Before diving into specific activities, we quickly noticed how easy Burgos is for families.

Most major attractions are within walking distance, which meant less stress and more time enjoying the city. The pedestrian-friendly streets, open squares, and riverside paths gave Teo space to move freely—something that made a big difference for us.

At the same time, Burgos offers a strong mix of history and interactivity. We weren’t just looking at old buildings—we were stepping into stories, exploring human origins, and discovering medieval life in ways that actually kept Teo interested.

Take a Free Walking Tour of Burgos

One of the best decisions we made was starting our trip with a free walking tour.

The tour lasted around two hours and took us through the historic center, where we learned about Burgos’ medieval past, its role on the Camino de Santiago, and various local legends.

For Teo, this worked surprisingly well. The guide focused on storytelling rather than dry facts, which kept him engaged—especially when knights and battles were involved.

For us, it also helped us get oriented quickly. By the end of the tour, we knew exactly where everything was and which places we wanted to explore further.

By the way, make sure you book ahead as the tours do tend to sell out during the summer months!

Visit the Burgos Cathedral

No visit to Burgos is complete without seeing the stunning Burgos Cathedral.

When we first approached it, Teo immediately noticed how much it looked like a castle. The towering spires and intricate façade made it feel almost like something out of a storybook.

Inside, we took our time rather than rushing through. What worked well for us was making it interactive—asking Teo to spot unusual details, look for statues, and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Visiting the cathedral is free on Tuesdays, and the tickets can be bought via an app which also serves as the cathedral guide. You can find more info about the Burgos cathedral here.

That simple shift turned what could have been a quick visit into one of the highlights of the trip.

Explore the Museum of Human Evolution

Another standout experience for us was the Museum of Human Evolution.

This is not your typical museum. It’s modern, interactive, and clearly designed with families in mind. The exhibits focus on discoveries from the nearby Atapuerca site and explain human evolution in a very visual and engaging way.

Teo especially enjoyed the life-sized reconstructions and interactive displays. Instead of just reading information, he was able to imagine what early humans looked like and how they lived.

We spent around two hours here, which felt like the right amount of time before attention started to fade.

Walk Along the Arlanzón River

After visiting museums and landmarks, we found it really important to slow things down—and the Arlanzón River was perfect for that.

We spent time walking along the river, letting Teo run around and enjoy the open space. The paths are wide and safe, making it ideal for families.

In fact, both Liza and I went for a run along it, each at a different time of the day. There's plenty of people jogging as well, or going for a walk.

It gave us a chance to relax and recharge before heading to the next activity.

Explore the Historic Center

We also loved simply wandering through the historic center of Burgos.

It feels like an open-air museum, with narrow streets, lively squares, and impressive architecture at every turn.

Some highlights we came across included:

• Arco de Santa María
• Plaza Mayor de Burgos

What worked well for us was letting Teo lead occasionally. It turned the experience into a bit of an adventure rather than just following a set route.

Ride the Tourist Train

At one point, when Teo started getting tired, we  considered trying the Burgos tourist train—but as we had done the free walking tour already, we gave it a miss.

It loops around the main attractions and gives kids a break from walking while still letting you see the city. 

Visit the Centro de Biodiversidad de Burgos

One of the more unexpected places we discovered during our trip was the Centro de Biodiversidad de Burgos. If your child enjoys animals, nature, or hands-on learning, this is a worthwhile stop that offers a quieter alternative to the city’s bigger attractions.

The center focuses on local ecosystems and environmental education, with exhibits designed to help children understand the wildlife and biodiversity of the region. For us, it worked well as a slower-paced activity after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Teo especially enjoyed seeing the different species displays and interactive elements, and we appreciated that it felt educational without being overly formal. It’s the kind of place that may not appear on every Burgos itinerary, but for families traveling with kids, it adds a nice balance of nature and learning to the trip.

Did I mention it's free?

Take a Day Trip to Atapuerca

If you have extra time, we’d definitely recommend considering a visit to the Atapuerca Archaeological Site.

This is where many of the discoveries displayed in the museum were actually found. Seeing the site will add another layer to the experience, but we decided to give it a miss. Why?

While it’s probably better suited for slightly older kids, it can be a great way to extend your trip and make it more memorable.

Visiting Castillo de Burgos with Kids

One spot we were excited to visit in Burgos was the historic castle overlooking the city. Unfortunately, Castillo de Burgos was closed during our visit because of maintenance, but it’s still worth walking up for the views alone.

The hilltop location offers one of the best panoramic views of Burgos Cathedral and the old town, and the walk up feels like a mini adventure for kids. Along the way, there are open spaces where children can run around and plenty of photo spots overlooking the city- but make sure you bring water during the summer months as it gets very hot.

If the castle is open during your trip, you can explore the ruins, underground galleries, and learn more about Burgos’ medieval history. Before visiting, it’s a good idea to check current opening hours locally, as access can sometimes be limited due to restoration work or seasonal schedules.

Relax in Parks and Green Spaces

Like any family trip, we needed downtime—and Burgos has plenty of good spots for that.

We particularly enjoyed:

• Parque de la Isla
• Paseo del Espolón

These areas were perfect for letting Teo play while we took a breather. Having these kinds of spaces made the overall trip feel much more relaxed.

Enjoy Local Food as a Family

Food ended up being one of the most enjoyable parts of our trip—especially because of Burgos’ strong tapas culture.

In many bars, when we ordered a drink, we were pleasantly surprised to receive a small tapa alongside it at no extra cost. This made eating out feel more relaxed and spontaneous, since Teo always had something to nibble on without us needing to order a full meal right away.

We found ourselves hopping between places, trying different tapas rather than sitting down for long meals every time. It worked particularly well with a child, as it kept things flexible and informal.

Alongside tapas, we also found plenty of family-friendly dishes like croquettes and simple Spanish classics, making it easy to find something everyone enjoyed.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

• Free walking tour
• Visit the cathedral
• Explore the historic center
• Relax by the river

Day 2:

• Museum of Human Evolution
• Optional Atapuerca trip
• Tourist train or relaxed stroll

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Burgos turned out to be one of those destinations that works effortlessly for families.

For us, the combination of history, interactive experiences, and open spaces made it easy to keep Teo engaged while still enjoying the cultural side of the trip ourselves.

If you’re traveling through Spain with kids, Burgos is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.

We recently visited as a family of three—Liza (mom), dad, and our curious 9-year-old son Teo—and quickly realized that Querétaro is one of Mexico’s most family-friendly destinations. Between riding through cobblestone streets in a vintage-style electric car, walking through storybook plazas, and spending a day crafting traditional dolls in a nearby artisan town, our trip was packed with meaningful moments and unforgettable memories.

Here are our favorite experiences and why they belong at the top of your list of things to do in Querétaro with kids.

Explore the Historic Center on an Electric Ford T

One of the most exciting ways to introduce your kids to a new city is by making transportation part of the adventure. For us, that meant hopping into a replica electric Ford T for a one-hour guided city tour through Querétaro’s historic center.

The moment Teo saw the vintage-style car, his eyes lit up. “It looks like something from an old movie!” he said as we climbed in. Because the vehicle is electric, it glides quietly through the streets, making it easy to hear the guide’s stories while enjoying the scenery.

As we cruised through the UNESCO-listed historic district, we passed colonial mansions painted in warm yellows and pinks, lively plazas filled with street performers, and grand churches that date back centuries. The guide shared kid-friendly stories about Mexico’s independence movement and the important role Querétaro played in shaping the country’s history.

For families, this type of tour is ideal:

• It prevents little legs from getting too tired.
• It provides a structured introduction to the city.
• It keeps kids engaged with storytelling rather than long historical lectures.

Teo especially loved spotting the iconic aqueduct in the distance and learning fun facts about secret tunnels rumored to run beneath parts of the city. Liza appreciated that the tour gave us a strong sense of orientation on our first day. And for me, it was the perfect way to combine sightseeing with comfort.

If you're planning your itinerary and wondering about memorable things to do in Querétaro with kids, this unique electric car tour is a fantastic place to start (book it with Oh Queretaro).

Take a Guided Walking Tour of the Old City

After getting our bearings from the car tour, we decided to slow things down with a guided walking tour through Querétaro’s old town. Walking the historic center allowed us to notice small details we might have otherwise missed—ornate balconies, hidden courtyards, and colorful tiles decorating centuries-old buildings.

The heart of the city is full of life. In plazas, families gather under shady trees while children chase pigeons and musicians play softly in the background. It feels safe, relaxed, and incredibly welcoming.

Our guide did a wonderful job tailoring the tour for Teo. Instead of overwhelming him with dates and architectural terms, she shared stories—about brave revolutionaries, influential families, and legends passed down through generations. Storytelling kept him engaged and asking questions.

We visited historic landmarks, admired beautiful churches, and paused in charming squares where Teo could move around a bit. That flexibility is key when traveling with children. The city’s walkable layout makes it easy to stop for snacks, ice cream, or a quick break whenever needed.

What makes Querétaro especially appealing for families is how manageable it feels. Unlike larger cities, the historic center is compact and easy to navigate. Parents can relax a little more, and kids can explore without the constant stress of heavy traffic or overwhelming crowds.

For us, the walking tour deepened our appreciation of the city’s culture and architecture. It wasn’t just sightseeing—it was storytelling, connection, and shared discovery.

Acueducto de Queretaro

No visit to Querétaro would be complete without seeing its most iconic landmark, the Acueducto de Querétaro. Built in the 18th century, this impressive pink-stone aqueduct stretches across the city with 74 towering arches that immediately capture kids’ imaginations.

Standing beneath it, Teo kept trying to count the arches while we explained how it once carried water into the city—an easy and engaging way to turn history into a mini engineering lesson. There are several viewpoints where families can walk, take photos, and enjoy open space for kids to move around.

It’s a simple stop, but one that perfectly blends history, architecture, and a little bit of awe for travelers of all ages.

Museo de los Bichos (Insect Museum)

If you’re traveling with curious kids, a stop at the Museo de los Bichos is a fun and educational addition to your itinerary. This small but fascinating insect museum showcases an impressive collection of beetles, butterflies, spiders, and other arthropods from Mexico and around the world. For children, it’s both thrilling and slightly daring—especially when seeing larger specimens up close.

The interactive and approachable setup makes it easy for kids to learn about biodiversity, ecosystems, and the importance of insects in our environment.

For Teo, it was one of those unexpectedly cool experiences that sparked lots of questions and made science feel exciting rather than intimidating.

A Cultural Day Trip to Amealco

One of the most meaningful experiences of our trip was taking a day tour to Amealco, a charming town known for its rich Otomí heritage and artisan traditions. If you’re looking for cultural immersion beyond the city center, this is a must (we booked it with Somos Tours) .

Making Lele Dolls with a Traditional Artisan

Amealco is the birthplace of the famous Lele doll, an iconic handmade doll representing indigenous Otomí culture. In fact, the Lele doll has become such an important cultural symbol that it was officially recognized as cultural heritage by the state of Querétaro.

We had the incredible opportunity to sit down with local artisan women and learn how these dolls are made by hand. The experience was intimate and hands-on. Teo chose bright fabrics for his doll’s dress, carefully stitched simple pieces together, and listened as the artisan explained the meaning behind the doll’s colorful ribbons and braids.

This wasn’t just a craft activity—it was a cultural exchange. Watching Teo interact respectfully and ask questions about traditions and techniques was one of those proud parent moments. Liza loved seeing the artistry and patience involved in each doll. And I appreciated that we were directly supporting local women and preserving traditional craftsmanship.

For families wanting meaningful cultural experiences, this activity stands out among the most authentic things to do in Querétaro with kids.

Visiting a Local Bakery

After crafting, we explored Amealco’s town center, starting with a visit to a traditional local bakery. The smell alone was worth the stop. Fresh bread, sweet pastries, and warm conchas filled the air.

Teo was allowed to choose a treat, which immediately became his highlight of the morning. Sampling local baked goods is such a simple pleasure, but it’s also a great way for kids to connect with a new culture through taste.

We enjoyed our pastries in the main square, watching daily life unfold—neighbors greeting one another, children playing, and shopkeepers chatting outside their doors.

Exploring Town and Visiting a Charro Shop

No visit to Amealco would be complete without learning about Mexico’s charro tradition. We stepped into an authentic charro shop filled with beautifully crafted sombreros, embroidered jackets, leather boots, and intricate belts.

The artistry on display was impressive. Teo was fascinated by the detailed stitching and decorative silver accents. The shop owner explained how charro attire is worn during traditional equestrian events and celebrations. It was like stepping into a living museum.

For kids, seeing traditional clothing up close makes history feel real. Instead of reading about cultural traditions in a textbook, they can touch the fabrics and see the craftsmanship firsthand.

Exploring Amealco added depth to our family trip. It balanced our city experiences with rural charm and meaningful interaction.

Where to Stay in Queretaro with Kids

When it comes to accommodation options in Querétaro, families will find plenty of choices to suit different travel styles and budgets. The downtown historic center is especially convenient, with many boutique hotels set inside beautifully restored colonial buildings, allowing you to step right out onto cobblestone streets and walk to major attractions.

We chose to stay at Hotel Patio Santiago, a charming property that perfectly blended traditional architecture with modern comforts, making it both cozy and family-friendly. 

If you prefer a larger hotel with a more corporate feel, business-style amenities, and predictable international standards, NH Querétaro is another excellent option. 

Whether you’re looking for boutique charm or contemporary convenience, Querétaro offers accommodation to match your family’s needs.

Where and What to Eat

Food is an essential part of experiencing Querétaro, and the local cuisine offers plenty of flavors that both adults and kids can enjoy. Traditional dishes from the region include enchiladas queretanas (often served with potatoes, carrots, and pickled vegetables), gorditas stuffed with cheese or chicharrón, and comforting soups that reflect the area’s rich culinary heritage. 

For families looking for a reliable and delicious dining option, Restaurante La Nación is a great choice. The menu features a mix of regional specialties and familiar Mexican favorites, making it easy to please everyone at the table. 

We loved the welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, and it was the kind of place where we could relax while Teo happily tried new flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Querétaro Is Perfect for Families

What truly makes Querétaro stand out is its balance. The city offers walkable historic streets, engaging cultural tours, hands-on artisan experiences, safe family-friendly public spaces, and easy day trips to charming towns.

Traveling with a 9-year-old means finding activities that spark curiosity without causing exhaustion. Querétaro delivered exactly that.

From riding in a vintage electric car to crafting traditional dolls in Amealco, we experienced a destination that values culture, storytelling, and community. Liza loved the artistic traditions, I appreciated the history and architecture, and Teo found adventure in every corner.

If you're planning a family trip to Mexico and researching things to do in Querétaro with kids, don’t overlook this vibrant colonial gem. It offers the right combination of education, fun, and cultural immersion to create lasting memories for parents and children alike.

For our family of three, Querétaro wasn’t just a stop on the map—it was a place where history came alive, creativity flourished, and we connected in new and meaningful ways. And that, in the end, is what family travel is all about.

Day 1: Discovering History and Exploring Ankara’s Outdoor Gems

Morning at Anıtkabir: A National Monument That Fascinates Kids

Start your Ankara adventure at Anıtkabir, the grand mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. While a mausoleum might not sound child-friendly at first, Anıtkabir is surprisingly engaging for kids. The massive open spaces allow children to roam freely, while the ceremonial guard changing often grabs their attention with its precise, synchronized movements.

Inside the museum, interactive displays and multimedia exhibits tell the story of Atatürk’s life and the formation of modern Turkey in a way that even younger visitors can appreciate. After the tour, stroll through Peace Park—a beautifully landscaped area surrounding the monument where kids can run and parents can relax.

Midday Stroll and Snack on Tunalı Hilmi Street

After exploring Anıtkabir, head over to Tunalı Hilmi Street, one of Ankara’s most vibrant avenues. Here, you’ll find cozy cafes and bakeries where your family can take a well-deserved snack break. Grab some freshly baked simit (a sesame-crusted Turkish bagel), fresh fruit juices, or sweet Turkish pastries that children will love.

The atmosphere is lively, safe, and very family-friendly, with plenty of small parks nearby where kids can play.

Visit Kocatepe Mosque: Awe-Inspiring Architecture

Next, take a short ride to Kocatepe Mosque, Ankara’s largest and most iconic mosque. Even if your children aren’t usually interested in architecture, the mosque’s towering minarets, massive domes, and intricate designs will likely leave them wide-eyed. The large courtyard allows for relaxed exploration, and the peaceful ambiance offers a perfect moment of quiet after the busy morning.

Afternoon of Art and Play

CerModern: Modern Art That Engages Young Minds

In the afternoon, shift gears and visit CerModern, Ankara’s leading contemporary art center. Unlike many art galleries, CerModern often features interactive exhibits that engage children and encourage creativity. Kids can walk through colorful installations, participate in workshops, or simply enjoy the playful atmosphere.

Parents will appreciate the fresh, modern art while children discover that museums can be fun and hands-on.

Evening at Gençlik Park: Family Fun in the Heart of Ankara

Finish your first day at Gençlik Park, an expansive urban park packed with kid-friendly activities. Multiple playgrounds, mini amusement rides, and green spaces create a relaxed environment where kids can let loose. Enjoy a family ride on the mini train or paddle boats, grab some cotton candy, and watch the sunset over the park’s peaceful lake.

For dinner, nearby neighborhoods like Kızılay or Kavaklidere offer countless family-friendly Turkish restaurants serving pide, köfte, and kebabs—dishes almost every child enjoys.

Day 2: Nature, Science, and Fairy Tales

Morning at Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo

Begin your second day at the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo (Atatürk Orman Çiftliği). This large complex offers something for every age: farm animals for younger kids, exotic animals at the small zoo, and an aquarium that captivates with colorful marine life.

Parents can explore the replica of Atatürk’s childhood home while kids enjoy watching cows, goats, and monkeys. Don’t forget to visit the organic market to grab fresh local honey, cheese, or produce for a tasty snack.

The wide-open spaces, tree-lined paths, and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for a family outing.

Midday Break at Armada Shopping Mall

By lunchtime, head to Armada Shopping Mall for a comfortable break. Turkish shopping centers are very family-friendly and usually feature indoor playgrounds or game centers where kids can recharge while parents enjoy coffee or a proper meal.

Armada offers a wide range of dining options—from traditional Turkish fare to international choices—making it easy to find something for every family member.

Afternoon at Harikalar Diyarı: Wonderland for Kids

The highlight of your second day will surely be Harikalar Diyarı (Wonderland Park), one of the largest theme parks in Ankara. Giant fairy tale statues like Snow White, Pinocchio, and the Seven Dwarfs greet visitors throughout the park, creating a magical atmosphere for children.

With large playgrounds, wide walking paths, boat rentals, mini golf, and endless green spaces, this park offers hours of entertainment for kids of all ages. Parents can relax under shady trees while kids explore the themed zones, climb, ride, and play freely.

If you packed a picnic, this is the perfect place to spread out a blanket and enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal together.

End with Science at Feza Gürsey Science Center

Before wrapping up your Ankara trip, make one final stop at the Feza Gürsey Science Center, located close to Wonderland Park. This interactive science museum allows kids to get hands-on with fun scientific experiments and educational exhibits. From physics to optical illusions, children of all ages will enjoy learning while playing.

If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the science shows, where experiments are demonstrated live in a way that captures both children’s and adults’ imaginations.

Family Travel Tips for Ankara

• Best times to visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Getting around: Taxis, metro, and buses are efficient, but renting a car can be more convenient with kids. We did not rent one though.
• Where to stay: Central areas like Çankaya, Kızılay, and Kavaklidere offer excellent family hotels.

Where to Stay in Ankara with Kids

• Hilton Garden Inn: Comfortable, central, and good value for families.

Ankara: A Family-Friendly Destination Full of Surprises

Ankara might not be the first city that comes to mind for a family trip, but after two full days of fun, learning, and exploration, you’ll realize it’s a hidden gem. With its balance of culture, education, wide-open parks, and child-friendly attractions, Ankara offers an unforgettable experience for families visiting Turkey.

So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for a surprisingly fun family adventure in Turkey’s capital city!

Cool Off and Have Fun at Sirin Aquapark

Summer in Kayseri can get quite warm, making water activities the perfect way to cool down. Sirin Aquapark, located in the Melikgazi district, is one of the best places for kids to splash around. The park features various pools, thrilling water slides, and designated shallow areas for younger children. Families can relax under shaded areas while kids enjoy the water attractions, making it an ideal spot to spend a hot afternoon.

Discover Science in an Interactive Way

For a fun and educational experience, the Kayseri Science Center is a must-visit. This interactive museum encourages children to engage with science through hands-on exhibits and experiments. Kids can explore different sections focused on physics, space, and natural sciences while learning in an exciting and entertaining environment. The air-conditioned indoor setting also provides a great escape from the midday heat.

Explore the Natural Beauty of Aladağlar National Park

Kayseri is home to some breathtaking natural landscapes, and Aladağlar National Park is one of the best places to explore with kids. Located just outside the city, the park is known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas. While summer temperatures can be warm, the high-altitude location and the presence of lakes and rivers provide a refreshing outdoor experience. Families can take easy hikes, observe wildlife, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Step Back in Time at Kayseri Castle

Children who love stories of knights and castles will be fascinated by a visit to Kayseri Castle. This well-preserved fortress dates back to Roman times and has been an important landmark throughout history. Walking along the ancient walls and exploring the site’s history can be an exciting adventure for kids, sparking their imagination about the past. The surrounding area also has charming cafés and shops where families can take a break and enjoy local treats.

Have an Active Day at Soysalli Park

Kayseri has several well-maintained parks, but Soysalli Park is particularly family-friendly. With large green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths, it’s an excellent place for children to run, play, and burn off some energy. The park also has plenty of shaded areas, making it a comfortable location for a summer outing. Bring along a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon while the kids explore the playgrounds and outdoor facilities.

Visit the Imaginary Museum of Childhood (Hayal Müzesi)

A unique and creative space for children, the Imaginary Museum of Childhood is dedicated to sparking kids’ creativity. The museum features interactive exhibits and engaging activities that allow children to learn and play simultaneously. Whether it’s through storytelling, hands-on workshops, or artistic displays, this museum offers a refreshing break from traditional sightseeing.

Explore the Covered Bazaar and Enjoy Local Treats

No visit to Kayseri is complete without exploring its famous Kapalı Çarşı, or Covered Bazaar. This historic market is full of colorful textiles, handcrafted goods, and delicious local foods. Kids will love discovering the variety of items on display, from intricate carpets to traditional sweets like pastirma and sucuk. It’s also a great place to teach children about Turkish culture and trade while picking up unique souvenirs.

Take a Day Trip to Soğanlı Valley

For families who enjoy a mix of history and nature, a day trip to Soğanlı Valley is a fantastic option. The valley is known for its rock-cut churches and stunning scenery. Children will love exploring the caves and ancient dwellings while parents appreciate the breathtaking landscape. The valley also has picnic spots and walking trails that make for a pleasant day outdoors.

Enjoy a Summer Evening in Kayseri’s City Center

As the sun sets, the city comes alive with open-air cafés, cultural performances, and family-friendly entertainment. Cumhuriyet Square is a great place to experience the local atmosphere, with beautiful fountains and historical landmarks nearby. Families can take an evening stroll, grab some delicious dondurma (Turkish ice cream), and soak in the vibrant summer energy of Kayseri.

Final Thoughts

Kayseri is a fantastic summer destination for families, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re cooling off at a water park, exploring nature, or diving into the city’s rich history, there’s something for kids of all ages. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, Kayseri ensures a memorable vacation for the whole family. So, pack your bags and get ready to create wonderful memories with your children in this beautiful Turkish city!

Why Stay in Uçhisar?

Uçhisar is the highest point in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking views of the valleys and fairy chimneys. It’s less crowded than Göreme but still close to all the major attractions. The town itself is home to Uçhisar Castle, an ancient rock fortress that kids will love exploring. Many of the hotels in Uçhisar are built into the rock formations, providing a unique experience that will delight children and adults alike.

We stayed at the Peristyles cave Hotel in Cappadocia, which has a great terrace from which to take the pictures of the balloons you see below. The breakfast is also fantastic!

Start the Day with Hot Air Balloons

One of the most iconic experiences in Cappadocia is watching the hot air balloons rise over the valleys at sunrise. While young children may not be able to go on a balloon ride (most companies have a minimum age requirement), watching them from the terraces of Uçhisar is just as magical. Many hotels in town offer early morning breakfast with spectacular balloon views, making for a memorable start to the day. This is what we did!

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Just a short drive from Uçhisar, the Göreme Open-Air Museum is a must-visit for families. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a collection of ancient rock-cut churches adorned with well-preserved frescoes. Kids will love exploring the caves and learning about the history of early Christian settlements in the region. The site is relatively easy to navigate with children, though a stroller may not be ideal due to uneven terrain.

Horseback Riding in Cappadocia

We had always dreamed of exploring Cappadocia, but experiencing it on horseback with our kids made it even more magical. There are many horseback riding companies in the area, but very few of them allow kids under 12 to join them. One of the few that do is Moonlight Horse Ranch, a super friendly operator which made for great memories.

 From the moment we saddled up, the landscape opened up in a way we could have never imagined—fairy chimneys, hidden valleys, and wide-open trails stretched as far as the eye could see. Our guide was incredibly friendly and made sure the horses were gentle and suited to each of our experience levels, especially for the kids. It felt like we had stepped into a storybook world, trotting past ancient rock formations and cave dwellings while the kids giggled and pointed out every new discovery.

What made the tour truly special was how family-friendly it was. The pace was relaxed, allowing us to enjoy the scenery and chat with each other along the way. We paused midway through to take in the view over a quiet valley, where the kids got off their horses and ran around for a bit while we took photos. It was one of those rare travel experiences where everyone, regardless of age, felt connected—to the place, to the moment, and to each other.

Adventure in Love Valley and Pigeon Valley

For families who enjoy the outdoors, a hike through Love Valley or Pigeon Valley is a great way to experience Cappadocia’s natural beauty. Pigeon Valley, in particular, is accessible from Uçhisar and offers easy trails that kids can manage, though watch out for heat during the summer days.

Along the way, you’ll see ancient pigeon houses carved into the rocks and stunning rock formations. If hiking isn’t an option, horseback riding tours are available and offer a fun alternative for exploring the valleys.

Admission is free, by the way.

Discover the Underground Cities

Older kids with a sense of adventure will love exploring Cappadocia’s underground cities. Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı are two of the largest and most famous. These subterranean cities, once used by early Christians as hiding places, feature narrow tunnels, living quarters, and ventilation shafts.

While some parts may be a bit claustrophobic, they offer an exciting and educational experience for families interested in history.

Pottery Making in Avanos

A short drive from Uçhisar, the town of Avanos is famous for its pottery tradition, dating back thousands of years. Many local workshops offer hands-on experiences where kids can try their hand at making their own clay creations. This interactive activity is both fun and educational, allowing children to connect with Cappadocia’s artistic heritage.

Evening Relaxation in Uçhisar

After a day of exploring, Uçhisar provides a peaceful retreat where families can relax and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine. Many restaurants in the town offer family-friendly menus with delicious local dishes such as pottery kebabs and lentil soup. The cool evening breeze and stunning sunset views over Cappadocia’s valleys make for the perfect ending to an adventurous day.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Cappadocia with kids is an unforgettable experience, and Uçhisar is the perfect base for a family-friendly adventure. Whether watching hot air balloons, hiking through valleys, or creating pottery, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained and engaged. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Cappadocia promises an enchanting trip for the entire family.

Before you enter, remind your kids about the dress code: shoulders and knees should be covered, and everyone must remove their shoes. You will get modest clothing at the entrance if needed at no cost.

Inside, the vastness of the prayer hall and the intricate designs will captivate your young explorers. Encourage them to spot the colorful stained glass windows and the intricate calligraphy adorning the walls. Take a moment to sit and soak in the atmosphere — it’s a peaceful pause in a bustling city.

B. Afternoon: Hagia Sophia

Just a short walk from the Blue Mosque is the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, this architectural masterpiece is a testament to Istanbul's rich history. As you enter, the sheer scale of the dome and the mosaics will leave both you and your kids speechless.

For kids, the Hagia Sophia offers an interactive experience. Engage them with stories about its past, like how it served as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. Look for the famous mosaic of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus — it's a great way to spark their imagination.

Plan for some time to explore the upper gallery, where they can get a closer look at the stunning artwork and the views down onto the main hall.

Note that there is a fee for the entry, and it isn't light. We chose to visit the basilica cistern, which had been recommended to us. It was interesting, but I would say only worth paying for when visiting Istanbul with kids if you really enjoy ancient architecture.

C. Evening: Dinner in Sultanahmet

After a day of exploration, it’s time to refuel! Head to Sultanahmet for dinner. This area has numerous family-friendly restaurants. For a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine, try Hamdi Restaurant which offers a fantastic view of the Golden Horn. The kebabs and baklava are a must-try!

Kids will love sharing a plate of kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) or pide (Turkish flatbread). After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the illuminated streets, perhaps stopping for ice cream from one of the local vendors. The evening atmosphere is magical, with the Blue Mosque lit up beautifully against the night sky.

III. Day 2: Adventure on the Bosphorus

A. Morning: Bosphorus Cruise

On your second day, set sail on the beautiful Bosphorus. A cruise along this famous strait is one of the best things to do in Istanbul with kids. There are various options available, from short rides to longer tours that include stops at historical sites. Choose a family-friendly ferry service that offers commentary, as this can make the experience more engaging for the little ones.

As you glide along the water, point out the stunning palaces, fortresses, and bridges that line the shores. The Dolmabahçe Palace is a highlight, with its opulent architecture and beautiful gardens. Kids will love spotting the seagulls and trying to catch a glimpse of the local dolphins that occasionally swim alongside the boats.

Don’t forget to take loads of photos — the views are simply breathtaking!

B. Afternoon: Dolmabahçe Palace

After your cruise, head to Dolmabahçe Palace. This palace is a perfect blend of European and Ottoman architecture. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also packed with stories that will intrigue both you and your children. The grand halls, crystal chandeliers, and beautiful gardens are sure to impress.

For a fun twist, many tours offer scavenger hunts for kids, making it an active and engaging experience. Encourage your children to spot different rooms and artifacts. Make sure to check out the famous clock tower and the stunning view of the Bosphorus from the palace gardens.

C. Evening: Ortaköy and Its Street Food

Finish the day in the lively neighborhood of Ortaköy, right on the shores of the Bosphorus. This area is famous for its street food, especially kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) and waffles. Let your kids choose their toppings for their kumpir — it’s a fun and delicious way to let them be part of the dining experience.

Afterward, take a stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge illuminated at night. The vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and local artists add to the charm of this area.

IV. Day 3: Culture and Fun

A. Morning: Istanbul Aquarium

On your third day, take a trip to the Istanbul Aquarium, located in Florya. This is not just any aquarium; it features a themed path that takes you through various marine ecosystems. The kids will love exploring the underwater tunnels, where they can see sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming right overhead.

There are also interactive exhibits and educational programs tailored for children, making it a great learning experience. After the aquarium, take a stroll in the nearby Florya Park, where the kids can run around and enjoy the playgrounds.

B. Afternoon: Miniatürk Park

Next, head over to Miniatürk Park, where you can see miniature models of Turkey's most famous landmarks. This park is both fun and educational, as it helps kids learn about Turkey’s rich history and culture in a unique way. Allow your children to explore the park, and encourage them to guess which landmarks they are seeing from the large scale models.

There are also play areas and activities for children, so they can burn off some energy after all that walking. Grab some snacks from the park café to keep everyone fueled up!

C. Evening: Family Dinner at a Local Restaurant

After a day packed with activities, it’s time for a family dinner. Look for a restaurant that offers traditional Turkish meze, where you can share various dishes as a family. Çiya Sofrası in Kadıköy is an excellent choice for its diverse menu and family-friendly atmosphere.

Introduce your kids to dishes like öğle yemeği (lunch) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves) while enjoying a warm and cozy ambiance. It’s a great way to end the day and reflect on all the fun you’ve had.

V. Day 4: Markets and More

A. Morning: Grand Bazaar

Your final day in Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a shopper’s paradise! As you wander through the colorful aisles, let your kids pick out a small souvenir to remember their trip by.

Encourage them to bargain for their chosen items — it’s a fun way to engage with the local culture. Whether it’s a handmade carpet, a piece of jewelry, or a quirky trinket, it’s the perfect opportunity for them to learn about haggling and local customs.

B. Afternoon: Spice Bazaar and Surroundings

After the Grand Bazaar, take a short walk to the Spice Bazaar, known for its vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas. This market is smaller but equally enchanting, filled with spices, sweets, and local delicacies. Let your kids sample some Turkish delight or nuts — it’s a sensory feast!

While you’re in the area, consider visiting Gülhane Park, located nearby. It’s a lovely green space where the kids can play and unwind after a busy morning. Bring along a picnic — some fresh bread, cheese, and fruits from the market make for a delightful meal outdoors.

C. Evening: Relaxation at a Family-Friendly Park

Wrap up your Istanbul adventure at a family-friendly park, like Emirgan Park. This park has beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and walking paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. Depending on the season, you might catch the tulip festival in spring, which is a visual treat!

Let the kids run around while you enjoy the serene surroundings. It’s a perfect way to relax and reflect on your journey through Istanbul. As the sun sets, find a nice spot to sit and enjoy each other’s company, sharing your favorite memories from the trip.

D. Whirling Wonders: A Mesmerizing Dervish Show

Watching a Whirling Dervish show in Istanbul is like stepping into a real-life magic show that will leave your kids wide-eyed with wonder! Picture this: men dressed in flowing white robes twirling like human tops, spinning faster and faster in perfect harmony to mystical music. It's part dance, part meditation, and completely captivating.

The whole family will be swept up in the hypnotic rhythm of the ney flute and the deep, soulful beat of the drums, making it an unforgettable cultural adventure. Even the kids who claim to be “bored by everything” will find themselves staring in awe as the dervishes seem to float in circles like enchanted beings.

The great thing is, the show isn’t just about sitting still. It’s the perfect chance to spark your children’s curiosity and let their imaginations run wild! After the performance, you’ll probably hear lots of “How do they do that without getting dizzy?!”—and you can tell them all about the ancient Sufi tradition behind the magic.

In fact Teo did actually get dizzy from watching, which we found kind of weird. However he was not bored at all and enjoyed it very much. So did we! 

Istanbul is packed with history, but a Whirling Dervish show adds a layer of fun and fascination that’s anything but stuffy. It's the kind of experience that will stick with your kids long after the vacation is over!

VI. Additional Attractions for Kids

While this itinerary covers some of the best family-friendly attractions in Istanbul, there are plenty of other options to consider if you have extra time:

• KidZania: An interactive city where kids can role-play various professions, from doctors to firefighters.
• Aqua Dolphin: A water park experience that offers slides, pools, and dolphin shows — perfect for a hot day!
• Vialand: An amusement park that combines thrilling rides with shopping and dining, ideal for a fun family day out.

VI. Where to Stay

The Hilton DoubleTree Umraniye is a fantastic option for families visiting Istanbul, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities that make traveling with kids stress-free. Located on the Asian side of the city, this hotel provides a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas while still being well-connected to the city’s top attractions via public transport.

The spacious, modern rooms offer plenty of space for families to spread out, and the hotel’s signature warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival is always a hit with kids! With cribs available on request, family-sized rooms, and thoughtful touches like blackout curtains and soundproofed rooms, everyone is sure to get a good night’s sleep.

One of the big advantages of staying at the Hilton DoubleTree Umraniye is its great on-site amenities. The indoor pool is perfect for children to burn off some energy after a day of sightseeing ( I honestly enjoyed having fun with Teo in it as well), and the hotel’s restaurant offers a variety of kid-friendly meal options, ensuring even picky eaters are satisfied.  The buffet breakfast is unreal as well!

Parents will appreciate the well-equipped fitness center and spa for some relaxation time ( I used it several times as I was training for an ultra trail race I had a couple of months later), while the hotel’s proximity to a large shopping mall (it's literally adjacent to it and has direct access),  gives families easy access to stores, entertainment, and restaurants.

Finally, I must mention the superb staff that runs the hotel. Unlike most hotel employees in Turkey, most of the staff at this DoubleTree speaks great English . This turned out to be vey valuable when our son got sick the day we had to check out and we had to take him to a nearby hospital. A staff member walked us to it and help throughout the whole process. 

With its family-focused approach and convenient location, the Hilton DoubleTree Umraniye is an excellent choice for families looking to explore Istanbul comfortably and easily- while not being in the middle of all the noise, hustle and bustle.

VIII. FAQ: Common Questions About Visiting Istanbul with Kids

Is Istanbul good for children?

Absolutely! Istanbul is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions that cater to families. From historical sites to parks and interactive museums, there’s something for every age group.

What to do in Istanbul in 3 days with kids?

If you’re short on time, focus on the key attractions: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, a Bosphorus cruise, and the Grand Bazaar. Allocate time for a fun visit to the aquarium or Miniatürk to keep the kids engaged.

Is it worth it to go to Turkey with kids?

Absolutely! Turkey is known for its family-friendly culture, and Istanbul offers diverse experiences that are both fun and educational for children. It’s a destination that combines history with adventure.

Where in Turkey is best for kids?

Aside from Istanbul, places like Antalya and Bodrum are great beach destinations for families, offering water sports and family-friendly resorts. Cappadocia is also fantastic for hot air balloon rides and exploring unique landscapes.

VIII. Conclusion

As your four-day journey through Istanbul comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on all the amazing experiences you’ve shared as a family. From exploring magnificent mosques and palaces to enjoying the lively atmosphere of local markets, your time in Istanbul has undoubtedly created lasting memories.

Remember, traveling with kids is about embracing the adventure, and Istanbul provides the perfect backdrop for exploration and fun. So, whether you're marveling at the beauty of the Blue Mosque or savoring delicious street food in Ortaköy, every moment is an opportunity for connection and learning.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless fun, it’s a destination that promises excitement for the whole family. Safe travels, and may your next journey be just as enchanting!

Outdoor Adventures

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tepic, Nayarit with a variety of outdoor activities perfect for kids. Explore the lush green landscapes by going on family-friendly hikes at Cerro de San Juan where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views.

 Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of nearby rivers or try your hand at fishing with your little ones. For a more adventurous experience, consider going on a ziplining tour through the treetops or embark on a gentle rafting trip along the river.

There's no shortage of fun and exciting ways to enjoy the outdoors with your children in Tepic!

Visit La Loma Park

La Loma Park is a beautiful recreational area that offers a variety of features for visitors to enjoy. The park boasts well-maintained playgrounds that cater to children of all ages, providing a safe and fun environment for them to play.

 Surrounded by lush green spaces, La Loma Park is ideal for picnics and relaxation, making it a perfect spot for families to spend quality time together.

 It features scenic walking trails that wind through the natural landscape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. The family-friendly atmosphere at La Loma Park ensures that visitors of all ages can have an enjoyable experience.

Explore Mexcaltitán Island

Visiting Mexcaltitán Island offers a unique experience rich in history, culture, and exciting boat tours. Steeped in heritage, this island is a hub of fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. For families with children, there are kid-friendly attractions such as museums showcasing the island's past and local art.

When it comes to cuisine, visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes that reflect the authentic flavors of the region.

Mexcaltitán Island promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and a glimpse into Mexico's vibrant traditions.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse your family in the rich culture of Tepic, Nayarit through these activities. Discover the vibrant local markets where you can taste authentic Mexican cuisine and shop for traditional handicrafts. Attend colorful traditional festivals that celebrate the region's history and traditions. Visit museums and art galleries showcasing the artistic heritage of Tepic.

Engage in workshops to learn traditional dances or crafts from local artisans. Explore historical sites such as colonial buildings and ancient ruins that offer insight into the city's past.

These experiences will truly deepen your understanding of Tepic's cultural richness.

Visit the Regional Museum of Nayarit

When you step into the Regional Museum of Nayarit, you are greeted with a rich display of exhibits that narrate the captivating history and heritage of the region. The museum proudly showcases archaeological treasures, indigenous artworks, and historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into the past of Nayarit.

One of the highlights of the museum is its interactive displays designed specifically for children. These engaging exhibits not only educate the young visitors about the region's history but also make learning a fun and immersive experience for them.

Attend a Traditional Dance Performance

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tepic, Nayarit by attending a traditional dance performance. These shows offer a captivating glimpse into the rich local traditions and heritage of the region.

From colorful costumes to rhythmic music, you will be enchanted by the energy and skill displayed by the talented dancers. Moreover, many of these performances are family-friendly, making it a perfect outing for visitors of all ages, including children.

Don't miss the chance to experience the authentic essence of Tepic through these mesmerizing dance shows.

Family-Friendly Attractions

When visiting Tepic, Nayarit with your family and kids, there are several top attractions that are perfect for a fun-filled day out. One of the must-visit places is La Loma Park, a beautiful park with green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

 The Magical Village of Jala is another great option, where you can explore the colorful streets and enjoy local crafts. Don't miss the Amado Nervo Museum, a cultural spot that offers insights into the life of the famous poet.

These family-friendly attractions in Tepic are sure to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones.

Water Park El Salto

Water Park El Salto offers a wide range of exciting features for visitors of all ages.

 From thrilling water slides that cater to adventure seekers to relaxing pools for those looking to unwind, this park has something for everyone. Children of all ages can enjoy specially designed water activities and play areas, ensuring a fun-filled experience for the whole family.

In terms of safety, Water Park El Salto prioritizes the well-being of its guests by implementing strict safety measures, including trained lifeguards stationed throughout the park and clear signage indicating rules and guidelines.

Amenities such as changing rooms, lockers, and on-site dining options enhance the overall visitor experience.

Tepic Municipal Zoo

The Tepic Municipal Zoo is a fascinating destination that offers a wide range of animals, providing an enriching experience for kids. Visitors can explore diverse species from around the world, making it an educational and entertaining trip. The zoo features special exhibits showcasing rare and exotic animals, creating a sense of wonder and excitement among visitors.

Interactive opportunities such as feeding sessions and animal encounters allow children to learn more about wildlife in a fun and engaging way. 

The Tepic Municipal Zoo is a perfect place for families to enjoy a memorable day while fostering a love for nature and conservation.

Shopping and Dining

There's a wide array of family-friendly shopping and dining options in Tepic, Nayarit. From traditional markets offering local crafts and souvenirs to modern shopping centers with popular retailers, there is something for everyone.

Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at charming restaurants and eateries scattered throughout the city.

Whether you're looking for a casual dining experience with delicious street food or a sit-down meal with traditional dishes, Tepic has it all. Enjoy the vibrant and diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences.

Visit Plaza Forum Tepic

Plaza Forum Tepic offers a diverse range of shopping opportunities for visitors. You can find stores specializing in children's clothing, with a variety of fashionable and comfortable options for the little ones.

There are shops dedicated to toys, providing a wide selection of fun and educational toys for kids of all ages. If you're looking for souvenirs to remember your visit, you'll find unique options in the souvenir stores at the plaza. 

Moreover, Plaza Forum Tepic is home to a selection of dining options suitable for families, where you can enjoy delicious meals together after a day of shopping and exploring.

Try Local Cuisine at Mercado Juan Escutia

Mercado Juan Escutia is a fantastic destination to explore traditional Mexican cuisine. Visitors can savor authentic local flavors through a variety of dishes such as savory tacos, flavorful tamales, spicy pozole, and refreshing aguas frescas.

 This market offers a unique family-friendly dining experience where both adults and kids can enjoy a delicious meal together. 

For the little ones, there are kid-friendly menu options available, including quesadillas, burritos, and tasty churros. With its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, Mercado Juan Escutia is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culinary traditions.

And if you want to eat at a local restaurant offering great, local food in a nice environment, Emiliano Restaurant is a fantastic option.

Where to Stay in Tepic

We'll be the first ones admitting that Tepic does not have a lot of tourism, and therefor does not have many hotels to choose from. But there are a few.

Should you want to stay in a traditional hotel, by far the two best options are Hotel Fray Select and Hotel Fray Junipero Serra.

However if you're traveling with kids you'll probably want some more space for your little one(s) to run around. Or simply leave stuff.

As such, we decided to stay at Apartamentos Mololoa, which are full apartments including 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and everything you might need.

It was definitely a good choice!

Summary

If planning a family trip to Tepic, Nayarit, you'll get a small but  diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to families with kids. From exploring cultural sites like the Nayarit State Museum to enjoying nature at La Loma Park, there is something for everyone.

Families can also visit the charming Plaza Principal or experience the fun and educational exhibits at Amado Nervo House Museum. With its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly attractions, a day in Tepic is enough time to explore a less visited destination for a memorable and enriching family vacation.

The Suites, with their spacious layouts and panoramic views, offer a heightened sense of opulence. Guests can unwind in luxurious surroundings, appreciating the attention to detail that defines the quintessential Oaxacan hospitality experienced in each room.

For those visiting Oaxaca with kids, it's important to note that the beds are full size double beds, not queen or king size.

The ambiance within the rooms is carefully curated to reflect the cultural richness of Oaxaca. From the choice of textiles to the handcrafted furniture, every element tells a story, creating an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and cultural immersion.

Quinta Real Hotel invites guests to not just stay in a room but to embark on a sensory journey through the artistic and historical tapestry that defines the Oaxacan aesthetic.

Common Areas: Old-World Elegance Meets Modern Comfort

The common areas of Quinta Real Hotel are a perfect fusion of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort. The lobby, adorned with historical artifacts and colonial-inspired decor, serves as a welcoming gateway to the hotel's rich history. Guests can- and should- take a leisurely stroll through the corridors, marveling at the architectural splendors of the meticulously restored 16th-century convent.

The courtyard, with its lush greenery and tranquil fountain, is a serene escape within the bustling city. It's a space where guests can unwind with a book, enjoy a cup of local coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of the surroundings. The swimming pool area, surrounded by palm trees and adorned with comfortable loungers, provides a refreshing oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Quinta Real Hotel's commitment to preserving the historical integrity of the building while offering modern amenities creates a unique and immersive stay for every guest.

History of the Hotel: A Journey Through Time

Quinta Real Hotel is not merely a place to rest; it's a living museum that tells the story of Oaxaca's rich history. The hotel is housed within a meticulously restored 16th-century convent, a structure that has witnessed centuries of cultural evolution (learn 40+ fun and interesting facts of Mexico!). Original architectural elements, such as the intricate archways and stone columns, have been preserved to transport guests to a bygone era.

 The convent later became a movie theater, and eventually was bought to become what is Oaxaca's best high end hotel within the city center.

Exploring the history of the hotel is like taking a step back in time, with every nook and cranny revealing a piece of Oaxaca's cultural tapestry. The hotel's commitment to historical preservation is evident in the way it seamlessly integrates the past with the present, creating an immersive environment that educates and enchants visitors.

Guests can partake in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, gaining insights into the hotel's transformation and its significance in Oaxacan history.

Dining: Culinary Delights at Quinta Real

Food enthusiasts will find themselves in gastronomic heaven at Quinta Real Hotel. The on-site restaurant showcases the best of Oaxacan cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes.

The culinary team, led by experienced chefs, crafts a menu that celebrates the diverse flavors of the region. From the iconic mole poblano to the rich and complex taste of mezcal, every dish and drink tells a story of Oaxaca's culinary heritage.

We did have a delicious dinner the first night that we arrived, but it's the breakfast that really blew our socks off. As you can see in the pictures they have everything you might want and more, scattered as well along different rooms.

For what it's worth I don't really like to eat non sweet food in the mornings, but the tamales I had hear were the best I've had anywhere. Really.

The dining experience at Quinta Real extends beyond exquisite flavors. The restaurant's ambiance is carefully designed to complement the culinary journey, with warm lighting, elegant decor, and attentive service creating a memorable atmosphere. Guests can choose to dine al fresco in the courtyard for a romantic evening under the stars or enjoy a more intimate setting indoors.

Whether it's a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, Quinta Real Hotel elevates the dining experience to a cultural celebration of Oaxacan cuisine.

The hotel's commitment to holistic wellness is reflected in every aspect of the spa experience, from the carefully selected ingredients used in treatments to the tranquil surroundings that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Events and Meetings: A Venue for Every Occasion

Quinta Real Hotel goes beyond being a mere accommodation; it's also a premier venue for events and meetings. The hotel offers state-of-the-art facilities, expert event planning services, and an exquisite backdrop for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings. The meeting rooms, equipped with modern technology, provide a sophisticated setting for business events, while the lush courtyard and elegant banquet halls offer versatile options for celebrations.

The hotel's event planning team works closely with organizers to ensure every detail is meticulously executed. From intimate family celebrations to large corporate conferences, Quinta Real Hotel caters to a diverse range of events. The seamless blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities creates an ambiance that enhances the significance of every occasion, making it a memorable experience for both hosts and guests.

Local Experiences: Exploring Oaxaca Beyond the Hotel

Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel not only provides a luxurious retreat but also serves as a gateway to the vibrant city of Oaxaca. The hotel's concierge can curate personalized experiences, from guided tours of historical sites to culinary adventures exploring the local markets. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Oaxaca, discovering the art, traditions, and flavors that define this captivating region.

Beyond the hotel's walls, Oaxaca offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be explored. Guests can embark on a mezcal tasting tour, visit local artisan markets, or attend traditional festivals.

The hotel's concierge team, with their in-depth knowledge of the region, assists guests in creating a bespoke itinerary that reflects their interests and preferences. 

Quinta Real Hotel not only provides a luxurious stay but also opens doors to the authentic and enriching experiences that Oaxaca has to offer.

It’s very doable with kids- just make sure to stick together amidst the crowds.

If unsure on what to do in Lourdes, you’ll want to start with the Massabielle Grotto, where in the 19th Century the Virgin Mary is purported to have made multiple appearances.

The curative waters of the grotto represent one of France’s most important tourist attractions. Bathing at Lourdes is an important experience for many devout Catholics, though there are many more things to do near Lourdes France than just try out the healing properties of the grotto. 

Arguably one of the most important facts on Lourdes is that it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning peaks of the Pyrenees. This makes the town a great starting point for exploring the mountainous landscape beyond.

If you’re visiting Lourdes with kids, you’ll find no shortage of child friendly activities.

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and Massabielle Grotto

Over the past two centuries, Europe’s most famed pilgrimage site has evolved from a small town legend to an international phenomenon. Indeed, for most visitors to the town, the site of Lourdes’ famed miracles, Massabielle Grotto, is the sole attraction.

Over 5 million pilgrims visit this grotto every year, with Easter being the peak season. If you arrive during Easter season (or any other major Catholic festival, for that matter), expect vast crowds jostling for a chance at the curative waters of Lourdes.

To reach the healing waters themselves, start by reaching the expansive Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

This large complex includes numerous chapels, a large public square and various facilities for visiting the grotto at the heart of the site.

On arrival, the first thing that’ll likely catch your attention is the impressive Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Bearing a passing resemblance to a Disney palace, the basilica was constructed with the intention of appearing like it was literally growing from a hillside above the sacred grotto itself. From here, it’s possible to tour the other churches within the sanctuary, before proceeding to the grotto itself.

Behind the basilica, the lavish religious decor fades as visitors descend into the solemn, largely unadorned cave where the source of the healing waters can be found. If you’re visiting Lourdes with kids, take care they stick to the assigned pathway and remain respectful during the visit.

For many of your fellow travelers, a visit to this religious site likely represents an important spiritual experience. Further along on the western side of the grotto is where you’ll find the pools, which can be used by visitors to bathe.

Volunteer workers are available and very willing to assist the movement impaired in entering the bathing pools, though visitors are likewise welcome to simply wash their hands or faces.

Be aware that filming and photography are strictly prohibited here.

Chateau Fort de Lourdes

Apart from the sanctuary and grotto there are more than enough things to see in Lourdes to keep a family occupied for a week or more. The Chateau Fort de Lourdes, however, has to be at the top of the list.

Recognized by France’s cultural ministry as a site of historic significance, this 12th Century fortress overlooks the town from its perch on a rocky outcrop. If you’re visiting Lourdes with kids, then the little ones will love the historic costumes on display, not to mention the views from the ramparts.

Within the fort itself, you’ll find a nice museum with local folk art and history.

Funiculaire du Pic du Jer

Lourdes tourist attractions aren’t only religious and historic. From the town itself, you’ll probably be able to spot the imposing Pic du Jer, a 951 meter summit topped with a large cross.

That glowing cross can be seen from town in the evenings, and makes for a good target for a day trip in the mountains. The peak itself is accessible from town via an early 20th Century funicular.

This odd, vertical train will intrigue the kids, and is itself one of the most interesting places to visit in Lourdes.

Pont d’Espagne and the Waterfall Walk

Outside town, the French countryside beckons with its idyllic green and pastels. Of all the things to do near Lourdes, the obvious place to start is the Pont D’Espagne, a humble stone bridge in the heart of the Pyrénées National Park.

 Historically, this bridge was an important border crossing between France and Spain; today, it’s neatly within French territory and serves as a useful starting point for day walks deeper into the national park.

For those visiting Lourdes with kids, a day out of town in the fresh air might be just what you need after the hustle and bustle of the shrine and churches.

To get to the Pont D’Espagne, follow the well marked path through the national park to the Cascade du Lutour, a pristine waterfall that’s a good place to stop for lunch.

Great views of the waterfall can be found a little further along- you’ll know you’re nearing the bridge itself once you reach the carpark past the waterfalls. From the bridge, there are multiple returning paths that offer an afternoon or two of adventure.

Grottes de Betharram

Few things are exciting for kids as exploring caves. Deep, dark caves that is. And if they have a river, even better.

Just about 10 minutes out of town, heading towards the mountains and -admittedly- not very well marked, the Grottes de Betharram are a refreshing day trip that will be fun for all the family.

The caves are visited in groups (mandatory), and not without a reason: they are much longer and bigger than what one would expect.

Once you arrive to the parking lot buy your ticket, wait for the next departure, and when the time comes hop on the bus and follow instructions. 

The visit lasts about an hour, and includes some walking, a brief boat ride and a short train ride too, covering about 3 km overall.

Tip: make sure you bring some warm clothes, as it does get chilly . Temperatures drop to around 10C or less!

Lourdes Lake

If you’re still looking for things to do in Lourdes as a tourist that don’t involve the notable religious sites around the grotto, consider a day at the lake. Far from the hub of activity in the center of town, the glacial lake just 3 kilometers out of Lourdes is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Watersports like paddling and canoeing are possible, or just soak up the atmosphere with the 6 kilometer hike/bike circuit around the lake.

One day in Perpigan is, however, sufficient just to take in the major sights.

Perpignan sights are mostly bundled around the city center, with a few castles and beaches a stone’s throw outside town.

Cute and compact, it can be comfortably covered in a day.

Palace of the Kings of Majorca

Start your day in Perpignan at the town’s best known attraction. Eight hundred years ago, the Aragonese king James I The Conqueror set his eyes on Perpignan, turning it into the capital of a small feudal realm, the Kingdom of Majorca.

The kingdom was never truly independent, instead serving as an important buffer between James 1’s descendents and the French to the north. Nonetheless, it was here that James I’s son, James II, began construction on a major palace-fortress to the south of the town.

Today, that palace remains well preserved and open to the public. It’s one of the most important places to visit in Perpignan. The style is a fairly boisterous Gothic, with the entire complex being based around three large courtyards and two chapels.

The best part is the view from the roof, which commands generous views of the surrounding countryside. Kids will enjoy gawking over the town roofs, and on a clear day the view is well worth the stairs.

If you only have one day in Perpignan with kids, then make sure to prioritize a visit here.

Other than taking in the views from the roof and exploring the grounds below, there isn't much else to do at the palace.

Most rooms are almost entirely unfurnished, which takes a bit of the fun out of exploring such a historic location.

However, the old palace does come alive in August, when the three day Guitares au Palais is held on the premises.

Castillet

The second big iconic attraction to mark off your list is easily reachable by foot from the palace. Another great example of this border town’s defensive history, the Castillet is a kid’s sized castle in a cute spot right in the heart of town.

For locals, this quaint historic structure is a popular meeting place, so on weekends expect to see friends, couples and families milling around the well-kept grassy areas.

Perpignan with kids simply wouldn’t be complete without ascending this small tower, via the informative museum within. In the museum, you’ll learn how this tower once guarded the entrance to the small medieval village of Perpignan, before later being converted into a prison.

After the visit, consider a stroll along the river nearby. This is a good stop for brunch if you have one day in Perpignan with kids.

The whole area, particularly the river walk, is pleasant and lined with restaurants. It’s also good for souvenir shopping.

In winter, you’ll be delighted by the festivities and folksy vibes.

Le Campo Santo

From the Castillet, you can continue heading deeper into the town center to find the historic Le Campo Santo.

This spacious public square has views of the Cathédrale Saint Jean-Baptiste. If your one day in Perpignan happens to be a weekend or vacation, then odds are you’ll run into some kind of eclectic public event in the square.

Nearby, there’s a few good snack bars offering ice cream, slices of fresh pizza and light meals. Consider this area for your lunch break, before or after the next activity.

Escape Dimension or TimeZone

Even if you’ve only got one day in Perpignan, a visit to one of the town’s excellent game rooms is well worth the detour.

In recent years, the town has grown a crop of family friendly escape style game rooms, each with their own unique twist on the formula.

Of all the game rooms in Perpignan worth visiting, the best is arguably Escape Dimension. Kids will need between one to two hours to find a way out of a dungeon-like maze of puzzles, games and adventure.

A similar experience can be found at nearby TimeZone, where players have to form teams to escape rooms with different themes.

It can likewise be completed in less than two hours, giving the adults plenty of time to see downtown Perpignan, enjoy an extended lunch and even sneak in some shopping.

If you have one day in Perpignan with kids, then make sure to bring them here.

Kid Friendly Beaches

As an alternative to spending all day in town, you may also want to do as the French do and enjoy this region’s sandy, sunny beaches.

Perpignan’s summer months bring sparkling Mediterranean waters and cloudless skies to this seaside hamlet.

Perpignan tourism is built around keeping the beaches pristine and safe, making this one of France’s best places to let the hair down with the family.

If you visit Perpignan with a vehicle, all of the following beaches are reachable within 10 minutes from the town center: Argeles sur Mer, St Cyprien, Canet Plage and Collioure.

If you visit Perpignan during peak season, make sure to arrive early as all these beaches fill up fast.

For a more laid back experience, you might want to try Torreilles Beach, which can be slightly more secluded than those mentioned above.

Chateau de Peyrepeteuse

As a final stop as you’re leaving town, try to squeeze in a visit to this amazing fortress.

For centuries, the Chateau de Peyrepeteuse marked the border between French and Aragonese (and later Spanish) territory. Today, it’s the largest and most well preserved of the Cathar Castles – a collection of fortresses in southern France associated with the 13th Century Cathar crusades.

The fortress itself holds a stunning location, perched on a 40 meter high limestone cliff. It’s one of the best things to do near Perpignan, and can be reached either by car or by hiking.

The hike can be started from the small village of Duilhac, but is not suitable for children.

Adults likewise shouldn’t attempt the ascent in poor weather.

Madame Tussaud Wax Museum

Madame Tussaud’s has to be at the top of our list of things to do in New York in summer. Kids will have a wild time meeting their favorite super heroes, fantasy characters and celebrities.

Shake hands with Iron Man and Captain America in the flesh – well, almost; you can keep the wax hand as a souvenir.

They might not be flesh and blood, but these wax sculptures are so life like that the more mischievous parents out there could monetarily convince the little ones they are indeed the real thing.

Kids can comfortably gawk at these ultra realistic works of art for a solid half day. Extend the visit by checking out the Marvel Universe 4D cinema. As the museum’s newest attraction, it’s an on site cinema showing films featuring the superheroes you just saw in wax form.

Be prepared though; the 4D experience means you’ll be soaked with water and blasted with wind as the cinema rocks back and forth. The overall experience is like watching a movie while on a roller coaster, and is an acquired taste for adults.

For overheated kids though, it’s one of the best NYC summer activities.

Bronx Zoo

With over a century of history, the Bronx Zoo has been one of the most popular kid friendly activities in NYC for generations.

As the largest metropolitan zoo anywhere in the country, New York summer activities don’t get much bigger than this. Over 4,000 animals are spread across 265 acres of exhibitions depicting environments as diverse as the plains of Africa to the highlands of the Himalayas.

And best of all, it is free. Yes, you read that right. It's FREE.

The creepy Mouse House will give some kids a thrill, while Tiger Mountain rotates a list of large felines including rare animals like the Malayan and Amur tigers. Meanwhile, the World of Reptiles exhibit alone is one of the most fun things to do in New York in the summer in and of itself.

The heat of summer is the perfect time to see the alligators, crocodiles, turtles, snakes and other cold blooded creatures at their most active.

If you’re visiting New York with kids in summer, then don’t miss this one!

New York Aquarium

This legendary aquarium is another of the more classic New York family attractions.

With over 200 animals and live shows throughout the day, it’s one of the most engaging things to do in New York for kids, especially the little ones.

The Playquarium is a child friendly educational exhibition with some amazing interactive elements, and is perfect if you’re visiting New York with kids in summer.

Kids can role play as a marine biologist hunting for bioluminescent fish, explore the sea floor in a submarine and even get tactile in the touching pool.

Even better, the entire exhibition is bilingual, with Spanish language options available at every step of the underwater adventure.

Coney Island

The afore-mentioned New York Aquarium is just a short walk from the historic Deno’s Wonder Wheel, a century old Ferris wheel that makes for one of the best outdoor summer activities NYC has to offer. Luna Park is like a permanent fairground, with side shows and the famed Cyclone roller coaster.

The Cyclone is one of the world’s few remaining wooden roller coasters, and has been among the most popular kids activities in NYC ever since. Come on weekends, and this place will be crowded with families enjoying a day out.

Better yet, all of these above attractions can be found fairly close to each other in the compact beachside neighborhood of Coney Island. When it comes to things to do in New York City in summer, Coney Island is almost a symbol of the season.

After a day of museums and Luna Park, hit up the boardwalk for a refreshing ice cream with the kids, and stay for sunset if you can.

Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour

New York with kids in summer can get rough in the afternoon, especially if you’re constantly hitting the pavement. Give your feet a rest and consider covering some New York activities for kids with a hop on, hop off tour.

These affordable tour buses allow you to explore the city at your own pace, with frequent tours constantly plying the boroughs.

Most of the things to do in Manhattan with kids, for example, can be reached by using a hop on, hop off tour. In fact, if you’re visiting New York City with kids, then these buses can serve as short breaks throughout the day, keeping your kids from getting too tired.

Take note that you can save a lot by booking in advance. And in case you are wondering, our favorite Hop on/ hop Off bus tour company is Top View NYC as they also have some great themed Hudson River Cruises.

Empire State Building

Arguably the most mandatory of family activities in New York, you can’t leave the Big Apple without experiencing the view from the top.

For much of its history, the 1,250 feet tall Empire State Building was the tallest structure in the city.

Although the building lost that title in 2012, it remains the ninth tallest skyscraper in the country, and provides astounding views of the State of Liberty, Times Square and Central Park. It’s a once in a lifetime experience if you’re visiting New York city with kids.

9/11 Memorial

There are many fun things in NYC for kids, but the National September 11 Memorial and Museum is not one of them. It is, however, an experience they will never forget, and offers a sobering moment of reflection for families visiting the city.

The site sits on Greenwich Street, occupying the former location of the Twin Towers.

Today, white oak trees shade the tranquil, solemn memorial complex. Reflecting pools now trickle where the towers once fell, and the on site museum is very informative.

Statue of Liberty Cruise

Less somber but equally mandatory is a visit is the Statue of Liberty. In terms of family things to do in NYC, Lady Liberty herself is best viewed from one of the regular cruises that run throughout the year.

Sunset cruises are extremely popular, even though many locals swear the best time to view the statue is early morning. Breakfast and brunch cruises are some of the best summer activities NYC has to offer.

Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Hudson

Kid friendly New York cruises are available throughout the year, but best enjoyed in summer, when the evenings are pleasant and mild. Cruises usually include passes of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, though tickets can be scarce in peak season.

Along with ensuring you don’t miss out on a table, booking ahead can also mean getting steep discounts when compared to same day prices.

And while the dinner is nice, and the cruise is very pleasant, be aware that most of the time they end up being a great party in which the whole boat will have a lot of fun!

Brooklyn Bridge

Walk/ride Around Central Park

New York City in summer is epitomized by a breezy stroll through Central Park. From the main entrance across the road from the American Museum of Natural History you can easily access the more popular walking paths, like the the East and West Drive Loop, which covers many of the park’s main attractions.

Most paths can be done on bike, and given the popularity of this it may well be the best things to do with kids in NYC, especially on weekends when the park really comes alive.

New York City for kids doesn’t get much better than the park.

American Museum of Natural History

Dinosaurs? Check

Wild animals? Check

Birds? Check.

Space entertainment? Check.

The American Museum of Natural History is a nice walk across Central Park from the South Gates, and definitely worth a visit if you have young kids who love dinosaurs or any kind of wildlife.

It's big enough to keep you busy for a couple of hours if you want, and has several exhibitions including the Hayden Planetarium with its own exhibition that everyone- including adults- will love.

Price at time of writing (summer 2022) is 16-23 USD per person depending on age, and you must book your time of entry in advance.

Governor’s Island Bike Trails

If you’ve already covered Central Park, one of the best summer NYC activities further field from the city center.

The island is laced with walking and biking trails, and is chock full of New York City summer activities for the whole family. While on the island, consider taking a pit stop at Slide Hill, which features numerous twirling slides that will keep the kids occupied for an hour or two.

It’s one of the more unusual things to do in NYC, but worth the detour.

Where to Stay

When visiting New York in summer with kids- or during any time of the year, really- your best bet is to be close to where all the action is to keep your little ones from having to walk too much.

Unfortunately this usually comes at a price that many will not want to pay, and either will have to look for a location that is not a convenient or stay at a simpler place.

And you'll probably want space; hotel rooms in New York (specially in Manhattan) are smaller than average in the US.

After some research we chose the Bentley Hotel. It overlooks the Hudson River, the Queensboro Bridge and Roosevelt Island; in other words, it has the quintessential NYC views. It is also in a quiet area but close to restaurants and shops, yet within walking distance to Central Park and many attractions.

Rooms are comfortable and well appointed, and we stayed in a corner suite which has even better views and allowed for Teo to be in his own bed/ room.

If you're not sure if the Bentley is right for you, you can look for other hotels in the map below.

Conclusion

Visiting New York City in summer with kids is a great idea as there is no lack of things to do, temperatures are pleasant, and getting there is simple with several major airports close by connecting cities all around the world.

There is one thing you'll find disturbing though, and that is the price of things in general. New York has become an extremely expensive city, and your money will not yield as much as it would in other destinations. Above all, be ready to pay a lot for hotels.

This aside, you'll have a great time! 

Accommodation in New York

Booking.com has over 500 hotels in New York including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Flights to New York

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees). Download the Skyscanner App. It’s an all in one flights, hotel and car hire search engine app and makes it easier for you to find the best travel deals!

Rental Cars in New York

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for New York airport.

RV Rentals New York:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Oahu road trip. Find your RV rentals for new York here. 

Yet if you take a deeper look into the traffic, between the gray mush of commuters and classic yellow taxis you may pick out maroon or red buses packed to the brim with comfortable tourists mellowly surveying the chaos around them from a little bubble of serenity.

How Do Hop on, Hop off NYC Tour Buses Work?

Buses run on set routes between major tourist attractions throughout the city, and are accompanied by multi-lingual audio narrations. If a stop interests you, simply jump off the bus and spend as much time as you need at the sight.

Keep track of when the next bus passes using a mobile app, and explore the city at your own pace.

Hop on hop off buses are uniquely suited to New York City, offering good value tours that can really enhance your overall visit. They’re not for everyone, but here we’ll start with some of the best reasons to consider a hop on hop off tour.

1. Prices are very good

For one of the USA’s priciest cities, hop-on hop-off tours are reasonably priced, coming in at between $50-80 for a single day ticket if purchased on the day.

Multi-day passes are available, and typically cost between $100-200 for around three to five days, depending on the company. It’s worth noting that since most tourists don’t book in advance, operators offer regular, steep discounts for online reservations.

The company we used, TopViewNYC, often has discounts of up to 50 percent on their website, so it’s well worth booking ahead if you can.

If you’re a family, the savings can be in the hundreds of dollars. 

2. The tours are fast paced and flexible

The distances between major sights are usually fairly short, and most stops can be covered in an hour or so. This means you’re never on your feet too long, but time spent on the bus never gets tedious. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids, particularly small ones who need plenty of breaks from walking.

3. The audio guides are informative

You’ll be surprised by how much you learn at each stop, and the best part is most operators offer a dozen or so languages.

4. You also get entry tickets to other attractions

Most hop on/ hop off bust tour companies include entry tickets to other attractions saving you money, the time needed to book them, and the time spent in queues.

TopView includes tickets to the Empire State Building, a Central Park Bike Rental, Statue of Liberty Cruise,  entrance to the Museum of New York and more when you purchase a pass of 48 hours or more.

On the other hand, a few reasons you might not want to take a hop on hop off tour include;

1. Generic loops

These bus tours usually cover all of NYC’s most notable sights, but they don’t stray much from the beaten track. There are plenty of reasonably-priced tour operators that provide personalized and specialized tours, such as culinary or historical-focused trips.

2. They are sometimes full of tourists

Lone wolves may dislike the fact that NYC tour buses get very popular during peak season. You may be at risk of making friends with the family next to you.

So unless you’re dead set on avoiding other tourists in NYC, the hop on hop off buses are an excellent way to spend your first day or few days in town.

They’re especially good for families and first time visitors – not to mention those of us who like to put our feet up a bit during a vacation. 

Lastly, don’t forget to book ahead, especially if you’re arriving in peak season.

Which Company Should You Pick?

Throughout the years we have used the three major companies there are in NYC, namely Big Bus Tours, New York City Sightseeing and , during our last trip in summer of 2022 we used Top View NYC.

Big Bus Tours offers hop on hop off bus tours of NYC with the option to join a Statue of Liberty Cruise and, depending on the ticket, a free Central Park bike rental.

City Sightseeing has pretty much replaced their hop on/ hop off bus tickets to make them all access passes to many attractions (museums, etc), including their hop on/ hop off bus service.

Top View NYC though has focused on their hop on/ hop off bus tours, offer entrances to the Statue of Liberty cruises and Central Park bike rentals too, and best of all have themed Hudson River cruises (including dinners!) and bus tours (Octoberfest, fall colors, Christmas, etc) that are updated regularly.  

They have become my current favorite hop on/ hop off bus company in New York.

The dinner is a moment distinct to New York – the city lights reflecting on the water, the fine food, delicate ambiance and sense of place to it all. A cruise in New York City with dinner, drinks and good company will be something to remember for years. 

What to Wear on a Dinner Cruise in New York?

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to get fancy in New York, this is it. In fact, NY city dinner cruises have garnered a reputation for being sticklers for fine attire, with some operators enforcing strict dress codes.

For example, the well-established Bateaux Dinner Cruise may not allow jeans, sneakers or t-shirts aboard. While you won’t be expected to turn up in a tuxedo, men should wear a tie and jacket with slacks and professional or formal footwear.

Women have a little more choice, with most ladies arriving in either cocktail dresses, smart pantsuits or similar semi-formal outfit.

Other cruises are somewhat less demanding, meaning there is a little flexibility on just how formal you want to go. And as we were traveling with our son, this was the option we went for.

We chose to do our dinner cruise with Event  Cruises, which advises its visitors to aim for business casual, which is more or less what you should expect from most venues. Aim for smart but comfortable, and wherever you go, you’ll fit right in with the crowd.

No matter how dressy you want to go, take note that you will want to bring something warm for later in the evening. Even if its warm in the city, the river can still get breezy at night.

Dinner on a boat NYC style shouldn’t be ruined by chilly weather.

What Food do You Eat During a NYC Dinner Cruise

It of course depends on when you go as the menu changes, but there is one thing I can guarantee: the food will be good.

When we went, our three course menus offered a few options for each, but Liza and I went for the grilled salmon as main course and Teo opted for macaroni with duck meat. 

For dessert we had chocolate mousse and cheesecake with blueberries, all of it delicious. 

How Long is a Hudson River Cruise?

While NY city dinner cruises usually last for between two to three hours, full and multi-day cruises can also be arranged. USA River Cruises offers an eight day luxury cruise to Albany.

Leaving directly from the hustle and bustle of NYC, the cruise spends the first day spoiling visitors with views of the city, while the rest of the week offers visits to historic towns along the river.

If you’d rather something lighter than a multi-day voyage, short day trips are also possible – and they’re more than just dinner cruises. Along with providing a massive nine day river tour, Classic Harbor Line has a brunch cruise on an intimate early 20^th Century yacht. Other cruise lines offer afternoon and lunch options.

Bear in mind all of these meal-oriented cruises are usually at least semi-formal events. For something more casual, dedicated sightseeing tours are also frequent and fabulous. Event Cruises (and most other companies) have good value river tours.

Circle’s tours are between one to three hours; their most popular being the 2.5 hour circle tour, which rings Manhattan and includes a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty. Meanwhile, Skyline Cruises has a longer four hour tour that covers famous sites like the Brooklyn Bridge, while also providing an on-board three course buffet.

Yet Event Cruises has cruises that most other companies do not offer. They have specific whale watching cruises (new in 2022...who would have said that you could go whale watching in New York?), fall foliage cruises, wine and cheese cruises...so if you want your cruise to be more than just any NYC cruise these are the ones to join. Plus kids are welcome in all of them!

So, Is a NYC Dinner Cruise Worth It?

In my opinion, if it's within your budget, it's a definite go. Besides getting the fantastic NYC skyline river cruises are famous for, you'll also enjoy a great dinner with very good food and a bit of a party at the end.

In fact, the DJ said that the party we created during our cruise was something he had never seen before! And if you have any doubts of how the cruise ended, check this out as our wrap up

Urban sprawl and development led to many of Finland’s oldest and proudest public saunas closing their doors, only to be replaced with yet more monotonous apartment blocks.

Today, that trend is reversing. In part due to international interest, saunas are making a comeback, with new public saunas popping up across the capital. For a country of just 5.4 million people, Finland now has 3.3 million saunas – more than one for every two Finns.

With so many saunas to try, Loyly definitely stands out thanks to its traditional-style smoke sauna, and focus on environmental sustainability.

For one, it’s the only sauna in Finland that has been accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council, which certifies all wood is sourced from responsibly-managed forests.

All electricity used on site is from wind and solar sources, while the restaurant deals largely in locally-sourced produce.

Saunas

Loyly has two large public saunas, along with private rooms ideal for groups.

The Smoke Sauna

The authentic Finnish experience. Traditional Finnish saunas have always been created by burning generous amounts of wood on a large stove in the center of the room. The smoke is then ventilated out, and the remaining heat used by bathers to stay warm.

Once in decline due to the expertise required to manage, smoke saunas are nonetheless widely considered by Finns to be superior to more modern alternatives.

See for yourself at Loyly’s 18 square meter smoke sauna, which accommodates up to 20 people at a time. Their sauna is well-prepared, and clients are usually a roughly even mix of locals and foreigners.

The sauna itself opens out onto the Baltic, meaning you can take a dip in the frosty waters when the heat gets too much. This is a mixed gender sauna, and because of this the use of bathing suits or a towel is required.

Wood-Fired Sauna

The more modern wood-fired sauna is slightly more spacey, at 22 square meters. Nonetheless, it still seats just 20 people at a time, making it somewhat more comfortable for anyone who appreciates their personal space. Unlike the smoke sauna, this one relies on venting and burning aromatic dried birch wood.

Like the smoke sauna, bathers can jump straight from the wood-fired sauna into the Baltic for a refreshing hit of cold.

It is also a mixed gender sauna in Helsinki, and use of a swimsuit or towel is required too.

Private Saunas

Up to twelve people can fit in Loyly’s private saunas, which come with a private shower and access to both the sea and eating areas.

At the time of writing, the cost was 300-400 euros per two hour visit, depending on whether you book during the week or weekend. For the steep price, you get privacy that’s perfect for group events, which also make these the only nude mixed gender saunas in Helsinki- if the group chooses to do so. 

Other Services

While you can’t bring your own, Loyly does have beverages and light snacks available for bathers. For something more substantial, the on-site restaurant is focused on seafood, and has a particularly good brunch menu. Don’t pass by the elk meatballs.

Location

Loyly Sauna is located in the seaside neighborhood of Hernesaari. Once an industrial hub just outside Helsinki, Hernesaari has since become absorbed into the capital – but not without consequences.

De-industrialization left the area without an identity a generation ago, though concerted efforts by the Helsinki government have seen Hernesaari flourishing again as a residential area with an upmarket hipster touch.

The nearby cruise harbor has likewise brought renewed interest to the once-industrial region, which is today one of the most dynamic corners of Helsinki. Here, sleek yachts dock in front of reclaimed waterside factories, juxtaposing Helsinki’s industrial past with swish modernity.

If you’re looking for striking views of the Aurora Borealis and want to get a good grasp of northern Sweden’s lifestyle and culture, this is the place to go. Here's  what makes Abisko an exciting travel destination and the best place to watch northern lights in Sweden- and probably the entire world.

Why Should You Visit Abisko and Sweden’s Lapland?

The real question is, why not? In addition to its beautiful mountainscapes and the fact that is one of the highest-rated Northern Lights destinations, travelling to Abisko is also an immersion into the fascinating culture of the Sami (Europe’s only indigenous people) and the perfect scenario for winter sports and entertaining outdoor activities, among other things.

We got here by train after visiting Gothenburg and Stockholm, looking to spend time with nature enjoying mountains, fresh air and of course hopefully seeing the northern lights.

No matter what time of the year you visit Abisko and the Swedish Lapland, your trip will be nothing short of an adventure.

Abisko Map

Top Things to Do in Abisko Sweden

Here I’ll tell you about the best tourist places and things to do in Abisko, based on our own experience in the Swedish Lapland. We visited this part of the Swedish lapland for 9 days as a family, with our three year old son Teo during the month of October

This guide will give you an idea of the popular attractions you must visit, and off-the-beaten-path activities you should include in your bucket list. It’ll help you to plan your Sweden holidays and will make your enjoy your time here hassle free.

The Northern Lights in Sweden

There are few experiences in nature that can compare with the thrill of gazing up at the beautiful Aurora Borealis as they flow across the night sky, exploding with vibrant colors and lighting up the snow-covered landscape beneath.

It’s something that most can only dream of experiencing during their lifetime, mostly due to the nature of the lights being so unpredictable, or the perceived high expense required to travel to suitable locations which provide the best chances of seeing them.

Abisko is recognized as the most reliable place on the globe for northern lights sightings, with an 88% success rate if you stay for three nights (guess how many we stayed?).

With easy travel connections across central Europe, it has also become the most convenient and cost-effective location for spotting the famous green lights, compared to other common travel destinations for the aurora like Iceland and Norway where the proximity to the ocean could affect the weather.

Coastal climates are more temperamental with frequent cloud cover in winter, decreasing your chances of seeing the lights dramatically.

Abisko, on the other hand, lies in a valley surrounded by great mountains which often block the cloud cover, giving it the benefit of more clear, cloud-free skies than anywhere else under the aurora oval.

This is why spotting northern lights it’s one of the top things to do in Abisko during winter months.

When planning a trip to Sweden for the northern lights (see bottom of this post), however, you should keep in mind that no matter what you do you’re at the mercy of weather. Chances of seeing the aurora borealis are high, but no amount of planning or preparation can guarantee you being successful.

I can only speak from my own experience and things like when, where and how were game-changers during our lights hunting. On the next few lines I’ve spilled all my secrets for how to (successfully) catch a glimpse of this spectacular phenomenon. I found this information very useful, so it could definitely make the difference for you.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, one of several astronomical phenomena, are curtains of colored light which snake across the night sky during fall through spring months. This awe inspiring light show, also called Aurora Borealis, occur when electrically charged particles released from the sun hit the magnetic field of the Earth.

Those particles then collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms found in the Earth’s atmosphere and produce dazzling aurora lights. 

Aurora displays can appear in many vivid colors and the variation between each one of them depends on the kind of gas particles involved. The most common aurora color (green), for instance, is produced by low-lying oxygen molecules located about 60 miles above the Earth.

When to see Northern Lights in Sweden?

As I said previously on this post, the Northern Lights can be seen throughout the Swedish Lapland during winter months, specifically between September and mid-April, when the verdant forests are cocooned by a glistening blanket of snow and there’s more solar activity.

We were there in mid September, early in the season, and as you can see below we did get to see them!

How to see Northern Lights in Sweden

It’d be helpful to join a tour to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights. The best photo tours in Abisko help you get away from light pollution and provide you with high-quality cameras and sturdy photography gear, which is a huge advantage if you don’t have the necessary equipment to take professional shots by your own.

Some guided tours also include snowmobile rides and cozy wilderness camps to warm up while you wait for the lights to do their thing. And if you have no idea of how to retreat the aurora, no worries! 

Most tours count with professional guides/photographers who are always willing to assist you in setting up your shots and help you get stellar compositions for your photos.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Sweden on a Budget?

The options above mentioned are really great, but don’t come in cheap. If money is a concern during your Sweden travels, you definitely don’t need to do a guided excursion if you don’t have the budget for it.

Alternately, you could go up to the Aurora Sky Station (I’ll talk about this later), which is easy walkable from the village. Keep in mind that this place is also one of the key attractions in Abisko, especially during winter, so it can get quite crowded.

If you want to same money I think you might be best off just watching the Northern Lights on your own. You can walk down to the harbor and look north towards Mt. Noulja. It’s really dark there, so you should be able to see the Abisko’s Northern Lights without much hassle.

The best part? It won’t cost you a penny. Wrap up warm, though – if it’s a clear night, temperatures plummet pretty quickly after dark.

And if you’re at your hotel room you can keep an eye on the Aurora forecast to know whenever you need to run outside. Remember: sometimes the Northern Lights will only appear for a few minutes so if you see them get outside and take your pictures as quickly as possible.

Where to Watch Northern Lights in Sweden?

The short answer is… anywhere in the Swedish Lapland! Head away from all sources of light pollution (the far from civilization you go, the better) and if the weather conditions are favorable, bingo! You’ll have great chances of seeing them.

Explore Abisko National Park

One of Sweden’s oldest and most-visited natural reserves,  Abisko National Park, features 77 km2 of rich vegetation and abundant wildlife. It is often cited as being the best place in Abisko for viewing the elusive Northern Lights and the midnight sun at their opposite seasons.

Throughout the year you can take part in a great number of outdoor activities that range from hiking the famous King’s Trail (Kungsleden) and admiring the views of the lakes, mountains and valleys, to cross country skiing, snowshoeing and dog-sledding.

There are two places in Abisko National Park you must visit:

The Aurora Sky Station

Located within the National Park is the Sky Station. In Abisko’s winter, the Station is a key attraction, as it is considered one of the world’s best places for spotting the Northern Lights; on average, they can be seen between 50-60% of the time that the Sky Station is open.

Many visitors rave about the views from this place, mainly due to its prime location at the summit of a mountain, and we have to agree. For the very best chances of watching the Northern Lights you'll have to make the trip up to the observation tower, which is easily accessible by a 20 minute chairlift ride. 

Remember to bring warm clothes, although full winter gear is provided at no extra cost at the chairlift station.

The thrilling chairlift to the top of the mountain offers spectacular views over the Swedish Lapland and the wide-open skies beyond. Apart from the viewing facilities, there’s also an Aurora exhibition, a café, souvenir shop and a gourmet restaurant where guests can enjoy a delicious Nordic-inspired, multi-course meal under the night-filled sky.

Word of warning: the admission fee to the Aurora Sky Station isn’t cheap – you’ll pay around 695 SEK per person, and no refunds are given if the weather conditions are bad. But if you think it’s worthwhile the cost, I’d recommend you to buy your tickets well in advance, as they tend to sell out fast, especially during winter months.

STF Abisko Mountain Station

Near the Aurora Sky Station is  the Abisko Tourist Station, home to Abisko’s best hostel with a capacity of 300 guests. This station is run by the Swedish Tourist Association and serves as the starting point for a wide range of summer and winter activities.

The Abisko Mountain Station offers three different kinds of accommodation options: a hotel (in the main building), fully furnished modern cabins (where we stayed) and a hostel. You can choose to have breakfast included, which I recommend as it is abundant and very good.

The Abisko Tourist Station provides most of the services you'll need including a small convenience store, a camping store (with clothes and outdoor gear), laundry, internet and tours. 

Warm outer clothing is provided and English-speaking guides give you an introduction to the Northern Lights, emphasizing the importance of observing and understanding the Aurora Borealis.

Visit the World-Famous Ice Hotel in Sweden

The original ICEHOTEL, the world’s first hotel made of ice, is well-known for its unique concept, dazzling pieces of art (all of them completely made of ice) and fairy tale atmosphere. 

Quite a few ice hotels have popped up throughout the Northern Hemisphere, but this one is the original and arguably the most stunning. Among the hotel’s many features are the stylish reception area and main hall, the ice church (yes, you can actually get marry here) and the chic ice bar.

Every winter since 1989, the massive ice structure is rebuilt from scratch by ´40 artists, using snow and blocks from the local Torne River. It takes them months of planning and several weeks of hard work to finish the hotel…

The result? One of the world’s most innovate buildings and one of the most visited Sweden’s attractions, drawing thousands of tourists to the Lapland region each year.

Incredibly, in 2016 they created a whole new hotel which remains open year-round. This new permanent structure it’s completely cooled by solar panels and mashes up luxury ice rooms that you can visit (and even stay in!) during summer months.

Guided tours are available for visitors not spending the night at the hotel. This day trip include a tour of the artist-created bedrooms, the famous ICEBAR and the ice Church – plus leisure time to explore the interiors, take photos, or even dine and drink at the hotel’s facilities (not included).

Keep in mind that the original ICEHOTEL is redone at the start of winter, so if you visit before mid-December, it’s not likely to be finished. If the seasonal ice hotel isn’t yet open though, you can check out the ICEHOTEL 365 which is always open to the public.

If staying in a room made of ice doesn't suit your fancy don't sweat it: there are also more than 20 spacious cabins that will keep you warm and comfy during your visit. It's where we stayed!

Where is the Ice Hotel?

It is located in the small village of Jukkasjärvi. Getting there from Abisko can be a bit of a pain, as it’s actually closer to Kiruna than Abisko. There’s no direct public transportation to the ICEHOTEL from Abisko, so you’ll have to transit via Kiruna which you can reach by train or bus, and then hop on a taxi. 

Alternatively you can rent a car and make the trip independently.

However, it’s far easier to go on a guided day trip and not much more expensive.

Meet the Sámi People

Just 45 minutes away from Abisko is Rávttas, a small village where you can learn the traditional lifestyle of the Sámi’s - the indigenous people of the Sápmi region which encompasses northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

The best part of this unique experience? Meeting reindeer! They have historically held an important role in Sámi life and industry. The majority of Sámi people make their living in reindeer herding, and in most Nordic countries the practice is only legally allowed to them.

However, the focus of reindeer herding has recently shifted towards tourism rather than animal agriculture.

Guided tours to this village often include visiting reindeer farms and getting up close and personal with these animals. It’s a popular option for things to do in Abisko, so book your tour in advance if meeting reindeer and learning about the Sámi culture is a must on your Sweden bucket list.

Guide to Kiruna Sweden

Kiruna is the Sweden's northernmost city, with a population of around 17,000 people. It is an easy day trip from Abisko, or if you fly into Kiruna in the morning you can explore the city before your afternoon train to Abisko.

Kiruna is actually in the process of slowly being moved two miles away from its current center, which is why some places –like the train station- are so inconveniently far out of town.

There’s quite a lot to do in this charming Arctic city, so let me break down my favorite sights and activities:

• See the Kiruna’s Northern Lights
• Visit a Sámi village
• Get some fun with dogsledding
• Take a photography course
• Ice fishing
• Skiing
• Visit the Wooden Church of Kiruna
• Explore the city center
• Eat local food

Whether you want to see the Aurora Borealis by car, snowshoe, snowmobile, dogsled or skis, you’ll find a tour company in Kiruna that has the perfect package for you.

If you want to arrange a guided tour upon arrival instead, the best to start is the tourist information office inside Folkets Hus in the middle of the city. Leaflets and poster will let you know what kinds of tours are available and staff members will be pleased to hook you up with specialist guides.

Pro tip: prices for tours and guided excursions in Kiruna are often sky-high, so don’t be afraid to shop around for the best price.

Getting From Stockholm to Kiruna and Abisko

We traveled by overnight train with our three year old, and while it was indeed a long trip (17 hours to Abisko) it was good fun and entertainment. 

The train has different car classes, but it certainly makes sense to book a cabin unless you're on a budget. Tickets run at around 100 USD each way per person (book with plenty of time), but again as our son is under 16 he travels at no cost! That's a 100 USD saving when compared to flying...each way!

The train itself is all right. There's a car with a basic restaurant, and the rest of the train has seating and sleeping quarters. Cabins have a sink and three bunk beds, are pretty comfortable, and a a few electric outlets. Nothing to write home about but are definitely enough to make the journey pleasant.

As for the sleeping order, we had Teo on the top bunk bed, which was alright as there's a net on the side that would keep him from falling.

What to Bring

Sweden is an expensive country, and as you might expect anything you buy so far up north will cost you more than if you buy it in Stockholm or, even better, you bring it from home.

Plan Your Abisko-Kiruna Trip

PIN For Later

Spain Map

Facts About Spain’s History

The Moors Occupied Spain for Eight Centuries

The Moors or Los Moros (Muslims from North Africa), under the lead of Tariq ibn-Ziyad, invaded the Iberian Peninsula in 711 AD and overran the Visigoths. This historic event is known as the Moorish Conquest (‘La Conquista Musulmana’ in Spanish).

In their eight-year campaign, the Moors seized power in most Spanish cities and their occupation in Spain (and Portugal) lasted for around 800 (!) years; consequently, over 4,000 Arabic words (especially those beginning with the letters ‘al’, such as algebra and alcohol) and Arabic-derived phrases were absorbed into the Spanish language.

The Spanish people managed to regain control over the region in a very gradual manner from north to south - the south being the final territory to be taken back by the Spaniards, specifically the area of Granada.

This period in Spanish history is known as the Reconquista, and it ended in 1492. La Reconquista Española is widely celebrated in festivals of all kinds around the country.

They Left Their Mark across the Country

After almost 800 years of Moorish rule, it is not surprising that Spain - particularly in the south - has a great Arabic presence.

While Spanish forces gradually re-conquered different regions throughout the course of the subsequent centuries, the Moors worked hard to left their stamp on the country.

Their influence can be appreciated on many historic buildings, the language and the overall Spanish culture.

… And Contributed to its Developing

This is one of the most interesting facts about the history of Spain, probably because many European historians have painted the Moors in a negative way.

In reality, they were a modern civilization and their contributions to the European society and the rest of the world are innumerable.

For example, the Moors advance the fields of Astronomy, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Physics.

During their rule, Cordoba (the most important Moorish stronghold) was the most modern city in Europe. The streets were well-paved and illuminated by lamps, hundreds of years before there was a paved street in Paris or public illumination in London.

Additionally, education was universal, available to all, while in Christian Europe 99% of the population outside of Moorish Spain was illiterate, and even kings could neither read nor write.

At that time, Europe had only two universities, while there were over 70 in Spain. Some of the most famous ones were located in Almeria, Cordoba, Granada, Juen, Malaga, Seville and Toledo.

They were also a clean-conscious society, and made it popular to take regular baths in order to promote proper hygiene. Moreover, they introduced the idea of using perfumes to hide odors, salt to wash your hair, diving meals into courses and shaving for men. 

They influenced things such as music, fashion, hairstyles, and furniture, too.

The Spanish Inquisition was Brutal and Spread Fear Across Europe

With its large Muslim and Jewish populations, medieval Spain was the only multiracial and multireligious country in Western Europe, and much of the development of Spanish civilization in religion, literature, art, economy, politics and architecture during the Middle Age stemmed from this fact.

By the late 14^th century, however, the status of Muslims and Jews in Christian Spain began to change.

The monarchs restricted their rights and privileges, and the devastation caused by the Black Death led to increased popular hostility, as many believed that the plague was a plot devised by them to destroy Christianity.

Their crescent economy power and prosperity also inspired jealousy between the ‘old Christians’, who were already questioning the sincerity of their conversions. Ferdinand and Isabel, ever good tacticians, profited from this feeling.

On November 1^st, 1478, the Pope Sixtus IV issued the order of the Monarchs and gave them power to initiate the Spanish Inquisition, in order to discourage strong outward belief of other religions.

Anyone who was not loyal to the Roman Catholic Church was in danger of being called a heretic and expelled or, even worst, put to death by being burnt at the stake in front of the crowds. Most trials ended with the defendant simply giving up his beliefs and being let go.

The Spanish Inquisition, which is usually associated with horror, fanaticism and bigotry, was finally disbanded three centuries and a half later, on July 5^th of 1834, after Spain declined their influence.

According to some historians, the number of ‘heretics’ executed totaled nearly 32,000. But this is only an estimate as no one is quite sure about the exact number.

Explorer Christopher Columbus Discover the ‘New World’ by Mistake

For nearly a decade, Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón) lobbied European monarchies to sponsor his expedition to discover a western sea route to Asia.

In Portugal, England and France, the response was the same: NO! The experts told Columbus his calculations were wrong and that the journey would take much longer than he was expecting.

Royal advisors in Spain raised similar concerns to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, but they trusted in Christopher’s promises and paid him to explore the west in search for a new route to India.

Turns out the naysayers were right. Columbus dramatically underestimated the earth’s circumference and the size of the oceans. Luckily for him, he ran into the uncharted Americas. His mistake made Spain one of the richest nations in the world for a time.

The date when Columbus arrived unexplored lands (12 October, 1492) is commemorated every year in Spain.  This celebration is called La Fiesta Nacional de España. 

There are lots of parades, and the King of Spain always takes part in the festivities that are held in Madrid, which is of course one of the places of interest in Spain.

The tomb of Christopher Columbus is situated in La Catedral de Sevilla (Seville Cathedral) in the region of Andalucía. It is held by the statues of four kings, each representing a kingdom of Spain – León, Castilla, Aragón and Navarra respectively.

Officially, Spain Didn’t Participate in the World Wars

One could possibly think that most European nations, if not all, were involved in these conflicts, but the truth is that Spain, just as Sweden and other countries, remain neutral in WWI and WWII.

Only volunteers and exiled fought on either side. The country had also abstained from the turbulent political scene of pre and post-war Europe. This is only because they were having their own troubles.

During 1936 and 1939 Spain experienced a civil war which killed over 500,000 (!) people.

La Guerra Civil Española (The Spanish Civil War) was an armed conflict between the Republicans and Nationalists, and it’s often referred to as a ‘dress rehearsal’ for WWII.

The victorious General Francisco Franco ruled as a cruel dictator until 1975, when he died at the age of 82. After his death, Spain began to transform itself into a modern, industrial, and democratic European nation.

Fun Facts About Spain Culture

Religion is Important

In the days of yore a whopping 98% of Spain’s population used to be devoted Roman Catholics. Nowadays, these figures have drastically dropped to less than 40%, but that doesn’t mean religion isn’t an important part of Spanish culture.

The number of people volunteering in and attending important religious fiestas like those that take place during Holly Week is certainly a testimony to that.

It’s obvious that religion and culture go together and even those who aren’t practicing Catholics tend to still celebrate and enjoy the traditions that stretch back hundreds of years.

Enjoying Life is a Big Part of the Spanish Culture

A cool fact about Spain is that they love to chill out, and who doesn’t? But this easy-going lifestyle takes a whole new meaning in Spain. Rushing around from place to place is not very fashionable in their culture.

It seems that everything in Spain happens a little bit later than we’re used to, like having lunch at 2pm, or being sure not to show up to a party before midnight.

According to the 2013 OECD report, Spaniards devote roughly 16 hours out of every 24 to leisure, eating, drinking or sleeping, so it’s very likely their laid back lifestyle has something to do with the Spanish proclivity for living long, healthy lives.

It’s perhaps also why both food and wine is very important as well as the family.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that Spanish people are lazy; it’s just that they value their free time and will not work to death as in many other countries.

Spain has one of the World’s Most Diverse Cultures

One of the most interesting things about Spain is their vast and diverse culture. You can experience a great mix of uniqueness and traditions throughout the different regions.

Spaniards come from several folk groups that have been united into one nation, so we can expect that each one has strong identities of their own.

Some of them even have a separate language and are currently searching for their independence from Spain, such as Catalonia and Basque.

Spain has produced some of the World’s Greatest Artists

Spain has a prestigious art scene, where notable artists such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco José de Goya, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Juan Gris are well-known.

The most famous, however, is Pablo Picasso, whose catalog includes thousands of paintings, engravings, prints, book illustrations, ceramics and sculptures.

The best places to admire Spanish art are the museums. El Museo del Prado, for instance, has an incredible collection of iconic masterpieces, and it is actually celebrating its 200° anniversary.

The Spanish Are a Tolerant Society

According to a survey conducted in 2010, 80% of Spanish citizens claimed that gay, lesbian, and any other individual who doesn’t fall under the ‘standard’ when it comes to gender identity and sexual orientation, has the right to live their lives as they please without being judged, compared to less than 40% of Croatians, Lithuanians and Russians.

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Spain since 2005.

Spain is the Country of Fiestas

Spain is home to some of the craziest, weirdest festivals in the world, including the biggest tomato fight (La Tomatina) where over 150,000 tomatoes are thrown, and the world’s oldest fiesta (La Romeria de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza) which has been going strong for over 800 years.

Did I mention El Colacho? It’s a festival that involves jumping (?) over real babies.

Or how about the Fallas in Valencia? Huge statues of wood and cardboard are burned on March 19th every year.

There is no lack of unusual activities to take part in Spain. But if you like the unusual you’re bound to have lots of fun in Spanish fiestas.

The Most Popular Type of Music is an Intangible Heritage of Humanity

Flamenco is a musical and dance genre of Andalusian origin. It is well-known for its great emotional intensity and is distinguished by its flamboyant moves, energetic tapping, and guitar strumming.

Controversial Bullfighting is Considered a National Sport

The sport of bullfighting is officially called tauromaquia, and in some areas of Spain is still considered 'a cultural heritage'. In the 11^th century, it was originally an activity for aristocracy, but over the years anyone who showed the necessary aptitude was given the opportunity to prove their courage in las corridas.

Nowadays, more and more people disagree with this kind of contention, including regions of Spain such as Catalonia and the Canary Islands, as they consider it an act of animal cruelty.

Fun & Interesting Facts About Spain's Government

Spain Still Has a King

Just like Sweden and the United Kingdom, Spain has a king, and is actually one of the oldest constitutional monarchies in the world. His Majesty the King is still the head of state, but with little to none power over the country’s laws and regulations.

The current King of Spain since 2014 is Felipe VI. He was preceded by his father Juan Carlos I, who inherited the position from General Franco.

Spain was once a Number of Separate Kingdoms with Different Languages

They were unified in the 15th century after the marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile. These kingdoms became the basis for many of the different regions in modern Spain.

Spain is one of the Most Decentralized Democracies in Europe

Today, there are 17 autonomous communities (15 are part of continental Spain and the other two are the Canary and the Balearic Islands), and two city enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. Each region manages its own schools, hospitals, and other public services. This makes Spain possibly the most decentralized country in the world.

Facts About Spain Food

Spain is the World’s Largest Olive Oil Producer

Spain is responsible for producing about 45% of the world’s total olive oil. Moreover, 84% of production comes from the region of Andalusia, more precisely the province of Jaén.

If you are in the area, you should definitely visit a mill and do an olive oil tasting. Surprisingly, Italy is actually a net importer and much of your supermarket ‘Italian’ olive oil is produced under Spanish sun.

And the World’s Largest Wine Exporter

This might be because Spanish wine is way more affordable than Italian and French wines. Spain is also the second-largest producer of wine in the world - so it doesn’t come as a surprise that over 1 million hectares of the country is dedicated to winemaking.

Paella is Spain’s National Dish

La Paella originates from Albufera, a freshwater lagoon located near to the area of Valencia. It comprises in a mix of saffron rice, meat, seafood and vegetables.

It’s cooked in a very big pan called ‘paellera’ and is often served outside in the open air as part of a picnic or day trip.

In fact the dish is so representative of Spain that I ate a paella in Mexico's highest mountain (at 5,700m, roughly 18,000 ft) and appeared in Spain's national television. Read about my adventure or watch my TV appearance.

Fun Facts About Spain: Soccer

Football is their Second Religion

Fútbol (football) or soccer is Spain’s national sport and easily the country’s most important spectacle. Spanish football fans are among the most dedicated and fervent of Europe, matched in their fanaticism only by the Italians.

‘La Furia Roja’ Won the World Cup in 2010

Spain won their first world cup in 2010 in South Africa, when they advanced to the final for the first time ever by defeating Germany 1–0. The final game was against the Netherlands and Andrés Iniesta scored the match's only (and winner) goal.

It Has One of the Most Famous Football Leagues

The Spanish league (La Liga BBVA) is one of the most competitive in Europe, and the major Spanish clubs enjoy considerable success in European competitions, such as the UEFA Champions League. They also compete in the Spanish Cup (Copa Del Rey) and the European Cup (Europa League)

…And Teams

Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, Sevilla FC, Athletic Club de Bilbao and Valencia CF are always disputing the first places at the league’s positions table.

Spanish Language Facts

More than 437 Million People in the World Speak Spanish as a Native Language

This makes Spanish the second most spoken language by the number of native speakers, after Chinese.

There are 21 Countries that have Spanish as the Official Language

Spanish enjoys official language status in 21 countries across Europe, Africa, Central, North and South America, making it a very important global language.

Spanish Has Long Sentences

When you translate from English to Spanish, your text is likely to expand by 10-25%. The reason for this expansion lies in the fact that Spanish is more a detailed, poetic and expressive language. It thus uses more words to describe something that English would probably sum up into just a few or even one word.

Facts About Spain for Kids

Spanish Kids Don’t Believe in the Tooth Fairy

There’s no tooth fairy in Spain as this job falls to a sweet little mouse, better known as Ratoncito Pérez. He comes during the night and exchanges the teeth under the pillow for a gift or money.

The “Sistine Chapel” of Cave Painting was Discovered by an 8-year old Girl

It was the curiosity that took María Sanz de Sautuola to the unexplored Cave of Altamira, nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel” of Prehistory. With only eight years, she discovered the valuable cave paintings when she accompanied her father, Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola.

While he remained in the mouth of the cave, little Maria went deep into it until she reached a room where she saw the paintings. Then, she ran to tell his father and exclaimed ‘Look, dad… painted oxen!’ This was the first painted cave acknowledged as dating all the way back to the Paleolithic.

Other Fun Facts About Spain

• Christmas lottery has the world’s biggest payout (€2,240,000,000)
• There’s a tradition that you should eat 12 grapes in New Year’s Eve
• It has a National Anthem with no words
• Spain has the most bars in Europe
• Public nudity is legal

5 Facts About Spain’s Geography

• It has over 8,000 Km of beaches
• It is the second biggest country in the EU – only behind of France
• Spain is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe
• It has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines
• You can find the exact center of Spain in Madrid’s main square Puerta del Sol.

There is an abundance of children’s attractions and museums with plenty of activities/exhibitions especially made for young developing minds and others that run kid-friendly workshops.

However, going on trips with kids in tow can be challenging; you can’t just plow through the sights and run yourself ragged. Typically, the best you can do is 2 or 3 big things a day with a lunch break in between and a dinner break at the end to finally get back to home base to wind down.

But have no fear! Like Gothenburg- read my Gothenburg guide- Stockholm makes things fairly easy for parents. For example, buses are free if you're bringing a stroller, while older kids (+7) can travel at no cost on the metro.

Moreover, shopping centers have nursing rooms and the majority restaurants offer child friendly seats and baby changing areas.

In addition to being child friendly, Stockholm is also a fabulous city with over 750 years of ancient history. Every neighborhood is different, the attractions are world-class, it’s very easy to get around and almost everyone speaks perfect English. 

Are you planning a trip to Stockholm but don’t know which activities to schedule for your family itinerary? Look no further!

Below you will find a comprehensive travel guide including what to see in Stockholm, how to get around town, a few budget considerations and other essential information that will streamline your trip.

But first, here’s some useful information you might want to know about…

Where is Stockholm and Why Is it So Special?

Sweden’s capital city, Stockholm is one of the world’s most spectacular cities and makes for a perfect weekend getaway in Europe. It lies on the south-central east coast of Sweden where the freshwater Lake Mälaren flows out into the Baltic Sea.

The city is spread across fourteen islands, which are connected by 57 bridges making it a joy to walk or bike around in summer when the weather is good. Stockholm’s beautiful architecture is even more photogenic as it rises from these islands surrounded by a striking water setting.

And if that wasn’t enough, parks and green spaces constitute one-third of the city’s geographical area (!) and Stockholm’s 400 parks are the best place to enjoy glorious Swedish summer like the locals. 

At this time of the year Swedes like to spend their entire day outdoors - sunbathing, reading, playing games, working out, running, and enjoying picnics and beers in leafy parks.

How Many Days to Spend in Stockholm?

It sounds like there is a crazy amount of things to do in Stockholm Sweden, and this is especially true when travelling with young children. You could spend an entire month visiting the city and still not see all of what it has to offer.

Unfortunately, most of us lack the time (and budget) to run an in-depth exploration mission through the wonky medieval lanes of this Nordic paradise.

That being said, I’ve chosen the best attractions and rounded up the must-do's with kids based on our trip to Stockholm, which was 4 nights/ 3 days long.

You can also follow this plan if you have two days or just one day in Stockholm. This will be a life-saver especially if you don't have a general sense of the things you want to do.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

Stockholm is a stunning city that seamlessly mixes old, new, nature and water.

It is the capital and largest city in Sweden and is the largest urban center of all Nordic countries, with 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges.

The city is best-known for its surrounding waters, massive green spaces, modern style and charming medieval  city center. Yet, there’s so much more to Stockholm, from lively nightlife and shopping to world-class food and culture...even architecture!

So where should you stay? Where can you get some good sleep but be close to your Stockholm points of interest? And if you have a baby, are these areas worth considering (while at it, these tips will show you how to put your little one to sleep quickly)

In this section, we’ll break down the best places in Stockholm to stay based on your interests, needs and budget: Gamla Stan, Sodermalm, Norrmalm, Ostermalm and Hornstull.

Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is the neighborhood in the heart of the city. It is Stockholm’s Old Town and  one of the best-preserved medieval areas in Europe. It is definitely touristy, and you’ll find a myriad of historic and cultural attractions as well as restaurants, shops and bars which will often be more expensive than in other parts of town.

Sodermalm

South of Gamla Stan is Sodermalm. A hip and trendy district, Sodermalm is the best neighborhood to stay in Stockholm for nightlife thanks to its great selection of bars, restaurants, cafes and clubs. It’s also where you’ll find excellent independent shopping and plenty of ultra-cool Scandi-style.

Norrmalm

If you head back up to the north across Gamas Stan is Norrmalm, Stockholm’s business and commercial center. You’ll find everything from great shopping to world-class culture, and is our top pick for where to stay in Stockholm for one night or if you’re on a budget.

Ostermalm

To the East is Ostermalm. One of the most elegant and exclusive areas of the city, Ostermalm is our number one pick for where to stay in Stockholm with kids because there’s so much to see and do, and it is here where we stayed. 

From massive parks to outstanding museums, plenty or restaurant and great shopping, you and your family won’t be bored in Ostermalm. Most of the Stockholm boat tours also depart from here, so reaching the dock will be simple.

Hornstull

Finally, to the west of Sodermalm is Hornstull. This is a very laid back are where to stay in Stockholm because it has everything from beaches and bars to shops and restaurants. However most of the tourist attractions aren't very close, so you might want to consider Hornstull as your base camp if you're going to be in Stockholm for a long time.

What to Eat in Stockholm

You can’t go to Sweden and not try the quintessential Swedish dish: Swedish Meatballs. Whether or not this dish was intended to become the icon of all things Swedish, it is probably the first dish that comes to mind for many of us. 

They are often made with a mixture of beef and pork, but can be made up of different meats. The sauce is a deep, flavorful gravy. And the dish is always served with potatoes (usually mashed), a bowl of lingonberries and pickled cucumbers.

Swedish Fish Soup (Svenska fisksoppa), smoked Salmon (Varmrökt lax), flatbread and rosehip soup are some of the most popular dishes, but so are burgers!

Most restaurants will have several options for you to choose from, but we opted to have it in the Swedish equivalent of McDonald's: Maxburgers!

Sure, it might not be the healthiest option but your kids will have fun and it keeps the budget under control for at least one meal

3 Days in Stockholm Itinerary

Three days in Stockholm with kids is not a lot (I know) but is certainly enough to get a good grasp of the city's culture and modern lifestyle while having pure family fun. This was exactly the time I spent in Stockholm, so hopefully my own experience can serve as reference for your trip too.

If you’re going at a faster pace and are planning to stay only 3 days in Sweden, this suggested Stockholm itinerary would be perfect for you. Check it out!

Day #1: Getting to the City Center

Strolling Around Gamla Stan (The Old Town)

All Stockholm day trips and family itineraries should include some time spent wandering Gamla Stan, the old town in the heart of Stockholm. This beautiful area must be one of the best (if not the best) places for Stockholm sightseeing.

Dating back to the 13^th century, it consists of charming medieval alleys, cobblestone streets, and impeccably preserved architecture. The main points of interest in Gamla Stan include the Stortoget square, the Royal Palace, and the Nobel Museum.

And whilst it is true this isn't the kind of outing children would fall in love with, most kids will enjoy running free along the passageways and lanes, pausing to admire some of the fun window displays, and definitely indulging in a pastry or two.

Kungliga Slottet (Royal Palace)

This Royal Palace is one of the largest and most dynamic in Europe. With over 600 rooms divided between eleven floors, it is the official residency to His Majesty the King of Sweden and is also the setting for most of the monarchy's official receptions, open to the public year round.

Kungliga Slottet contains many interesting things to see for kids and parents alike. In addition to the Royal Apartments there are three museums steeped in regal history: the Treasury with the crowns, the Tre Kronor Museum that portrays the palaces medieval history and Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities. During summer the Royal Chapel is also open, as well as the Riddarholmen Church.

There's always something happening at the palace for children - younger visitors particularly enjoy activity trails. They can be crowned on Sweden's National Day or go on an animal hunt through the grand rooms of the palace whenever it is open.

The best part is that these can be carried independently and are suitable for kids of all ages. There are also family tours, school activities and themed evenings to discover.

The visit is 160 SEK but you’ll get in free of charge if you have your Visit Stockholm Card (more information below)

PRO TIP: if possible attend the daily changing of the guard’s ceremony – kids love it! It happens every day at 12:15 pm from Monday to Saturday (one hour later on Sundays) and is led by the Swedish Military.

The Nobel Museum

This museum is one of the must-visit attractions in Stockholm, but I do have to say it was not as exciting as I expected it to be. The main area has themed exhibitions that change during the year taking up most of the museum, and there was one about Martin Luther King when we were visiting. It was all right, but not what we expected to find.

Perhaps the best part was the small theater with brief films about the Nobel Prize winners and their achievements and a small exhibit of what some of them used to make it happen.

There's also a small kid area where little ones can play for a short while (it's not very big).

Become a Knight at the Royal Armoury Museum (Livrustkammaren)

Established in 1628 by King Gustav II Adolph, the Royal Armoury is the oldest museum in Sweden and definitely one of the best things to do in Stockholm with kids. It gives children the opportunity to dress up with fascinating costumes in the Play & Learn area and get an interactive lesson of Swedish Royal History.

Part of the Royal Palace, the Armoury houses an impressive collection of knight’s suits of armor, swords, period clothes once belonging to the royal children and a beautiful room of glittering carriages.

Temporary exhibitions designed for youngsters are also held regularly. For long-term visitors there’s the Chivalry Club - a club open to kids aged between four and 12-years-old with regular monthly events.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Stockholm, this attraction should be on the very top of your must-do’s list. Your kiddos will have the chance of try on dresses and knight costumes, play, read and draw, at no cost!

Day #2: Time to Have Fun at Djurgården (Museum Island)

Walk Around Aimlessly

One of the best things you can do when visiting Stockholm is simply to walk around. Take in the city's unique architecture and parks, eat some Fika and have fun taking pictures of your family.

Skansen Open-Air Museum

Founded in 1891, Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum and one of the most popular places to visit in Stockholm for families. It is like a miniature Sweden throughout the last 500 hundred years with 150 farms and houses to explore, each representing different periods in Sweden’s history.

Skansen features a zoo, aquarium, vintage amusement park and plenty of trails to walk and play. It’s a huge site and it takes quite a while to get around it all. The main zoo houses wild Nordic animals including bears, wolves and lynx. There is also a separate children’s petting zoo (Lill-Skansen) with domestic animals such as goats and chicks, as well as pony, horse and carriage rides.

While exploring the area you’ll see people working in period dress which can explain the various exhibits. Some of the buildings are shops or display trades and you can watch crafts in action.

The museum’s exhibits of traditional Swedish houses may not be too thrilling for young kids but the animals and the rides rarely fail to entertain.

National Holidays are celebrated great vigor at Skansen with fun events and festive activities, so make sure to look out for these things if you are to visit. This way you’d get the most of your experience.

INTERESTING FACT: Did you know all the ancient buildings were disassembled and transported there from across the country? What a great way to preserve their historical heritage.

PRO TIP: ask for the English booklet to help you get around as it is pretty easy to feel lost at Skansen – it’s enormous!

Junibaken – The Fairytale House

If you’re wondering what to do in Stockholm with kids I'd highly recommend Junibaken - an indoor adventure theme park (based on the works of Pippi Longstocking’s creator Astrid Lindgren) that aims to inspire a love of reading in children. Whether you’re familiar with Pippi or not (yet), your kids will adore this place.

You can ride Pippi’s horse, on-board the magical Story Train for a whirlwind introduction to Swedish and Scandinavian children’s literature (with English narration if requested), have a delicious meal at the café, and discover the inter-connected playrooms, which are transformed into fantasy towns and houses.

It doesn't matter if your little munchkins do not know any of these stories before getting there - all the exhibits are very well done and can grab kid's attention for hours. Astrid Lindgren definitely achieved her goal of making a museum where children could touch and play instead of just looking.

Gröna Lund Tivoli Amusement Park

This is Sweden’s oldest amusement park and a highlight popular with locals and tourist alike. It blends old world charm and tame favorites (carousels, bumper cars) with modern white-knuckle rides including Europe’s tallest free-fall tower and rollercoasters.

Conveniently located on the water’s edge in Djurgården it has great views back across Stockholm. As you’d expect, there are height restrictions on many of the +30 rides so it'll be more suitable for older kids and teenagers.

Day #3: More Art & History to Indulge… While having fun!

The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

Millions of people visit Vasamuseet each year – for good reason. This famous museum is home to the Vasa, the world’s only preserved 17^th century ship. In 1628, it sunk on its maiden voyage in Stockholm’s harbor where it remained for 333 years until being raised in 1961.

The massive 69m long and 44.8m tall warship is remarkably preserved (98% is original) and is amazing how much kids are able to learn about it. Get such an insight into people's life back then it is just unreal and the reconstructions of the crew members inside are mind-blowing.

There are numerous special exhibits and activities aimed at children. One of the most popular is the showing of a 17 minute film about a little piglet called Lindblom who heads out on an adventure aboard the Vasa. I'd recommend your kids watch it as it help kids appreciate what they're about to see in the museum.

There’s also a family trail (suitable for children 3 to 8 years) to follow after you’ve seen the film that guides you through the museum, asking questions based on little Lindblom’s adventures. A second family trail takes visitors through the Vasa´s history and is suitable for kids from 6 years.

Final verdict: The Vasa Museum should be definitely included into your travel itinerary if you’re planning to stay 2 or 3 days in Stockholm.

PRO TIP: buy your ticket in advance, particularly in summer months when queues can be long. Bear in mind that Vasamuseet is Stockholm‘s most popular attraction.

MegaMind Exhibit at the National Museum of Science and Technology (Tekniska Museet)

Designed to encourage and inspire children to experiment their way to new, smart ideas, it’s an original and innovative museum for kids. It is full of fun activities that not only appeal to children and can keep the entire family occupied for endless hours.

The MegaMind exhibit incorporates physical challenges, technology, and written explanations to teach visitors about the human brain. The museum design alone is amazing and is based on the human brain. Visitors enter the museum through a gigantic ear and onwards into a large room where the brain’s hemispheres are represented.

There are some 50 interactive displays that challenge children to think differently and to dare their perceptions. There’s also a family room in for changing babies’ diapers and for feeding – as well as to giving everyone a rest! Afterwards, you can head straight to the café for lunch or an afternoon coffee stop.

Hop on the Boat Tours

When in Stockholm joining one or several boat tours is almost a must. You get to see parts of the city that you'd miss otherwise, and also from a different perspective. If traveling with little ones there's the added bonus of their excitement, plus if kids under six get to have all the fun at no cost for you!

Boat tours are themed as well, as some head our to the outer islands while others focus, for example, on the city's bridges. In any case they are exciting, educational and tons of fun.

Most of the boat tours start at the docks on Ostermalm, another reason why you should really consider staying in this part of town when you visit Stockholm (check my "where to stay" section in this article).

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T-Bana Tour: Go Underground

It might be odd to you to visit the Metro as opposed to use it to go from point A to point B, but this is one of those situations in Stockholm where paying for the ticket will get you more than just the usual. Stockholm metro stations are truly a piece of contemporary art, which gives the city and edgy touch that you wouldn’t find in any other place.

With an extension of more than 100km and 90 stations (!) the Tunnelbana or T-Bana is believed to be the world’s longest art exhibition. You can find here all kind of paintings, sculptures and mosaics that turn an ordinary commute into a memorable and unique art journey.

The public transportation agency often organizes free guided art tours during summertime. Alternatively, you can buy a ticket and do some DIY station-hopping if you’re running out of time and need to make this tour a quickie. I’d recommend going in the evening after a great day visiting all the museums and attractions.

Some More Useful Information – Stockholm Guide

Getting Around

Getting from Arlanda Airport to Stockholm

The quickest way to get into Stockholm is by high-speed train. The Arlanda Express will whisk you to the city center in just about 18 minutes. You can buy tickets online (where you’ll get a great 40% discount) or at the electronic ticket machines in the airport. But if you’re going on a budget consider the Flybussarna bus which cost just 99 SEK (approx. 10 EUR) and takes 40 minutes.

Moving Around Town

Public transport in Stockholm works seamlessly and can get you anywhere in the city very efficiently. The only problem? Isn’t particularly cheap, it is actually pretty expensive. It’d be a better value to get passes for longer periods than for individual rides.

Metro covers most of the touristy areas, but if not you can easily substitute a bus. Don’t overlook the boats, with over 30 routes they’re part of the public transport and can be useful in getting from point A to point B when you run out of options. The tickets are sold on board and cost a few hundred kronor at the most.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget the best way to move around Stockholm is by biking or walking around. Fortunately, Stockholm is a relatively small city so you can easily walk or bike around the old center and even to nearby areas/islands.

Tips for Travelling in Stockholm with Kids

• The underground Tunnelbana system is easy to use and kids under seven don’t need a ticket. You can buy tickets for a set period of time or get a card to top up.
• Ferries are a great way to get a look at Stockholm from the water without paying for a tour. The ferry from Slussen to Djurgården can be useful for getting to Junibacken and Vasamuseet.
• There are korv (hot dog) vendors on almost every street – these are an affordable, kid-friendly option for a lunch that doesn’t break the bank.
• Many restaurants offer a lunch buffet – these are usually great value and on top of food. Ask if there’s a discount for children as they often pay half-price.
• In the summer months, a picnic would also be a good way to avoid expensive restaurant costs.
• Airbnb is a great way to book accommodation in Stockholm when travelling with kids. If you’re watching your budget it’s great to have a kitchen so you can eat breakfast at home and prepare some dinners if your kiddos go to bed early.

When to Go?

Stockholm is best for family travel between May and September when you can spend long days outdoors (we were here in September). June is a perfect time to visit but avoid the midsummer weekend as many restaurants and attractions close for this important local holiday. And if you don’t mind the cold weather (and I mean cold), December is great for an atmospheric pre-Christmas visit.

Stockholm Pass

It’s an all-in-one discount card that guarantees you free entry to dozens of attractions across the Swedish capital, and has a few organized Stockholm boat tours thrown in for good measure. This gives you a good opportunity to cram in lots of sightseeing without worrying about what it costs to get into each attraction.

Here are some of the places you can access for free with the Stockholm Pass card:

• Vasa Museum
• The Royal Palace
• Nobel Museum
• Drottningholm Palace
• Skansen open-air museum
• Nordic Museum
• Storkyrkan Cathedral
• Gröna Lund
• Fotografiska
• And many more

Get more info about the costs and Stockholm tours included here.

Best Day Trips from Stockholm

These Stockholm day trips are all easily achievable with public transport – leave early in the morning and you’ll be back downtown in time for dinner.

• Uppsala
• Skogskyrkogården
• Boda Borg Oxelösund
• Tom Tits Experiment (perfect to keep inquisitive kids occupied for a few hours)
• Drottningholm Palace
• Stockholm Archipelago
• Birka
• Helsinki

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Stockholm’s kid focused attractions make it for a great family-travel destination. It’s just so easy to explore and appreciate this city in big part because it caters to children so well. I’ve tried to sum up my recommendations and wrap it up in a three day itinerary. But as I said, you can easily stay longer and discover more reasons to linger. So visit Stockholm – you won’t regret it!

Gothenburg  brims with charm and fun. This moated city in the western coast of Sweden feels more like a large town than a big city, with its inviting tangle of waterways, parks, and squares. It is full of tourists’ spots and there are plenty of lovely things to see in Gothenburg both kids and grownups will enjoy.

Gothenburg Map

FAQ’s

What’s the best time to visit Gothenburg? All-year-round! But if you’re not a fan of winter, come in summer, spring or autumn. Bear in mind that spring and autumn might be wet from the rain, so make sure to bring a good jacket and travel shoes with you.

How to get from Gothenburg Airport to the City Center? Travelling to and from the airport couldn’t be more easy with Flygbussarna busses leaving about every 10 minutes; the trip to the central station only takes half an hour. I’d suggest buying tickets online in advance, you’ll get a small discount with your purchase.

What’s the Go City Gothenburg pass? It’s a pass that provides you with a free entry to over 30 Göteborg attractions and a guide book to streamline your trip. Passes are available for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days - depending on how long you’ll stay in the city. Also included in the pass is unlimited travel with the Hop-on/Hop-off buses and boats. We got them and they were totally worth it!

There’s no doubt Gothenburg is full of sights to behold and exciting activities for everybody. This guide will help you plan your stay and get around this charming Swedish city.

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

Gothenburg is quite a small city, and while you can walk pretty much everywhere you'll be much better off if you stay in the city center area which is where most of the places to visit in Gothenburg are. Should you pick your hotel randomly, or only based on price,  you may find yourself walking more than what you need.

One option is to stay close to the Central station, next to the old inner city. It's a good enough location to walk to Haga, Götaplatsen or the Maritime center by the river. 

Restaurants and shopping will be found around famous avenue Kungsportsavenyn going north to south to Götaplatsen, including the amusement grounds of Liseberg. This area is known as Lorensberg, and is in my opinion the best area where to stay. You can choose to stay closer to the river or Liseberg Park, although it won't mean much in terms of walking

Nightlife in Gothenburg is concentrated to the areas around two streets, Avenyn ("The Avenue", formal name: Kungsportsavenyn) and Linnégatan. Avenyn and Linnégatan are a couple of kilometers apart, and the areas are quite different. Many restaurants are located between Avenyn and Linnégatan in the area known as Vasastan.

What to Do in Gothenburg

From nautical adventure to cozy meals, and from thrill rides to nature walks, there’s something for everyone in Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city and the world’s most sustainable destination. Stick with me in this travel guide and explore the best things to do in Gothenburg Sweden.

Gothenburg Attractions

Haga District:

The Haga quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Gothenburg, entirely set on a pedestrian-only street. It’s a charming little area flanked by brick warehouses and uniform 19^th century houses with wooden facades.

These well preserved buildings were scheduled to be torn down during redevelopment works in the 1970’s, but Gothenburg’s citizens got together to preserve its character.

Haga was created as the city’s first suburb and nowadays it’s packed with sweet cafés and cute shops, as well as great delicatessens and reasonably priced restaurants. Many of the shops in the area are locally owned and operated.

Walking around Haga is one of those free things to do in Gothenburg – it is the city’s hippest neighborhood and the perfect place to stop by and enjoy a ‘Fika’ (the traditional Swedish coffee break), or to buy art, clothing, and souvenirs to bring home with you.

Paddan Boats Tours:

Paddan are flat-hulled, low-profile sightseeing barges that tour Gothenburg’s harbor and canals. The boats depart two or three times an hour from Kungsportsplatsen and are hop-on/hop-off, so you can spend more time at the Gothenburg’s sights you like the most.

The tour offers a different way of seeing the sights and takes roughly 50 minutes. You can enjoy absorbing yourself in Gothenburg’s waterways from mid-April until mid-October. During winter time there are special rides direct to Liseberg Christmas market.

In a city with a strong maritime spirit and culture this is a must-do activity, showing you around the 17^th century canals, fishing harbor, old shipyards, and waterfront industry.

Not only is it a great way to understand the layout and take in views of the best Gothenburg sights including recent developments like the postmodern Lilla Bommen tower, it’s also an adventure by itself!

The paddan boats are low because they convey passengers underneath more than 20 of the city’s bridges, some of them low enough that you’ll have to duck to make it under with your head untouched – a great fun twist you’ll enjoy.

Maritiman- the Floating Boat Museum

Maritiman is an open air museum in Gothenburg with 19 vessels, the oldest dating back to 1875. There are a few military ships and even a submarine! You can of course get on and into all these boats, and are a great way of understanding what life at sea has been like during the past century.

Feskekôrka (Fish Church):

Feskekôrka is Gothenburg’s fish and shellfish market. It sits nestled along the city’s moat, just a short stroll from the city center, in a building that you might mistake for a church.

The indoor fish market built in 1874 (which is a true Mecca for seafood lovers) was a technical marvel at the time as there are no pillars inside, with a roof supported instead by powerful beams.

The design of the building, work of architect Victor von Gegerfelt, was inspired by medieval Gothic architecture and the wooden Norwegian stave churches – hence, it’s nicknamed the “fish church”.

The fish church hosts two restaurants, a couple of stands that offer take out and a wide open space lined with stalls selling the freshest local seafood.

Gothenburg Archipelago:

Close to Gothenburg’s city center you can embark on a journey through the little granite islands of the Southern and Northern archipelago. It puts wild islands and picturesque finish villages within easy reach of visitors.

More than 20 islands stretch along the coast and are easily accessible by ferry or car. If you’re planning to go in summer months, this is a must see in Gothenburg and shouldn’t be missing in your itinerary.

There are plenty of things to do in Gothenburg’s archipelago - you’ll find hiking and biking trails in nature reserves, seal safaris, kayak trips on glassy water, boat excursions, and fishing, all set against a slower pace of life.

The Northern islands are connected to the mainland by a bridge, so you can drive right there. Reaching the southern islands, that are actually car-free, is only possible by boat (visit Goteborg’s official tourism website to see details on how to get there and the most up to date information on trams). Essentially, you can take a tram from Central Gothenburg to Saltholemn, and then catch a ferry.

Göteborg’s Konstmuseum (Gothenburg Museum of Art):

The prestigious museum opened in 1923, displays one of the finest art collections of Nordic and international artworks in the region. You can come to appreciate works dating as far back as the 15^th century, along with art pieces by the likes of Picasso, Monet, Chagall and van Gogh.

There are permanent collections, such as the French and Nordic galleries, and there’s usually a visiting exhibit on as well. For lovers of the Renaissance and Baroque there are paintings by van Dyck, Rembrandt, Rubens and Jacob Jordaens.

The Gothenburg Museum of Art also organizes other activities like lectures, workshops, guided tours and special family activities.

Skansen Kronan:

Skansen Kronan is a military fortification built in the 17^th century on Lilla Otterhällan hill, to defend the city against possible Danish attacks. In 1697 it was outside of Gothenburg but the city has since grown around it.

In the past, this fortress has been used as a prison and military museum, while today it houses a restaurant and conference center. You can come for an ice cream in summer or enjoy one of their homemade cakes.

The best part of Skansen Kronan, though, is actually views. It’s a bit of a workout to get to the top, but once you’re up there it offers a striking view over Haga and Göta älv.

Volvo Factory and Museum:

Some way west of the center, on a quay beyond the mouth of the Göta älv is a museum all about Sweden’s best loved automotive brand: Volvo, which was founded in 1927.

Here you’ll find almost every model the brand has ever produced, checking out dozens of vintage cars and trucks, but also concept cars never intended for sale. Apart from the vehicles, there’s an absorbing exhibition for the Volvo Ocean Race and equipment developed by Volvo Aero.

You can also take a tour of the Volvo Factory to learn about how the Volvo cars are assembled from scratch, and to see futuristic robots in action. These can be booked for large groups or individuals by e-mail.

Visiting a factory to learn how cars are made might sound like an odd activity, but there are a couple reasons to consider it.

Firstly, it is very interesting and not something you get the chance to see every day. Secondly, the Volvo museum takes you through the company’s history and its role in Gothenburg’s development.

Trädgårdsföreningen (Garden Society):

The Garden Society of Gothenburg (Trädgårdsföreningen) is one of the best preserved 19^th century horticultural parks in Europe, where you can enjoy hours of strolling through the many floral gardens and tropical trees.

It was inaugurated in 1842 by King Carl XIV Johan and thanks to its careful preservation has been given listed status in Sweden.

This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and it features a great children’s playground- suitable for both older and little kids- set among a flower garden (find more things to do in Gothenburg with kids down below)

The park’s most impressive feature is the Rose Garden, which has over 4,000 rose bushes that are in full bloom in early July - a spectacle of colour and fragrance that will stay with you.

The Garden Society also hosts a few historic buildings, like the cute coffee house dating back to 1874, and the magnificent Palm House (Palmhuset), erected in 1878 based on London’s Crystal Palace, which houses exotic plants in a Mediterranean climate.

Botaniska Trädgård (Botanical Garden):

Göteborg’s Botaniska Trädgård, one of Europe’s largest and foremost botanical gardens, covers 175 hectares (ca 430 acres), of which most constitutes a nature reserve including an arboretum.

The garden was created in 1923, designed to function not just as a botanical garden but also as a recreation area. Among other things you’ll find 16,000 different species and cultivars, an award winning rock garden, Sweden’s largest collection of tropical orchids, and the famous Sophora Toromiro tree, once native to Easter Island but extinct there now.

There’s a restaurant and café serving local food and refreshments, but if you want to keep costs down by taking your own food there are many lovely places to sit.

The garden is always worth a visit but is at its best during spring when the bulbs are in blossom, and late summer/early autumn when lots of flowers are in full bloom. 

Göteborgs Naturhistoriska Museet (Natural History Museum):

Little changed since it opened in 1833 and then moved into its current premises in 1923, Gothenburg’s Natural History Museum offers a fascinating insight into how museums were run in days gone by.

The nice brick building sits atop a small hill in Slottsskogen Park (see below) and is home to a huge collection of over 10 million (!) stuffed animals. Many of the exhibits are from the early 1900’s and the taxidermy skills are pretty varied, running from impressively life-like to laugh-out-loud funny.

There are all manner of beasts in the museum, but one creature is especially big and famous: the Malmska Whale (world’s only stuffed blue whale), named after Mr. A.W. Malm, who was working at the museum in October 1865 when a blue whale got stuck in the Askim Bay.

Before you leave Naturhistoriska, check out the excellent collection of exotic birds, arranged in glass-fronted wooden cabinets. Just nearby is the museum’s main taxidermy hall, which focuses on a huge African elephant, weighing six tons and measuring six meters in height.

For a much needed break you can stop by at the Malm Whale Kitchen & Café, that serves lunch and refreshments with amazing views at the Slottsskogen City Park.

Fun Things to do in Gothenburg with Kids

Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s most kid-friendly cities (probably just after Stockholm) with most of the attractions within walking distance or accessible by tram or bus.

Families get to enjoy plenty of things to do together, like strolling around fascinating museums and interesting guided tours as well as visiting tranquil city parks perfect for picnic and equipped with exciting playgrounds.

As mentioned before the Gothenburg is very easy to walk, and if your child still requires a stroller (view my list of recommended travel strollers) to get around you won't have any difficulties despite the cobble stones.

Here I’ve shared my top 3 family-friendly places in Göteborg Sweden which will keep your kiddos happily entertained throughout your holiday.

Child Friendly Gothenburg Activities

Universeum Gothenburg:

Located in the heart of the city, is the Universeum Science Discovery Centre, one of the star attractions for kids in Gothenburg. It is also the biggest science centre in the Nordic region, covering 7 floors of interactive exhibits, workshops, laboratories, and wildlife enclosures, including one of Sweden’s largest aquariums.

This little universe approaches scientific topics in an engaging, child-friendly way. It has a rainforest with a 25-meter-high kapok tree, a chemistry-lab featuring plenty of hands-on activities, two aquariums with over 30,000 species of marine animals, an indoor playground suitable for younger children, an "Experimentarium" for the inventors of tomorrow, and many more!

With this much on offer, you can't expect it to be cheap. The Universeum comes with a slightly higher price tag – around 13 Euros for children age 3+ and around 19 Euros for adults (kids under 3 get in for free). However, it's definitely worth it. Also, it’s one of the few indoor attractions open every day of the year.

Slottskogen Gardens and Zoo:

Southwest of Haga District is Göteborg’s main park, in 1.37sq km of restful greenery. This family-friendly park includes a zoo and botanical gardens, with everything from seals and Gotland ponies to a beautiful waterfall and nature trails.

The park has cafes, snack shops and restaurants as well as tons of picnic areas where you can even pick wild strawberries and blueberries in season.

If you need to squeeze in a morning run (for free!), Slottskogen is the place to go. There are also adventure playgrounds, an observatory, a birdhouse, miniature golf and other fun sports facilities.

Liseberg Amusement Park:

Liseberg is Scandinavia’s largest amusement park and the most popular tourist attraction in Sweden, drawing three million visitors annually. It features more than 40 thrill rides and family-friendly attractions, some of which date back to 1923.

This thriving amusement park has a traditional character and abounds of greenery and woodland, but its amazing lineup of high-tech rides is constantly evolving.

You can’t leave Liseberg without riding the bone shuddering Balder, a wood-tracked roller coaster measuring 36 meters at the highest point and with a maximum speed of 90km/h.

All ages are accommodated at Liseberg, so those adrenaline rides are combined with thoughtfully designed young children’s amusement including colorful slides and swings, flying elephants and dragon boats.

Liseberg amusement park is open throughout the summer months, with limited open hours in Halloween and Christmas holidays. A little like Universeum, you do pay extra for this premium attraction but your little ones will enjoy them. Have a look and see which type of ticket offers best value for your family!

Other Things to Do in Gothenburg Sweden

Shop ‘til You Drop

To escape inclement weather and find all your favorite brands, head to Scandinavia’s leading shopping center in Nordstan, which has more than 200 shops offering the latest in all possible areas.

Enjoy Gothenburg’s Nightlife

There’s no shortage of things to do in Gothenburg at night, whether you’re after cabaret, theater or an all-night party. Most of the mainstream eateries and night spots are located on Kungsportsavenyn, but for something a little more atmospheric The Old Town and bohemian Linné can’t be beaten.

Book Your Trip

Accommodation in Gothenburg

Booking.com has over 300 hotels in Gothenburg including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Don’t forget Airbnb for your home rental stays.

Flights to Gothenburg

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees).

The DollarFlightClub.com sends you instant alerts with the world’s cheapest flight deals leaving your home airports for free, and with the Premium option you can limit those emails to destinations of your choice. Average savings are over 300 USD!

Rental Cars in Gothenburg

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Gothenburg airport.

RV Rentals Gothenburg:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Gothenburg road trip. Find your RV rentals for Gothenburg here. 

Tours in Gothenburg

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Gothenburg including tickets to the popular Gothenburg attractions.

Santiago's historical center is the cornerstone of modern-day Chile. The plaza is surrounded by beautiful ancient buildings that are central to the local government, including the Central Post Office, the Royal Court Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Plaza de Armas was established in 1541. Here, the city held many religious events and was the main venue for political news. The old colonial streets are lined with palm trees that create a strange but lush oasis at the very heart of the city. Nowadays, this is where people gather to spend an afternoon or people watch. It's also a great starting point for your wanderings around the city.

Head up Santa Lucia Hill

Just a few blocks away from Plaza de Armas is a great spot to while away an afternoon: Cerro Santa Lucia. It is a small and intimate park-on-a-hill in the center of Santiago. And although it was a rocky and unkempt hill until the 19th century, it was then later turned into a beautifully manicured plot of land.

It might be a late bloomer in terms of tourist spots, but it does hold quite a bit of importance in Chilean history. This is where Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia founded the city in 1541. Going further back, Santa Lucia Hill is also a remnant of a once-active volcano that explains the richness of the city's soil and natural landscape.

Now, Cerro Santa Lucia is one of the best places for astounding views of the city. The Fuente Neptuno or the Neptune Fountain greets you as you enter the park. And, this is the starting point for many trails that go through and around the gardens.

Another spot worth noting is the Castillo Hidalgo, built in 1816 to protect the city. If you came for the sights, head on up to the very top of the hill where the epic viewpoint is located.

View the City at San Cristobal Hill

For another perspective of the city, take a cable car ride to San Cristobal Hill. It's one of the many must-do's in Santiago because of its equally panoramic.

The hills are located within a Metropolitan Park, which is the largest park in the city. There are also quite a bit to do here. First, there are two open-air pools that are accessible from November through March, which is the southern summer of course.

You can also take the funicular, which opened in 1925 and has since been declared a National Monument. The funicular also brings visitors to the National Zoo, which houses over one hundred and fifty different species. At the summit, you'll find a religious sanctuary commemorating the Immaculate Conception and punctuated by a large statue of the Virgin Mary. There's also a Japanese Botanical Garden that's a great spot to relax in the summer, as well as the Bicentenary Children's Park worth checking out.

Visit La Moneda

The Presidential Palace, also known as La Moneda, is located right in the city center. Its imposing white walls mean it clearly stands out from the ancient structures that surround it. In 1973, the Palace was bombed during a military coup when the president Salvador Andelle refused to surrender. Later that day he apparently committed suicide, although to this day there are many theories of assassination.

Despite its grim history, La Moneda has been beautifully restored to its original grandeur. There are tours held within its premises, but they often sell like hotcakes, sobe sure to sign-up up to a week in advance. Just be aware that there are often events held at the Palace, so it may be closed to the public from time to time. Be sure to check before you go.

One thing that people look forward to is the changing of the guards at 10 AM. It’s definitely worth a peek, especially if you miss out on the tour.

Discover Chile's Art Scene

Santiago de Chile is known as a city of artists. And to get a taste of this you can start your exploration at the Chilean Museum of Fine Arts, which is a work of art in itself. The museum was established in 1910 in commemoration of Chile's 100 years of independence. Entrance is also free from Tuesday to Sunday, so might as well pay a visit.

There are several galleries to pique your interest as well. The most popular in the list is the Centro Cultural Matucana 100, which is an art center that used to be a government warehouse. There are different exhibits within the space. Sometimes, they also host films and concerts that you can check out.

If you're more into contemporary art, the best way to tune into the pulse of the city is the massive and quirky street art. While Santiago's street art may not rival nearby Valparaiso, the city can hold its own with its murals and paintings. Some murals even cover an entire side of sky-high buildings.

Browse through the Markets

Santiago's streets are where all the action is. So, another experience you must not miss are the various markets that pop up on Santiago's streets. While shopping in the various stores and boutiques in the city are a good option, the street markets hold many of the city's local treasures.

Some of the most popular markets are Los Dominicos and Santa Lucia traditional arts and handicraft markets. As the name suggests, these markets have a good collection of handicrafts and souvenirs and reasonable prices too. While most markets are known to be aimed at tourists, there are still many authentic items that provide a glimpse at Chile's folkloric culture. If you're looking for an iconic Chilean souvenir to bring home, be on the lookout for the alpaca wool ponchos

Binge on Seafood at Mercado Central

One of the many things that Chile does best is seafood, thanks of course to its coastline and booming fishing industry. Naturally, these catches make their way to the city and straight to people's stomachs at the Mercado Central.

Dating back to 1872, the Mercado Central has always been a popular haunt for fresh seafood. The selection is many and varied, which locals shop for in the morning and tourists enjoy as meals in the afternoon. The dishes and ways of cooking are as varied as the seafood. You can find anything from ceviche and mussels to king crabs and complex seafood dishes.

The market is open every day, but the hours are never fixed. It all depends on what’s available and how quickly they run out of stock. The busiest time is always in the morning, which is also when you can get the freshest and first picks.

Sample Chilean Wine

Chile produces some of the world's best wines, and this is the perfect time to take a vineyard tour and sample some great bottles.

Cousiño Macul is a mere 15 kilometers away from Santiago, making for an excellent day tour from the center. Many local buses or cabs make the trip to the vineyard, which has been operating since 1856 if you can believe it. The vineyard and the craft of wine-making is currently being run by the sixth generation of Cousiños. They run four tours a day, and you can choose either a standard tour around the vineyard or a premium tour with wine-tasting, souvenirs, and a cheese plate. Personally, I always go for the second option!

Cool off at Emporio La Rosa

There's always space for dessert, and you should leave some room for ice cream at Emporio La Rosa.

Ice cream isn't necessarily an iconic treat in Chile, but the long queues outside this shop will suggest otherwise. Don't be discouraged though, as the line moves quickly. The shop also sells different kinds of sweets, including cakes, candies, and even snacks like empanadas. What people line up for, however, is the ice cream. You can choose to grab-and-go or enjoy your afternoon treat at their al fresco seating. Every now and then, street musicians stop by and serenade guests, which only adds to the local experience!

Take a Day trip to the Andes

The most stunning feature of Santiago is probably the epic views of the distant Andes Mountains. Given their proximity to town there are several great spots you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding, all of which are easy to get to from the city.

The nearest hiking spots to Santiago are Provincia, Manquehue, and Pochoco. There are several trails you can follow, but it will be a difficult trip if you're taking public transportation. The best way to hit the trails is to rent a car and drive yourself up to the trails or join the many tours that head out to these spots.

At winter time, the Andes also make for an excellent spot for snow sports. Just 90 minutes outside Santiago is Valle Nevado, considered one of the best skiing spots in the Andes. It offers a variety of different slopes for every skill level, so even beginners will have a great time here. There are also many shops, bars, and restaurants at this beautiful ski resort, so maybe consider spending a night in one of their apartments.

Exploring Santiago de Chile

There is no one thing to define Santiago de Chile, which is perhaps what makes it such an intriguing and exciting destination. Mixing Latin American flair with European influences make for a truly unique and beautiful setting any time of the year. If you're planning on visiting the city any time soon, drop by the spots on this list for the best the city can offer!

Mexico History Facts

You’ve Got the Name Wrong

What’s the country directly to the south of the USA called? If you answered “Mexico”, then you’re not quite right, mi amigo. Mexico’s official name is the Estados Unidos Mexicanos, which is typically rendered in English as the “United Mexican States”.

Though rarely used in practice nowadays, this has been the official name of Mexico since 1824, when the first constitution was adopted after the collapse of the First Mexican Empire. Speaking of which …

The Olmecs Did it First

Mexico’s first known civilization was the Olmec. Best known for their art, the Olmecs thrived in southern Mexico from around 1200BC. Their culture is believed to have highly influenced successive civilizations.

Some things the Olmecs are believed to have independently invented include the legendary Mesoamerican ballgame, the practice of bloodletting and the concept of zero.

The Toltecs Did it Best

Long after the Olmecs, the Toltecs emerged in the 10th Century. While Europe was locked in the chaos of the Viking Age, the Toltecs were busy building an empire that supposedly exerted influence over most of central and southern Mexico.

The Toltecs were revered by future civilizations as a golden age of Mesoamerican culture. 

One of the more interesting facts of Mexico and its prehistory is that the later Aztecs viewed the Toltecs as not only an inspiration, but also as legendary figures that straddle the line between history and myth.

Because most of what we know about the Toltecs came from fawning Aztec sources, it’s hard for historians to separate fact from myth. There’s some speculation many of the supposed exploits of the Toltecs were more products of the Aztec imagination than anything else.

Either way, the concept of the Toltec Empire played an important role in defining the last few centuries of pre-Hispanic Mexican history.

The Name “Mexico” Comes From the Aztecs

Mexico’s most famous pre-Hispanic civilization, the Aztec Empire, was an alliance of three city states that emerged in the 14th Century. A military powerhouse, the empire spent two hundred years subjugating neighboring peoples. Rather than directly control conquered peoples, the Aztecs preferred to install puppet rulers.

The Aztecs kept these puppet rulers in line by controlling their access to luxury goods, not to mention flaunting their overwhelming military power whenever necessary.

While the Aztec Empire was comprised of many peoples, the dominant ethnic group was the Tenochca. Also known as the Mexica, these people claimed to be partly the descendants of the legendary Toltecs.

The Aztec Empire Was a Carefully Managed Economy

The Aztecs didn’t just control regional elites, they also created a complex, well planned economy. Trade routes were centralized, and the prices of common goods ranging from corn to seashells were fixed to specific quantities of cacao beans.

Mexican Independence Facts

Mexico Was Previously Called New Spain

When Spain conquered what is today Mexico in 1521, they established a sprawling colonial territory. At its height, this political entity, the Viceroyalty of New Spain, encompassed everything from California to Central America.

The Cry of Dolores is typically considered the start of the Mexican War of Independence

On September 16, 1810, the dissident priest Miguel Hidalgo rang the bells of a church and called on the congregation to rebel against Spanish rule. His speech became known as “El Grito de Dolores”, or “The Cry of Dolores”. Today, the Cry is typically recognized as the start of the 11-year-long war for independence.

The Independence War Came at a Very, Very Bad Time for Spain

Mexico’s independence movement was heavily inspired by the liberal, enlightenment ideals of the French Revolution. By the time of the Cry of Dolores though, Napoleon had become emperor of France, and was busy carving his way through Europe.

One country that fared particularly badly during the Napoleonic Wars was Spain, which was devastated by invading French forces.

While the Spanish were fighting for their lives to push Napoleon back, their largest colony in the Americas declared independence.

Mexico Was the Only Spanish Colonial Nation to Have its Own Monarch

Here’s some intriguing Mexico information: Mexico always has to be a little bit different from everyone else, which might be why it made a rather unusual choice when it came to deciding what form of government to adopt after declaring independence from the Spanish Empire.

The Emperor of Mexico Designed the Mexican Flag

Rather than become a republic like other post-colonial states in the Western Hemisphere, Mexico’s first independent government was actually a monarchy. From May 1822 to March 1823, Mexico was ruled by Emperor Agustin I.

Though his reign was short-lived, the emperor left his mark on modern day Mexico, and is credited with designing the first version of the country’s modern flag.

Which Came First – the Mexican or Italian Flag?

One of the first things about Mexico you’ll notice is its flag – and how it’s basically identical to that of Italy. So who copied who? Turns out, Mexico first raised its green-white-red tricolor in 1822 – while the modern, unified nation of Italy didn’t do so until nearly 40 years later.

It’s worth bearing in mind though, that some smaller Italian states (like the short-lived Transpadane and Cisalpine republics) did so earlier.

Also, it’s generally agreed the flags were developed independently.

Mexico economy facts

Mexico City accounts for a huge amount of economic activity.Around 15 percent of Mexico’s GDP is produced in Mexico City, making the capital one of the world’s most productive urban areas.

Mexicans Work Waaay More Than You Do

If you think Mexicans are lazy, then here’s a reality check: the country has the world’s longest work hours, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The OECD data suggests the average Mexican clocks a whopping 2,255 hours on the job a year.

That’s the equivalent of working a 43 hour workweek all year round. Comparatively, Americans work around 1,783 hours a year, while Germans work 1,363 hours.

Mexicans Study, Too.

The National Autonomous University of Mexico is the oldest university in North America, and receives students from around the world who travel here to pursue extended education.

Mexico Geography Facts

Mexico is Bigger Than You Think

One of many cool facts about Mexico that often goes unnoticed is how big it is. Mexico is the world’s 14th largest country by landmass, and is divided into 31 states (plus the Federal District).

Mexico is High

Most Mexicans live on what’s called the “Altiplano” – a vast, largely semi-arid plateau that encompasses many of the central and northern states. While the altiplano has an average height of 1,825 meters above sea level, some regions are much higher.

Orizaba Will Take Your Breath Away – Literally

Mexico’s highest point is Orizaba, a dormant volcano on the border of Veracruz and Puebla. Also known as Citlaltepetl, this peak is 5,636 meters (18,491 ft) high, making it the third highest summit in North America. I actually climbed it in 2016 and did a world record! - Read about my Orizaba climbing adventure

Yucatan Means What?

So here’s one of the more fun facts about Mexico: Yucatan – the southern peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Mexico, has a rather odd meaning behind its name. One of the most interesting facts of Mexico is that the world “Yucatan” supposedly means “I don’t understand what you’re saying”.

According to legend, this was the response Spanish conquistadores kept receiving when they asked indigenous people what the region was called.

Fun facts about Mexico City

What’s in a Name?

The capital of Mexico in Spanish is called “ Ciudad de Mexico”, or “CDMX” for short. However, it’s common to also hear people refer to the city as DF, short for “Distrito Federal”.

Mexico City Was Originally Tenochtitlan

Modern Mexico City grew atop the ruins of the former Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Even today, one of many cool facts about Mexico City is that you can visit the ruins of Tenochtitlan, and is definitely one of those places of interest in Mexico.

Is it a Lake or a City?

Tenochtitlan was built on an island in Lake Texcoco. Over generations, the Aztecs expanded their island with floating gardens called chinampas, thus reducing the lake’s surface area. Today, almost all of Lake Texcoco is gone, buried under the sprawl of Mexico City.

How Big is Mexico City?

Officially, Mexico City’s population is just over 8 million. However, the official city limits represent just part of what is often refereed to as Greater Mexico City. This much larger area of satellite cities, outlying suburbs and an enormous ring of slums is one of the world’s largest contiguous metropolitan areas.

Greater Mexico City has a population of 21.3 million. It is easily the largest North American city, way bigger than New York.

If Mexico City Was a Country …

Sometimes Mexico City feels like a country within a country. This endless city has a culture all of its own, and you would need a lifetime to explore it. It’s so big, that if Mexico City was its own country, it would be the fifth largest economy in Latin America. In fact, its economy would be roughly the same size as that of Peru.

Mexican Food Facts

Mexican Food is Officially a World treasure

Of all the facts about Mexico culture, its the cultural significance of food that really matters.  In 2010, UNESCO officially placed Mexican food on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

This list recognizes cultural practices and expression of critical significance to humanity’s heritage. The only other culinary tradition to be featured on the list is that of France. After all, what is Mexico known for more than its food? 

Chocolate is Mexican

Here’s one of the more delicious Mexico facts for kids, and kids at heart: chocolate is totally Mexican. The earliest known cultivation of the cacao plant took place around 1750 BC in southern Mexico.

Originally, the cacao bean was probably used in the production of an alcoholic beverage, though over time it became valued in-and-of-itself as a luxury commodity.

The Aztecs absolutely loved cacao, and used it to create the earliest version of the hot chocolate. This frothy, bitter drink was likely referred to by Aztecs as “chocolatl”.

The Diverse World of Corn

Corn has been cultivated in Mexico longer than anywhere else in the world, and this humble crop has been responsible for feeding nations from the Olmecs to modern Mexico. Nowadays, 59 varieties of corn are endemic to Mexico.

Mexican independence day facts

Mexican Independence Day isn’t 5 de Mayo

Here’s one of the more interesting facts about Mexican culture that people often get wrong. 5 de Mayo is might be the day most Americans most associate with Mexico, but it’s not Independence Day.

5 de Mayo marks the day Mexican defenders defeated an invading French army at Puebla in 1862.

While important, this event is less significant to most Mexicans than Independence Day, which falls on September 16. Independence Day commemorates the afore-mentioned Cry of Dolores, which took place on September 16, 1810.

Technically, Independence Day Is a Two Day Event

Although the Cry of Dolores took place on September 16, 1810, it’s become tradition for the president of Mexico to recite the famous speech on the eve of September 15th.

This evening event serves as a moment of reflection and patriotism for Mexicans, while the following day is usually more of a celebration.

The Mexican War of Independence Wasn’t Supposed to Start on September 16

Remember how I said the Cry of Dolores is typically regarded as the start of the Mexican War of Independence? While that’s true, there’s a little more to the story than that. Hidalgo had originally planned to kick off his rebellion in October, 1810.

If things had gone according to plan, Mexico would today celebrate its independence on October 2.

Unfortunately for Hidalgo, his planned rebellion got off to a bad start. Throughout late 1810, Spanish authorities cracked down on Mexicans suspected of conspiring to overthrow colonial rule. As his fellow conspirators were being arrested all around him, Hidalgo had no choice but to speed up his timetable and start the rebellion earlier than planned.

While the decision may have saved the independence movement, it also meant Hidalgo’s forces entered the war on the back foot.

Hidalgo Never Saw an Independent Mexico

Hidalgo is today remembered as the father of an independent Mexico, though he himself never saw the fruition of his life’s work. Barely a year into the Mexican War of Independence, Hidalgo was captured by royalist forces after a series of crushing defeats.

On the 30th of July, 1811, Hidalgo was shot by a firing squad, and according to legend his body was later decapitated. His last words to his executioners were, "Though I may die, I shall be remembered forever; you all will soon be forgotten."

He's one of those important people in Mexico who no longer live.

Fun Facts about Mexico for Kids

• The Mexican border shared with the US is the 2nd largest border in the world after the Canadian / US border.
• Mexico is also prone to earthquakes and sits in one of the most dangerous earthquake zones named “The Ring of Fire”.
• One of the smallest dogs in the world the “Chihuahua” is named after a Mexican State.
• The color TV system was invented by a Mexican named Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena in 1942.
• Have you heard about the Raramuri or Tarahumara indigenous people? They are considered to be the best long distance runners in the world (as a group) and can run for over 300 km across mountains and rugged terrains. I actually ran with the Tarahumaras using huaraches, the sandals they use!

So there you go! A fantastic list of Mexico's interesting facts that will make you want to travel to Mexico with kids even more!

Map of Mexico

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When to visit Wyoming

Wyoming is best visited anytime from June through to September, when the weather is at its mildest. The winter months can be shockingly brutal even for seasoned travelers, especially if you’re driving.

Wyoming road conditions are generally best described as quiet, though winter snow can seriously impede traffic. Be aware of driving conditions before setting out.

We were there the third week of September, and weather was t-shirt worthy every day except perhaps at night. The further south we went the warmer it got too, with temperatures being in the mid seventies at noon the last few days.

Getting Around Wyoming

The best and probably only way of getting around Wyoming is by car. There are some bus services but they won't stop where you want it too and you'll miss most of the action anyhow, so I don't recommend you look into any other options.

Car rentals vary in price, and after some online searching I decided to risk and rent upon arrival in Jackson Hole airport. We got the best deal at the Enterprise counter, having already checked downtown with Avis and a few other companies. I wouldn't look anywhere else.

They were also able to provide a car seat for our little one!

There is no shortage of attractions in Wyoming, but they are not particularly close to each other. We traveled around the state for 8 days and it was certainly enough to see a good part of it, though there was plenty of driving during the last three days (these road travel songs will make the journey more fun!).

While there are several options and routes to take, our Wyoming itinerary worked out very well and is the one I recommend if you're flying into the state or driving from the West.

We started off at Jackson Hole and then drove into Grand Teton, Yellowstone, then East to Cody, South to Rock Springs passing the destinations mentioned below, a loop that covers a big part of the state.

Things to do in Wyoming

This article follows our itinerary and points out the best things you can see and do when visiting Wyoming with kids.

We may have missed a few, but for the most part are very happy with the result and certainly recommend you follow the same route for some great views and a fantastic travel experience!

Jackson Hole

This small town is the gateway to Grand Teton, and where we landed on our visit to Wyoming with our kid. The flight is is quite impressive over the Teton mountain range, and the airport is small and about 25 minutes from town.

Jackson Hole doesn't really have much going on by itself. The city is where all the hotels are (quite expensive, by the way) as well as restaurants,  shops and little more. 

We stayed at the 49'er Inn and Suites, one of the more affordable options and the place was quite cozy and offered a good breakfast.

There are though two places you must visit while here: the Town Square, with spectacular horned arches in its four corners, and the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center where very knowledgeable staff will give you all kinds of tips and help.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is only around 10 miles (16 km) south of Yellowstone National Park, meaning the two can easily be done in a single round trip. This postcard-perfect park features snowy mountains overlooking open plains of roaming bison.

There is one advantage with Grand Teton over Yellowostone, and in our opinion it plays a huge factor when visiting these parks with kids. Yellowstone is covered with trees and while driving around you don't really see anything, but trees of course.

And there's a lot of driving! Grand Teton, on the other hand, allows for picture perfect views all the time, and there are many places where to stop and go for a walk with your little ones. Because of this I actually preferred Grand Teton over Yellowstone!

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming’s most celebrated attraction is, of course, Yellowstone National Park. This incredible park has landscapes that are nothing short of breathtaking. The centerpiece of the park is Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts routinely throughout the day.

Contrary to popular belief, eruptions don’t quite happen like clockwork though, with average intervals varying from one to two hours.

Be aware that although this is one of the top Wyoming tourist attractions, you shouldn’t let the kids too close to the geyser while it’s erupting. Water temperatures can exceed 204°F (95.6°C), with over 8,400 gallons (32,000 liters) being blasted out during the average eruption.

Along with Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring is another unmissable sight at Yellowstone. This multicolored spring owes its rainbow of colors to a variety of thermophile bacteria that inhabit its warm waters. The spring itself is larger than a football field, and deeper than a 10-story building.

Hiking around Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone and its surroundings aren’t just for sight-seeing; they also offer some pretty awe-inspiring hiking opportunities. The most commonly-hiked trail is Mount Washburn, which can be approached from either the north or south.

The south is somewhat easier, but takes longer due to a series of gentle switchbacks.

Hayden Valley

Either before or after Yellowstone, take a side-trip to Hayden Valley, an area rich in wildlife. If you’re lucky, you should have the chance to see bison, elk, coyotes and maybe the occasional grizzly bear.

To get to the valley, either take the Grand Loop Road and follow the signs, or hike the Hayden Valley Trail from Yellowstone Lake. The trail is fairly easy to follow as it hugs the Yellowstone River, and is a very rewarding experience for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.

Cody

Your next stop is the town of Cody, the historic home of one of the Wild West’s most iconic entertainers. Founded in 1896 by showman William Frederick "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the town initially served as a base of operations for his troupe of traveling entertainers.

For three decades, Buffalo Bill toured the frontier, and traces of his glory days remain everywhere in Cody. In terms of things to do in Cody, start by swinging by the old Irma Hotel.

Established by Buffalo Bill himself in 1902, the Irma hasn’t changed much since the days of the famed showman. 

Even today, the Irma puts on classic Western-style entertainment most nights.

Attractions

To really get an insight into the life and times of Buffalo Bill, one of the best things to do in Cody WY with kids is to pay a visit to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This sprawling complex of five museums takes a solid day to get through, but is both enlightening and enjoyable.

The centerpiece of the complex, the Buffalo Bill Museum, is an interesting exploration of the old showman’s life, and his impact on the frontier economy.

Meanwhile the Plains Indians Museum offers a fascinating look into the other side of the frontier, and contains artifacts from groups including the Lakota, Crow, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Pawnee and Blackfeet.

Next, head over to the Draper Natural History Museum to learn about the local environment, including the geological formations like the Grand Canyon. Then next door, the Whitney Western Art Museum showcases some excellent examples of local art, and is organized around themes such as the life of a cowboy, horses in the Wild West, and First Peoples.

Lastly, the Cody Firearms Museum is a must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in historic firearms, and contains some beautifully maintained pieces from the 16^th Century onward.

Watching a rodeo is also a must on any Wyoming vacation, but watch our for the season. We thought there would be rodeos year round, but it turns out that by mid September the season is over and you won't find any.

Apart from the museums and historic hotel, there aren’t too many other attractions in Cody itself. However, just outside Cody, Old Trail Town is certainly worth a peek. This collection of buildings from the late 19^th Century today serve as a living museum.

Visitors can see first-hand the trials and tribulations of life in the Wild West, not to mention a visit to a frontier saloon. If you’re a fan of old Westerns, then don’t miss the Hole-in-the-Wall Cabin, where Butch Cassidy hid with a band of outlaws in an iconic scene from the film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

For a slightly less jovial (but nonetheless informative) side-trip, the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center isn’t much further from Cody, but feels like a world away.

Indeed, this center was originally the site where nearly 14,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly interned during WWII.

Today the center serves to educate visitors about the hardships of life for detainees.

Next, if you have the time you should try to stop by the Smith Mansion in the Wapiti Valley. This engineering marvel looks less like a mansion, and more like a game of jenga that’s about to go horribly wrong. The mansion was built by eccentric engineer Lee Smith, and is today maintained by his children.

Lastly, at some point while heading in or out of Cody, make sure you set aside some time for a drive down the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway. This stretch of road connects Cody to the eastern entrance of the Yellowstone National Park, and is worth a drive for its stunning views of the countryside.

This scenic drive which we took will take you past idyllic lakes and mountain scenery, some funky rock formations and the Pahaska Tepee. The latter was originally a hunting lodge constructed by Buffalo Bill.

Thermopolis with Kids

The next of our Wyoming destinations is Thermopolis, the regional hot spring hub. Indeed, Thermopolis hot springs are supposedly the largest natural mineral springs anywhere in the world.

Attractions around Thermopolis

The highlight of a trip to Thermopolis is a visit to the Hot Springs State Park. Thanks to a specific clause in the 1896 treaty that created the park, entry is free but time is limited to 1 hour. Bathing can be done at the State Bath House, where the spring water is regulated to remain at a temperature of around 104°F.

If you're visiting Thermopolis with kids though I do recommend you head over to  Star Plunge instead. It has an outdoor water slide and some small indoor pools where your little ones can have a lot more fun!

If you’d like to stretch your legs after a bath, consider taking a side trip to the nearby Legend Rock, a petroglyphic site on the far side of the park. Otherwise, head back into town to pay a visit to the Hot Springs County Museum and Cultural Center, where you can learn a bit about local history. Or, dig even deeper with a visit to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.

This is one of the few museums in the world with active dig sites within driving distance. Over 10,000 bones have been excavated at sites around Thermopolis, many of which have ended up on display at the Dinosaur Center.

The pride of the center’s collection is an imposing Archaeopteryx – the only such specimen on display anywhere outside Europe.

Before leaving Thermopolis, you might also want to pay a visit to Merlin’s Hide Out. Though somewhat expensive, their handmade buffalo products make for great souvenirs of Wyoming.

Where to Eat in Thermopolis

We ate and had a drink at the the One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company. The food is great and it was interesting to see how locals went quiet and looked at us when we stepped in at 9:30 pm with our two year old.

You don't see them in the Facebook post below, but they were on the right side of the restaurant.

Hotels in Thermopolis

As for places to stay in Thermopolis, choices do fall notably on the hotel-motel side of the scale. Roundtop Mountain Motel is one of the top rated places in town, and their cabins are very much in the theme of the Wild West.

Wind River Canyon

Located between Thermopolis and the town of Shoshoni, Wild River Canyon is a worthwhile pit stop while heading out of town. This scenic canyon is just oozing with Wild West charm, and is an ideal spot to stretch your legs for a while and break up the drive. The scenic drive past the canyon is even worth the side trip in itself.

Wind River Horse Sanctuary

As you drive South, just outside Lander Wind River Horse Sanctuary is worth a visit for any budding cowboys or cowgirls. Mind you the entrance is not easy to find and Google Maps is not very helpful, but eventually you will.The sanctuary offers tours that allow visitors to get up close to wild mustangs.

The on-site visitor center is a wealth of information on local history, including indigenous culture. Speaking of which, you definitely shouldn’t pass up a visit to the nearby Wind River Indian Reservation.

Along with a working ranch, the reservation is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes.

The reservation includes cultural centers where you can learn about local tribes, along with a handful of historic sites like the St. Stephen’s Mission. Unfortunately it was closed when we were there.

Red Rock Wyoming

If you’ve seen  Quentin Tarintino’s The Hateful Eight, then you’ve seen Red Rock. This iconic rock formation was historically used by pioneers following the Overland Trail. Many of these travelers marked their trip by signing their names in the rock itself. Today, Red Rock boasts signatures from as far back as the1850s.

Rock Springs

The fifth largest city in Wyoming, Rock Springs began its life breaking rocks as a Wild West mining town. Today, Rock Springs is booming again as the heart of a major oil and gas region.

Things to do in Rock Springs with Kids

If you didn’t get your fix of dinosaur bones over at Thermopolis, then don’t miss Rock Springs’  WWCC Natural History Museum. Here you can’t quite walk with dinosaurs, but you can grab a selfie with the five life-size replicas on site. The museum also features ancient pottery from some of the region’s early human inhabitants.

The Rock Springs Wild Horse Holding Facility is the place to go to if you want to see these animals run loose. There is a loop you can drive that will almost guarantee you get to see them but it does take time and ideally an SUV. Teo was happy enough by seeing those within the fences, so we didn't venture doing the loop. 

Speaking of history, Rock Springs is just near one of the most intact stretches of the famed Oregon Trail. From 1846 to 1869, an estimated 400,000 settlers followed the Oregon Trail through here. You can see the same unforgiving landscape pioneers faced in the 19^th Century, with the area making for great hiking.

The Rock Springs segment of the Oregon Trail can be accessed from the Fort Bridger State Historic Park, which is just outside town. The park is also home to a restored section of the Pony Express Route.

In its heyday, the Pony Express utilized a series of horse rotation stations to keep riders constantly supplied with fresh steeds, allowing for a massive reduction in communication times in the late 19^th Century. Some of the other popular hikes in the area include the Outlaw Trail, Moron Trail and the hike to Pilot Butte Outlook.

Adobe Town

Deep in the badlands to the south-east of Rock Springs lurks one of Wyoming’s more surreal attractions. Reachable only by dirt road, Adobe Town is more of an experience than an actual place. This largely uninhabited region of martian landscapes plays all kinds of tricks with your mind.

The rock formations twist into sophisticated architectural wonders, while the land transforms into a Salvador Dali painting. Come here with the expectation that you’ll get lost, and have no idea what you’re doing in the middle of nowhere.

Give the desert time though, and Adobe Town will creep up on you.

Due to the remoteness and outright weirdness of Adobe Town, it’s perhaps not the best destination for bored kids. If you do come though, make sure to have some sturdy tires, and aim for sunset if you can. Bring water, and brace yourself for uncompromising weather at times.

Where to Stay in Rock Springs

Rock Springs is a medium sized city and therefor has a quite a few hotels where to choose from (as well as Airbnb options of course) .

We stayed at the Hampton Inn on Dewar Dr, which was quite convenient and has a Wendy's just a two minute walk away if you need a quick byte.  The rooms are pretty straight forward and the breakfast well sorted and plenty.

One thing we loved about this hotel was that checkout is at 11 AM, unlike 9 AM like there rest we had been staying at. We also later found out that on the opposite side of the hotel there is a doughnut specialty store called Cowboy Donuts, a must visit for somebody with a sweet tooth like me.

Unfortunately I learned about it when we were gone.

Flaming Gorge

After Rock Springs, the final stop in Wyoming should be the famed Flaming Gorge. The largest reservoir in Wyoming, Flaming Gorge also represents one of the largest construction projects in the state’s history.

1958 and 1964, thousands of workers labored to complete this massive undertaking, which today stores just under 4 million acre feet of water. It’s also a popular spot for locals to relax on weekends.

Fishing, boating and hiking are all popular activities around Flaming Gorge, not to mention camping. If you’re short on time at this point, then don’t worry too much; even from the highway, the views of the gorge are pretty gorgeous.

Devil’s Tower National Monument

Located on the far side of the state, Devil’s Tower National Monument doesn’t get quite as much love as the Tetons or Yellowstone. Having said that, this odd rock formation was the first national monument to be declared in US history for a reason; it leaves one serious impression on the visitor.

This eerie site is rich in local lore, not to mention a great place for hiking and nature photography.

Bighorn Medicine Wheel

Another less-visited location, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is one of Wyoming’s more elusive attractions. For one, it’s covered by heavy snow most of the year, and the rocks that make up this site only become exposed during the warmer months of the year.

Over 80 feet across, this gigantic rock wheel consists of 28 spokes stretching outward from a cairn. Hundreds of similar sites exist across the United States, though their exact purpose is somewhat unclear.

The medicine wheel at Bighorn is arguably the best preserved anywhere in the country, and is suspected to hold some kind of astronomical significance.

The wheel can be reached from the nearby town of Lovell, though bear in mind the road is closed from October to May due to heavy snow.

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What to Expect When Visiting Los Cabos

You may be wondering where is Cabo San Lucas. Los Cabos is the name of a municipality that encompasses much of the extreme southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Sur peninsula.

Once a backwater of fishing villages and surf hamlets, the Mexican government first began to develop the region as a tourism hub in the late 20th Century.

Today, Los Cabos is easily one of northern Mexico’s most popular international tourist destinations. Its close proximity to the US and competitive accommodation prices means Los Cabos has garnered a bit of a reputation as a party hotspot.

Indeed, it can be; if you’re looking for a wild weekend of drinks and beaches, then a Los Cabos vacation passes with flying colors.

However, there’s more to this beautiful corner of Mexico than just binge drinking and wasted gringo college students, as you will have access to amazing Cabo adventures and excursions.

Los Cabos boasts some amazing wildlife and adventure tourism opportunities, not to mention plenty of family-friendly resorts that are perfect for a decadent vacation.

Is Cabo safe? Generally speaking, yes. Just take the typical precautions you'd take anywhere and you will be fine.

Further reading: interesting facts of Mexico

Guide of Cabo San Lucas Beaches

When you visit Cabo, you must visit its stunning beaches. Not only is there a plethora of top-quality hotels scattered along the beach, but there are also a variety of activities, from snorkeling to surfing.

The beaches of Cabo are some of Mexico’s most sought-after beaches, and you will not leave disappointed.

However, do note that  Cabo San Lucas swimming safety is not the best as many of the beaches- if not most- have strong riptides and a dangerous shorebreak, making all these Cabo beaches unswimmable.

So, what are the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas?

El Arco

The symbol of Cabo San Lucas, El Arco is, as its name suggests, an impressive rock arch formation just off the coast. Head down to the Playa del Amor, then walk towards the nearby Playa del Divorcio.

Just between these two beaches, you should see El Arco rising out of the water just off the coast. It’s a nice spot at sunset, though if you want a closer look day tours are available.

These tours take visitors right up to the rock formations via water taxi, where you can get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife. Sea lions are commonly seen lazing on the rocks, and the kids will love it.

Bear in mind, however, that the waters around El Arco and the stretch of shoreline between the Amor and Divorcio beaches are not suitable for safe swimming. In case you're doubting this statement just watch this video.

Playa del Amor

Playa del Amor ( Lovers Beach Cabo ) draws visitors by the dozens with its stunning views and smooth sands. During peak season, you’d better arrive early and stake your claim, as the shoreline fills up fast.

Some travelers have also reported issues with irritating flies, so be sure to pack insect repellent.

The beach is perfectly suitable for children, though be warned: despite it being one of the best beaches in Los Cabos only swim on the Bahia de Cabo San Lucas.

As previously mentioned, the stretch of San Lucas beaches in the direction of El Arco isn’t safe for swimming due to rough waters.

Playa Medano

Easily the most popular beach in town, Playa Medano – or Medano Beach Cabo – fills up even faster than the nearby Playa del Amor. It’s certainly one of the most unmissable of Cabo San Lucas attractions, with its great vibe and plethora of beach-side activities.

Along with the ubiquitous cocktail bars that line the beach, there’s also volleyball, jet ski and kayaking facilities. It’s also possible to catch water taxis from here to El Arco.

Unlike Playa del Amor, Medano is completely safe and one of the best Cabo beaches to swim in, and tourists consistently report the waters to be surprisingly clean given the number of visitors.

The only one issue is that some travelers have complained of the occasional sticky vendor trying to sell souvenirs.

Playa Santa Maria

This expansive, horseshoe shaped beach, is a breathtaking spot to spread a beach towel and lather on sunscreen.

The best time for swimming and snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach Cabo is in the morning because boat cruises with large groups of divers and snorkelers usually populate the area in the afternoon.

You should also explore the bay, which overlooks a protected marine sanctuary teeming with colorful sea creatures and plants. If you plan to lounge in the sun, ensure you bring plenty of sunscreen as there are few shaded areas. You can also rent an umbrella, along with snorkeling gear, at the beach’s entrance.

Also plan to bring any food you may need because there are few vendors and restaurants along this Cabo beach.

Playa Chileno

Chileno Beach Cabo is another wonderful destination for swimming and snorkeling. Chileno Beach is the most popular beach along the coastal corridor because it is surrounded by Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

It is also one of the cleanest beaches in Cabo. In fact, this Los Cabos beach has a Blue Flag certification.

You can be sure to lounge under the shade-giving palapas and take a dip into the pacific ocean’s warm, blue water.

Playa Solmar

Solmar Beach in Cabo San Lucas has expansive stretches of white sand beach. This is also not a swimmable beach as the currents and waves are very strong. The beach, however, is perfect for sunset watching, long walks along the smooth sand, and lovers of whale watching.

Playa Palmilla

If you are looking for calm water and a family friendly beach, Palmilla Beach is the one from you. Here you will be surrounded by luxurious ocean front homes and the world-renowned Jack Nicklaus Ocean Nine golf course.

On weekends, I recommended you arrive early if you plan on snagging a palapa or bring your own umbrella for shade. There are also activities like kayaking, volleyball, and fishing.

When to Visit

Deciding when to visit depends somewhat on your priorities.

If you’re in town for whale watching, then mid-December to March is your safest bet.

Otherwise, May to June is usually considered the ideal time to plan your trip as Los Cabos’ weather can create some amazing bargains. These months fit nicely between the vacation peak season and the worst of summer, when the region usually gets pummeled by storms.

During these months, some all-inclusive resorts in Cabo offer steep discounts, so the savvy traveler can pick up some serious bargains.

Likewise, most tour operators become far more flexible during this period, and prices are always up for negotiation. Even if you do visit during the stormy season, there will still be many things to do in Cabo.

October and November aren’t too bad, though you’ll be well-advised to book ahead, as this period can still be quite busy. 

Sports fishers should aim to arrive anytime just after the summer storms, or in early fall.

If you can, try to steer well clear of college vacation time, when spring breakers descend on Los Cabos in full force. Unless you’re a spring breaker yourself, this time of year is arguably the worst time to visit. So stick to off-season trips to Cabo when you can.

For what it's worth we decided to visit Los Cabos the second week of September and were there for 4 days. Plenty of sunshine, our hotel wasn't crowded at all, and generally speaking prices were better than during the winter months. We did get a pm shower one day though.

Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo

Your first decision to make when planning a Los Cabos trip is where to stay. The Los Cabos municipality encompasses two main towns: San Lucas and San Jose. Between the two towns, a corridor of resorts runs along the coast.

Unless you’re staying in one of these resorts, odds are you’ll end up in either San Lucas or San Jose. Generally speaking, San Lucas is more geared towards party animals, while San Jose is more laid back.

Regardless of where you stay, however, make sure you visit Los Cabos' many points of interest.

Cabo San Lucas Activities for Families

The better known of the Cabos, San Lucas is a party town at heart. There is no shortage of things to do in San Lucas, and the area is extremely popular among spring breakers.

San Lucas is all about letting loose and having a few too many drinks. Having said that, the town isn’t completely off limits to families. Despite what you may hear, there are in fact plenty of great things to do in Cabos San Lucas with family members of all ages.

Downtown San Lucas area has a number of great beaches, and is an excellent base for adventure tourism in the surrounding area.

Iglesia de San Lucas

The Iglesia de San Lucas is one of Cabo San Lucas’ few historic sites. This 18th Century church has remained largely unchanged since it received a face-lift in the 1800s. Today, it’s the centerpiece of Cabo San Lucas’ main square, which is likewise a pleasant spot for a meal or margarita. Bilingual mass is held on Sunday.

So what other attractions does Cabo San Lucas offer aside from its glamorous beaches? From a vibrant nightlife to a wealth of water activities, you are sure to find something for every member of your party.

El Centro Nightlife

In downtown Cabo San Lucas, the party never ends – and that’s not an exaggeration. During peak season, Cabo San Lucas is a permanent party town, and El Centro is on fire 24 hours a day. Florescent shots of mystery booze flow freely from dusk to dawn, and back to dusk again.

Cabo San Lucas isn’t particularly child friendly once the sun goes down. If you’re visiting Los Cabos with kids you’ll want to get a babysitter for your night on the town. It can be worth the hassle though; nightlife here is, without doubt, one of the most fun things to do in Cabo.

Trying to pick out a few highlights here is no easy task.

Every bar and club packed into El Centro is an adventure in itself, with most offering solid entertainment.

The Cabo Wabo Cantina is arguably the most well known venue in town, and tends to offer some of the best live music in town. Meanwhile, down the street, Happy Ending Bar is a favorite among spring breakers for its dirt cheap drinks and generous servings of local fare. The nearby Giggling Marlin is another popular dive, while El Squid Roe is the place to be for out-of-control dancing. If you’d rather something more luxurious though, try the more relaxed Bar Esquina.

Whale Watching

If you’re looking for something to do around Los Cabos with kids, then it’s hard to beat a whale watching tour.

From December to April, whales frequent the waters just off the peninsula, and tours are extremely popular. Be sure to book ahead to avoid missing out. If you can, try to get a tour in January, February or early March, when whale calves are occasionally sighted. 

Whale watching is definitely one of the top things to do in Cabos, so do try to get a tour if you arrive in season.

Things to Do in San Jose del Cabo

The quieter of the Cabo siblings, San Jose is a little more refined than the more boisterous San Lucas. Instead of bars and booze, you’ll find more art galleries and hipster seafood restaurants. For families, there’s definitely more things to do in San Jose del Cabo that are child-friendly.

San Jose del Cabo Art Walk

During peak season from November to June, the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk presents some of the best local art each Thursday night. Galleries throughout the art district remain open late as throngs of visitors crawl from gallery to gallery. It’s a great opportunity to see some local talent, and is family friendly.

Frank Arnold Gallery

There’s a lot of great art in San Jose, but the Frank Arnold Gallery is perhaps among the most worthwhile. This house-turned-gallery is loaded with wonderful works by local painter Frank Arnold. His enthusiasm and passion makes visits particularly memorable. The best time to visit is during the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk.

Ivan Guaderrama Art Gallery

In terms of things to do in San Jose del Cabo with kids, this place should be top of the list. This small gallery is full to the brim, and takes a surprisingly long time to get through. It’s also one of the few interactive art galleries in town, and kids will love the hands-on approach.

Zippers/Costa Azul

San Lucas might have the loudest beaches on the peninsula, but that doesn’t mean San Jose doesn’t have its fare share of idyllic shoreline.

Officially known as Costa Azul but referred to by locals simply as the Zippers, San Jose’s best stretch of beach is the perfect spot for a surf. Zippers attracts surfing enthusiasts from all over the world, especially during the annual Los Cabos Open of Surf.

If you didn’t bring your board, then don’t despair: just across from the beach, the Costa Azul Surf Shop offers rentals. There’s likewise no shortage of tour operators offering surf classes throughout San Jose.

Baja Brewing Company

A decade ago, craft beer was virtually unknown in Mexico, but Baja Brewing changed that. Since 2007, this artisan brewing company has been pushing out some of Mexico’s best craft beers.

Along with offering tastings, they also serve great food in their outdoor beer garden. 

Don’t miss the pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven.

Wirikuta Garden

The Wirikuta Garden is a 12 acre botanic park loaded with over 1500 varieties of desert plants from all over the world. It’s also home to a collection of sculptures by local artists.

The owner, Juanito, is full of interesting factoids about his botanic collection, and is particularly passionate about cacti.

Come early to beat the sun, and don’t forget to bring along plenty of water.

Iglesia de San Jose del Cabo

San Jose’s main church dates back to the early 1800s, but was heavily damaged during the Mexican Revolution a century later. The current building is the result of a major restoration in the 1940s. It’s one of the more popular historic sites in downtown San Jose. Mass is held in Spanish on Sundays.

Plaza Mijares

This artsy little square is surrounded on all sides by art galleries and souvenir shops. In fact, it’s probably the best place in town to stock up on souvenirs, not to mention a pleasant option for an afternoon stroll.

Around Los Cabos

The countryside around Los Cabos is bursting at the seams with adventure tourism options. With excellent weather and a well-established tourism infrastructure, it’s easy to get around and enjoy all that the peninsula has to offer.

Horse riding is a popular option for day trips into the countryside, while the whole region is renowned for its surf and golfing.

Golf

Probably the last thing your kids want to do on vacation, it’s nonetheless worthwhile to try to set aside half a day to take a peek at Cabos’ famed golf courses.

The region is renowned for boasting some of the world’s best greens, not to mention perfect weather all year round.

Club Campestre San Jose is one of the best known names in town, while Palmilla Golf Club is popular among both pros and tourists alike. Most clubs offer beginner classes.

San Jose Estuary

Just outside San Jose, these wetlands make for some of the region’s best eco-tourism.

The San Jose Estuary is a 2,000 acre freshwater lagoon that draws a wide variety of wildlife, including migratory birds. It’s a bird watcher’s paradise, and a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy nature. 

Tours of the estuary are available from San Jose, though the estuary can be visited for free if you have private transport.

Horseback Riding in Los Cabos

With great weather and striking coastal views, Los Cabos is best explored on horseback. Los Cabos Horses offers tours with equestrian professionals who are both well-trained and very friendly.

English is available. It makes for a great day trip, and one of the best Cabo San Lucas activities for families. Our son Teo loves horses for some reason, and this was his first horse riding experience ever.

I wasn't sure he would last the hour long trip , but he enjoyed every single minute of it with a grin.

Sports Fishing

Sports fishing has to be one of the best top things to do in Cabo. In particular, this is the place to be if you’ve ever wanted to catch a marlin bigger than you are. There’s plenty of charter operators in both San Lucas and San Jose.

Todos Santos

Barely an hour from Cabos San Lucas, a trip to Todos Santos is easily one of the best things to do around Los Cabos – and nobody really knows about it!

That’s right; despite the persistent popularity of Los Cabos, somehow this tiny surf town has managed to keep things surprisingly mellow. There’s a few museums around town, along with a smattering of art galleries and good restaurants around the center of town.

However, the real reason to come here is to escape the crowds and enjoy the picturesque beaches.

Expect to have the place to yourself in low season.

Accommodation in Los Cabos

As a major tourist destination, there’s never any shortage of stunning Cabo San Lucas resorts. From sand-strewn budget hostels to luxury beach side resorts, there is a great variety of Cabo San Lucas hotels for pretty much any budget, as there are in San Jose del Cabo.

Much of the beachline between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is dotted with resorts. If you're looking for full indulgence, there are plenty of luxury all-inclusive resorts in Cabo, but if you're looking for something mellower, consider San Jose del Cabo or even head off to La Paz, where there are other attractions you shouldn't miss anyhow.

So, what's the best hotel in Cabo San Lucas? This is of course a matter of personal preference, and there is no single one.

In the end chose to stay in San Jose, which is generally cheaper than San Lucas overall. Our pick was Posada Real Los Cabos, a budget friendly beachfront resort with incredible food and a laid back Mexico themed atmosphere. 

Posada Real Los Cabos was our Cabo all inclusive hotel during the trip. As you can see from the pictures it is definitely different, with an atypical desert look-a-like courtyard and the beachfront swimming pools.

The beach in front is not one of the swimmable beaches in Cabo, but it is great for walking, horse riding, playing and many other activities.  

While the food at the pool snack bar was not very good, the meals served at the main restaurant were all delicious, definitely one of the highlights of the hotel. 

Great staff and budget friendly prices make it a fantastic option, and while there are plenty of Cabo resorts you can stay at not many offer as much value for money.

Los Cabos Mexico Map

Plan Your Los Cabos Trip

Accommodation in Los Cabos

Booking.com has over 500 hotels in Los Cabos including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Ground Transfer in Los Cabos

Find the best option for your airport-hotel transfer with Bookaway.

Flights to Los Cabos

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees). Download the Skyscanner App. It’s an all in one flights, hotel and car hire search engine app and makes it easier for you to find the best travel deals!

Rental Cars in Los Cabos

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Los Cabos airport.

RV Rentals Los Cabos:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Los Cabos road trip. Find your RV rentals for Los Cabos here. 

Tours in Los Cabos

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Los Cabos including tickets to the popular Oahu attractions.

Conclusion

Los Cabos might be famous for it's wild nightlife and crazy parties, and while this may be true there are many family friendly activities to enjoy during the day.

Perhaps its biggest drawback is that the beach in front of most of the hotels is not open for swimming, but they all have pools to compensate. 

Throw in good food and many outdoor activities and you've got a great family friendly vacation to enjoy with your kids in Los Cabos, Mexico.

Understanding La Paz

La Paz is the capital of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, which encompasses the southern portion of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico. Historically, the city was little more than a small town until the population explosion of the early 2000s. 

On the back of a booming tourism industry, the new century turned La Paz into one of northern Mexico’s most prosperous cities, with living standards comparable to that north of the border.

Indeed, La Paz has a long, complicated history with the United States. In fact, in the mid-19^th Century, the city was the capital of the short-lived American-founded Republic of Sonora.

Seeking to emulate the Texas Revolution, American mercenary William Walker proclaimed the republic in 1853, after seizing a sizable but sparsely inhabited chunk of the peninsula from Mexico.

Walker’s invasion was never approved by the US government, though he managed to fend of legal challenges in his homeland and even sell bonds for his self-proclaimed republic.

The Republic of Sonora collapsed a year later amid internal chaos and a fierce counteroffensive by Mexican authorities.

Today, La Paz continues to entertain its fare share of adventurers from the north, but in the form of eco-tourists and whale watchers instead of grizzled mercenaries or wild party seekers from Cabo San Lucas.

The city is famed for its gray whale and whale shark tours, not to mention a good mix of heritage sites and some of the best beaches in northern Mexico. As a major commercial port, La Paz can have a bit of a city feel to it, and is busier than most of the otherwise relaxed Baja California Peninsula.

Luckily, there’s a good variety of surf towns and historic villages within a stone’s throw of the city, not to mention pristine island hideaways and all-inclusive resorts.

Read more fun and interesting facts of Mexico

La Paz (Mexico) Map

When to Visit La Paz, Mexico

Peak season is December through to around March, with New Year being a particularly popular time to visit.

During peak season, expect prices to surge and all but the most remote beaches to be crowded. Whale watching season runs from January to March, when the temperatures tend to be mild.

The summer months can be unpleasant, with hot days and occasionally brutal storms. It is at this time of the year that La Paz (Mexico) weather is toughest, but because of this prices tend to bottom out around August, when discounts try to woo in travelers despite the lousy weather.

 By September, expect plenty of rain and gray skies (which is, nonetheless, the time of the year when we visited. We were lucky and had decent weather during our five days).

November, on the other hand, makes for a good shoulder just before peak season hits. This is a good month for scoring reasonable prices before vacation season kicks in, while avoiding the worst of La Paz’ weather.

So if you’re after a serious bargain, aim for August, but otherwise November is usually the best time to visit La Paz.

Things to Do in La Paz Mexico

While La Paz is quieter and not as popular as Los Cabos, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to do in the area. In fact, now that we've been there too, I'd venture to say that this area is friendlier for families visiting Baja California on a family vacation. Why?

Perhaps the calmer ocean makes everything easier. There's no shortage of beautiful beaches where kids can play in knee deep water, and there's also plenty of fantastic Mexican food to indulge into.

Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz

La Paz isn’t Mexico’s best destination for cultural or historic tourism, though the city’s main cathedral is worth a bit of a peek and perhaps the most popular of La Paz attractions.

The Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz was constructed in 1861 by Dominicans, and is today often used as the site for both religious and the occasional classical music event.

The cathedral dominates the Jardin Velasco, and is unmissable if you’re strolling through central La Paz.

Museo de la Ballena

If you don’t have time for a whale watching tour during your time in La Paz, then make sure you visit this enlightening museum. The La Paz Whale Museum is both a wealth of information on all things whale related, though it has a particular focus on the gray whales that frequent the local seas.

To add to the atmosphere, the museum features a soundtrack of whale noises that follows you through the five exhibition areas. On top of this, the good mix of images, videos and displays makes the museum colorful and interactive enough to keep kids occupied.

Moreover, the museum itself manages a foundation dedicated to the study and preservation of whales, so you know your money is going to a good place.

The Malecon

The Malecon is La Paz’ main waterfront area, stretching over 5 kilometers along the city’s coastline. There isn’t anything in particular to see here, except perhaps those incredible sunsets.

Head down to the waterfront in the late afternoon, and join locals as the sun’s rays start to bronze.

On weekends, the entire walk becomes inundated with artists peddling their work and vendors offering ice cream and snacks. The whole walk is lined with restaurants and cafes, so it’s likewise a good place to get a meal overlooking the water.

While most people visit the Malecon in the afternoon for sunset, the area is actually quite nice in the mornings. The afternoon atmosphere is definitely nice, and nothing beats a full Mexican breakfast as the morning sea breeze comes in to clear away the summer heat.

Bear in mind the waterfront began to undergo a series of renovations last year. The Malecon is still very much open to the public, but don’t be surprised if your walk is interrupted by a stretch of wet concrete.

Museo Regional de Antropologia e Historia

This sprawling but logically organized museum serves as a good orientation to La Paz and its surroundings. The various exhibitions here follow the history of the peninsula from prehispanic times through to the revolutionary period of the early 20^th Century. Much of the museum is in Spanish, though some English is available.

Ibarra’s Pottery Workshop

This pottery workshop has been churning out some of Mexico’s most prized ceramics since 1958. For Mexican tourists, a visit to Ibarra’s is pretty much mandatory during a trip to La Paz.

Known throughout the country for their high quality products, Ibarra’s also makes for a good hour of entertainment with their workshop tours. Watch the potters as they carefully craft ceramics – then stock up on a few of your own.

Teatro de la Ciudad

As previously mentioned, La Paz isn’t really known as a cultural destination, but that doesn’t mean the city is devoid of a lively performing arts scene. On the contrary, the City Theater puts on regular theatrical and musical shows, with most top performers from across Mexico passing though here at some point.

So if you’re feeling a bit starved of culture, then consider checking out one of the weekend performances at the City Theater.

Dove of Peace

Anyone coming in or out of La Paz will undoubtedly run into this gigantic monument. The symbol of the city, the Dove of Peace can be viewed as either a pair of doves or a whale’s tail. There’s a short walk around the monument, but not much else here. Your best bet is to take a quick selfie stop here on your way in or out of town.

Activities in and Around La Paz

Explore Isla Espiritu Santo

This tiny island in the Sea of Cortez is home to a thriving population of sea lions, not to mention a colorful variety of other wildlife such as sea birds. The volcanic scenery makes for a stark contrast with the rest of the peninsula, and there are numerous trails for hikers.

Getting to the island is easy: just jump on a boat from the Malecon, and be prepared to return sometime in the afternoon. Tours are easily organized from the waterfront, not to mention adventure tourism options. It is one of the top La Paz (Mexico) tourist attractions.

Indeed,  Espiritu Santo island is something of a hub for scuba and snorkeling trips. It’s also possible to swim with sea lions here.

Espiritu Santo is a protected UNESCO site, and locals are pretty keen to keep it that way. Don’t litter or disturb wildlife, and keep on the trails.

Hit up the Beaches

The city of La Paz itself doesn’t have much in the way of surf or swim beaches attractive for family travel. While pretty, the waters off the Malecon are generally snubbed by locals. La Paz is an important commercial port, which unfortunately means the waters immediately off the city’s shoreline can be polluted and unfit for swimming.

Having said that, there’s no shortage of shoreline outside town that’s perfect for surf, snorkeling, swimming or just lazing on the sand. The most well-known of these La Paz Mexico beaches is Playa Balandra, which can be reached by bus from the station at the corner of Independencia. It’s about 30 kilometers out of town, and buses run from around 8 am to 5:30 pm.

Take note that the bus probably won’t take you all the way to the beach. Instead, you’ll probably end up being dropped off at the final stop near Playa Pichilingue. From there, you’ll need to flag down a cab for the last 10 minutes or so.

During peak season, Balandra can get extremely crowded, so arrive early if you can.

The Best Beaches in La Paz, Mexico

If you’d rather avoid the crowds, then consider heading out to one of the lesser-known beaches outside La Paz. Just up the road from Balandra you’ll find Playa Tecolote, a quieter stretch of beach with good views of Isla Espiritu Santo. There’s a few good lobster restaurants in the area, too.

Closer to town, the same bus that runs out to Balandra and Tecolote also passes by the quiet beaches of Caimancito, Coromuel, Tesoro and the afore-mentioned Pichilingue.

All are good bets for anyone looking for a lazy beach day. Most are reasonably chilled even during peak season, with the exception of Tecolote, which can get even busier than Balandra beach(this was the case when we were there and ended up in a smaller and quieter beach).

Still, if you’ve got your heart set on  Balandra or Tecolote, just try to visit mid-week during low season. You’ll be surprised by how empty these stunning beaches can be once the tourism season ends.

Lastly, if you’re not keen on taking a trip out of town, then luckily La Paz does have a few stretches of shoreline that are suitable for swimming. Right on the edge of town, La Concha Beach Resort maintains its own private beach.

Nonguests can hire equipment and make use of the resort bar and restaurant.

Kayaking

Those azure waters off the coast of Baja just scream for a kayak adventure. Kayaking is extremely popular across the region, and for good reason. The generally calm waters around La Paz make gliding across the sea in a kayak an absolute breeze and is an ideal activity in La Paz and Baja California's Sea of Cortez to do with kids of all ages.

Most beaches mentioned here have plenty of kayak hire options. Usually, it’s a simple matter of paying a few bucks, leaving behind a deposit and hitting the water for a few hours.

Likewise, virtually all established tour operators in town offer guided kayak trips, sometimes combined with camping or wildlife trips.

Swimming with Sea Lions

While exploring La Paz's  surroundings, you’ll no doubt eventually run into some of the region’s friendliest denizens, the sea lions.

Throughout most of the year, there’s no shortage of these adorable, playful creatures, and sooner or later you’re going to want to acquaint yourself. To get up close and personal with these critters, consider a day trip of swimming with sea lions, one of the most fun La Paz activities you can do.

The most popular place to swim with sea lions is Isla Espiritu Santo, where a thriving colony of the animals live. This colony is pretty accustomed to human visitors, and don’t be surprised if they swim right up to your face.

Most tour operators around La Paz can arrange a sea lion swim throughout the year. Cortez Club is a reputable option that’s generally well regarded among locals and visitors alike, and it's the one we went with.

 We met at the dock and made our way to another well known spot where you can now only spot sea lions but giant manta rays as well: Los Islotes.

As soon as we got there we got the chance to see some manta rays while were were getting our snorkeling gear on, however once we jumped into the water we didn't see them again (the group members who were diving did).

What we did see were the sea lions, who didn't mind us at all and even came to check us out every now and then. All three jumped into the ocean, and at two years old Teo has already swum with sea lions!

Whale Watching

La Paz is one of the most popular places in Mexico for whale watching, though your window is fairly short. For three months from January to March, gray whales migrating from Alaska spend time frolicking in the waters off La Paz.

If you do arrive at the right time of year, your chances of seeing a few whales are extremely good. Reviews for tour operators are generally good across the board, and few tourists complain of being let down during whale watching trips.

There is, of course, always some degree of luck involved, but at least La Paz has a reputation for reliable oceanic mammals.

The whale shark season usually starts in early to mid October, and can last until the following March. Ideally, the mid point of the season is the best time, particularly around December.

However, the long season means a whale shark tour can make for a good consolation prize if you happen to miss the gray whales – and what a prize it is. If you’ve ever wanted to swim with a fish the size of a school bus, then this is your chance.

Quad biking

For all ye landlubbers out there, Baja is more than just about the ocean. Inland lies vast swathes of sparely inhabited, open flatlands. It’s some of northern Mexico’s most beautiful, pristine countryside – and it’s just begging to be shredded by quads.

Off-road quad biking is extremely popular around here. As with other popular activities, most tour agencies around town can arrange quad trips, it’s just a matter of finding a place with a bunch of bikes parked outside. Typically, day trips take small groups just outside of town for a few hours.

Expect transport costs to be included, along with possibly a packed lunch. Multi-day tours are also possible.

Conclusion

Things to do in La Paz (Mexico)   range from the wild and crazy to mellow and  easy. We found it to be a very quaint and easy town, with almost of all of its attractions being nature related, something we appreciated.

Plan ahead, consider possible hurricanes if visiting during low season (prices are half or less than during high season) and plan on spending at least three or four days with your family to see the best of the area.

Places to visit in La Paz (Mexico) are varied in nature, making it a great destination if you want to mix outdoor and indoor activities.

Accommodation in La Paz

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Book Ground Transfers to La Paz

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Flights to La Paz

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Rental Cars in La Paz

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RV Rentals La Paz:

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Tours in La Paz

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Getting to know San Miguel de Allende

Once a quiet backwater, in the mid 20^th Century San Miguel de Allende began to draw a trickle of vagabond artists from across North America. Finding a pleasant climate and peaceful community, these interlopers settled down in the town, living on a shoe-string and giving the town a rather international flavor.

Today, somewhere between 20,000 to 25,000 foreigners live in this town, making up a sizable chunk of the municipality’s 140,000 inhabitants. Over half are from the United States, and San Miguel de Allende nowadays has a bit of a reputation as a retirement village for Americans. Having said that, San Miguel de Allende’s unique demographics are an asset not a liability, and you’ll find locals of all origins more than welcoming. The end result is a pleasant town that cherishes its unique culture, and has gone to great pains to preserve its idyllic colonial center. This also happens to be one of the best places in Mexico for international cuisine.

San Miguel de Allende has perfect warm weather year round, with of course the odd cold days in winter and very hot summer afternoons. The streets are OK for your stroller (many had narrow sidewalks, some streets have cobble stones) and if you forget anything important you'll probably find it here. In any case these are items you may want to arrive with:

Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende with Kids

Most of San Miguel de Allende’s main attractions are located in the colonial center, and are reachable by foot from one another. Taxis to or from anywhere in town shouldn’t cost you more than MX$50. Weather in San Miguel de Allende is good all year round, making the town great for exploring on foot.

While there aren't many activities for kids, most of those that will spark interest to adults are also child friendly and make up for a great family visit.

El Jardin

This central garden effectively serves as San Miguel de Allende’s main plaza, but is significantly leafier than the average Mexican zocalo. During the week, this is a mellow spot for a coffee or lunch, and a perfect location for a bit of people watching. On weekends and during school vacations, el jardin explodes with activity, as day trippers from across central Mexico pour in to explore the colonial center. Whatever time you arrive, expect to end up here at some point, as it’s a good spot to get your bearings.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

This imposing Catholic church is immediately recognizable for its unique architecture. According to local lore, the church’s distinct neo-Gothic facade was designed in 1880 by local architect Zeferino Gutierrez, who drew inspiration from a faded postcard from Belgium. The church can be found on the southern flank of el jardin, and is impossible to miss.

Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano

Located a few blocks uphill from the main plaza, the Museum of Popular Toys should be a first port of call for anyone visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids in tow. This cute little museum has some wonderful exhibits of classic Mexican handcrafted toys. The museum is interactive at every step, meaning the kids will constantly have something to keep their hands and minds occupied. If you can, try to make time to join in one of their regular workshops with local artisans. These are fairly regular events during peak season, though you’ll have to inquire on-site for details.

Parque Benito Juarez

Named after Mexico’s influential 19^th Century liberal president Benito Juarez, this park is a great place to take the kids to burn some energy. There’s a good playground at the heart of the park, which gives way to a network of jogging trails further afield. If you come mid-week, you can expect peace and quiet, but not so on weekends. Sundays in particular tend to be quite lively, with local artists lining up to peddle their works to the hordes of tourists who come here for picnics.

Museo de la Mascara

The San Miguel Mask Museum shows another face of Mexico – literally. This private collection of over 500 ceremonial masks highlights Mexico’s cultural diversity, and is a must-see for anyone passing through San Miguel de Allende. Curators Bill and Heidi are extremely knowledgeable, and are a wealth of information on the masks themselves. Best of all, the proceeds from the museum go towards funding a local day care center.

El Charco del Ingenio

El Charco del Ingenio is a botanic garden just outside the colonial center. Spread over 170 acres, these gardens include native scrubland, wetlands and a few short hiking trails. The big deal here, however, is the cactus garden. They have dozens of cacti of every shape and size, and by the time you leave you’re guaranteed to have a newfound appreciation for these prickly plants. The gardens tend to be quiet during the week, but fill up fast on weekends. Try to arrive early to beat the crowds and the afternoon sun, and don’t forget to pack plenty of water.

Instituto Allende

Mexico’s oldest art school, the Instituto Allende offers art classes in both English and Spanish. These classes are available for even short stay visitors, with some courses being doable over a week or two. Anyone with a twinkle of artistry and a bit of time in San Miguel de Allende should consider hitting this place up.

Biblioteca de San Miguel de Allende

This historic library is a favorite haunt for university students and the afore-mentioned expats alike. They have a wide range of both Spanish and English language books, and a pretty good on-site cafe. This is by no means a mandatory site, but serves as a quiet haven of tranquility for when the crowds around El Jardin get a bit too much. Retreat here in the afternoon, and enjoy this oasis of peace and quiet.

Festivals

San Miguel de Allende is beloved by Mexicans for its colorful tradition of festivals, which draw visitors from all over the country. During festival season, expect accommodation to be booked out, so make travel arrangements well in advance.

Fiestas de San Miguel de Allende

The last week of September is known by locals simply as las fiestas. The festivities are centered around the Feast Day of St. Michael, which falls on September 29. However, the entire week is one massive party, celebrating local culture and tradition. Each day of las fiestas is packed with parties, cultural events, indigenous dances and religious rituals. It’s a melange of culture and celebration that’s hard not to love, and well worth your time if you can time your visit well. The week of celebrations culminates in the procession of St. Michael, where the image of the saint moves through town to the main church.

Where to Eat in San Miguel de Allende with Kids

San Miguel de Allende has no shortage of restaurants, and is arguably one of the best spots in Mexico for anyone hanging out for some international cuisine. Most of the restaurants are huddled around El Jardin and surrounding streets. The main drags of Avenida San franscisco and Correo are both splitting at the seams with good eats, along with small coffee shops and a smattering of bars.

Half a block south west of El Jardin, keep an eye out for the highly rated Restaurante la Azotea which serves up a good selection of Mexican fare, and boasts one of the more generous happy hours in town. During the evenings, their margaritas are second to none. Also, don’t miss out on their tasty jicama shrimp tacos...and great views!

Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende

As with eating, accommodation is easily found around El Jardin and surrounding streets. As one of central/north Mexico’s biggest tourist destinations, San Miguel de Allende sure has a lot of options. Throw a stone, and odds are it’ll land in front of a hotel, retreat or boutique posada. While some budget options do exist, San Miguel is more geared towards mid and upper range accommodation, particularly health spas and the like.

If you’re looking for something with a little distance from the hustle and bustle, I definitely recommend delightful Hotel La Puertecita. This retreat just outside the colonial center is located in a historic building overflowing with verdant gardens and a fantastic pool kids will love. Their biggest claim to fame is their excellent health spa and alternative therapy services. They offer massages, hot stone chakra treatments, facials and more. On top of this, their rooms are some of the most peaceful in town, and immaculately furnished with carved timber furniture (you may want to read my full review) and some perks if you're traveling with toddlers (they do have cribs available which will come in handy if you don't have one of your own or travel bed rails). While getting to it is not easy without wheels, the quiet nights will more than make up for the 50 MXN ride.

I had heard about San Miguel de Allende for years, about it's cobbled streets, fine weather, good restaurants, and how all these factors had made it a favorite city among expats, mostly from USA and Canada (though there are many from Europe as well). I was eager to visit it, and draw my own conclusions.

I have to agree with most of the reasons that attract long term residents, as well as short term visitors. There's no lack of restaurants, great hotels, and a peaceful and safe vibe...everyone seems to get along. Families visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids will find it a place where they can walk around safely and enjoy high quality family fun. 

This said, while the city does have some points of interest and activities for families with young kids, you'll probably run out of things to do after two or three nights so I'd limit a visit to a couple of days or three to really enjoy the town.

Best of all though, San Diego is relaxed and welcoming. People here tend to be extremely tolerant of children, and will help you when they can.

There are many popular kids activities in San Diego for toddlers you've probably heard of including the San Diego model railroad museum, Legoland Water Park (inside Legoland California), the Fleet Science Center (and Kid City San Diego within), Sea World, the Zoo and more.

But you'll need time... and money. We were busy the whole week we were there and still couldn't cover everything- but had a blast anyhow!

San Diego things to do with kids range from free to very expensive, outdoor and indoor.

To get the most out of your trip the best thing you can do is to plan your San Diego Trip in advance and spend time enjoying a bit of everything. In other words don't focus on museums, or parks only. Touch several bases, and you'll have a blast with your family.

PIN for Later

Ocean Beach

A little north of the peninsula, Ocean Beach is another great spot for a relaxed walk. The beach walk here is definitely one of the best free things to do with kids in San Diego, and is less physically demanding than the mild Point Loma walks.

Known to locals simply as OB, Ocean Beach itself is a pretty neighborhood with nice views and a mellow vibe. The beach-side walk makes for a pleasant family outing, and is very accessible even for strollers.

Apart from soaking up the sun and enjoying the walk, there’s not much else to see here. History buffs will enjoy meandering around the Ocean Beach Cottage Emerging Historic District, where locals have preserved a handful of structures from the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. The Ocean Beach Library and Strand Theater are both considered good examples of turn-of-the-century architecture, and are worth a peek if you have a burning interest in historic buildings.

La Jolla

The affluent community of La Jolla is easily among the top places to visit in San Diego, though not necessarily the most affordable, so we decided to make it a one day visit. With its back to the slopes of Mount Soledad, Jolla Shores boasts a dramatic coastline with stunning views.

La Jolla is consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world, and it’s pretty easy to see why.

USS Midway

Of all the places to visit in San Diego, this one is perhaps one of the few things to do in San Diego with kids that can truly be considered totally unmissable. The USS Midway was the world’s largest aircraft carrier for around a decade, and saw action during the Vietnam War.

Seaport Village

Sooner or later, a San Diego trip with kids will inevitably end up at Seaport Village. This seaside shopping and dining center is popular among locals, particularly on weekends. It has a bit of a mall vibe, but has nice views of the harbor.

Find a nice spot to have a coffee, and it’s all-too-easy to whittle away an afternoon watching the ships come in.

During peak season, this area is packed with street performers and other entertainment, including the historic Looff Carousel and a pond where kids will love looking at the ducks and ducklings.