Could we actually live here?

It’s a surprisingly different question from whether we like visiting somewhere. We’ve loved countries that would probably drive us a little crazy if we tried to live there full time. Other places have grown on us once we stayed long enough to grocery shop, figure out the buses, work from the kitchen table and discover all those little details of everyday life.

Over the years, we’ve spent quite a bit of time in Spain, Portugal and Costa Rica. We’ve traveled through them as a couple and as a family, stayed for longer stretches, worked along the way and experienced at least a bit of what ordinary life feels like once the vacation glow wears off.

Panama is the odd one out here because we haven’t visited yet. It has, however, been on our radar for years. It comes up again and again when we hear people talking about retiring abroad, expat life and finding a practical home base somewhere warmer.

So, if you’re dreaming about moving abroad, how do Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica and Panama actually compare?

A quick note about this article: This post is sponsored by StartAbroad, a relocation service that helps people move to Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica and Panama.

They help with many of the parts of an international move that can get complicated fast, including visas, housing, banking, taxes, shipping, schools and pet relocation. They also offer a free planning tool called Navigator, which we’ll talk about a little later.

Ready to see what your move could look like? Start planning with StartAbroad and use code BAREFOOT to save 5%. We may earn a commission if you become a client, at no extra cost to you.

What Makes a Country a Good Place to Move To?

Choosing somewhere for a vacation is relatively easy. Find a cheap flight, book somewhere to sleep and go.

Moving to another country brings a much longer list of questions.

Can you legally live there long term? What will healthcare look like? Can you afford housing in the area you actually want to live? Will you need a car? If you’re bringing kids, what are the schools like? If your dog is coming too, what paperwork does that involve?

And then there are the smaller things that only become obvious once you’re living somewhere.

When we spent a few months traveling through Spain and Portugal years ago, I found myself fascinated by things like tiny fridges, people shopping at the small local market almost every day, late dinners and the fact that finding something as simple as contact lens solution could turn into an expedition. Those little details told us more about living in Spain as visiting another cathedral ever could.

For this comparison, we’re looking at the bigger practical questions alongside the kind of day-to-day life you might actually have once you get there.

Portugal: A Relaxed European Lifestyle With Plenty of Variety

Portugal is one of those countries we’ve returned to in our minds many times since visiting.

We’ve spent weeks driving around Portugal, exploring from the north right down through the Algarve. We’ve wandered Lisbon, cruised the Douro from Porto, explored the dramatic coastline around Sagres and eaten more than our fair share of pastéis de nata.

We’ve found people friendly almost everywhere we’ve gone, and Portugal packs an impressive amount of variety into a relatively small country.

Lisbon gives you big-city energy and international connections. Porto feels different again with old world charm and fantastic sites. Head south and the Algarve brings beaches, warmer weather and towns that can feel worlds away from northern Portugal.

That variety is just one reason Portugal makes sense on a relocation shortlist.

Who Might Like Living in Portugal?

Portugal may appeal if you want:

• A European home base
• Easy access to other parts of Europe
• Coastal living
• A slower everyday pace
• Cities, smaller towns and rural options within relatively short distances
• A country that can work for retirees as well as remote workers and families

For people considering a long-term move, Portugal currently has residence routes for retirees and people living on their own income, along with a residence pathway for people working remotely for employers or clients outside Portugal.

The exact route that makes sense depends on your citizenship, income source, work situation and family circumstances, which is where the paperwork starts getting considerably less fun.

One thing worth knowing if a European passport is part of your long-term plan: Portugal changed its nationality law in May 2026. The wait for citizenship through ordinary naturalization is now seven years for EU citizens and citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries, and ten years for most other nationalities. The previous rule that counted waiting time from the date you applied for temporary residence was removed, so the clock now starts from the point your residence is approved rather than the day you applied. Family reunification rules tightened in late 2025 too, so if you’re picturing moving first and bringing family over later, that’s worth researching before you apply instead of after.

StartAbroad currently helps with Portugal visas, rental searches, banking, Portuguese tax numbers (NIF), and broader relocation support. Their Concierge service also includes a dedicated relocation specialist, airport pickup, medical planning and help with things like schools and pet relocation.

Portugal may be a good fit for: retirees, remote workers, professionals and families who want a European base with plenty of different lifestyle options.

Spain: A Country We Could Actually Picture Living In

Spain gave us one of our better glimpses into the difference between visiting somewhere and actually living there.

We stayed long enough to settle into ordinary routines.

We walked, a lot. In Madrid we used the Metro, and even in smaller towns we often managed just fine without a car. We got used to shopping frequently because our rental fridges seemed ridiculously tiny compared with the giant fridge we’d had back in Canada.

We also learned that Spain operates on its own schedule.

Meals run late. People linger over coffee. Shops may close for several hours in the afternoon. Our own work and homeschool schedule meant that we were often ready to run errands at exactly the same time half the town seemed to be closing.

It was occasionally maddening.

And we loved a lot of it.

I’m also still quite fond of the fact that it took me almost a month and probably 20 cafés to finally find a bad cup of coffee. You can read more of our love and occasional frustration with Spain in The Little Things We Love About Spain.

Who Might Like Living in Spain?

Spain gives you an enormous amount of choice.

Living in Madrid is a completely different proposition from settling somewhere along the Mediterranean coast. Northern Spain feels different again.

Spain currently offers a non-lucrative residence visa for people who have sufficient financial means and don’t plan to work, plus a separate telework route for qualifying people who work remotely. The non-lucrative visa prohibits work, including remote work for a foreign employer, so if working online is part of your plan, make sure you’re looking at the right route from the beginning. Under Spain’s current rules, foreigners who are legally in Spain can apply from within the country for an international telework residence authorization if they qualify.

For families, there’s also the question of schools and where you want your kids to fit into local life. For retirees, healthcare and proximity to services may matter more. And if you’re planning to work online, reliable internet and your time zone relative to clients or coworkers can suddenly matter just as much as sunshine.

Spain may be a good fit for: people who want culture, good transportation options, plenty of regional variety and a lifestyle where daily life happens a little later than many North Americans are used to.

Costa Rica: Nature, Warm Weather and Pura Vida

Costa Rica will probably always have a special place in our hearts.

Some of our memories there are huge, like watching a giant leatherback turtle lay eggs on a moonlit beach at Playa Grande.

Others are considerably less profound. From howler monkeys screaming off our balcony to iguanas the size of small dogs, the wildlife in Costa Rica is amazing.

We developed a slightly ridiculous affection for Trits ice cream sandwiches and bought them often enough that they became part of our Costa Rica routine.

We also spent a lot of time around Tamarindo and Guanacaste with the kids. Tamarindo was one of those places we loved and found frustrating at the same time. The beach was fantastic, the atmosphere laid back and there was always something to do.

It was also unbelievably hot during our stay, touristy in places and, at least when we were there, some of the local infrastructure was rough around the edges.

That mixed experience is exactly why we’d never tell someone to move to Costa Rica simply because they had a fantastic vacation there.

Living somewhere means seeing the whole package.

Who Might Like Living in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has long attracted retirees and international residents, and it also has a formal digital nomad program for qualifying remote workers.

The current program allows eligible remote workers to stay for one year with the possibility of renewing for another year, subject to the program requirements. Costa Rica also has longer-term residency categories, including pensioner and temporary resident options.

Where you choose to live matters enormously.

Life in the Central Valley around San José is quite different from living near the Pacific beaches of Guanacaste. Climate, healthcare access, transportation and even how much English you hear every day can change substantially depending on where you settle.

StartAbroad currently supports Costa Rica moves involving Pensionado, Rentista and Inversionista residency as well as digital nomad stays, plus services including housing and relocation support.

Costa Rica may be a good fit for: retirees, remote workers and families who put warm weather, nature and outdoor living high on their wish list.

Panama: An Interesting Option for Retirees and Expats

Panama is the only country on this list we haven’t personally visited, so we can’t tell you which café has the best coffee or what little daily habit would eventually drive us crazy.

Yet.

What we can say is that Panama has been popping up in our orbit for years whenever the conversation turns to retiring or moving abroad.

And there are practical reasons for that.

Panama’s immigration system includes several permanent and temporary residence categories. The main routes people tend to look at are the Pensionado for retirees, the Friendly Nations Visa for working-age people who can show economic ties, and the Qualified Investor Visa for those putting money into property or other qualifying assets

That makes it particularly interesting for retirees who are comparing international options.

One practical wrinkle to know about before you start: Panama legally requires applications for temporary and permanent residency permits to be filed through a legal representative. In other words, this is a country where hiring a Panamanian immigration lawyer is part of the process rather than an optional extra.

There’s also a huge difference between considering Panama City and looking at smaller communities elsewhere in the country. The city and the lowlands are hot and humid, while highland towns like Boquete, in the cooler Chiriquí region, have long drawn retirees for the spring-like climate. This is another destination where I’d spend time exploring before deciding where to settle.

StartAbroad offers relocation services in Panama that can include immigration connections, airport pickup, medical planning, pet relocation and housing support.

Panama may be a good fit for: retirees and other long-term expats who want to explore an established international relocation destination in Central America.

Portugal vs Spain vs Costa Rica vs Panama at a Glance

So Which Country Is Best for You?

If we had to narrow it down by lifestyle rather than trying to crown one country the winner, this is how we’d start thinking about it.

Consider Portugal If…

You like the idea of living in Europe and want plenty of choices between cities, smaller towns and coastal areas.

Portugal is particularly interesting if you’re retiring, working remotely or looking for a European base that feels manageable in size.

Consider Spain If…

You want regional variety and enjoy a social culture where eating, walking, coffee and time spent outside are woven into everyday life.

Of the four, Spain is probably the country where we’ve had the strongest taste of ordinary day-to-day living, and we could certainly picture ourselves spending much longer there.

Consider Costa Rica If…

Your dream life involves warm weather, beaches, wildlife and spending a lot of time outdoors.

Spend some time in the specific region you’re considering first. Costa Rica can feel remarkably different from one part of the country to another.

Consider Panama If…

Retirement is a major part of your plan and you’re interested in a country with established residence categories for pensioners and other long-term residents.

We’d put Panama firmly in the research-and-go-visit category for ourselves because we haven’t experienced it firsthand yet.

Picking a Country Is Only the Beginning

This is the part that can sneak up on you.

You spend months dreaming about a tiled apartment in Portugal or a house near the beach in Costa Rica, finally decide where you want to go and then realize there are approximately nine thousand practical things between you and actually living there.

Okay, nine thousand might be a slight exaggeration.

But international moves come with paperwork.

Depending on your situation, you may need to deal with:

• Visas and residency
• Taxes
• Local banking
• Healthcare and insurance
• Finding a long-term home
• Moving your belongings
• Bringing pets
• Schools
• Utilities and phones
• Transportation
• The logistics of actually arriving and getting settled

We’ve been traveling internationally since 2003, and even after all these years, new countries still regularly find ways to surprise us with a process or piece of paperwork we didn’t know existed.

That’s the side of moving abroad that StartAbroad is designed to help with.

How StartAbroad Helps With an International Move

StartAbroad is a done-for-you relocation company focused on moves to Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica and Panama.

Their services vary somewhat by destination and the kind of support you choose, but can include help with visas, banking, housing, shipping, schools, pet relocation and arrival logistics.

One part of their approach that caught our attention is that clients work with one dedicated relocation specialist from start to finish. StartAbroad describes this as a single person who knows your situation and stays with you throughout the move rather than repeatedly handing you off to someone new.

They work with:

• Retirees planning an international move
• Families moving with kids or pets
• Digital nomads
• Professionals moving abroad long term

StartAbroad says it has now helped relocate more than 1,000 clients and reports a 100% success rate for qualifying clients. Clients also get access to a portal showing what has been completed, what comes next and what StartAbroad needs from them.

That last part appeals to me because international paperwork has a remarkable ability to turn into a pile of emails, documents and sticky notes surprisingly fast.

Start Planning for Free With StartAbroad Navigator

If you’re still in the someday-I-might-do-this stage, you don’t necessarily need to jump straight into a full relocation service.

StartAbroad has also launched Navigator, a free tool designed to help you organize your move step by step.

The current Navigator includes planning tools such as visa checklists, pre-arrival checklists and relocation resources, with individual services available if you need more help later.

You can check out StartAbroad Navigator here.

It’s a useful starting point if you’re trying to turn a vague idea of moving abroad into an actual list of things you need to figure out.

Talk to a Relocation Specialist for Free

If you’re further along and already have questions about your move, StartAbroad also offers a free 15-minute consultation with an international relocation specialist.

Start planning your move with StartAbroad

Use coupon code BAREFOOT to save 5%.

Where Could You See Yourself Living?

After more than two decades of travel, we’ve learned that visiting somewhere and picturing an actual Tuesday afternoon there are two completely different things.

Could you grocery shop there? Get around comfortably? Find healthcare when you need it? Make friends? Deal with the weather for months instead of a week?

And, just as important, does the rhythm of the place feel right?

Portugal, Spain and Costa Rica have all given us moments where we could picture what life there might look like and we’ve seriously looked into moving to two of them. Panama is still waiting for us to come investigate it properly.

If you’re considering a move yourself, spend some time thinking beyond the postcard version of the country. Research the practical pieces, visit the area you’re thinking about beforehand and try to stay someplace more local than a resort or even a hotel.

Pay attention to the little things once you’re there. Go to the local grocery store, check out a houseware section and imagine what kinds of things you would need to do on a regular visit. If you have kids, check out where they would go to school and find out what options they have for activities.

If you’re a retiree, look into what services are available and what activities you could become a part of. If planning to work remotely, find out what internet is like and whether there’s any local places to meet up with other remote working expats as they’ll have a better idea of the realities of living there every day.

And when someday starts turning into an actual plan, take a look at StartAbroad, they can help you work through the practical side of moving abroad, from visas and housing to banking, shipping and getting settled.

Use coupon code BAREFOOT to save 5%.

I only spent about seven days in Amsterdam, but I loved it almost immediately. There was something about the canals, the tall narrow houses, the bicycles rushing past in every direction, and the easy mix of history and everyday life that felt completely different from anywhere I had been before.

The city had a personality all its own. It was beautiful without feeling polished, energetic without feeling frantic, and wonderfully comfortable with being a little unconventional.

And then there was the food.

I still remember how much I enjoyed discovering the city through its cafés, markets, bakeries, and street food. Some travel memories fade into a general impression over time, but food has a way of bringing a place back. A smell, a texture, or a familiar taste can suddenly put you right back on a cobbled street beside an Amsterdam canal.

For many visitors, one of the sweetest introductions to Dutch food culture is the stroopwafel.

“Some tourists think Amsterdam is a city of sin, but in truth, it is a city of freedom. And in freedom, most people find sin.”

John Green, from 50 funny travel quotes

What Is a Stroopwafel?

A traditional stroopwafel is made from two thin, crisp waffle cookies joined by a layer of sweet syrup filling.

The name translates simply to syrup waffle, but that description doesn’t quite capture the experience of eating one.

The outside is lightly crisp, while the centre is soft, sticky, and rich with caramel-like flavour. When the waffle is fresh and warm, the syrup becomes wonderfully gooey. The combination is simple, comforting, and surprisingly hard to resist.

Stroopwafels originated in the Dutch city of Gouda, where bakers are believed to have begun making them in the late 18th or early 19th century. Early versions were likely made using bakery scraps and sweetened syrup, turning humble leftover ingredients into something that would eventually become one of the Netherlands’ best-known treats.

Today, you’ll find stroopwafels across the country, from grocery-store packages to freshly made versions served at markets and specialty shops.

The packaged ones can be lovely with coffee, but there’s something especially memorable about watching a stroopwafel being made and eating it while it’s still warm.

The Amsterdam Stroopwafel Experience

Food is always more interesting when you can see how it’s made.

A fresh stroopwafel begins with a small ball of dough pressed into a hot waffle iron. Once cooked, the thin waffle is carefully sliced into two layers. Warm syrup is spread across one half before the second layer is placed on top.

The whole process happens quickly, and the result is quite different from the stroopwafels many travelers may have tried from a supermarket package.

Fresh stroopwafels are softer, warmer, and more fragrant. The syrup stretches slightly as you take a bite, while the waffle still has enough crispness to keep the treat from becoming too heavy.

It’s easy to understand why visitors often seek out mellys stroopwafels while exploring central Amsterdam. A freshly made stroopwafel fits perfectly into a day of wandering beside the canals, browsing shops, and discovering the small details that give the city so much character.

It’s also an easy treat to enjoy while walking, although you may want to stop somewhere scenic and give it your full attention.

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Traditional Stroopwafels and Modern Flavours

The classic stroopwafel is usually filled with a buttery syrup flavoured with brown sugar, cinnamon, or caramel notes. It’s sweet, but the thin waffle layers keep it lighter than many pastries or cakes.

Modern stroopwafel shops have taken that traditional base and added a wide variety of toppings and flavours.

Depending on where you visit, you may find stroopwafels decorated with chocolate, nuts, cookie pieces, candies, or colourful toppings. Some are elaborate enough to feel like a full dessert, while others stay close to the familiar Dutch original.

I’m often drawn to the traditional version when trying a local food for the first time. It gives you a better sense of what made the treat popular in the first place. After that, though, trying a more playful flavour is part of the fun.

That mix of old and new feels especially appropriate in Amsterdam. The city holds onto its traditions while constantly finding creative ways to reinterpret them.

Finding the Best Stroopwafels in Amsterdam

You won’t have much trouble finding stroopwafels in Amsterdam. They appear in supermarkets, gift shops, bakeries, markets, and specialty stores throughout the city.

Quality and freshness can vary, though.

For the fullest experience, look for a shop where the waffles are made in front of you. Seeing the dough pressed, sliced, and filled gives you a much stronger connection to the food than simply picking up a sealed package.

Freshness matters because heat changes the texture of the syrup and waffle. A warm stroopwafel has a soft centre and a gently crisp edge, creating the contrast that makes the treat so satisfying.

Travelers searching for the best stroopwafels in amsterdam may also want to consider location. A central shop is easy to include between other Amsterdam sights, whether you’re spending the day visiting museums, walking through the canal district, or exploring the city’s shopping streets.

How the Dutch Enjoy Stroopwafels

One of the most popular ways to eat a stroopwafel is to place it over the top of a hot cup of coffee or tea.

The steam gently warms the waffle and softens the syrup inside. After a minute or two, the centre becomes gooey without making the outside completely soft.

To try it, choose a stroopwafel that’s slightly larger than the opening of your mug. Set it across the top, wait briefly, and then turn it over so both sides warm evenly.

It’s a small ritual, but a good one.

There’s something very European about slowing down for coffee and a sweet treat instead of treating both as fuel to consume while rushing somewhere else. Amsterdam’s cafés are perfect places to pause, watch the bicycles pass, and give your feet a break after walking along the canals.

Of course, a freshly made stroopwafel doesn’t need any help from a warm drink. It’s best eaten right away, while the filling is still soft from the iron.

Stroopwafels as a Taste of Amsterdam

Amsterdam has no shortage of famous sights. Visitors come for the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, canal cruises, historic neighbourhoods, and the city’s lively cultural scene.

Yet some of the travel moments that stay with us longest are much smaller.

They’re the moments when we sit beside a canal with something delicious in our hands. They’re the sounds of bicycles ringing their bells behind us, the smell of coffee drifting from a café, or the surprise of discovering a local food we hadn’t expected to love.

That’s what stroopwafels offer.

They’re inexpensive, easy to find, and deeply connected to Dutch food culture. You don’t need a reservation, a guide, or an elaborate plan. You simply need to find a good one, preferably fresh, and enjoy it.

For me, Amsterdam will always be connected to that first feeling of discovering how different and exciting the world could be. I was there for only a week, but the city’s unique vibe, beautiful streets, and memorable food stayed with me.

A warm stroopwafel may be a small part of an Amsterdam trip, but it captures something special about the city. It’s traditional, creative, welcoming, and just a little indulgent.

And sometimes, those small, sweet experiences are exactly what we remember most.

The English capital has no shortage of great London gifts, including one-of-a-kind collectables, funny gag gifts, tasty food, and even unique antiques and tea sets.

London is notoriously expensive, but if you’re choosy, and follow our advice, you can even score some cheap London souvenirs.

The best London souvenirs

There’s so much to see and do in London that the souvenirs you can buy are almost endless. There’s a gift shop in every museum, attraction, department store, and sometimes, it seems on every other block in this UK megacity.

Whether you’re checking out the best things to do in London with kids, or being adventurous at the wonderful live theatre shows for kids in London’s West End, there are souvenirs for sale on every corner.

In this article, we show you the places with the biggest and best selection of souvenirs, the cheapest prices on London gifts, and more.

We’ll even share where to find unique London souvenirs, antique gifts from London and those hard to find, one-of-a-kind cool souvenirs from London, England.

What to buy from London

One of the most fun things to do in this city is to shop for presents from London for family and friends.

Whatever you choose, it’s a wonderful reminder of your time in London so buying something precious to you will go a long ways to making your trip memorable and a great talking point when presenting gifts to your loved ones back home after your trip is over.

Classic London souvenirs

If you’re looking for classic, standard souvenirs like London t-shirts, fridge magnets, key chains or mugs, these are easy to find. These souvenirs feature a huge variety of iconic London attractions like Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Union Jack, Black cabs, antique phone booths and double decker buses.

Classic souvenirs are available almost everywhere, from corner stores to souvenir shops, and even supermarkets.

Here are a few of the classic London souvenirs to consider:

• mugs
• fridge magnets
• t-shirts
• key chains
• sweatshirts
• posters
• Christmas ornaments
• figurines
• pillows
• bottle openers
• pillows

London street signs

London street and tube signs are popular souvenirs. That said, don’t go ripping down a real sign. There are plenty of places to buy one that won’t cause a traffic accident.

You can find them at Portobello Road market, Brick Lane market, and sellers near Oxford Street and Leicester Square.

Food and drink from London

Borough Market has a great selection of British food to take home as gifts.

Tea and biscuits

Fortnum & Mason, one of London’s most iconic department shops, sells charming tea and biscuit gift sets.

A dedicated tea shop like Whittards in Covent Garden is also a great place to browse, and find unique tea sets.

Twinings tea is an iconic London tea, available at most shops around the city.

Looking for something easier? You can buy a gorgeous Twinings boxed gift set on Amazon.

See prices here.

London chocolate

Dating back to 1875, Charbonnel et Walker is one of Britain’s finest chocolatiers. It even has a Royal Warrant as a chocolatier to His Majesty The King. The shop is in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair.

Rococo Chocolates is also a great choice, while Hotel Chocolat is where you can buy beautifully packaged souvenir London chocolate to take back home with you.

Artisan snacks and food

There are plenty of places that sell artisan treats, including local jams, jellies, and biscuits. Harrods is a solid choice, and Borough Market are also a good place to start your search.

Paddington and London-themed biscuits from Biscuiteers are a fun choice and their London inspired cookie tins make a great souvenir for anyone.

Fortnum & Mason, an upscale London department store, makes sweet and savory baskets that are easy to pack up as a London souvenir.

Alcohol

London-based Hayman’s is an iconic London souvenir for gin lovers.

Pimm’s No 1 is the quintessential ingredient in the British cocktail, a Pimm’s cup. A Pimm’s cup is made with Sprite, strawberries, orange, apple cucumber and mint.

If you’re looking for help choosing something local, Spirits near Chinatown, Gerry’s Wines, and the Whiskey Exchange in Covent Garden can offer some guidance on local London drinks.

Harry Potter souvenirs

There’s a wonderful selection of Harry Potter souvenirs from London to delight both wizards and muggles alike.

The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is the best place in London to buy Harry Potter merchandise. This Harry Potter Shop is in King’s Cross station.

If The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is too busy for your taste, try House of Spells in Leicester Square, or the gift shop at the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford.

Royal paraphernalia

While you can buy royal nick-knacks almost anywhere in England, if you’re looking for higher quality, consider Westminster Abbey’s gift shop or the Royal Gift Shop to buy royal souvenirs.

British clothing

There are plenty of choices for clothing souvenirs in London. Here are a few ideas:

• British country clothing at Barbour.
• an umbrella from quirky London Umbrella, one of the quirky and unusual things to do in London.
• a suit from famed Savile Row.
• a Burberry trench coat from their Regent Street shop.
• a hat or fascinator. You can find fascinators and hats in most London department stores. For a unique experience, visit a couture hat maker like Stephen Jones Millinery or a traditional hat maker like Lock & Co Hatters in St James’.
• vintage clothing and accessories on Brick Lane and Golborne Road.
• jewelry. Hatton Garden is the place to go.
• football (soccer in the USA) gear. You can pick up items for popular teas like Chelsea and Manchester United in the stores on Oxford Street and elsewhere around London. You can also buy your favorite team’s merchandise at the gift shop at the arena.

Perfume

London is famous for its perfume. Miller Harris is a great place to start, as is Harrods.

Les Senteurs, London’s oldest independent perfumery, is the place to go for posh perfume shopping.

Penhaligons has lovely, small sets that are easy to take home in your luggage.

London antiques

Portobello Road Market is the world’s largest antiques market. There are over a thousand dealers here, who sell almost anything you can think of.

If you love vintage clothing, check out Brick Lane’s Vintage Market. It seems that everything that was once fashionable makes it way through Brick Lane’s Vintage Market. Make sure to check it out for yourself.

Beatles Memorabilia

Beatles memorabilia from the London Beatles Store is sure to please any Beatles fan. The London Beatles Store carries everything from autographed vinyl, to posters, to books, and more.

London Underground

Visit the London Transport museum for London Underground items. While you can find London Underground souvenirs here and there, the best all-in-one selection is at the London Transport Museum. You also don’t need to pay museum entrance fees to browse the gifts.

The London Transport Museum is located in Covent Garden.

Toys

London is home to some of the world’s best toy shops.

Hamleys is a great choice, with seven floors packed with toys and by far the oldest toy store in London. It was originally opened in 1760 and expanded to it’s current location on Regent Street in 1881. Prepare to be overwhelmed when you walk in.

The toy section at Harrod’s is always a good bet and if you’re not in a hurry, the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ includes toys and memorabilia. The Disney Store on Oxford Street is the biggest in Europe however if you want something truly unique, check out Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop in Covent Garden. It’s full of marionettes and glove puppets plus more traditional toys with a theatrical flair.

Books from a famous London bookstore

There are so many wonderful bookshops in London that it’s hard to know where to start.

One of the best, and oldest, is Stanfords in Convent Garden.

Stanfords in Covent Garden was established in 1853, and it’s the world’s biggest map and travel retailer. It’s the perfect place to find a London souvenir for travelers, with globes, travel guides, travel fiction, journals, diaries, and even custom maps, made to order.

The Foyles and Daunt Books is also a great choice. There are several locations, including Foyles bookshop on Charing Cross Road and Daunt Books in Marylebone.

Hatchards, London’s oldest bookshop, is a solid choice for those looking for rarities.

If you’re like me, and love stationary, Choosing Keeping in Seven Dials is for you.

Unique London souvenirs at local markets

Looking for a unique London souvenir, or something one of a kind? Try local markets like Chatsworth Road Market, Herne Hill Market, North Cross Road Market, or A South London Makers Market. There’s never a guarantee you’ll find that perfect gift but you won’t know until you’ve checked it out for yourself.

Christmas gifts from London

If you’re lucky enough to be in London during the festive season, Christmas gifts make wonderful souvenirs.

Many Christmas markets open for the holiday season, including Southbank Centre Christmas Market, Greenwich Christmas Market, Christmas in Leicester Square, and many others.

Christmas World in Harrods opens near the end of October, and is an ionic visit, filled with Christmas cheer. Selfridges is another great choice.

Other shops do a wonderful selection of Christmas themed gifts, including Liberty, 307-year-old Fortnum & Mason, family-run Marby & Elm in Exmouth Market, the stylish Conran Shop, the Tate Modern Gift Shop, and the wonderfully charming Benjamin Pollock’s Toy Shop.

There are so many shops that do wonderful Christmas displays and gifts that it’s impossible to list them all.

Hays Galleria is the only year round, dedicated Christmas shop we could find.

Housewares

A tea set from London is a classic British souvenir. Fortnum & Mason has teas and tea sets, including limited edition items.

If you’re looking for an iconic Wedgwood tea set, you can often find them in finer department stores.

Art

London is a vibrant city home to a thriving art scene. Backyard Markets is a good place to start looking, but there are countless galleries in the city.

A print from the National Gallery is often at an affordable price point for an art souvenir from London and the quality is top notch.

Best souvenir shops in London

Souvenir shops in London are likely the best place to buy London souvenirs.

However, they aren’t all created equal. Some English souvenir shops are more expensive, some are specialized in certain items, and still others sell everything you could imagine. Many can easily make the list of best travel gifts from London.

Harrods London

Arguably the most famous store in London, with over 300,000 people visiting daily, Harrods is known for luxury goods and the lavish luxury Food Halls.

Harrods is a fantastic place to shop for London souvenirs for children, as Harrods has an enormous toy department on the fourth floor. Iconic Harrods gifts include the classic Harrods teddy bear, bespoke hampers, gift boxes, fragrances, and cakes.

There’s a Harrods Gift Shop on the lower ground floor to make shopping easy. Rare perfumes are on the sixth floor. You’ll find Harrods in Knightsbridge, one of the richest neighborhoods in London.

Paddington Bear shop

If you love Paddington Bear, the Paddington Bear shop is the place for you.

You can, of course, pick up your very own stuffed Paddington Bear soft toy, or choose a book and enjoy Paddington’s many adventures. The adorable Paddington’s Guide to London travel guide explores famous landmarks around the city.

Gifts from a London museum

London is home to some of the best museums in the world. Check out the gift shops at V&A (Victoria & Albert Museum), Tate Modern, British Museum, and Sherlock Holmes Museum to start – these are all featured in our post on the best museums in London.

Royal Gift Shop London (Buckingham Palace gift shop London)

The Royal Gift Shop, known as the Royal Collection Shop, is just across the street from Buckingham Palace. It’s the place to buy gifts inspired by the British Monarchy and the royal palaces.

There’s a huge variety here, including jewelry, Christmas gifts, tasty treats, kitchenware, and even pet items. If you love the late Queen’s corgis, there are plenty of Corgi themed gifts, including adorable corgi plush toys.

Prices run the gamut from inexpensive stuffed animal toys to pricey tableware.

Every purchase “contributes directly to the care of the Royal Collection, which is not owned personally by The Queen, but held in trust by her as Sovereign for her successors and the nation. (source).”

London Eye souvenir shop

The London Eye gift shop is located at the exit of the London Eye.

It sells souvenirs and mementos of your London Eye experience. It’s small, and often busy, and a bit expensive, with an OK selection. You will be better off elsewhere if you’re looking for a good selection or budget price.

London Tower gift shop

The London Tower gifts shop is known more officially as the Tower Bridge Engine Rooms & Shop. It’s owned by the City of London.

This gift shop is in the original Engine Rooms of the iconic Victorian landmark. It’s a nice little gift shop, with plenty of cute souvenirs, but prices can be a bit expensive.

London Zoo gift shop

The oldest scientific zoo in the world, London Zoo is also known as ZSL (Zoological Society of London ), London Zoo, or London Zoological Gardens.

To leave the Zoo, you need to exit through the well stocked gift shop.

There are plenty of adorable soft toys, play sets, toys and games, and unique eco friendly gifts. You can even adopt an animal with ZSL.

Purchases at the online or in-person gift shop directly support the London Zoo.

London Bridge Souvenir shop

There’s no official souvenir shop at the London Bridge, but there are plenty of small souvenir shops nearby that sell souvenirs.

London souvenir shop Piccadilly Circus

There are plenty of London souvenir shops around Piccadilly Circus.

Honestly, none of them really stand out, but they’re all convenient places to get your standard London souvenirs while in the area.

London souvenir shop Oxford Street

There are plenty of souvenir stalls and shops around Oxford Street, all generally selling the same type of gifts.

The souvenir stalls around Oxford Street and Leicester Square can be a great place to pick up London street signs.

Camden Market

Camden Market is at the end of Camden high street. There’s so much on sale here, including clothing, odds and ends, crafts and food.

250,000 people visit Camden market each week. It’s open seven days a week.

London souvenirs online

Did you leave London without getting that perfect gift? Are you looking for a little piece of London to send as a gift, or to enjoy yourself, but you can’t visit in person?

Luckily, there’s a great selection of London souvenirs online.

For ease of access around the world, London souvenirs on Amazon can’t be beat.

If you’re looking for something more hand crafted or artsy, check out the selection of London souvenirs on Etsy.

In addition to dedicated online stores selling London souvenirs, many physical souvenir shops in London sell online as well. Stanfords in Covent Garden is a perfect example, with a large online selection. Even the Royal Collection Shop ships internationally.

Made in Britain gifts

Gifts made in Britain, and London specifically, make great souvenirs. While you can find London made gifts in department specialty stores and at markets, you can also find British made gifts on Etsy.

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We’ve spent weeks driving around Portugal and have had the pleasure of road tripping from the top down to the bottom. No matter where we stopped, we found the people friendly, the desserts delicious and the port wine flowing freely.

Best Road Trips in Portugal

From scenic coastal drives to inland trips, we’ve seen a lot firsthand, but know there’s always more to explore. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, with a group of friends or on your own, we’ve seen there’s something in Portugal for everyone.

Lisbon to Porto: Coastal Bliss

Excited to see what road trips Portugal has to offer? Here’s your guide to the best road trips in Portugal for a journey you’ll never forget.

Quick Summary

This classical Portugal road trip route offers a perfect blend of city, sea, and history. Starting from the vibrant capital Lisbon, you’ll cruise north along the coast, exploring stunning beaches, medieval towns, and bustling cities before reaching Porto, famous for its port wine and historic charm.

Route:

Lisbon – Cascais – Sintra – Nazaré – Coimbra – Aveiro – Porto

Distance/Time:

433km – Approx. 5.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

Road Trip Duration:

5-7 Days

Highlights:

• Lisbon: Capital city of Portugal with gorgeous architecture like the Jerónimos Monastery, cool street tiles, plenty of unusual things to do as well as the home of our favorite Portuguese dessert, the delicious Pasteis de Belem.
• Cascais: The Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliffside chasm is worth stopping for.
• Sintra: Explore both the colorful Pena Palace as well as the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira palace (plus both their amazing gardens).
• Nazaré: Stand in awe of Nazarés huge waves, visit Our Lady of Nazaré Sanctuary plus check out the Miradouro do Suberco, a viewpoint offering awesome panoramic ocean views.
• Coimbra: Home of the Joanina Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world as well as the popular University of Coimbra.
• Aveiro: Canals adorned with brightly colored boats called moliceiros line this Portuguese city, often called the Venice of Portugal.
• Porto: Sample different ports, go on a Douro river cruise and check out Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.

Tip:

While Nazaré is popular for day trips, consider spending a night here. At night, once the day tourists leave, you’ll get the chance to experience the quiet charm of this fishing village, which is both rich in tradition and local flavor.

Douro Valley: The Wine Circuit

Quick Summary:

For port and wine lovers, this route is paradise. Beginning in Porto, you’ll journey into the heart of Portugal’s wine country, following the Douro River through scenic towns and valleys, and stopping for vineyard tours and tastings along the way.

Route:

Porto – Amarante – Peso da Régua – Pinhão – Vila Real

Distance/Time:

188km – Approx. 3hrs travel time – Google Maps

Duration:

3-5 Days

Highlights:

• Porto: The iconic Ribeira District along the Douro River and the Porto Cathedral, a 900 year old building with amazing tile art.
• Amarante: Ponte de São Gonçalo, an arched bridge with tons of historical significance.
• Peso da Régua: Douro Museum, exploring the history and culture of the Douro region.
• Pinhão: The train station adorned with blue-and-white Azulejo tiles.
• Vila Real: The 18th-century Mateus Palace and its gorgeous gardens.
• Peso da Régua: Douro River Cruise and Museu do Douro.
• Pinhão: Wine estates and Azulejos-decorated train station.
• Vila Real: Mateus Palace.

Tip:

The Douro Valley is the birthplace of port wine, and no visit would be complete without diving into this local specialty. Many vineyards offer tastings and tours where you can learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. But it’s not just about port; the region also produces exceptional red and white wines. Make sure to take a guided tour of at least one wine estate to fully appreciate the region’s rich viticultural history.

The Algarve: Sun-Kissed Splendor

Quick Summary:

This southern loop offers the quintessential Algarve experience: golden beaches to lounge away the hot summer days, rocky coves to explore and bustling towns filled with nightlife. The route takes you from the historic city of Faro to the westernmost point of the Algarve, providing a well-rounded tour of this sun-soaked region.

Route:

Tavira – Faro – Albufeira – Lagos – Sagres

Distance/Time:

168km – Approx. 3hrs travel time – Google Maps

Duration:

5-7 Days

Highlights:

• Tavira: The Roman Bridge, a picturesque seven-arched bridge.
• Faro: Arco da Vila, an arched gateway dating back to Moorish times.
• Albufeira: Nightlife hub of the Algarve. Also check out Old Town, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Lagos: Ponta da Piedade, known for its stunning rock formations and Praia Dona Ana.
• Sagres: Fortaleza de Sagres, a cliff-top fortress with panoramic sea views and Cape St. Vincent. Also very popular with kite surfers.

Tip:

Tavira offers a less crowded, more authentic Algarve experience. It’s relatively untouched by large-scale tourism, making it an ideal spot for a quieter beach escape and to explore traditional Portuguese culture. If you want to be where the action is, Albufeira is where you want to be.

Madeira: The Garden Isle

Quick Summary:

Portugal’s southern island of Madeira provides a distinct road trip experience full of natural beauty and old-world charm. Starting in Funchal, this island route offers lush gardens, volcanic pools, and coastal views that are second to none.

Route:

Funchal – Câmara de Lobos – Ribeira Brava – Porto Moniz – Santana

Distance/Time:

117km – Approx. 2.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

Duration:

4-6 Days

Highlights:

• Funchal: Monte Palace Tropical Garden offering views over Funchal Bay, take a crazy Toboggan ride in a traditional wicker basket down the city roads and visit the lovely Mercado dos Lavradores.
• Câmara de Lobos: Picturesque fishing village immortalized by Winston Churchill’s paintings.
• Ribeira Brava: Forte de São Bento, a historic fort with scenic sea views.
• Porto Moniz: Natural lava pools perfect for a unique swimming experience and the Madeira Aquarium.
• Santana: Thatched-roof A-frame houses showcasing traditional Madeiran architecture Queimadas Forest Park.

Tip:

The Laurisilva Forest is a must-see in Madeira. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers about 20% of the island. A walk here reveals a rare glimpse of Europe’s prehistoric landscapes. The flora and fauna are unique, and the sense of tranquility is unparalleled.

Azores: Volcanic Adventure

Quick Summary:

Portugal’s Azores islands are an off-the-beaten-path treasure in the middle of the Atlantic. Starting in Ponta Delgada, this route offers a journey through volcanic landscapes, cliffside viewpoints, and lush greenery that encapsulates the untamed beauty of these islands.

Route:

Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Furnas – Nordeste

Distance/Time:

126km – Approx. 2.5hrs travel time – Google Maps

Duration:

4-6 Days

Highlights:

• Ponta Delgada: Forte de São Brás, a 16th-century fortress plus check out Twin lakes and Vista do Rei.
• Sete Cidades: Visit Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake.
• Furnas: Terra Nostra Garden, a beautiful botanical garden with thermal pools.
• Nordeste: Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, offering panoramic views of cliffs and ocean.

Tip:

The Azores are one of the world’s best spots for whale watching. While most visitors come between April and October, each season offers a different array of species. Book a tour with a reputable operator to enhance your chances of sightings and to ensure ethical practices.

Travel Tips for Any Route:

• Toll Roads: Portugal has many toll roads. A Via Verde (Green Lane) electronic device can be rented to automatically pay some tolls while others require a toll pass, both will save you time and fuss.
• Gas Stations: Fuel up in larger towns as rural areas may have limited services. Gas stations also often close early in remote regions.
• Local Laws: Always have your ID and driving license with you. Portuguese traffic police are known for random checks, and fines for not having proper identification or a proper toll pass can be steep.

The Best Road Trips in Portugal

With each road trip offering its own unique set of attractions and nuances, Portugal promises an adventure that caters to all kinds of travelers. We loved our time here and the entire family always enjoyed jumping into the car knowing that the next stop was going to be just as amazing as the last. Safe travels!

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What’s the best transportation in Spain for your trip? That really depends on your needs.

If you have plenty of time, then taking the bus may be the most affordable option. If you’re in a rush, flying may be the fastest way to see the country. If you’re looking for speed and scenery, but with a slightly bigger budget, Spain’s high speed trains may be just your ticket.

Best Options for Transportation in Spain

Spain is one of Europe’s most popular tourist and TEFL destinations, and it’s easy to see why. From the sun dappled beaches of Andalucía, to the quaintly cobbled streets of busy Madrid, to the affordable tapas and drinks in Granada there’s plenty to keep travelers occupied.

Tourists wondering how to get around Spain have plenty of options. Now that we’ve listed a few, lets compare the major modes of transportation in Spain.

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular types of transportation in Spain, and for good reason. Spain trains and routes are generally efficient, easily available, and affordable.

Trains travel extensively within Spain however they also connect to other countries.

The high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) runs between Spain’s major cities. Operated by Renfe (Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Españoles), the AVE system is the longest HSR system in Europe, and second only to China worldwide. Trains in Spain reach speeds of 300 plus kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour).

Trains offer many types of tickets, including 1st class (Preferente) and 2nd class (Turista) cabins and some offer cafe-bar facilities. You can book most train tickets via the Renfe website, Rail Europe or a 3rd party site like Rail.Ninja.

Round trip train fares are generally cheaper in Spain than getting two, separate, one-way tickets.

International connections from Spain

Spanish trains have good connections to France and Portugal.

There is no direct rail line to the country of Andorra, which doesn’t have a rail service in the country. To reach Andorra, take a train from Barcelona to L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre (France), and then switch to a bus from France to Andorra la Vella in Andorra.

Similarly, there is no direct train connection to Gibraltar, which has no rail service. However, you can take a train to the Spanish side of the border with Gibraltar), and then take a bus further into Gibraltar proper.

There’s talk of an undersea tunnel connecting Spain and Morocco, but for now there’s no train service from Spain to Morocco.

Local rail networks in Spain

In addition to the high speed network, there are also smaller regional train services in Spain, which operate a largely commuter services. They include FGC in Catalonia (including Barcelona), Cercanias RENFE (which operates many suburban rail networks), FEVE (Northern Spain), Euskotren (Bilbao, San Sabastian and a few smaller towns).

Like elsewhere in Europe, it takes a little thinking to figure out if a rail pass is worth it for you. There are three types of rail passes in Spain.

• Spain only. Spain only passes come as the Renfe Spain Pass, or the Eurail Spain Pass.
• Two country passes. You can use the Eurail Select Pass to pair Spain with Portugal, France, or Italy.
• Multiple country passes. The Eurail Global Pass lets you travel on four adjacent countries by train.

It always takes a bit of number crunching to figure out if a pass is more affordable than buying individual tickets, or more affordable than doing a combo like flying, renting a car, and taking the bus however if you love seeing the countryside by ground and prefer trains over buses or cars, then getting a train pass in Spain definitely makes sense.

Driving in Spain – Car

As Canadians, we’re used to driving everywhere. Canada’s an enormous country, and long distance public transportation is definitely lacking here.

Happily, the public transportation system in Spain, like most European countries, is excellent. During our time in Spain, we did rent a car for our road trip through Spain and Portugal, but most of the time we relied on public transportation to get around,

In Spain, you drive on the right hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left side of the vehicle. Coming from Canada, this was familiar to us, making driving easier, but if you come from the UK or Australia, where you drive on the left side the road, it may be more of a challenge to get adjusted.

The driving age in Spain is 18, and you’ll need both a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

Freeways (autovias in Spanish) are plentiful and well maintained throughout Spain. We found the highways we traveled in Southern Spain to be smoothly paved, with lines recently painted. We did find plenty of roundabouts on the roads in Spain, including large, busy roundabouts in Madrid.

As North Americans, we’re used to wide roads with plenty of parking. It was definitely a challenge to adjust to driving in Spain through the narrow, winding roads of historic city centers like Avila, Spain, where roads were originally designed for pedestrian or horse traffic.

Parking in Spain

Parking in large cities like Seville and Madrid was incredibly difficult, and even smaller centers like Avila’s city center didn’t have a lot of readily available parking. On street parking is often in small, tight spaces, which may be a challenge if your parallel parking skills aren’t on point however there are parking lots and even parking garages around some of the major tourist areas around the country.

Spain’s toll system

We found Spain’s road toll system to be much less complicated and confusing than toll roads in Portugal.

You can pay Spanish tolls with a credit card or cash manually, or electronically, via the Via-T system.

For manual tolls, you grab a ticket from a booth when you enter the motorway, and then pay the toll at another booth as you exit, in either the credit card or cash lane.

Some motorways allow electronic payments, but you’ll need a special VIA-T device. Look for the Telepeaje, VIA-T or T sign on the motorway. You must use one of the lanes with the VIA-T sign if you’re using a device and the device automatically registers the amount of the toll. These devices are available, for a small fee, from many banks in Spain however you’ll need an account at the bank to get one.

Toll costs vary depending on the road and the prices vary from region to region. You can find Spain’s toll costs on numerous sites however this one from Sixt (just click on Spain) is quick and simple.

Pros of Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car in Spain let us visit small towns and villages in Spain and Portugal that would have been very difficult to see without a vehicle. It was also the most cost effective option for our family of four and allowed us to spend as much or as little time at each destination without worrying about tight timelines.

Cons of Renting a Car in Spain

One of the major hassles of renting a car in Spain was the renting a car hassle factor. We had to figure out insurance for the car, tolls on the motorways, travel medical insurance, and deal with sometimes confusing directions. The worst was probably having to find parking, especially in city centers, where parking was hard to find and often expensive.

Bus

While Spain has a good train system, buses pick up where trains aren’t available. Buses also run on many routes that are also served by trains, and we often found the bus fares to be more affordable than train fares. However, bus routes often took much longer than train routes.

We found bus transportation in Spain generally very affordable. Most smaller centers, like Nerja, Spain, are well served by public long distance bus routes.

In recent years, ALSA has bought out many smaller bus companies, giving it a more consistent feeling and more options when booking online.

Buses can be booked via Movelia, Alsa, or Avanza websites.

Advantages of Taking the Bus in Spain

One of the best things about taking the bus in Spain is that buses serve almost every small town in Spain. Sure, there are some remote parts without bus service, but most towns have good bus connections. Plus, buses are generally clean and comfortable, and run on a reasonable schedule.

Cons of Traveling by Bus in Spain

While buses are affordable in Spain, one of the main disadvantages of taking the bus is that it’s much slower than high speed trains, flying, or even driving by car. This is especially annoying on non-direct bus routes that have multiple stops. If time if of the essence, then definitely opt for the more expensive direct buses with minimal stops.

Ferries

Ferries aren’t the first thing most people think of when it comes to transportation in Spain.

That said, around 20 ferry companies operate in Spain. They operate to and from:

• the Canary Islands
• the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca and Menorca (most depart from Barcelona, but some route via Dénia and Valencia.)
• Spain to Morocco
• the UK, Italy and other countries, including North Africa and Morocco.
• between islands in Spain (for example, from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote)

We took the ferry from the extreme south of Spain in the town of Tarifa to the Moroccan city of Tangier, across the Gibraltar Strait. There are two companies that run the route, FRS and Inter Shipping.

The crossing is relatively short, at only about an hour and the ferries often have food and entertainment onboard.

Tip: If the water’s choppy, the crossing from Tarifa to Tangier by ferry can be pretty nausea inducing.

You can also take a ferry directly from Barcelona to either Tanger Med (on GNV ferries) or Nador (on Grimaldi Lines) . Ferry sailings from Barcelona to Tanger Med are operated by the ferry companies GNV and Grimaldi Lines. Both crossings take about 30 hours.

Traveling by Plane in Spain

Spain is well served by discount and regular fare airlines, and flying is often the quickest (and even cheapest) way of getting around the country. Spain is a large country (the second largest in Western Europe), so it can take a while to get from the north down to south or even from east to west.

It’s a whopping 529.5 kilometers (321 miles) from the major centers of Madrid to Seville, for example. The journey takes about two and a half hours by train, five and a half hours by car, and only one hour by plane.

If time permits, many tourists prefer to slow down and see the Spanish countryside by train, bus, or car.

Spain’s main airlines are Iberia, Iberia Express, Vueling, Air Europa, Wamos Air, and LEVEL. Plenty of other airlines operating in Spain, including Ryanair, EasyJet and Lufthansa.

Tip: If you’re traveling with a lot of baggage, consider using luggage shipping services to make your journey easier.

Heads up! Laws banning short haul flights in Spain are under consideration in 2022, to help shrink the region’s carbon output. It’s a serious possibility, as France set a law in effect that banned short-haul domestic flights on routes where train journeys of two and a half hours or less existed as an alternative.

Walking

While most people think of major treks like the famous El Camino de Santiago, it is possible to get around most cities and towns just by walking.

So, while walking may not be feasible for long distances between cities in Spain, it’s a fantastic way to see many of the sites in town.

Walking is one of our favorite ways to see a new country, and wandering through the narrow streets of the city center showed us the best of Seville and the centro of Madrid. Walking the winding city centers is also one of the things we loved about Spain.

Taxis, Ubers and Other Ride Hailing Options

To get around locally, taxi services and Uber* (or local ride hailing services) are generally good options in Spain. While in city rates aren’t bad, long distance rates can get pretty high so other methods of transportation is advised.

*Uber is regulated in Spain and it doesn’t operate in every city, including Valencia. It just returned to Barcelona in 2021 after a two year absence.

The Best Ways to Get Around Spain

Whether you choose trains and airplanes to buses or car rentals, there’s no denying Spain is a large, beautiful country with plenty to see and lots to do. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, Spain has lots of options for you and you can’t really go wrong with any of them.

When planning a tour of the country, pay attention to not only your budget but also your timelines. Saving a few dollars can cost you hours that might be better spent visiting a beautiful destination in Spain or chomping down on some delicious tapas.

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Safe travels!

Ever dreamed of exploring a forest where trees bend in impossible twists, or wandering through a castle that whispers tales of forgotten times? Step off the beaten path and into a world where the bizarre and the beautiful collide in Poland’s most captivating hidden corners.

Poland offers adventures that stretch the imagination – from the eerie remnants of the Wolf’s Lair to the subterranean magic of the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Keep reading – this guide unlocks doors to the country’s most intriguing, odd, and downright weird wonders.

Weird and Unusual Places to See in Poland

Grab your sense of adventure and let’s uncover Poland’s best-kept secrets, where every discovery tells a story about this country’s unique and interesting past.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

The depths of the Wieliczka Salt Mine are a subterranean display of salt sculptures and majestic chapels carved straight from the earth. This UNESCO World Heritage site isn’t just a mine; it’s an art gallery, showcasing the beauty that lies beneath our feet.

Crooked House

Step into the pages of a fairy tale at the Crooked House in Sopot.

This whimsically warped building looks like It was lifted straight out of a story book, offering visitors a glimpse into architectural fantasy. Its unique design captivates the imagination and invites curiosity.

Christ the King Statue

Stand in awe beneath the towering Christ the King Statue in Świebodzin, the tallest statue of Jesus in the world. This monumental sculpture (33 metres or 108 ft tall) offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

Krakow Pinball Museum

The Krakow Pinball Museum is sure to be a favorite for kids, kids-at-heart, gamers, and nostalgia seekers.

With rows of vintage and modern pinball machines, it’s a hands-on dive into the playful side of history. Lose track of time in the flashing lights and ringing bells of this unique museum as once you’ve paid your admission fee, all the games are set to free play!

Jagiellonian University Museum Collegium Maius

Step back in time at the Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University.

This architectural gem houses a treasure trove of scientific instruments, antique books, and art, showcasing centuries of academic excellence and intellectual heritage.

University of Warsaw Library

The University of Warsaw Library is an architectural marvel, with stunning rooftop gardens with panoramic views of the city. Its blend of modern design and lush greenery makes it a serene escape and a must-visit spot for architecture lovers and students of life.

Kaplica Czaszek: The Chapel of Skulls

Skull Chapel (Polish: Kaplica Czaszek) in Czermna, is a unique and solemn place that houses the remains of over 3,000 people.

Venture into the eerie silence of the Chapel of Skulls, a macabre but fascinating site with thousands of human bones and skulls. It’s not for everyone, but this memorial to the transience of life invites reflection on mortality and our history as a species.

Upside-Down House

Enter the topsy-turvy world of the Upside-Down House in Szymbark, where everything you know is flipped on its head.

This bewildering attraction challenges your senses and perception, offering a playful and disorienting experience. It’s a quirky reminder to view the world from different perspectives.

Wawel Dragon’s Den

Explore the legendary lair of the Wawel Dragon, nestled beneath Kraków’s Wawel Hill.

This mythical cave has captivated the imaginations of visitors for centuries, with tales of dragons and heroes. Explore the depths and emerge to see the iconic fire breathing metal dragon sculpture of Smok.

Elbląg Canal

This canal in Poland is unique for its use of a system of slipways to move boats over land between water bodies, bypassing a 99.5 meter difference in water levels. It’s one of the few places in the world where boats are literally carried across the land, making it both an engineering marvel and an unusual Polish tourist attraction.

Stay Safe and Covered in Poland

One thing we’ve learned after years of traveling, especially in places where plans can shift quickly, is that having travel medical insurance just takes the edge off the unknowns. Poland is incredibly easy to explore, but when you’re hopping between cities, renting cars, or heading out to more off-the-beaten-path spots, it’s nice knowing you’re covered if something unexpected comes up.

We’ve been using SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance Essential plan because it’s simple, flexible, and built for the way people actually travel now. It covers unexpected medical issues, emergency care, and even travel delays, which can make a huge difference if your plans suddenly change. One thing we really like is that you can start or stop coverage while you’re already abroad, so you’re not locked into rigid dates. It also includes some home country coverage, which isn’t always standard.

If you’re planning a trip like this, where you’re moving around and exploring a mix of well-known and lesser-known places, it’s worth having that peace of mind in the background.

You can check current coverage and pricing here

Crooked Forest

Wander through the Crooked Forest, where nearly 400 pine trees grow with a mysterious twist. This natural oddity, with its trees bent at sharp angles, provides a surreal experience and a perfect backdrop for photographers and nature lovers.

Pyramid Rapa

Discover the intriguing Pyramid of Rapa, an unexpected mausoleum hidden in the Polish countryside.

This architectural oddity, which resembles the great pyramids, serves as a family tomb and stands as a testament to the eccentricities of its creator. It’s a mysterious and somewhat eerie sight, shrouded in local lore.

Lapalice Castle

Lapalice Castle is an unfinished, vast and sprawling structure that stands as a testament to ambition and imagination gone awry. This modern-day ruin (it was only started in 1979), with its grand halls and empty windows, captures the imagination of all who visit.

Nikiszowiec

Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Nikiszowiec, a historic mining district in Katowice.

This architectural gem, with its red brick buildings and communal courtyards, captures the spirit of early 20th-century worker settlements and offers a slice of life from a bygone era.

Project Riese & Ksiaz Castle

Project Riese is a massive, unfinished Nazi construction project in the Owl Mountains comprising of seven large tunnels. Though they were never completed and no one ever knew their exact purpose, the tunnels were attached to the beautiful and 3rd largest castle in Poland, Ksiaz Castle, which was briefly owned by the Nazis but was originally built in the 1300’s.

Project Riese and Ksiaz Castle offer a journey both through dark history and architectural beauty.

Underground City of Osówka

Journey into the heart of the Owl Mountains to discover the Underground City of Osówka, part of the mysterious Project Riese from WWII. Navigate through the labyrinth of tunnels and bunkers, unearthing stories of ambition and secrecy.

Białowieża Forest

The Białowieża Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site straddling the border between Belarus and Poland. This large and ancient woodland is a sanctuary for European bison and other wildlife, offering a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Europe’s last remaining primeval forest.

Wolf’s Lair

Once Hitler’s hidden headquarters, Wolf’s Lair is a haunting relic of WWII nestled in Poland’s serene forest. Explore the eerie ruins where history’s shadows linger, offering a poignant glimpse into the past. A must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Bismark Tower Ruin

Stand among the ruins of the Bismark Tower, a forgotten monument that whispers tales of the past.

These historical ruins offer a peek into architectural history and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a picturesque spot for contemplation and exploration.

Malbork Castle

Malbork Castle is the world’s largest castle by land area, built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century.

This imposing fortress is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a testament to the order’s power and influence, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its vast halls and intricate history.

Are you ready to explore Poland’s hidden gems?

Poland is a treasure chest of the quirky, the mysterious, and the utterly breathtaking, waiting to be unlocked by the curious traveler. From the eerie silence of Osówka’s underground city to the primeval whispers of the Białowieża Forest, each site promises a unique adventure. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and let Poland’s hidden wonders inspire your next great adventure.

More fun articles:

• 10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe
• Top Five Romantic European Places to Visit this Fall
• Using A Cell Phone In Europe Made Easy and Affordable

We spent days scouring the web for unique things to do in Madrid well before we landed in Spain’s largest city and capital. Madrid has stood for over 1,100 years, so you know there have to be plenty of things worth checking out.

Turns out there are hundreds of quirky and weird things to do in Madrid! Once you’ve seen the touristy hotspots, like checking out the sprawling Parque del Retiro or the amazing Royal Palace of Spain, you might be crave some more hidden things to do in Madrid.

The first time we visited Madrid, we knew there were several must see and do activities in this still growing city, however even back then we didn’t realize how many fun things there were to do in this vibrant city.

Whether you’re just stopping in Madrid as a starting point for a long road trip in Spain and Portugal or taking a Madrid to Barcelona train trip, know that Madrid has plenty of things to see and do.

Unique Things to do in Madrid

Join us for 15 unique things to do in Madrid.

Eat Churros con Chocolat at San Ginés

While churros con chocolat (churros with a mug of thick chocolate) definitely isn’t unique in Spain, we’ve yet to see another Spanish city that does this combination so well.

First opening in 1894, San Ginés has been serving churros and chocolate 24 hours a day to the masses.

A favorite late night stop (especially common with after the bar patrons), the chocolate is so thick that even though it’s served in a mug, good luck drinking it. Made mostly for dipping the delicious fried churros (yummy deep-fried batter sticks covered in cinnamon and sugar), it’s not something to be missed, and was a highlight on our first trip to Madrid.

Explore a piece of Egypt at The Templo de Debod

What can be more unique than having a real, 2200 year old Egyptian temple in your city?

The Templo de Debod was an Egyptian gift as thanks for helping Egypt deal with preserving artifacts and monuments when they built the Aswan Dam. Rather than having the temple destroyed, it was torn down brick by brick and then rebuilt to exacting detail in Madrid.

The Templo de Debod was originally built to honor both the god Amun and the goddess Isis, and sits in the center of Madrid, Spain, in Parque de la Montaña, close to the Royal Palace. You can walk the grounds anytime for free, however there is a cost to enter the main building.

Get surreal at The Reina Sofia Museum

What makes the Reina Sofia Museum unique has more to do with what’s in it rather than what it is.

Get tickets here.

Filled with unique paintings and sculptures, including surrealist paintings by artists like Picasso and Dali, you can spend hours walking from one chamber to another surrounded by unique works of art.

The Reina Sofia Museum is also well known for how they group their collections.

From their avant-garde collection, to eclecticism, all to way to their apparatus collection, each room holds a narrative that blends paintings, sculptures, posters, videos and music together in a way that leaves you thinking long after you’ve left the museum.

If you’re going, make sure to check out Pablo Picasso’s ‘Guernica’, considered one of the most powerful anti-war paintings in history, and one you don’t want to miss while you’re there.

Enjoy the space at Sala Equis

Housed in the last X-rated cinema in Madrid, the famed Alba Cinema, Sala Equis is converted into a popular cocktail bar and cultural center. Divided into three zones and housed in a former mansion, it has space for you to explore and plenty to do.

The main area, the Sala Plaza, with its big screen and bar, offers a variety of different foods. You can relax on wooden benches, lounge chairs and even swings as you chat with friends and locals alike.

Finally, the cozy 55-seat cinema offers everything from horror and sci-fi classics, to modern blockbusters. They have a huge rotating schedule posted every month (no movies on Mondays though). Check out their site to see what’s playing.

Eat dirty at La Pollería and La Coñería

Unique and tasty ice cream treats? Count me in.

“Wait, what am I looking at?” is a commonly heard sentence as people arrive at either La Polleria ice cream shop or its nearby sister ice cream shop, La Coñería.

La Polleria is a racy ice cream shop in Madrid that was so successful its first year that it had to move to a bigger location and then spawned a “sister” version just down the street just has to be good.

With both male (polofres – a play on slang male genitalia and waffles) and female (coñofre – a play on slang female genitalia and waffles), they’re both a huge hit and there are lineups at both places every day. With the polofres on a stick and the conofres split with an ice cream in the middle, you’ll not only get a chuckle but a tasty ice cream treat as well.

Explore your senses at Ikono

Ever feel like you can’t touch this or play with that?

While museums are great places to expand the mind, most just let you use your eyes to take it all in. Five different senses means five different spaces at Ikono that push your senses into the next realm.

From rooms filled with balls to rooms filled with scents, Ikono takes about an hour to walk through and is chock full of photographic moments, so bring your phone or a camera.

Walk through the Prado Museum

The Prado Museum in Madrid is not only the biggest museum in Madrid, it’s also considered one of the premiere museums of the world.

Get tickets here.

The Prado Museum is housed in a gigantic neo-classical building built in 1785 and is something to see on its own.

Whether you’re an inspiring art student or just enjoy paintings you can see some of the best collections of Goya, Bosch, El Greco and Velazquez here, as well as Spanish Romanesque murals and Gothic altarpieces. You can even find works from the Italian Renaissance with masterpieces by Titia, Botticelli, Rafa and Caravaggio.

Take in Madrid’s Street Art

Madrid isn’t unique in its street art. What sets Madrid’s street art apart from the rest is the quality and sheer size of many of these large art pieces. From a wall of 150 painted CCTV cameras symbolizing Big Brother is watching, to the charming (and functional) Sombrerete sundial, there are murals and street art found all across Madrid.

Get tickets to a street art tour.

For a quick roundup of some the most well known street art in Madrid, check out this article.

Go to a Flamenco Show

While southern Spain lays claim to the Flamenco origin, Madrid is often considered the capital city of Flamenco. The largest and most theatrical flamenco shows in the country call the city home, and there are several flamenco shows happening around the city on any given night.

With the hypnotic dance, haunting vocals, Spanish guitar and rhythmic beat of the castanets, flamenco dancing is fascinating to watch and a unique experience to enjoy.

Whether you catch it in a tablao (a flamenco bar) like the ever popular Corral de la Morería (opened in 1956) or Villa Rosa (first opened in 1911) or even happen to be in the city during one of the many Flamenco festivals such as Flamenco Real, Flamenco Madrid or the end of the year Suma Flamenca, you’re in for a real treat if you’ve never experienced flamenco firsthand.

Get spooked at the Chamberí Ghost Station

First opened in 1919, the Estación de Chamberí was one of Madrid’s original metro stations. Situated between the Bilbao and Iglesia stops on the Blue Line, this former subway station was closed for decades, but could still be seen by passengers as they zipped by on the tracks.

With a long history, including providing shelter from the deadly bombing campaigns and artillery assaults of the Nationalist forces in the Spanish Civil War, the station was eventually reopened as a museum named Andén 0 (Platform Zero in English).

It features a fully restored Chamberí station, complete with turnstiles, old ticket offices, maps and a film about how the Metro was originally built.

The highlight of the Anden 0 museum is undoubtedly the beautifully reconstructed original ads all along the metro platform. Most are composed of bright colored tiles, just as they were back when it first opened in 1919.

Admission is free, however there is often a line to get in.

Eat at the oldest restaurant in the world, the Sobrino de Botin

Marked in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest continually operated restaurant in the world, the Sobrino de Botin (Nephew of Botin – so named by the nephew of the original owner) has served food for well over two centuries.

It’s so old that when it was first opened, patrons actually brought their own food for the owners to cook up and serve.

While the most notable thing about this restaurant is obviously its age, it has kept to its Spanish roots. Whole suckling pig, faithfully prepared in an old brick oven, is still the restaurants most popular dish and the reason locals still flock to it today.

Go macabre at the Reverte Coma Forensic Museum

If you enjoy the macabre as well as grisly oddities, you will find the Reverte Coma Forensic Museum fascinating. Housing over 1,500 macabre oddities, ranging from severed heads from executions, dissected fetuses, deformed skulls of different peoples, diseased bones, mummies, 800 skeletons plus a few torture devices and a real used garrote.

It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, however if you are interested in the forensic and paleopathology sciences, or have a true fascination with the subject matter, it’s worth a look.

Most of these items are housed in the corridors of the immense Faculty of Medicine building at the Complutense University in Madrid for you to see. Mostly set up for students, you can organize a visit by phoning ahead or contacting the university directly.

Get lost in the Museum of Illusions

When is something not as it appears?

When it’s in Madrid’s Museum of Illusions. This newer museum plays on optical illusions to help fool your mind. Using tricks like forced perception and optical illusion, you’ll find upside down rooms, never ending corridors, 3D stereograms and much more.

Most rooms are set up a to trick your mind into seeing, or in some cases, not seeing what’s right in front of you. In either case, bring your camera, because some rooms at the Museum of Illusions need to be photographed to see their true potential.

Visit a real Crystal Palace

The Palacio De Cristal in Madrid’s huge Parque de Retiro is definitely something unusual. While palaces are commonplace in Europe, what makes the Palacio De Cristal special is that it’s nestled in the heart of the park, and is more large empty space rather a true palace.

Finished in 1887, the ornate glass and steel greenhouse sits on the shore of the lake in Retiro Park and was designed strictly as a space to exhibit arts and greenery in a loving baroque style. Over 130 years later, the building is still stunning and supposedly looks awesome in the fall as the foliage starts turning.

Meet your eventual overlords at The Robot Museum

Love robots? Who doesn’t?

Scared they’ll one day enslave us? Me too, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t find them fascinating. Madrid has one of the largest collections of robots around the world, and you can see and interact with some at the Robot Museum.

Founded in 2013, the museum pays homage to both the early days of robot invention, what’s happening out there today, and what may exist tomorrow. From humanoid replicas, to robotic toys and robotic animals, to replicas of the famous Star Wars androids, and the worlds smallest robot, EMROS, the Robot Museum in Madrid showcases them all.

Unique Things to do in Madrid Spain

Whether you’re heading to Madrid for a vacation, flying into Madrid as a stop to someplace else, or happen to live in the city, there’s plenty to see and do at all hours of the day and night.

Filled with restaurants, entertainment complexes, art studios, world class museums, more parks and squares than most comparably sized cities could dream of as well as enough markets and shops to make your wallet cry, Madrid is a definite world class city filled with art, music and nature. So whether you’re in Madrid with your kids, as a couple or going it solo, enjoy your trip!

Do you have anything to add to our list! Let us know in the comments!

Tired of all the beautiful artwork and great architecture and want to see something a little different?

Today our focus is on a few unusual things to do in Lisbon and the best way to see them. We’ve already covered some of the best things to do in Lisbon so make sure you check out that post after if you want some more ideas.

Lisbon is approximately 300km south of Porto, the easiest way to get there from the north is to book a train from Porto to Lisbon via Omio or you can rent a car and drive yourself. Just be aware that there are plenty of confusing Portuguese toll roads, so be mindful on which roads you’re driving on if you decide to rent a car.

Unusual Things to do in Lisbon Portugal

Here they are, our favorite unusual, weird, unique, or just plain quirky things to do in Lisbon.

Get tangled at the Museu da Marioneta (Museum of Puppetry)

If you love marionettes, then the Museu da Marioneta should be high on your list of places to check out.

It features marionettes and puppets from around the world, and plenty from Portugal itself. It has a huge selection spanning centuries and twines the rich history of puppet opera that existed in both Portugal and Europe since the middle ages.

This museum of puppetry is located in a remodelled convent originally built in 1665, and then rebuilt after the great quake in 1786. The Convento das Bernardas, at Madragoa, in the center of Lisbon was again remodeled in 2001 and features the museum, a restaurant, a café and outdoor areas.

How to Get There

Museu da Marioneta – Take Tram 25 on weekdays and bus 774 on weekends, which departs from Praça da Figueira downtown.

Stand on top of the Lisbon Bridge

Ever wished you could stand atop the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco? Well, the same developers who made the Oakland Bay Bridge made the Lisbon Bridge back in 1965.

Originally known as the Salazar bridge when first completed, it was the 5th largest suspension bridge in the world and the longest in Europe. After Salazar was removed from power, the bridge was renamed to the 25th of April Bridge (named after the day of liberation in 1974). It has a more eloquent name of Ponte 25 de Abril in Portuguese however it’s often just called the Lisbon Bridge and straddles the Tagus River connecting Lisbon to Almada in the south.

You can check out the museum located at Pier 7 (Pilar 7) that gives you a background on the bridges construction and even lets you see the huge cables holding the bridge from up close. There’s also an elevator you can take that will bring you up to the top where you can step into a glass enclosed outdoor viewing platform and see both the huge bridge and the river below. It’s a rare chance to get that close up and lets you appreciate the ingenuity and bravery of the people who built it.

Where to find the Lisbon Bridge

Ponte 25 de Abril – Pilar 7 – Open most days and free with the Lisboa Pass. There’s ample parking down below the bridge or you can take the tram to get there.

Check out the Pleasure Cemetery in Lisbon

Highly regarded as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Portugal, the Cemiterio dos Prazeres (translates to Pleasure Cemetery in English) is worth a visit.

Filled with beautiful crypts, tombs and mausoleums overlooking the bay, some people compare it to walking in a miniature town the embellishments are so intricate.

If you’re looking for a nice walk and enjoy walking on the quieter side of life then for sure check it out.

Where to find the Cemiterio dos Prazeres

Cemiterio dos Prazeres – Located near the terminus of historic Tram 28

Walk Among the Fishes at the Oceanarium of Lisbon

It’s not every day you get to stroll around and stare at fish and water creatures from below. The Oceanário de Lisboa is often rated as one of the best Aquariums in Europe and while it falls more to the popular category rather than the unusual, if you grew up in the prairies of Canada you would understand how cool and unusual it is to me.

With a center tank spanning over 3 floors, you get to witness everything from the corals and sand walkers down below to the colorful fish that populate the mid zone to the groups of smaller fish populating the top of the tank.

From sea otters to sea dragons and sun fish, there is a lot to take in and there will likely be a few species you’ve never seen before.

Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to see everything and bring some good walking shoes, since I guarantee you some of the tanks will keep you spellbound for hours.

What you need to know about the Lisbon Aquarium

Oceanário de Lisboa – Located at Doca dos Olivais, Parque das Nações. There are several buses and trains going here including Red line – Oriente (East) Station.

Have a delicious snack then head over to the Belem Tower

Ok, to be 100% honest, neither of these is especially unusual, but they were some of our favorite things to do in Lisbon and I couldn’t resist adding them.

Pastéis de nata are a national dessert in Portugal. Most versions owe their start to ones first made by the Jerónimos Monastery, who passed on their closely guarded original recipe to the Pasteis De Belem pastry shop nearly 200 hundred years ago.

Either sit down and enjoy some of these delicious cooked custard tarts with a tasty cup of coffee, or grab some to go and eat in the shadow of the iconic Torre de Belém only a few blocks away.

Its long 500 years of guarding the city from water invasions, changing sea levels, a catastrophic earthquake that levelled the majority of the city and now hordes of tourists speaks to the quality of the original design.

Where to find the Torre de Belem and Pasteis De Belem

Pasteis De Belem – Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92

Torre de Belem – Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal

Go 360º at the Panoramico de Monsanto

Take 1 part street art exhibit, 2 part abandoned building and 3 parts awesome 360º views, and what do you get? That’s right, the Panoramico de Monsanto in Lisbon.

This impressive abandoned former restaurant in the heart of Monsanto Forest has been the site of festivals, a Madonna music video, a home for hideaways and is a local tagger hotspot since it shut down in the 70’s.

It has since turned into a tourist draw by the graffiti, the grittiness and the amazing 360 degree views of the city.

Open and free most days to the public, it does get closed for festivals or certain events.

Where is the Panoramico de Monsanto?

Panoramico de Monsanto – Located in the Monsato Forest just on the edge of the city, the easiest way to get here is to hire an Uber or by bus 711 or 724 from Marquis de Pombal, then walk 10 minutes through the forest.

Take a day trip to Sintra and the wonders of Pena Palace

Leaving the city for a day trip isn’t unusual, however what is unusual is the overly colorful opulence that is Pena Palace and its crazy heights overlooking the nearby mountain town of Sintra.

Just like any modern fairytale, this colorful castle was dreamed up by a prince, and then built by a king. Constructed during the 19th-century Romanticism period, the castle is a great example of the era.

It has such a rich history you can get lost in its stories just as easily as the hectares of land around it, which include the Castle of the Moors and several other structures worth investigating.

The Palace is definitely worth the short drive from Lisbon. There’s plenty to see and do around Sintra while you’re out there as well.

How to get to the Pena Palace Sintra

Only 30 minutes by car due west of Lisbon proper. It’s not hard to miss high on the mountain however getting to it can be daunting so take a map or make sure you have Google Maps with you. You can also get there via the Sintra Bus 434 To Pena Palace if you’re using public transit. Take the Sintra train from Lisbon and get off in Sintra center then grab Bus 434. You can also buy a train and bus pass before leaving Lisbon or use your Lisboa Pass. Bus 434 should take you right to the mountain top.

Become a Portuguese tile expert at The National Tile Museum

If you’re a tile art aficionado, the National Tile Museum in Lisbon or the Museu Nacional do Azulejo as it’s properly called locally, houses hundreds of painted tiles spanning five centuries from various corners of the globe.

Sure, we could tell you to walk around and stare at all the amazing street tiles in Lisbon for free, but we’ve already done that in this Portugese Pavement post, so now that you’re hooked on tile art, read on.

The gallery highlights artistic tiles or azulejos from the final part of the 1500’s to the current day. Other than tiles, it also features ceramics, porcelain and faience as well as highlights the materials and strategies used for assembling tiles over the years.

As well as tiles, the museum itself dates back to 1509, when it was the former Convent of Madre Deus. As such, it also features a beautiful chapel area complete with dozens of beautiful paintings.

Where to find the Museu Nacional do Azulejo

Museu Nacional do Azulejo – Rua da Madre de Deus, 4, 1900-312

More Unusual Things to do in Lisbon Portugal

Lisbon is a great city to explore. With plenty of hills and on the doorstep of the Atlantic Ocean, there are gorgeous views all around town. Whether you’re checking out any of a dozen museums or wandering around old cathedrals there’s plenty of architecture and history to go around.

With the great earthquake in 1755, this once world class city lost a lot of its history but I think it just made what survived all the better.

Whether you’re taking the mini train to the beach, or just checking out the many fantastic restaurants and cafes, there are many fun things to do that any bigger city has as well.

You’ll find plenty of pubs, clubs and dance centers for the younger partyers including some great sail and drink trips in the summer months. To get around you can hop aboard a funicular, an old fashioned tram or take the fast and efficient underground metro.

These days you can rent scooters, order an Uber, or go old school and jump on one of the many buses that zoom around the city, or Lisbon’s famous #28 tram.

If you have any tips or suggestions for unusual or quirky things to do in Lisbon we’d love to hear. Please drop us a comment below.

Surrounded by mountains and fjords, Bergen is a city of almost 300,000 people on the southwestern coast of Norway. It’s a perfect mixture of stunning natural beauty, coupled with world class museums and wonderful places to eat.

If you’re planning a visit to this amazing city, here are the 20 best things to do in Bergen.

Best Things to do in Bergen Norway

Many lucky visitors come to Bergen via the Oslo to Bergen train, one of the most beautiful train rides in Europe.

Bergen is called the “heart of the fjords“, and it manages small town charm, while being the second largest city in Norway. There are so many places to visit in Bergen, from day trips to the fjords, exploring the historic downtown and museums, and more.

Mount Floyen and the Funicular

The view of Bergen from easily accessible Mount Floyen (320 meters above sea level) is spectacular. It’s likely one of the most popular attractions in Bergen, simply for the stunning bird’s eye view over the city.

The base of the Funicular is conveniently located downtown, and the ride to the top is just over ten minutes.

Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf

Bryggen is the historic center of Bergen. Also known as Tyskebryggen, Bryggen is one of the oldest port cities in Northern Europe. It’s packed with colorful homes, businesses and hotels, situated on narrow, winding streets.

This historic quarter of Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hanseatic Museum

Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene is a museum in the city center of Bergen. It highlights how the Hanseatic merchants lived and influenced Bergen over the course of 400 years.

Bergen Fish Market

The fish market in Bergen dates all the way back to the 1200s.

The Bergen Fish Market is one of Norway’s most visited outdoor markets. Bergen is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. There’s plenty of fresh seafood here, but be sure to try persetorsk, a traditional steamed cod dish from Bergen.

Fun fact about Norway: Norway is the largest exporter of salmon in the world.

If you’re not a seafood lover, the fish market also sells fresh fruit, vegetables, handicrafts and souvenirs.

Mount Ulriken

Ulriken is the highest mountain surrounding Bergen, which sits at 643 meters above sea level.

The Ulriken Cable Car makes it easy to reach the peak, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding islands, sea, mountains and fjords.

If you’re the energetic type, you can hike to the top with the locals. You can even zipline or paraglide from Ulriken.

Tip: The tourist bus to the base of the mountain is faster than the cheaper local bus.

Stoltzekleiven

Stoltzekleiven is a steep paved trail with stairs that lead up to the top of Sandviksfjellet mountain.

There are over 900 steps on this trail and it’s one of the most popular trails in Bergen.

The mountain is on the east side of the city in the neighborhood of Sandviken, just north of the mountain Fløyen.

Bergenhus Fortress

The Bergenhus Fortress is one of the best preserved stone castles in all of Norway. Dating back to the 1200s, it housed both Kings and criminals alike for centuries. The Rosenkrantz Tower is one of the major sights in the Bergenjus Fortress and is often considered one of the most important renaissance monuments in Norway.

Byparken

Officially called Julemarked Byparken, this beautifully manicured park surrounds a small lake near the train station. There’s a charming gazebo with flowers and plenty of green grass and trees. 

Bergen Tourist Information Building

The Bergen Tourist Information Building is near the Fish Market in the city center. It’s a handy place to book activities, fjord tours, get information on Bergen sightseeing, and buy Bergen attractions tickets or the Bergen Card.

Tip: You can buy a Bergen Card at the Tourist Information Building, online, and at some select hotels and stores. The Bergen Card gives you free entry or discounted admission to museums and attractions, events and sightseeing tours, plus discounts on restaurants and parking. A Bergen card gives you free travel on buses in Bergen and the region, as well as the Bergen Light Rail between Bergen airport and the city center. You can buy the card in 24, 48, 72 and 96 hour versions. Prices start at 300 kr (adult) or 100 kr (children 3-15 years of age).

Fantoft Stavkirke Church

Fantoft Stave Church is a reconstructed stave church in the Fana borough of Bergen. It’s a striking building, with its black color making a distinct contrast to most European churches.

University Museum of Bergen (Universitetsmuseet i Bergen)

Bergen is well known for its university. The university, in turn, houses many impressive museum collections.

The University Museum of Bergen (Universitetsmuseet i Bergen) includes the Natural History Collection, the Cultural History Collection, and the Seafaring Museum.

Troldhaugen Edvard Grieg Museum

Famous composer Edvard Grieg (1843–1907) spent his days creating music in Troldhaugen.

It’s a living museum with an exhibition center, shop and cafe, concert hall, composers’ cabin and Grieg’s villa. Guided tours are available, and you can also listen to a concert in the museum’s concert hall.

KODE Art Museums of Bergen

The KODE Museum is made up of four museums, KODE 1, 2, 3 and 4.

• Kode 1 is the museum of craft and design, and it houses the restaurant Bien Centro.
• Kode 2 is home to temporary exhibitions, as well as a large bookstore with information on architecture and design.
• Kode 3 houses the collection by Edvard Munch and the Golden Age of Norwegian Art. Munch is famous for his painting “The Scream”.
• Kode 4 is currently closed for major renovations to the buildings.

The Bergen Maritime Museum

The Bergen Maritime Museum is one of Norway’s oldest museums. It’s packed with replicas of Viking ships as well as other maritime memorabilia.

VilVite – The Bergen Science Center

VilVite is the place to explore technology and science, whether you’re a kid or adult. There are plenty of hands on activities, and exhibits on water experiments, robots and globes, making it one of the most fun things to do in Bergen with the family.

Enjoy the Aquarium

The Bergen Aquarium is Norway’s largest aquarium, and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. There’s plenty of entertainment here, including sea lion shows and penguin feedings, making it a must for kids of all ages.

View the Street Art

There’s spray-painted street art all over the city of Bergen, much of it from world-class street artists.

Make sure to check out Skostredet, which is Bergen’s famous shopping street, and an ideal starting point for a self-guided street art tour.

Catch a Concert

Bergen is well known for its successful musical bands and artists, like Kygo, Aurora and Röyksopp.

Even if you can’t catch a big name artist in the time of your visit, there are plenty of music venues throughout the city with excellent up and coming acts.

Day Trips from Bergen

Bergen’s day trips largely focus on visiting the gorgeous nearby fjords and mountains. Bergen is the most popular jumping-off point for visiting Norway’s most famous fjords. While you can visit Norway by bus, it’s usually much easier to have your own transportation, or take a tour.

Fjord Cruise

Bergen is perfectly nestled between the two biggest fjords in Norway, the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord. This makes the city an ideal starting point for fjord excursions.

You’ve likely seen Hardangerfjord’s Trolltunga on social media. Trolltunga is a rock that juts out 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet lake, making for a stunning photo.

A lot of people join in the popular Norway in a Nutshell tour, which lets you enjoy Norway’s UNESCO fjords and mountains. The tour also includes a ride on the Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway.

Vidden Trail between Mt. Fløyen and Mt. Ulriken

The hike between Ulriken and Floyen takes just over four hours. It’s a well marked trail, and popular with tourists and locals alike.

Flåm Railway

The Flåm Railway is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. It’s certainly one of the steepest as well. The train runs from the end of Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the Sognefjord, up to the high mountains at Myrdal station.

The journey takes around two hours.

Best Things to do in Bergen Norway

Do you have anything to add to our must see attractions in Bergen? Let us know! We’d love to hear your thoughts.

Glamping is a mix of glamourous amenities with camping out in the wild. You get the beauty and relaxation of being near nature, while not having to give up a warm bath, a comfortable bed or even a gourmet meal depending on how much you’re willing to spend.

Glamping lets you get out in nature, without all the hassle of setting up a tent and sleeping on the ground, or the inconveniences of using public washrooms and cooking out of a cooler.

These vacation alternatives can even come accessorized with lavish features like hot tubs, luxurious washrooms, high end beds, and often stunning views.

With glamping, there’s a price point for everyone, from the most affordable and simple accommodation to high end luxury retreats catering to all your needs.

Luxury Glamping in the UK

From a yurt to a cabin in the woods, to a well provisioned caravan or oversized tent, glamping in the UK is special and inspiring. Many of these glamping options have the amenities of a five star resort giving you a luxury vacation, while others are simple, rustic and close to nature.

No matter which you chose, glamping lets you enjoy nature in comfort, while still getting outdoors and experiencing the natural world around you.

Glamping with a Hot Tub

There’s something so special about coming home from a day of hiking or exploring, and then relaxing in a hot tub. Glamping with hot tubs at Unique Hideaways lists dozens of UK hideaways that let you get outdoors and exploring. If you’re worried that a camping weekend might be too rustic, check out some of these lovely rentals with hot tubs. Spend your days fishing, hiking along the coast, horseback riding, bike riding and more, and enjoy a hot soak to relax your tired muscles.

Looking for a fun couples weekend? Romantic glamping with a hot tub can be a wonderful bonding experience as you enjoy the fresh air outdoors together, soaking your cares away. It’s a wonderful choice for London honeymoon packages.

Glamping Huts

Glamping huts give you the best of both worlds: time in nature, and a secure, cozy place to spend the evening. A camping hut, bungalow, mini cabin or cabana – whatever you want to call it – is a relaxing place to spend your holiday and offers you the security of a sturdy roof over your head. Due to them having better insulation, there are glamping huts found right across the UK including winter huts in the off seasons.

Glamping in an Airstream

Airstreams have gained a legion of fans across the globe, and for good reason. They’re a unique and fun way to spend time outdoors, and a wonderful way for beginner glampers to start.

Glamping in Safari Tents

Leave your cooler and sleeping bag at home, all you’ll need is an overnight bag when you stay in a high end glamping tent. This kind of glamping experience can come with heated floors, outdoor hot tubs, extraordinary sea views, a private ensuite bathroom, and free wireless internet access.

For me, staying in a safari tent brings images of royalty crossing the vast Sahara desert, or adventurers on a great journey across South America.

Glamping in Cornwall

Cornwall is known for its spectacular beaches and pounding surf set along a dramatic coastline. It’s also home to wonderful restaurants that serve the iconic Cornish pasty and cream teas.

Glamping in Cornwall takes advantage of these wonderful views and there’s a ton of options for every budget.

UK Camping with Sea Views

With over 12,000 km (or 7,500 miles) of coastline, the United Kingdom’s coast offers plenty of glamping with sea views.

You can stroll along the quiet beaches of the North Norfolk Coast. If you’re more in the mood for stunning views, Cornwall has plenty of them, as does the rest of the South West Coastal Path.

Dorset is a destination with a lot to offer, where you can pick fossils by the sea, or simply enjoy an afternoon strolling among scenic Dorset wineries.

Quirky Glamping in the UK

If you can imagine it, there’s likely a quirky camping experience in the UK that will meet your imagination.

Unique glamping in the UK ranges from overnights in a converted dairy barn to a cottage that looks like it could be inhabited by fairies, to a luxury safari tent overlooking the sea.

You can even choose to glamp in a houseboat as a unique hideaway. That’s one of the more unusual glamping experiences that I’ve seen.

Where is the Best Glamping in the UK?

Glamping in the UK offers experiences as diverse as staying in a seaside cottage, overnighting in a luxury airstream caravan on a working farm, or in a yurt enjoying festivals live near Chester.

So really, the best glamping in the UK allows you to see and do what matters the most to you. Whether by the sea or inland, in a modest tent or in a full on luxury retreat depends more on your budget than anything. They are as unique as you are, and there’s something for every taste.

With so many different types of glamping available, you’re sure to find a glamping option that’s perfect just for you.

Where would you love to go glamping? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!

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