to continue by train to Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, York, or farther north. Just don't make the mistake of treating London as England itself.

It's an extraordinary city, but some of my favorite experiences in England begin once I leave it.

England is one of those destinations where the ideal route depends heavily on how much of the country you try to cover.

With seven days, I'd focus on London and some of my favorite destinations in southern and central England rather than spending too much time in transit.

England Itinerary: 7 Days

Why this route? This seven-day England itinerary combines one of the world's great cities with Roman history, quintessential English countryside, and one of the country's most beautiful university cities. It also keeps travel distances relatively short, so you're actually exploring England rather than spending your week getting from one end of the country to the other.

*I'd save Cornwall, York, Durham, and the Lake District for a longer trip. They're absolutely worth visiting, but trying to add them to a seven-day itinerary would make this route much too rushed.

Why England deserves a visit beyond London

I love London, but some of my favorite experiences in England have happened after I've left the capital behind. The more I've explored the country, the more I've realized how much travelers miss when they make London their entire trip.

Beyond the capital, I've wandered through honey-colored villages in the Cotswolds, kayaked and hiked through the Lake District, explored medieval streets in York and Durham, spent evenings on the coast in Brighton, and discovered just how much there is to see along the wild coastline of Cornwall. 

Even cities like Bath, Oxford, and Cambridge each offer a completely different version of England.

If it's your first visit, don't feel like you need to see all 10 destinations. Some travelers will be happiest exploring historic cities and castles, while others will fall in love with the countryside, coastal walks, tiny villages, or traditional pubs.

London absolutely deserves your time, but I think you really start to understand England once you get on a train, rent a car, and see what lies beyond it.

FAQs about traveling to England

Ready to explore England? Optimise Travel is here to help

England may be relatively easy to travel around, but deciding how to divide your time between its historic cities, countryside, coastline, and countless cultural attractions can be surprisingly difficult.

At Optimise Travel, we create personalized travel itineraries based on your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you're dreaming of exploring London, wandering through Cotswolds villages, hiking in the Lake District, discovering medieval cities like York and Durham, relaxing on the Cornish coast, or diving into England's incredible history and literary heritage, we'll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.

If you'd like help planning your trip to England, click here to learn more about our concierge travel services.

Have You Seen Our Travel Concierge Service?

Sigtuna

(pronounced: SIG-too-nah)

Sigtuna was one of the most relaxing days of my entire trip to Sweden. As the country's oldest town, it's filled with medieval history, but what I loved most was its peaceful atmosphere. Instead of feeling like an open-air museum, Sigtuna feels like a small lakeside town where history simply blends into everyday life.

One of the highlights for me was taking the Lake Mälaren cruise from Stockholm. 

Arriving by boat gave me a completely different perspective of the town, and watching the shoreline come into view across the calm water made the journey feel like part of the experience rather than just transportation.

After wandering along Stora Gatan, admiring the medieval church ruins and centuries-old rune stones, we decided to try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Mälaren. I use the word "try" very deliberately! 

We spent as much time laughing and trying to stay upright as we did actually paddling, but it ended up being one of those travel memories that still makes me smile. Even if your balance is better than ours, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the lake.

Sigtuna is also wonderfully walkable. I loved strolling along the waterfront, discovering historic buildings tucked between cafés, and finding Viking rune stones sitting almost casually beside the streets. It never felt crowded or rushed, making it a refreshing contrast to nearby Stockholm.

How Sigtuna fits into your Sweden itinerary

Sigtuna is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Stockholm.

Whether you arrive by boat or public transport, it's a wonderful way to experience Sweden's oldest town while enjoying the beautiful scenery around Lake Mälaren. 

If you have three or more days in Stockholm, I'd definitely make time for Sigtuna.

Ystad

(pronounced: EE-stad)

Ystad was one of those towns that immediately made me slow my pace. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and quiet squares all seemed designed for wandering rather than sightseeing. 

I knew it was famous as the setting for the Wallander novels and television series, but it didn't take long before that became the least interesting thing about the town.

I spent much of my visit simply exploring the historic center without any particular destination. Around almost every corner, I found another beautifully preserved building, cozy café, or flower-filled courtyard. It has that rare quality where the entire town feels cohesive, as though very little has changed over the centuries.

One of my favorite stops was the Franciscan Monastery, one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in Scandinavia. 

Walking through its peaceful cloisters was a welcome break from the busier attractions I'd visited elsewhere in Sweden, and it felt like one of those hidden places that many travelers simply walk past.

Ystad's location on Sweden's southern coast also gives it a completely different atmosphere from Stockholm or Gothenburg. The nearby Baltic Sea, relaxed pace of life, and excellent local restaurants made it feel more like a place to savor than simply check off a list.

How Ystad fits into your Sweden itinerary

Ystad is an excellent addition to any southern Sweden itinerary and pairs perfectly with Malmö and the surrounding Skåne countryside.

If you're planning to visit the Danish island of Bornholm, it's also the ideal place to catch the ferry, making it a natural overnight stop before continuing your journey across the Baltic Sea.

Karlskrona

(pronounced: KARLS-kroo-nah)

Karlskrona was one of the biggest surprises of my trip through southern Sweden. 

Spread across a collection of islands, the city has a completely different feel from anywhere else I've visited. Its wide squares, waterfront views, and relaxed atmosphere make it an easy place to slow down and explore.

One of my favorite things about Karlskrona was simply wandering around the historic center before heading out onto the water. 

The surrounding archipelago is made up of dozens of islands, and taking a boat through them gave me a wonderful appreciation for just how connected this city is to the sea. It was one of those experiences that doesn't sound particularly exciting on paper but ended up being one of the highlights of my visit.

The weather actually turned on us while we were there, so we decided to duck into the Naval Museum. In hindsight, I'm really glad we did because it ended up being one of the best museums we visited anywhere in Sweden. 

From beautifully restored historic ships to fascinating exhibits about Sweden's naval history, it was far more engaging than I expected. Even if the sun had been shining all day, I think I would recommend adding it to your itinerary.

What I loved most about Karlskrona was that it never felt crowded. Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it still feels like a place that's waiting to be discovered rather than overrun by tourists.

How Karlskrona fits into your Sweden itinerary

Karlskrona is an excellent stop if you're exploring Sweden's southern coastline by car.

It pairs beautifully with Ystad, Malmö, and the rest of the Blekinge archipelago, offering a wonderful mix of maritime history, beautiful scenery, and a much quieter side of Sweden that many international visitors never experience.

Dalarna & Lake Siljan

(pronounced: dah-LAR-nah, SIL-yan)

Dalarna felt like stepping into the Sweden I'd always imagined. Red wooden cottages, birch forests, sparkling lakes, and small villages all combine to create the picture-postcard landscapes that have become synonymous with the country. 

It was one of the places where I felt I gained a much deeper appreciation for Swedish culture and traditions.

One of my favorite experiences was visiting the workshops in Nusnäs, where the famous Dala horses are still hand-painted today. 

Watching skilled artisans carefully decorate each horse by hand made me appreciate just how much craftsmanship goes into what has become one of Sweden's best-known symbols. Of course, I couldn't leave without bringing one home as a souvenir.

Lake Siljan itself is just as memorable. Whether you're strolling along the shoreline, cycling through the surrounding countryside, or relaxing in one of the lakeside villages, there's an incredible sense of peace that seems to define the entire region. It's the kind of place where you naturally slow down and enjoy the scenery.

If your trip happens to coincide with Midsummer, I can't think of a better place to experience one of the country's most beloved traditions. 

That said, autumn is also spectacular, with brilliant golden birch trees reflected across the calm waters of Lake Siljan.

How Dalarna & Lake Siljan fit into your Sweden itinerary

Dalarna is an excellent addition to any central Sweden road trip and combines beautifully with Stockholm before continuing north toward Sweden's forests and mountains.

High Coast — Höga Kusten

(pronounced: HOO-gah KUS-ten)

The High Coast completely exceeded my expectations. Before visiting, I'd seen photos of the dramatic cliffs and forests, but it wasn't until I stood overlooking the Baltic Sea that I appreciated just how unique this landscape really is. 

It's one of those places where nature takes center stage, and every viewpoint seems better than the last.

One of the highlights of my visit was hiking in Skuleskogen National Park. The trails wind through ancient forests before opening up to spectacular views across the coastline, with countless islands scattered across the sea below. 

It felt wonderfully remote without being difficult to access, and it was exactly the kind of hiking I love: peaceful, scenic, and never too crowded.

After spending the morning outdoors, we headed to the High Coast Distillery, which turned out to be another unexpected highlight. Sitting beside the Ångerman River, it's a beautiful setting to learn more about Swedish whisky and enjoy a tasting after a day on the trails. 

It was a great reminder that the High Coast offers much more than just incredible scenery.

What surprised me most was just how few people we encountered. Even on some of the most scenic hiking trails, it often felt like we had the landscape almost entirely to ourselves. If you're looking to experience Sweden's incredible outdoors without the crowds, the High Coast is hard to beat.

How the High Coast fits into your Sweden itinerary

The High Coast is one of Sweden's greatest road-trip destinations and is well worth the journey north from Stockholm.

I recommend spending at least two or three nights here.

Visby & Gotland

(pronounced: VIS-bee)

Visby was one of those places that completely stole my heart. I originally planned to spend a weekend here, but after just a day of wandering the medieval streets, I found myself looking at ferry schedules and wondering how I could stay longer. 

There's something about the atmosphere that makes it incredibly difficult to leave.

I loved getting lost inside the old town, where narrow cobblestone lanes wind between stone buildings covered in climbing roses and the remains of medieval churches. 

Surrounded by one of the best-preserved city walls in Northern Europe, Visby feels like a place that's been beautifully preserved without ever losing its character. Every corner seemed to reveal another quiet courtyard, a charming café, or an incredible view of the Baltic Sea.

While Visby is the star attraction, I also recommend spending time exploring the rest of Gotland. 

Renting a car gave us the freedom to discover dramatic limestone sea stacks, quiet beaches, tiny villages, and peaceful countryside that felt completely different from mainland Sweden. The island has a wonderfully relaxed pace that encourages you to slow down and explore.

Although Medieval Week in August is famous for transforming the town into a living medieval festival, I actually loved visiting just outside the busiest period.

Walking along the ancient city walls at sunset and wandering the nearly empty streets the following morning became some of my favorite memories from the entire trip.

How Visby & Gotland fit into your Sweden itinerary

Visby and Gotland are the perfect addition if you have a week or more to explore Sweden.

The ferry journey from the mainland feels like part of the adventure, and once you arrive you'll discover a completely different side of the country.

Swedish Lapland & Abisko

(pronounced: ah-BIS-koh)

Swedish Lapland was unlike anywhere I've ever traveled, anywhere. 

From sleeping in a hotel built entirely from ice to watching the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky, it felt like one incredible experience after another. It's the kind of destination that almost doesn't seem real until you're standing there experiencing it for yourself.

One of the biggest highlights was spending a night at the famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi. 

Sleeping on a bed carved from ice beneath thick reindeer hides is certainly something I'll never forget, and waking up after a surprisingly comfortable night's sleep made for one of the most unique travel experiences I've ever had. 

Every winter, the hotel is rebuilt from ice harvested from the nearby Torne River, making each season's design completely different. (And yes, they have non-ice suites too, if that’s not your vibe.)

Equally unforgettable was visiting nearby Abisko, one of the world's best places to see the Northern Lights. Standing beneath a sky filled with ribbons of green and purple light is one of those moments that simply stops you in your tracks. 

Even after seeing countless photographs over the years, nothing compares to witnessing the aurora in person.

What surprised me most, though, was how much there is to experience beyond winter. During the warmer months, Abisko becomes a paradise for hikers, with spectacular trails, endless daylight, and some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Sweden. 

It's one of those rare destinations that offers two completely different but equally rewarding experiences depending on when you visit.

How Swedish Lapland & Abisko fit into your Sweden itinerary

Swedish Lapland is the perfect finale to a Sweden itinerary.

Whether you arrive on the overnight sleeper train from Stockholm or fly into Kiruna, the journey feels like part of the adventure.

Gothenburg

(pronounced: GOH-ten-borg)

If you asked me which Swedish city surprised me the most, I'd probably say Gothenburg. 

Before visiting, I assumed Stockholm would be the country's standout destination for food, but after just one day in Gothenburg, I completely understood why so many Swedes insist the best seafood is found on the west coast.

One of my favorite memories was sitting on the waterfront enjoying a huge plate of fresh prawns. They were incredibly fresh, wonderfully simple, and exactly the kind of meal that sticks with you long after a trip is over. 

It was one of those lunches where you find yourself slowing down, watching the boats come and go, and appreciating just how connected Gothenburg is to the sea.

After lunch, I wandered through the charming Haga district, which quickly became one of my favorite neighborhoods in Sweden. Its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and cozy cafés make it the perfect place to spend an afternoon. 

I couldn't resist stopping for one of the enormous Swedish cinnamon buns, and I have to admit they're every bit as good as everyone says.

Another highlight was taking a boat into the Gothenburg Archipelago. Just a short ride from the city, the islands feel wonderfully peaceful, with smooth granite coastlines, little fishing villages, and spectacular views across the sea. It's hard to believe that somewhere so tranquil sits just minutes from Sweden's second-largest city.

How Gothenburg fits into your Sweden itinerary

Gothenburg is the perfect addition to any southern Sweden itinerary and pairs beautifully with Malmö, the west coast, or even a trip into Norway.

Uppsala

(pronounced: UP-sah-lah)

Uppsala quickly became one of my favorite day trips from Stockholm. 

While it's often overlooked by international visitors, I found it to be one of the most fascinating places in Sweden. Everywhere I turned, there seemed to be another layer of the country's history waiting to be discovered, from Viking heritage to grand cathedrals and one of Europe's oldest universities.

One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the magnificent Uppsala Cathedral. 

Even if you're not particularly interested in churches, it's impossible not to be impressed by its sheer scale. Standing beneath the soaring Gothic ceilings and wandering through the historic tombs gave me a real appreciation for the role Uppsala has played in Swedish history for centuries.

I also made the short trip out to Gamla Uppsala, where enormous Viking burial mounds rise quietly above the surrounding countryside. 

Standing on top of one of the ancient mounds, looking out across the landscape, was one of those moments where history suddenly feels much more tangible than it does in a museum. It was easily one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Sweden.

Back in the city, I spent some time wandering through Linnaeus's Botanical Garden. It provided a completely different pace after the morning's historic sites, and I loved strolling through the beautifully maintained gardens while learning more about one of Sweden's most influential scientists. It was a peaceful way to finish the day.

How Uppsala fits into your Sweden itinerary

Uppsala is one of the easiest additions to any Swedish itinerary thanks to its fast rail connection from Stockholm.

Stockholm

(pronounced: STOK-holm)

Stockholm is one of those cities that lives up to the hype. Built across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea, it's beautiful from almost every angle. 

Every time I visit, I find myself spending as much time admiring the views between destinations as I do visiting the attractions themselves. It's an easy city to fall in love with.

One place that absolutely lives up to its reputation is the Vasa Museum. I'd seen plenty of photos before visiting, but nothing prepares you for standing beside a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship that fills an entire building. It quickly became one of my favorite museums anywhere in Europe, and I'd happily recommend setting aside an entire morning to explore it.

I also loved wandering through Gamla Stan, Stockholm's beautifully preserved Old Town. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and hidden little cafés make it a wonderful place to explore without a map. 

I found that the city is at its best early in the morning or later in the evening, when many of the day-trippers have disappeared, and the streets become wonderfully peaceful.

One experience I didn't expect to enjoy as much as I did was riding Stockholm's metro. Many of the stations are decorated with incredible artwork, turning an ordinary journey into something that feels more like visiting an underground art gallery. It's one of those uniquely Stockholm experiences that's well worth making time for.

My favorite evenings, though, were spent in Södermalm. After dinner, I'd walk down toward the waterfront and watch the lights reflect across the water as the city slowly settled into the evening. It was the perfect way to end the day and one of those simple travel moments that has stayed with me long after returning home.

How Stockholm fits into your Sweden itinerary

Stockholm is the perfect place to begin your Swedish adventure.

Its excellent rail, ferry, and flight connections make it an ideal base before exploring destinations like Uppsala, Sigtuna, Dalarna, or even heading north to Swedish Lapland.

Sweden is easy to combine with neighboring Finland and Norway thanks to its excellent rail, ferry, and flight connections.

Here is the route I’d personally recommend for travelers planning a longer Nordic adventure.

Finland Sweden Norway Itinerary: 14 Days

Why this route? This 14-day Finland, Sweden, and Norway itinerary combines three fascinating capital cities with Swedish coastal culture, scenic rail journeys, and Norway’s spectacular fjords.

*This itinerary can be completed primarily by ferry and train, although a short flight may save time on some connections. Travelers who prefer a slower pace could remove Gothenburg and divide the extra nights between Stockholm and Norway’s fjord region.

Why Sweden offers so much more than Stockholm

What surprised me most about Sweden was just how incredibly diverse it is. 

I could spend one day exploring Stockholm's islands and world-class museums, another hiking the dramatic High Coast, and a few days later find myself wandering medieval streets in Visby, enjoying fresh seafood in Gothenburg, or watching the Northern Lights dance above Swedish Lapland.

If it's your first visit, don't feel like you need to see all 10 destinations. Some travelers will fall in love with Sweden's vibrant cities, while others will be drawn to its Arctic wilderness, peaceful lakes, coastal islands, or centuries of Viking and medieval history. 

The best Sweden itinerary is the one that gives you enough time to experience both Stockholm and the incredible places waiting beyond the capital.

FAQs about visiting Sweden

Ready to explore Sweden? Optimise Travel is here to help

Sweden offers far more than most travelers expect, and deciding how to spend your time can be surprisingly difficult. 

From the islands and museums of Stockholm to the Arctic landscapes of Swedish Lapland, the dramatic coastline of Höga Kusten, the medieval streets of Visby, and the peaceful lakes of Dalarna, every region has its own unique character.

At Optimise Travel, we create personalized travel itineraries based on your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you're dreaming of chasing the Northern Lights, hiking through Sweden's national parks, exploring Viking history, discovering charming coastal towns, or combining iconic highlights with hidden gems beyond Stockholm, we'll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.

If you'd like help planning your trip to Sweden, click here to learn more about our concierge travel services.

Have You Seen Our Travel Concierge Service?

Maramureș

(pronounced: mah-rah-MOO-resh)

If you asked me which part of Romania felt the most different from anywhere else in Europe, I'd probably choose Maramureș.

Tucked away in the country's far northwest, near the Ukrainian border, this region is where traditions have been preserved for generations. 

Horse-drawn carts still travel quiet country roads, villagers gather for festivals in beautifully embroidered traditional clothing, and some of Europe's finest wooden churches continue to watch over tiny farming communities.

One of the highlights for me was exploring the UNESCO-listed wooden churches scattered throughout the valleys.

Built entirely from timber hundreds of years ago, their soaring spires, hand-painted interiors, and peaceful settings make them feel wonderfully untouched by time. 

The biggest surprise, however, was the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța. Instead of somber grey headstones, the cemetery is filled with bright blue wooden crosses, each decorated with a painted portrait and a humorous poem telling the story of the person buried there, often including the way they died. 

It sounds unusual, but I found it surprisingly uplifting. Rather than fearing death, the cemetery celebrates a life well lived with warmth, humour, and remarkable honesty.

How Maramureș fits into your Romania itinerary

Maramureș is one of Romania's most remote regions, so it's best suited to travelers with at least a week to explore the country. I recommend spending two or three nights here.

The Danube Delta

(pronounced: DAHN-yoob)

At the country's eastern edge, the Danube River spreads into hundreds of winding channels before finally reaching the Black Sea, creating one of Europe's largest and most important wetland ecosystems. 

There are no roads leading into much of the Delta, so the only real way to explore is by boat, which immediately slows the pace of your trip.

One of the highlights of my visit was joining a half-day birdwatching tour with a local guide. Not only was it a wonderful way to experience the Delta, but I also learned so much about Romania's incredible wildlife.

The Delta is home to around 300 bird species, including enormous white pelicans, cormorants, herons, egrets, and birds of prey. Having someone point out species I would have completely missed on my own made the experience far more rewarding.

The early morning hours were especially memorable. As the sun rose over the reeds, the waterways were perfectly still, a light mist drifted across the channels, and birds began to fill the sky. 

It was one of the most peaceful mornings I've experienced anywhere in Europe, and a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences come from simply sitting quietly and taking it all in.

If you have the time, continue all the way to Sulina, Romania's easternmost town. Its quiet streets, weathered buildings, and remote location give it a character all its own, making it feel like you've reached the very edge of the country.

How the Danube Delta fits into your Romania itinerary

The Danube Delta is best added to the beginning or end of your Romania itinerary, as it's typically reached via Tulcea, about three hours from Bucharest. I recommend spending at least two nights here to fully appreciate its unique landscapes before returning inland to continue exploring the rest of Romania.

Sighișoara

(pronounced: see-ghee-SHWAH-rah)

Sighișoara feels like stepping into a storybook. Perched on a hill in the heart of Transylvania, the town has kept its cobbled streets, colorful merchant houses, and medieval towers remarkably unchanged for centuries. 

What makes it even more special is that this isn't an open-air museum. People still live and work within the ancient citadel, giving the town an authenticity that's increasingly rare in Europe.

Founded by Saxon settlers in the 12th century, Sighișoara is one of the best-preserved medieval towns on the continent and has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It's also widely believed to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the 15th-century ruler whose story later inspired the Dracula legend.

My favorite part of visiting Sighișoara was climbing the Covered Staircase to the Church on the Hill.

The wooden staircase has protected visitors from the weather for centuries, and reaching the top rewards you with beautiful views over the red rooftops of the citadel and the surrounding countryside. The peaceful church and its medieval frescoes make the climb well worth the effort.

Unlike many famous medieval towns, Sighișoara never felt overcrowded or overly commercial during my visit. It's the kind of place that's best explored slowly, wandering quiet streets, discovering hidden courtyards, and simply enjoying the atmosphere.

How Sighișoara fits into your Romania itinerary

Sighișoara sits almost perfectly between Brașov and Sibiu, making it an easy stop on any Transylvania road trip.

The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

(pronounced: boo-koh-VEE-nah)

I wasn't quite prepared for just how extraordinary the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina would be. 

I'd seen photographs beforehand, but nothing compares to standing in front of buildings whose exterior walls are almost completely covered in colorful frescoes that have survived more than 500 years of rain, snow, and harsh Romanian winters.

Scattered across the rolling countryside of northeastern Romania, these monasteries were built during the 15th and 16th centuries, and today eight of them are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Rather than decorating just the interiors, artists transformed the entire outside of the churches into enormous works of art, creating vivid biblical scenes that could be understood by people who couldn't read. It's one of the most unique collections of religious art I've seen anywhere in Europe.

Voroneț Monastery is undoubtedly the most famous, thanks to its brilliant blue frescoes and remarkable depiction of the Last Judgment covering the southern wall. It deserves every bit of its reputation. 

My personal favorite, however, was Sucevița Monastery. Surrounded by fortified walls and backed by forested hills, it felt quieter, more intimate, and somehow even more atmospheric. Every surface seemed to tell another story, and I found myself slowing down just to take in the incredible level of detail.

How the Painted Monasteries fit into your Romania itinerary

I recommend basing yourself near Suceava for a night or two, allowing enough time to visit Voroneț, Sucevița, Humor, and a few of the smaller monasteries without feeling rushed.

The Transfăgărășan Highway

(pronounced: trans-fah-gah-RAH-shahn)

If you love scenic road trips, the Transfăgărășan Highway deserves a place on your bucket list. 

Winding through the highest section of Romania's Carpathian Mountains, it's one of those drives where you find yourself pulling over every few minutes because the views somehow keep getting better.

The road climbs to more than 2,000 meters above sea level, twisting through countless hairpin bends before reaching beautiful Bâlea Lake near the summit. 

On a clear day, you can see mountain ridges stretching toward the horizon in every direction. It's easy to understand why Top Gear famously called it "the best road in the world."

For me, the highlight was approaching from the south. The road gradually climbs through forests before the landscape suddenly opens up into dramatic alpine scenery. 

Then, after passing through the tunnel near the summit, you're greeted by the iconic view of Bâlea Lake surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. It's one of those moments that photographs simply can't capture.

We had lunch at a small rustic restaurant on the lake, and it was some of the best traditional Romanian food we had on our trip.

How the Transfăgărășan Highway fits into your Romania itinerary

The Transfăgărășan is a perfect road trip between Sibiu and Curtea de Argeș, and can easily be combined with Brașov, Sighișoara, or other highlights of Transylvania. I recommend allowing most of a day so you have plenty of time to stop at viewpoints, enjoy Bâlea Lake, and simply soak in one of Europe's greatest mountain drives.

Peleș Castle & Sinaia

(pronounced: PEH-lesh)

I've visited a lot of castles around Europe, but Peleș Castle genuinely surprised me. 

From the outside, it looks like something lifted straight from the pages of a fairy tale, tucked among the forests of the Carpathian Mountains. Then you step inside and realize the interior is somehow even more impressive.

Built for King Carol I in the late 19th century, Peleș Castle was designed to showcase the confidence of a newly independent Romania. Every room seems to have its own personality, from elaborate carved wood ceilings to richly decorated reception halls inspired by architectural styles from across Europe and beyond. 

The craftsmanship is extraordinary, and it's easy to lose track of time wandering from one lavish room to the next.

The room that stayed with me the most was the Turkish Parlour. It feels completely unexpected inside a Romanian mountain castle, filled with intricate Moorish-inspired details that look as though they belong in Istanbul rather than the Carpathians. 

If you have the time, Sinaia itself is a lovely mountain town. I highly recommend taking the cable car into the Bucegi Mountains. The panoramic views from the plateau offer a completely different perspective on the region and provide a perfect contrast to the elegance of the royal residences below.

How Peleș Castle & Sinaia fit into your Romania itinerary

Peleș Castle is one of the easiest day trips from Bucharest, but it also fits perfectly into a Transylvania road trip between the capital and Brașov.

Sibiu

(pronounced: SEE-byoo)

Sibiu was one of the biggest surprises of my trip through Romania. It has all the charm of a beautifully preserved medieval town, but it also feels sophisticated and effortlessly livable. It's easy to understand why it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007.

Founded by Saxon settlers in the 12th century, Sibiu later became one of Transylvania's most important cities under the Habsburg Empire, and you can still see those influences throughout the old town. 

Colorful merchant houses line the grand squares, elegant churches rise above the rooftops, and the famous dormer windows, affectionately known as the "Eyes of Sibiu," give the city an unmistakable character. Once you notice them, it feels as though the rooftops are quietly watching you wherever you walk.

While many visitors spend most of their time around Piața Mare, my favorite area was actually the Lower Town. Connected to the upper city by steep stairways and old passageways, it feels quieter and more authentic.

Wandering its narrow streets, past centuries-old buildings, gave me a much stronger sense of Sibiu's history than simply staying in the main squares above.

If you have extra time, don't miss the ASTRA Museum just outside the city. It's one of the largest open-air museums in Europe, with hundreds of traditional homes, churches, watermills, and workshops relocated from across Romania.

How Sibiu fits into your Romania itinerary

Sibiu makes an excellent base for exploring central Romania. It pairs naturally with Sighișoara, Brașov, and the spectacular Transfăgărășan Highway, making it one of the best stops on any Transylvania road trip.

Bran Castle

(pronounced: BRAHN)