There is no question that Italy is a food-lovers' paradise. Does this make Rome the capital city of delicious food? We certainly came to think so during our time exploring the eateries, trattorias, and cafes of Rome. Below outlines the top 10 places you need to add to your list when visiting this foodie city! 1. Pizza Florida Although the name makes it sound very American, Pizza Florida served some of the best pizza we tasted in Italy! With its unique flavors and incredibly friendly staff, you pay for your pizza by the weight. This allows you to try many different pizza options and keep coming back for more. Tip : Pizza Florida is located across from one of our Hidden Gems of Rome ! 2. Tonnarello Tonnarello is an amazing pasta restaurant in the heart of Trastevere that is so popular that there are always lines wrapping through the streets. Eat inside or have an early dinner (3-6pm) and you will likely avoid the lines. Do not let the crowds scare you away from eating at Tonnarello, it is certainly worth the wait! Try : the local favorites: Pesto alla Genovese, Cacio e Pepe, or Pasta Carbonara. Pair with a bottle of their house wine to share! 3. Grano la Cucina di Traiano This Italian street food restaurant is located right around the corner from the Trojan's Column and offers affordable pizza, pasta, and calzone meal deals for roughly €5. Enjoy a calzone and lemon soda on shaded steps while overlooking the Roman Forum. Grano la Cucina di Traiano is the perfect quick bite for a day full of adventures. 4. Trapizzino Trastevere This restaurant is a wine bar with only two things on the menu, a variety of €4 Trapizzino (pizza-like wraps with freshly toasted crust), and €2 Suppli (the Roman answer to Arancini - Sicily's fried rice balls). We tried a variety of each, pairing with wine to make our sampling into a full meal. The Trapizzino and Suppli were some of the most unique and delicious Italian foods we experienced while in Italy. Recommendation : Go inside and dine-in at one of their tables rather than ordering at the take-away window outside. You will be served much faster! 5. Suppli Roma Suppli is the Roman answer to Arancini, which are fried rice balls originating from Sicily. We are not claiming suppli to be a healthy snack option... but they are oh, so good and only €2! Trying Suppli is the perfect time to coin the phrase, "when in Rome!" Also Read : Venice Italy Complete Guide 6. Mammò Trastevere As people who love a good, hearty breakfast to start the day, we were not finding the pastries at local cafe's (although certainly worth trying) to be enough substance to sustain us until lunch. It was very hard to find a place with breakfast sandwiches and/or hot breakfast until we found Mammo Trastevere. Not only do they serve delicious portions, but all of their ingredients are incredibly fresh and tasty. Tip: If you are a fan of drip coffee, this was one of the only places we came across where it was served in addition to espresso. 7. Pastificio Guerra With a history dating back to WWI, Pastificio Guerra has been serving up €4 pasta dishes day after day. A glass of wine or water is included in your meal when you eat at one of the stools along the wall. Also Read : Florence Italy Complete Guide 8. 200 Gradi Serving fresh and creative sandwiches for €5-8, 200 Gradi is located right outside Vatican City and is a convenient, affordable, and healthy place to stop for a quick bite throughout your travels. Their fresh vegetables, warm bread, and creamy cheese had us coming back to order a second sandwich before we left. 9. Pompi Tiramisu Pompi Tiramisu is the self-proclaimed "Kingdom of Tiramisu" and features €4 portions of flavors such as classic, strawberry, pistachio, chocolate-banana, and many more. Do not leave Rome without trying this classic Italian dessert, straight from the source. Also Read : Cinque Terre Day Trip Guide 10. Pastasciutta This affordable pasta shop is located just outside of Piazza del Popolo. They offer a variety of €6 pasta dishes that are all made fresh in minutes. Located in such a popular area, you cannot beat it! Order take-away and enjoy your pasta in the Piazza del Popolo, or head up the stairs to eat with an incredible view at Terrazza del Pincio. Try : Cacio e Pepe or Pasta Carbonara Looking for a Food Tour? You may consider one of these popular options below: Happy Adventuring! J&L

Rome is home to ancient ruins, towering cathedrals, magnificent gardens, and the world's smallest country. You probably know the top sights of Rome without even starting to plan your trip. Sights such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City and Trevi Fountain are certainly worth a visit, however, we have created this guide to share the lesser-known spots of Rome that are equally as incredible. All of the below suggestions are within walking distance from the city center, although they can also be reached by metro. 1. Trastevere Trastevere is a neighborhood south of the Tiber River that is home to many authentic trattorias (Italian restaurants), pizzerias, and lively bars. Off the beaten path, we found Trastevere to be an ideal lodging location in Rome that both minimizes crowds and allows you to be in close proximity to the main sights Rome has to offer. Our favorite restaurants in Trastevere are Tonnarello and Trapizzino . You may also consider taking this popular food tour of Trastevere! 2. Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary This non-profit organization is in the heart of Rome, yet is very easy to walk by without knowing it is there! Across the street from another Rome favorite, Pizza Florida , you will find a set of stairs taking you down into the Largo di Torre Argentina. The cat ladies of Rome feed and care for these abandoned and malnourished cats. This is not your typical animal shelter, rather it is located among ancient ruins! The cats are free to roam through the Largo di Torre Argentina with food, love, and lots of pets awaiting them when they return to the cat sanctuary. Entrance : completely free! 3. Testaccio Market This glass-roofed market is home to over 100 food stalls on the south side of Rome. Wander through the rows and let your nose lead you to a delicious meal or stop by the popular Mordi e Vai (translated as Grab and Go) for a classic Roman panini. Try the owner Sergio's recommendation, Allesso di Scottona with Chicory, or simmered beef with a leafy green garnish. Try : Authentic Roman Paninis at Mordi e Vai for only €3.5! 4. Aventine Hill There are several reasons to visit Aventine Hill. Not only is it one of the seven hills on which ancient Rome was built, but it is home to several hidden gems that will make your climb worth the effort Buco della serratura dell'Ordine di Malta Translated as " keyhole of the Knights of Malta ", t his gem located on Aventine Hill is an ornate keyhole that draws crowds of people. Why? This keyhole perfectly frames a beautiful view of St Peter's Basilica among a garden backdrop. Recommendation : Get to Aventine Hill early in the morning for the most picture-perfect view through the keyhole. Gardino degli Aranci At the top of Aventine Hill, you will find several noteworthy gardens. The first is Gardino degli Aranci which is a secluded garden filled with orange trees! If you head to Terrazza (Terrace) Belvedere Aventino within the garden, you will be rewarded with views of the city and Tiber River. Gem : A true hidden gem that only the locals know about! Roseto di Roma Capitale Another favorite on Aventine Hill is the Roseto di Roma Capitale, or the Rome Rose Garden. This garden is filled with roses from around the world and contains over 1,000 varieties! It is free to enter and open to the public. We recommend to have a picnic among the beautiful flowers or to gaze out onto the city views from the top of Aventine Hill. Note : The best time to visit the garden for beautiful blooming flowers is from May to June. 5. Vatican Necropolis & St Peter's Tomb One of the most popular places to visit in Rome is St Peter's Basilica. However, what most people do not know, is that you can get tickets to be one of only 250 people given daily tours of the necropolis. The underground necropolis is home to the tomb of the apostle St Peter , the site of the rock in which the church was built. These tickets are not something that you can walk up and buy for the day of your visit, making it a hidden gem for those who complete a little bit of prep work. If you are interested, contact the Vatican Scavi Office prior to your trip to request tickets ( €13 per person). Tickets are not guaranteed due to the limited slots in their daily tours. However, it is certainly worth reaching out for the opportunity to witness such an incredible monument. Tip : Contact the Vatican Scavi Office far in advance and provide all dates that you will be in Rome for your best chance at acquiring tickets. Alternatively, if you are not able to acquire tickets for the necropolis, all visitors to St Peter's Basilica are able to enter the Vatican Grottoes for free . The grotto entrance is located near the main altar and houses a replica tomb of St Peter (directly above his tomb in the necropolis), along with tombs of over 90 popes, royalty, and dignitaries. 6. Via Margutta Via Margutta is a beautiful street decorated with hanging ivy and beautiful flowers. Hidden in plain sight, this street is located directly between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo. Take a stroll down this alluring side-road and escape the hustle and bustle of the main drag. Did you know? Via Margutta became popular after the main character of Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn, Joe Bradley, was shown living on this street. Visit Joe Bradley's palazzo at Via Margutta 51! 7. Villa Borghese Villa Borghese is located on the north side of Rome (about a 10 minute walk from the Spanish Steps) and is well worth the visit for those who enjoy green spaces. Stretching across roughly 200 acres, Villa Borghese offers a peaceful serenity so close to the hustle and bustle of Italy's capital city. With scenic lakes, magnificent greenery, temples, museums, and even a zoo, Villa Borghese is the most beautiful park in Rome. For art lovers, you may also consider visiting the Borghese Museum (requires tickets in advance). Views : Don't miss Passeggiata del Pincio (Pincian Hill) f or beautiful views over Piazza del Popolo (People's Square). Located northeast of the Villa Borghese is the Coppedè District , a fairytale district that most tourists do not know exists. This district is known for its unique architecture, eateries, and art. Piazza Mincio, home to much of the unique architecture, is a 15 minute walk from the Borghese Gallery. You may also consider visiting Chiesa Santa Maria Addolorata , which is the first South American national church in Rome. Coppedè District is certainly worth a stroll if you are in the area. 8. St Clement Basilica Every church in Rome is filled with unique art and history. One of our favorite (and lesser-known) churches we visited while in Rome was St Clement Basilica. Not only does it have frescoes by Masolino in the main church, but you can also descend into the ruins of an earlier church. However, it does not end after descending one level. Descend one sub-level further to explore the eerie remains of a Pagan temple to Mithras. This was such a unique experience to explore and wander through ancient history. Admission: Upper Church: Free; Lower Church & Temple: € 10 You may also consider one of the below tours of Rome: Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Fact: The nickname for Rome is "Caput Mundi", which is Italian for Capital of the World. Home to more than 2,000 fountains, ancient ruins, and the world's smallest country, Rome has surprises around every corner. Table of Contents: Top Things in Rome Italy THINGS TO DO   WHAT TO EAT   WHAT TO DRINK   WHEN TO GO   WHERE TO STAY   GETTING AROUND SUGGESTED DURATION   Views 1. Colosseum This 2,000 year-old building is not only one of the most visited attractions in all of Rome, but a classic example of Roman engineering. As one of Europe's most recognizable landmarks, this colossal, functional stadium was used for entertaining the masses. ​ 🎟️ Tickets : 24h - Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Combo Ticket: €16 (€22 to add visiting the area floor) When booking the 24h - Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Combo Ticket, you are given 24 hours from your Colosseum time entry time to visit the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. We recommend booking your time slot at the Colosseum right when it opens to have minimal crowds at the beginning of your visit. Estimated time in the Colosseum: 1-2 hours 2. Roman Forum / Palatine Hill The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are the birthplace and civic center of Ancient Rome. This common ground between Rome's famous seven hills preserves thousand-year-old history, artwork, and architecture. 🎟️ Tickets : 24h - Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Combo Ticket: €16 Palatine Hill offers some of the best views over the Roman Forum. This is the most famous of Rome's seven hills and housed very prestigious individuals, such as aristocrats and emperors, during ancient times. 3. Capitoline Hill One of the famous seven hills of Rome, Campidoglio Square sits atop Capitoline Hill with a remarkable statue of Marcus Aurelius. Home to the ancient Temple of Jupiter and the center of the city government for over 2,500 years, Capitoline Hill not only offers breathtaking views of the Roman Forum but a significant historical importance. Some of Rome's most famous statues and art are housed in the Capitoline Museums. These museums are located in the two palaces that face the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius in Campidoglio Square. 🎟️ Capitoline Museum Admission : €15 (Open Daily from 9:30am - 7:30pm) 4. Altar of the Fatherland This expansive monument is hard to miss when traveling through Rome. Built in honor of Victor Emanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, Altar of the Fatherland is the largest monument in Rome to this day. Climb to the top of the stairs for beautiful views of the eternal city and ascend to even higher views via the Sky Elevator. 🎟️ Admission : Free! (€10 for the Sky Elevator) 5. Vatican Museum Located in the world's smallest nation, Vatican City, the Vatican Museums house four miles of the finest art within the Western civilization. From sculptures, to paintings, to a room filled with painted maps, the Vatican Museum experience culminates with Michelangelo's glorious Sistine Chapel. 🎟️ Admission : €17 + €4 online reservation fee (€8 for students up to 25 years old with valid ID) [ Reserve Timeslot at least 1-2 weeks in advance ] Do you want to learn about all of the art and history within the Vatican Museum without spending money on a guided tour our audio guide? We have a great budget tip for you! Budget Tip : Download Rick Steve's Vatican Museum Audio Guide via the Rick Steve's App prior to your trip and listen for free! Downloading his guides prior to your trip will even allow you to listen while in airplane mode to avoid international roaming fees. 6. St Peter's Basilica One of the most impressive churches on earth, St. Peter's Basilica is home to Michelangelo's Pieta and Dome. As one of the holiest sites of Christianity and Catholic Tradition, this basilica marks the burial site of St. Peter, the head of the twelve Apostles of Jesus and first Pope of Rome. St. Peter's Basilica is filled with unmissable treasures and Christian relics. There are several that most people miss, which we have included in our Hidden Gems of Rome article. 💡 Did you Know? To the left of St. Peters Basilica, you can witness the "changing of the guards" show on the hour, every hour. Prefer a Guided Tour? 7. Villa Borghese Villa Borghese is located on the north side of Rome (about a 10 minute walk from the Spanish Steps) and is well worth the visit for those who enjoy green spaces. Stretching across roughly 200 acres, Villa Borghese offers a peaceful serenity so close to the hustle and bustle of Italy's capital city. With scenic ponds, magnificent greenery, temples, museums, and even a zoo, Villa Borghese is the most beautiful park in Rome. For art lovers, you may also consider visiting the Borghese Museum (requires tickets in advance). 💡 Views : Don't miss Passeggiata del Pincio (Pincian Hill) for beautiful views over Piazza del Popolo (People's Square). 8. Pantheon This domed temple is known as the most well-preserved monument from ancient Rome. The innovative architecture combining both Greek and Roman styles has inspired many replicas throughout Europe. 💡 Did you Know? There is an open hole (oculus) at the highest point in the Pantheon which serves as a connection between the temple and the gods above. 9. Trevi Fountain This 18th century fountain is the largest fountain in Rome and was made popular by movies such as Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita . The myth states that you must turn your back to the fountain and throw two coins; one to make a wish and the second to ensure a trip back to Rome! As you might imagine, the Trevi Fountain receives a lot of coins and tourists. The best time to visit the Trevi Fountain is before 7am or after 11pm in order to avoid the large crowds of people. 💡 Did you Know? The Trevi Fountain is shut down for cleaning every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 8:00am - 9:00am 10. Incredible Churches As the home of the Catholic Church, Rome boasts many breathtaking churches and basilicas. As a general rule of thumb, when walking by a church in Rome, take a peek inside! We stumbled upon many spectacular churches in Rome filled with art, relics, gold altars, and crypts. There are four main Papal Basilicas in Rome . If you are looking to visit the most grand, ornate, and meaningful churches of Rome, these four are on the list of most Catholic Pilgrims. The four basilicas include, St Peter's Basilica, St John Lateran, Santa Maria Maggiore, & St Paul Outside the Walls. NOTE : Shoulders and knees must be covered in order to enter the churches in Italy. 💡 Tip : One of our favorite churches we visited in Rome is actually a hidden gem most pass right by! 11. Spanish Steps The butterfly-shaped steps are a popular area to convene for tourists and locals alike. In fact, locals usually walk the bustling Piazza di Spagna as part of their nightly Dolce Vita Stroll. Start at Piazza Del Popolo and walk down Via del Corso towards the Spanish Steps between 5-7pm to partake in this relaxing portion of Roman life. 💡 Did you Know? It is called the Spanish Steps due to the Spanish Embassy located at its base. 12. Appian Way & Catacombs A very popular day trip in Rome is to the Appian Way and Catacombs, which is about a 30 minute bus ride from the heart of Rome via the 118 bus. Bus tickets are roughly €1.5 per way and can be purchased in a metro or tobacco shop ahead of your trip (valid 100 minutues). The Callisto and Sebastian Catacombs contain crypts of Christian martyrs and popes, as well as, third century frescoes. Tickets are €8 to enter the Catacombs and includes a 35 minute guided tour (Open 10:00am - 5:00pm; closed on Sundays). The Appian Way was Europe's first highway, connecting trade to and from Italy's capital city. Go on an e-bike tour through this ancient road taking you through magnificent ancient parks and monuments along the journey. 💡 J&L Tip : Take the hassle out of planning your logistics and book a day tour to the Catacombs including e-biking through the Appian Way! 13. Rome's Hidden Gems Rome is home to ancient ruins, towering cathedrals, magnificent gardens, and the world's smallest country. In addition to the top sites of Rome that we have mentioned in this travel guide, we have also created a guide to share the lesser-known spots of Rome that are equally as incredible. Also Read : 8 Hidden Gems of Rome More Time? Noms 1. Pizza Florida Although the name makes it sound very American, Pizza Florida served some of the best pizza we tasted in Italy! With its unique flavors and incredibly friendly staff, you pay for your pizza by the weight. This allows you to try many different pizza options and keep coming back for more. Tip : Pizza Florida is located across from one of our Hidden Gems of Rome ! 2. Tonnarello Tonnarello is an amazing pasta restaurant in the heart of Trastevere that is so popular that there are always lines wrapping through the streets. Eat inside or have an early dinner (3-6pm) and you will likely avoid the lines. Do not let the crowds scare you away from eating at Tonnarello, it is certainly worth the wait! Try : the local favorites: Pesto alla Genovese, Cacio e Pepe, or Pasta Carbonara. Pair with a bottle of their house wine to share! 3. Grano la Cucina di Traiano This Italian street food restaurant is located right around the corner from the Trojan's Column and offers affordable pizza, pasta, and calzone meal deals for roughly €5. Enjoy a calzone and lemon soda on shaded steps while overlooking the Roman Forum. Grano la Cucina di Traiano is the perfect quick bite for a day full of adventures. Also Read : Top 10 Restaurants of Rome 4. Trapizzino Trastevere This restaurant is a wine bar with only two things on the menu, a variety of €4 Trapizzino (pizza-like wraps with freshly toasted crust), and €2 Suppli (the Roman answer to Arancini - Sicily's fried rice balls). We tried a variety of each, pairing with wine to make our sampling into a full meal. The Trapizzino and Suppli were some of the most unique and delicious Italian foods we experienced while in Italy. Recommendation : Go inside and dine-in at one of their tables rather than ordering at the take-away window outside. You will be served much faster! 5. Suppli Roma Suppli is the Roman answer to Arancini, which are fried rice balls originating from Sicily. We are not claiming suppli to be a healthy snack option... but they are oh, so good and only €2! Trying Suppli is the perfect time to coin the phrase, "when in Rome!" Also Read : Venice Italy Complete Guide Brews 1. Open Baladin With 40 Italian beers on tap and a selection of over 100 bottled Italian and international beers, Open Baladin is the place to stop for any craft beer lover. Try a bottle of Etrusca, a beer brewed with ingredients that have been discovered at several Italian archaeological sites, creating a beer which the Etruscans thought to have drank over 2,500 years ago! Also Read : Florence Italy Complete Guide 2. Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà One of Rome’s first places for craft beers, this small spot in Trastevere has a rotating selection of 16 beers on tap. Belgian Lambics, Irish Stouts, and Italian brewed IPAs are regular features at Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà. Also Read : Cinque Terre Day Trip 3. Bierra Moretti Bierra Moretti is an Italian brewing company that originated in Udine, Italy. With limited breweries in Italy, one of the best (and most affordable) ways to sample local beers is by grabbing a three pack at a local grocery store (i.e. Coop). With no open container law in Italy, we found ourselves purchasing some local beverages and heading to a nearby park for a J&L classic: brews with a view. Want to grab a bottle of Bierra Moretti at a local pub? La Botticella is a great option! Planning Your Trip How many days is enough to see Rome? In order to complete our suggested activities, we recommend spending at least three full days in Rome. If you want to add a day trip to the Appian Way or nearby beaches, you may consider adding 1-2 more days. J&L Recommended : 3-5 Full Days What month is the best to visit Italy? To take advantage of the pleasant weather while experiencing a minimal amount of tourists, the best time to visit Rome is on the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November. J&L Recommended : April - May & September - November Where is the best area to stay in Rome? We lodged south of the River Tiber in Trastevere. We found this to be an ideal location as it was within close walking distance to all of our desired Rome attractions while being surrounded by quaint eateries, nightlife, and local charm. We never had to use public transportation within the city (although it is available from Trastevere if needed). Giorgia's Condo was in the perfect location to explore the Eternal City while being tucked away off the main street enough to enjoy a peaceful night sleep. Her condo was clean, filled with thoughtful touches, and overlooked a stunning view of Basilica di Santa Maria. J&L Recommended Location : Giogia's Condo in Trastevere Getting Around Rome What is the best way to get around in Rome? It is very easy to walk most places in Rome. If you prefer not to walk, you can either hire a taxi, take ATAC Buses or use the Rome Subways . Bus tickets are roughly €1.5 per way and can be purchased in a metro or tobacco shop ahead of your trip (valid 100 minutes, cannot purchased on the bus). J&L Recommended: Use Rome2Rio or Google Maps to select your route in real-time. How do you get to Rome from the Airport? From the Rome Airport [FCO], take the Trenitalia train from Fiumicino Aeroporto to Roma Termini. Tickets can be purchased at Trenitalia kiosks within the station and will cost roughly €6-9 to get to Roma Termini. J&L Recommended: Use Rome2Rio to select your route in real-time. Looking for affordable International Data? Want to avoid roaming charges and $10/day international data fees? Airalo allows you to download an eSIM to your phone and activate while in Italy for a very affordable price. We bought 3 GB of data which was valid for 30 days from activation for only $7. It worked great throughout our entire trip and was very easy to install. Airalo offers eSIMs all around the world and we can validate that it works with ease in multiple European countries. Get $3 off with code NBV8668 by signing up here ! Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Fact: The island of Santorini sits in a water-filled caldera (a large volcanic crater) that is thought to have ended Minoan civilization on Crete. Table of Contents: Top Things To Do in Santorini Greece THINGS TO DO   WHAT TO EAT   WHAT TO DRINK   WHEN TO GO   WHERE TO STAY   GETTING AROUND   SUGGESTED DURATION   Views 1. Oia Oia is such a beautiful town and a Oia is a must-see! However, we would not recommend lodging here due to the large tourist crowds. People start crowding the streets 4 hours prior to sunset in order to secure a good photography spot. The narrow streets become impassable and restaurants fill to capacity. While you should definitely visit Oia during your stay, we recommend visiting in the afternoon/early evening and catching the bus back to Fira for the sunset! It is equally as stunning in Fira and you will be able to find a restaurant cliff-side with an amazing view. J&L Tip : Watch the sunset in Fira! 2. Santorini Day Tours 2022 Pricing: €45/person + €5 Optional Volcano Entrance Fee This is an all-day tour that found to be well-worth the money! A bus will pick you up at/near your lodging and drop you off at a boat that resembles a pirate ship at the marina. The tour begins by visiting Tholos Naftilos, an active volcano on a neighboring island. From here, you are taken to hot springs off the coast of Palea Kameni where you can jump off the boat and swim in the hot springs. Next, you travel to the quaint island of Thirasia for lunch with the option to swim and explore the island. Finally, you are dropped off at the bottom of Oia where you can hike up the cliff to the city of Oia on the far north side of Santorini. J&L Tip: We do not recommend riding a donkey up the cliff as the donkeys are over-worked from tourist activity and, although steep, the hike takes no longer then 15 min 3. Red Beach The red lava rock cliffs contrasting with the crystal blue water draws many tourists to this beach. However, it is safer to view from the water on either a boat tour or SUP rental . Due to the possibility of landslides, this beach has been deemed unsafe, however, this has not stopped hundreds of visitors from going down to the beach to witness it's beauty. The risk is up to you! J&L Tip: View from the water on a Sea Kayak & Snorkeling Tour 4. Cathedral of St John The Cathedral of St John is a beautiful church in the heart of Fira, founded in the 13th century and serves as the Roman Catholic Diocese of Santorini. Not only is the church incredibly beautiful, but the bell tour is also a breathtaking sight to see. 5. Perissa Beach Perissa Beach is a large beach along the public bus-route with cabanas, and a nearby beach town. This is one of the closest beaches to Fira with the best sand and swimming (also Perivolos). Please note, the beaches in Santorini have warm, black sand due to being an active volcano. You cannot lay out on a towel without feeling the warmth of the sand. We highly recommend sitting in a cabana chair and supporting the local businesses. J&L Tip: you can sit in the cabana chairs as long as you purchase a drink or food from the local establishment 6. Perivolos Beach Perivolos Beach is a more secluded beach than Perissa Beach and also has cabanas and restaurants near by. The beach is nestled alongside a beautiful cliff and is also great for swimming. 7. Cultural District in Pyrgos If you want to experience a day as a true Santorini native, head to Pyrgos. A town untouched by tourists, yet beautiful in it's own way. South of Fira and inland from the famous caldera, it's panoramic views are worth experiencing. J&L Recommended: Authentic Greek district 8. Ancient Thera Ancient Thera is an excavation site of an ancient city atop a steep mountain. For those of you who like history, when is the next time you will be able to see the ruins of an 11th century BC settlement? Noms $ - Budget $$ - Mid-Priced $$$ - Splurge 1. Lucky's Souvlaki - $ Located in Fira, this souvlaki (street food) was our favorite and go-to meal in Greece! Souvlaki is a street food version of Gyros, with meat and vegetables grilled on a skewer and served in a pita wrap with a warm spiced yogurt sauce. A must-try with flavors unlike anywhere else. You will find many places serving Souvlaki throughout Greece, however, one of our favorites was Lucky's in Fira. J&L Recommended: Our favorite food in Greece! 2. Pito Gyros - $ Located in Oia, we thought Pito Gyros to be the best Gyro place in Oia (some argue best in Greece!). Affordably priced with meat tender and smoked to perfection, you will shortly see after tasting why we have recommended so highly on our list. Also Read: Athens Greece Complete Guide 3. Argo - $$ Located in Fira, Argo serves modern Greek food with a trendy atmosphere. It is busy and popular with wonderful views. Be sure to book a reservation at this restaurant ahead of time (and ask for the upper terrace). Advertisement 4. Roka - $$ Located in Oia, Roka is a crowd favorite with incredible food. Off the beaten path, fresh entrées, and charming staff, this place is worth stopping in during your time at Oia. Experience the true Santorini experience in a quaint terrace setting overlooking breathtaking blue waters. Also Read: Amsterdam Complete Guide 5. Karma - $$ Karma is a charming, quaint restaurant tucked away in Oia. Experience a cozy dinner separated from the hustle and bustle of the winding roads of Santorini. Be sure to try their fried honey-feta and baklava with ice cream as both are absolutely delicious! Brews/Wines 1. Volkan Beer Recommended Brew: White (Wheat Beer - Witbeir - 5% ABV) Brewing since 2011, Volkan Beer is the first beer from Santorini. While this beer is brewed in Argos currently, there are plans to move the brewing operations onto Santorini in an environmentally smart way in the near future. The Volkan White has a hazy golden color with a thin white head. The flavor and aroma has mild fruity notes that will refresh you after a long day of hiking the volcanic rock! Also Read: Best Craft Brews of Europe 2. Santo Wines One of the most popular wineries for tastings with great views. There are daily tastings available at this winery and a restaurant on site offering snacks, meals, and desserts. Santo's also has a gift shop and allows UPS shipping of their wine internationally. J&L Tip: One of the only wineries with a caldera and sunset view 3. Santorini Brewing Company Recommended Brew: Crazy Donkey (American IPA- 6.5% ABV) SBC's beers are easily identifiable as the "Donkey" beers, named after the donkeys that travel to the village of Fira. The Crazy Donkey is loaded with hops that yields aromatic bitterness with a tropical start to a dry finish. A great brew to enjoy while relaxing on one of Santorini's beaches, this brewery can be visited Monday through Saturday from noon until 5pm. Also Read: Best Craft Breweries of Michigan 4. Gavalas Winery A favorite in Santorini where you can have intimate wine tastings. Gavalas Winery has been run by the same family for five generations. Wine tastings happen daily and last roughly an hour. There is no restaurant on site, however, there are great Greek restaurants nearby. Also Read: Barcelona Spain Complete Guide Planning Your Trip What is the best time to go to Santorini? We would recommend the shoulder seasons [April-May or September-October] as the best time to visit Santorini. These are the months that you will likely have the best weather with the least crowds. How many days do you need in Santorini? We recommend 3-4 days in order to experience the best Santorini has to offer. Which is the best area to stay in Santorini? We recommend finding lodging in Thera (Fira) over Oia as you will be able to find beautiful places to stay with close proximity to stunning views all while avoiding the crowds and congestion of Oia. Oia is incredible and a must-see destination within Santorini, however, if you are looking for a more peaceful Santorini experience, you may consider taking day-trips to Oia rather than lodging there. For our top-pick hostels based on location and value see Best Hostels of Europe . Getting Around How do you get around in Santorini? There is a bus that is supposed to run every 15 min (see link ) and take you from one end of the island to the other. From our experience, it was very unreliable, over-packed, and favored locals. If we could go back, we would rent a car or moped, HOWEVER , you need to have an international license in order to do so in Santorini. J&L Tip: Make sure you get an international license prior to visiting Santorini or most places will not allow you to operate a rental vehicle. How do I get to Santorini from Athens? We found the best route to Santorini from Athens to be by plane . The round-trip tickets are very affordable and you save about 3 hours worth of travel time compared to taking the ferry . However, you may chose the ferry if not planning ahead as tickets generally do not sell out. J&L Recommended: By plane Affordable International Data Want to avoid roaming charges and $10/day international data fees? Airalo allows you to download an e-SIM to your phone and activate while in Europe for a very affordable price. We bought 3 GB of data valid for 30 days from activation for only $7. It worked great throughout our entire Europe trip and was very easy to install. Airalo offers e-SIMs all around the world and we can validate that it works with ease in multiple European countries. Get $3 off with code NBV8668 by signing up here ! Happy Adventuring! J&L

If you are looking to explore three very unique parks within close proximity to allow an epic one week road trip, look no further than the trifecta of Glacier , Yellowstone , and Grand Tetons . These parks offer mountainous backdrops, luscious green terrain, and impressive natural wonders. We recommend looking for a cheap flight  into Kalispell, MT and renting a car. Following your adventure, we recommend dropping off your car and flying out of Boise, ID. Table of Contents: Western National Park Road Trip Day 1-3: Glacier National Park Day 4-6: Yellowstone National Park Day 7: Grand Tetons Day 8: Boise Idaho Heading Home Planning Your Trip Day 1-3: Glacier National Park Our favorite national park to this day, Glacier has so much beauty to explore. After picking up your car in Kalispell, head to the quaint town of Whitefish and grab a coffee at Montana Coffee Traders or a brew at Bonsai Brewing Project . Where to stay in Glacier We recommend camping at Fish Creek Campground or finding a hotel in Kalispell . Read: Glacier National Park Complete Guide Top Hike: Grinnell Glacier This is a difficult hike, but our absolute favorite! It starts in Many Glacier at Many Glacier Hotel at 8:30am. If the boat is full or you do not want to buy tickets , you can hike one mile to the other side of the lake where you can reconnect with the ranger at the beginning of the hike. If you do not feel the need to hike with a ranger, the AllTrails hike begins in the parking lot to the west side of Swiftcurrent Lake. Be prepared with waterproof clothing & get your camera ready for the most incredible views! This hike ends at the base of Grinnell Glacier, a 710 acre glacier that is retreating every day. This was by-far the most rewarding hike we have ever done as we hiked it in a wild rain-storm. Read: 10 Hiking Essentials Top Hike: Scenic Point We found this hike thanks to a recommendation from a local and now we are recommending it to you! It is the definition of a hidden gem, considering we only came across three people during the entire duration of our hike. This hike is filled with a steady incline with multiple switchbacks. However, the view from the top is certainly worth the effort! Day 4-6: Yellowstone National Park Hop in the car early on the fourth day and drive 6.5 hours to Yellowstone National Park . Along the journey, stop for a brew at Bozeman Brewing Company or 406 Brewing Company in Bozeman, MT. From here, you will enter Yellowstone from the northern entrance, allowing you to stop and see the Mammoth Hot Springs along your journey. Where to stay in Yellowstone We recommend camping at Bridge Bay Campground or finding a hotel deal within the park . Read: Yellowstone National Park Complete Guide Must See: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone The canyon rim trail is an out and back trail that takes you along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Starting at the upper falls, you will wind alongside the cliff, opening up onto beautiful landscapes of both rock and water. The canyon rim trail will lead you to Artist Point. Named after its breathtaking view of lower falls and the canyon, Artist Point provides a vantage point into the canyon that makes you feel as though you are hovering above. Day 7: Grand Tetons On the morning of the seventh day of your trip, head to Grand Tetons National Park via Yellowstone (you will not have to pay a separate entrance fee if entering from Yellowstone). The drive is about 1.5 hours and allows you to witness the breathtaking Tetons from afar. Where to stay in Grand Tetons We recommend camping at Colter Bay Campground or finding a great deal on hotels in Jackson Hole here . Read: Grand Tetons National Park Complete Guide Top Hike: Cascade Canyon Trail Cascade Canyon trail is an out and back trail through the beautiful Cascade Canyon. It will add 6 miles (round trip) to hike from Jenny Lake visitors center to this trailhead rather than taking the boat. We decided to take the boat in order to allow more time for the Cascade Canyon trail. With all of the vegetation, wildlife, and water on this trail, there is a higher probability of hiking through a bear's territory . With that being said, this is an incredible trail following along the river of the canyon. The views are breathtaking and we highly recommend you hike (at least a part of) this trail! Boat Tickets : $18 Round Trip As you head out from Grand Tetons National Park on your way to Boise, be sure to stop in the quaint town of Jackson WY. If not for their weekend farmer's market, for a delicious brew at Thai Me Up Melvin Brewing or Snake River Brewing . The drive from Jackson to Boise is roughly 6 hours, however, there are two interesting stops that could break up this road trip. First, two hours from Jackson is the quaint town of Idaho Falls. An hour and a half from Idaho Falls is Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve . Day 8: Boise Idaho Boise is becoming a very popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Rugged and untouched, Boise is home to cultural attractions, arts, and outdoor activities at its doorstep. We recommend looking for a great deal on hotels for the last few nights of your trip here . Some of our favorite activities in Boise include floating down the Boise River starting at Barber Park ($3 return shuttle), eating ice cream at The Stil , sampling many types of potatoes at Boise Fry Company , and grabbing a beer flight at 10 Barrel Brewing Company . Heading Home On the ninth day of your trip, you will by returning your rental car and flying out of Boise to your home destination. All epic road trips must come to an end. However, you can spend your travel time planning your next incredible trip ! Planning Your Trip Getting to Kalispell Our favorite tools for discovering affordable flights are GoogleFlights and Scotts Cheap Flights . Both are free to use and allow you to create alerts for your destinations. Word of Advice : buy your flight tickets in a different browser than the one you used to research prices. Cookies track your searches and some airlines are known for increasing your price on returning inquiries. Best Time to Visit Western Parks The best time to visit Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Tetons National Parks is summer through early fall. Glacier National Park has a narrow window when the trails are not covered in snow. The most ideal time to visit would be in summer, however, you may consider early fall in order to avoid the crowds. Where to book lodging For campers, we recommend booking your campsites at Recreation.gov . For non-campers, an affordable options near the parks is reserving an Airbnb or finding a great hotel deal at Booking.com . Also Read: Camping Hacks What to Pack for a 1 Week Camping Trip Packing light is always the key when camping, especially when you plan to bring your necessary camping gear on a plane. We packed all of our camping gear into one checked bag by packing the below light-weight gear: Lightweight Cook Set Lightweight Camp Stove Adventure Medical Kit Coleman Tent Coleman Tandem Sleeping Bag Double V Sleeping Pad Temperatures get very cold at night in Western Parks . Be sure to pack layers and plenty of warm clothes for your trip. Get our Full Camping Packing Checklist sent to your email! Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Facts J.K. Rowling wrote a portion of Harry Potter in the Edinburgh café, The Elephant. She was inspired by the landscape/location when creating the characters and narrative of her books. "Edinburghers" living on the top of the city hill (old volcano), used to throw their sewage pots out of the window in the 1500's shouting "Gardyloo!" (beware of water!) so passersby would get out of the way. The sewage would drain down to Nor Loch, which is now Princess Gardens, a beautiful, lush, green garden beneath Edinburgh Castle. Table of Contents: Top Things in Edinburgh Views Sandeman's Free Walking Tour The Royal Mile St. Giles Cathedral Greyfriars Kirkyard Arthur's Seat Colton Hill Holyrood Palace Edinburgh Castle Real Mary King Close Tour Princess Gardens & Princess Street Grassmarket Square Noms Oink Quick & Plenty Café The Painted Rooster Elephant House Brews Brewdog Pilot Beer Campervan Brewery Barney's Beer Stewart Brewing Frequently Asked Questions Views 1. Sandeman's Free Walking Tour This gratuity-based tour is an excellent way to start off your trip to Edinburgh. The Sandemans team does a wonderful job of explaining the history, taking you to the important sites, and engaging the crowd with some added humor. Some of our favorite stops included City Chambers, the Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirkyard (home of Greyfriars Bobby). We learned about a man named Deacon Brody who was thought to be the inspiration for Jekyll and Hyde. He had the illusion of being a highly respected craftsman and was elected a seat on the city council. However, he was also a locksmith and made copies of the house keys from prominent families. He used the keys to re-enter their houses at nightfall to steal prized possessions. Today, there is a pub named after Deacon Brody on the Royal Mile. Tickets : Free! (With suggested gratuity) 2. The Royal Mile This is a mile-long road leading to the Edinburgh Castle entrance, as well as, an overlook of the entire city. Along this road are many shops and local artists. Stop by, admire their work and maybe even grab a souvenir to remember your time in Edinburgh. 3. St. Giles Cathedral This is a beautiful cathedral along the Royal Mile. St. Giles holds an important role the Scottish Reformation and is known as the "Mother Church of World Presbyterianism". This has become a popular tourist destination, not only for its historical significance, but also to admire its brilliant architecture and artistic details. 4. Greyfriars Kirkyard Greyfriars Kirkyard is a graveyard in old town Edinburgh that is worth taking a stroll through. As you read the names of some of the gravestones, you will start to recognize some of these names as prominent Harry Potter characters. This is because J.K. Rowling often found her inspiration for character names walking through this graveyard. Greyfriars Kirkyard is also home to Greyfriars Bobby. A heartwarming story of a Skye Terrier that sat on his deceased owner's grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years and guarded the gravestone until the dog passed away himself. Today, Edinburghers recognize Bobby the dog with his own grave and statue near his owner. Also Read : the full story of Greyfriars Bobby 5. Arthur's Seat We highly recommend going on the hike to Arthur's Seat. It was one of the favorite parts of our entire trip. Along the path you will see ruins of a 15th century cathedral, as well as, a 360 degree view of the city & ocean. The peak of the hike is Arthur's Seat, which was built on top of an old volcano and has incredible views that will make it more than worth the climb. J&L Recommended: A must-do in Edinburgh! 6. Colton Hill We discovered Colton Hill after noticing greenery in the landscape from our viewpoint atop Arthur's Seat. It has an excellent view of the city and can be a lovely place for a picnic. We found Colton Hill to provide extraordinary views and unique vantage points of the city. Sometimes the best designations on a trip are those you happen to stumble upon. Hidden Gem: Relaxing park just outside the city 7. Holyrood Palace Hours Peak Season: Thursday - Monday from 9:30 - 6:00pm Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the British Monarch in Scotland. Queen Elizabeth spends one week a year at this residence located at the opposite end of Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile. It is one the route to Arthur's Seat from Edinburgh Castle and worth snapping a picture of its magnificent exterior. If you have an interest and would like to tour the inside, it is open to the public almost year round. Tickets : Starting at £17.50 8. Edinburgh Castle Hours Peak Season: Daily from 9:30 - 6:00pm The castle grounds used to encompass the entire city of Edinburgh. The city gradually expanded past the castle walls and transformed into present day Edinburgh. Each of the historic buildings inside the castle walls are now turned into museums. The highlights from our visit to the castle was the 1 o'clock cannon that was set off (to alert ships in the harbor of the current time), visiting the royal jewels, touring the royal apartment, and viewing the prisoners of war exhibit. We recommend at least 3 hours at this attraction. Tickets: Starting at £17.50 at the gate and £15.50 online 9. Real Mary King Close Tour Hours: Daily 10:00 - 5:00pm A "close" is a Scottish term for an alleyway in Edinburgh's narrow and winding streets. In the 1800s, the city started building on top of the closes to create space for the City Chambers building as real estate on top of the hill was growing scarce. This enclosed the residents' houses that lived in the closes which eliminating their sunlight, fresh air, and caused an unsanitary environment filled with disease. The Real Mary King Close Tour takes you down into the homes enclosed underground while telling the stories of the residents that lived there and the struggles they endured. Tickets: Starting at £17.50 10. Princess Gardens & Princess Street As mentioned in our initial "fun fact", this garden use to be Nor Loch before it was drained in the late 18th century. Having been nourished from the Nor Loch waters, the vegetation in this garden is absolutely stunning. It is a great place to walk through, enjoy nature, and take in a wonderful view of the Edinburgh Castle. Once you walk through Princess Gardens, loop back around onto Princess Street and check out the entertaining shops & restaurants. J&L Recommended: beautiful gardens with castle views 11. Grassmarket Square A picturesque square in the middle of old town, Grassmarket is filled with designers, artisans and independent merchants. This is the perfect place to stop for lunch, try some local food/drink, and snap a few more pictures of the Edinburgh Castle. J&L Recommended: historic, fairytale buildings More time in Scotland? You may consider booking one of these incredible day trips: Noms 1. Oink Amazing pulled pork sandwich! BEWARE of the topping "haggis". If you like trying different food and want to partake in a Scottish tradition, go for it! Otherwise, checkout this link to know what haggis is before ordering. If Haggis is not for you, you can easily order your sandwich without. J&L Recommended: One of the best pork sandwiches we have ever had! (beware of haggis) 2. Quick & Plenty Café Great Scottish breakfast, friendly staff, and reasonably priced food! This is a great place to stop for a traditional Scottish breakfast or for a quick bite amidst all of your Edinburgh exploring. A Traditional Scottish breakfast includes beans, toast, eggs, sausage, bacon, haggis , and black pudding. Tip: recommended for trying a traditional Scottish breakfast (but beware of Haggis and Black Pudding!) 3. The Painted Rooster A lovely café for brunch or lunch food, specializing in Scottish and British cuisine with generous portions. Also, be sure to try their original Pierogi dumplings handmade in their kitchen. Also Read: Top Things To Do in Edinburgh 4. Elephant House Grab your afternoon pick-me-up at this famous coffee house. This is the café in which J.K. Rowling wrote portions of the Harry Potter book series. There is a picture of her hanging on the wall of the café. See if you can find her exact seat! We ordered steamed milk with amaretto and sat at the same table J.K. Rowling was pictured writing her books. Fact: This is the café in which J.K. Rowling wrote portions of the Harry Potter series. Brews 1. Brewdog Recommended Brew: Elvis Juice (American IPA) This American IPA cannot be overlooked. Elvis Juice is loaded with citrus flavor, specifically a orange and grapefruit combo, which packs a powerful flavor to delight the senses. Brewdog started in Ellon, Scotland (a couple of hours north from Edinburgh) in 2007 and now has grown to the scale of a multinational craft brewery due to rapid success among craft brew fans globally. 2. Pilot Beer Recommended Brew: Mochaccino Stout (5.5% ABV) A sweet milk stout that needs no introduction as the winner of Bow Bar's 2014 Dark Beer Challenge. This Mochaccino Stout is filled with rich flavor of coffee roast, cocoa, and a pinch of vanilla flavor. Pilot has a variety of satisfying craft beers brewed right in Edinburgh and located in bars all over the city. Also Read: Best Craft Breweries of Europe 3. Campervan Brewery Recommended Brew: Neon Blitz (Sour-4.3% ABV) Neon is a blueberry Berliner Weisse, dry-hopped with the tropical & citrus Mosaic for the creations of a highly stimulating sour beer. Packed with a fresh blueberry flavor that is well balanced with a slight sourness, we highly recommended for any sour lovers out there. 4. Barney's Beer Recommended Brew: Capital Porter (5% ABV) You cannot go wrong with this easy-drinker Porter. Dark, malty, & rich with notes of dark chocolate and coffee. Barney's beer offers tours at a cost and boasts to be the the longest established, non-continuously operating brewery in Edinburgh. Also Read: Dublin Ireland Complete Guide 5. Stewart Brewing Recommended Brew: Radical Road Pale Ale (6.4% ABV) Easily drinkable Scottish hoppy ale with distinguishable taste of marmalade and grapefruit. Stewart Brewing is located just outside of Edinburgh in Loanhead. If time allows on your schedule we recommend stopping by! Frequently Asked Questions Which part of Edinburgh is best to stay? Grassmarket Square is in an excellent location and central to all Edinburgh's top attractions. For our top-pick hostels based on location and value see Best Hostels of Europe . J&L Recommended: Kick Ass Grassmarket Looking for a great deal on hotels in Edinburgh? Search your travel dates below and save on your next trip! How do you get around Edinburgh? If you are located in Grassmarket Square, then you can travel to most places by foot. However, if you would prefer not to walk, or need transportation from the airport, the best alternative transportation mode is Edinburgh's bus . Tickets from Airport: £ 1.60/Adult. View the best route at Rome2Rio How long to stay in Edinburgh We recommend 2-3 days to view all of the top sights of Edinburgh. For less time in Edinburgh, see A Perfect Day in Edinburgh, Scotland When is the best time of year to visit Edinburgh? The best time to visit Edinburgh for optimal weather and minimal crowds is in spring or fall. Affordable International Data Want to avoid roaming charges and $10/day international data fees? Airalo allows you to download an e-SIM to your phone and activate while in Europe for a very affordable price. We bought 3 GB of data valid for 30 days from activation for only $7. It worked great throughout our entire Europe trip and was very easy to install. Airalo offers e-SIMs all around the world and we can validate that it works with ease in multiple European countries. Get $3 off with code NBV8668 by signing up here ! Happy Adventuring! J&L

We know travel time is precious, and that sometimes there are just too many things to do on your bucket list than time allows. Although we recommend spending 2-3 days in Edinburgh, Scotland , below outlines the highlights of this great city, easily completed in just 24 hours. Morning in Edinburgh 1. Enjoy breakfast at Quick & Plenty Café Great Scottish breakfast, friendly staff, and reasonably priced food! This is a great place to stop for a traditional Scottish breakfast or for a quick bite amidst all of your Edinburgh exploring. A Traditional Scottish breakfast includes beans, toast, eggs, sausage, bacon, haggis , and black pudding. Tip: recommended for trying a traditional Scottish breakfast (but beware of Haggis and Black Pudding!) 2. Take a stroll through Princess Gardens As mentioned in our initial "fun fact", this garden use to be Nor Loch before it was drained in the late 18th century. Having been nourished from the Nor Loch waters, the vegetation in this garden is absolutely stunning. It is a great place to walk through, enjoy nature, and take in a wonderful view of the Edinburgh Castle. Once you walk through Princess Gardens, loop back around onto Princess Street and check out the entertaining shops & restaurants. J&L Recommended: beautiful gardens with castle views Afternoon in Edinburgh 3. Hike to Arthur's Seat We highly recommend going on the hike to Arthur's Seat. It was one of the favorite parts of our entire trip. Along the path you will see ruins of a 15th century cathedral, as well as, a 360 degree view of the city & ocean. The peak of the hike is Arthur's Seat, which was built on top of an old volcano and has incredible views that will make it more than worth the climb. J&L Recommended: A must-do in Edinburgh! 4. Grab some coffee and snacks at Elephant House Grab your afternoon pick-me-up at this famous coffee house. This is the café in which J.K. Rowling wrote portions of the Harry Potter book series. There is a picture of her hanging on the wall of the café. See if you can find her exact seat! We ordered steamed milk with amaretto and sat at the same table J.K. Rowling was pictured writing her books. Fact: This is the café in which J.K. Rowling wrote portions of the Harry Potter series. 5. Head over to Greyfriars Kirkyard Keeping in line with the Harry Potter theme, this graveyard in old town Edinburgh is worth taking a stroll through. As you read the names of some of the gravestones, you will start to recognize some of these names as prominent Harry Potter characters. This is because J.K. Rowling often found her inspiration for character names walking through this graveyard. Greyfriars Kirkyard is also home to Greyfriars Bobby. A heartwarming story of a Skye Terrier that sat on his deceased owner's grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years and guarded the gravestone until the dog passed away himself. Today, Edinburghers recognize Bobby the dog with his own grave and statue near his owner. Also Read : the full story of Greyfriars Bobby 6. Explore the grounds of Edinburgh Castle Hours Peak Season: Daily from 9:30 - 6:00pm The castle grounds used to encompass the entire city of Edinburgh. The city gradually expanded past the castle walls and transformed into present day Edinburgh. Each of the historic buildings inside the castle walls are now turned into museums. The highlights from our visit to the castle was the 1 o'clock cannon that was set off (to alert ships in the harbor of the current time), visiting the royal jewels, touring the royal apartment, and viewing the prisoners of war exhibit. We recommend at least 3 hours at this attraction. Tickets: Starting at £17.50 at the gate and £15.50 online Evening in Edinburgh 7. Grab Dinner at Oink Amazing pulled pork sandwich! BEWARE of the topping "haggis". If you like trying different food and want to partake in a Scottish tradition, go for it! Otherwise, checkout this link to know what haggis is before ordering. If Haggis is not for you, you can easily order your sandwich without. J&L Recommended: One of the best pork sandwiches we have ever had! (beware of haggis) 8. Take a stroll through The Royal Mile This is a mile-long road leading to the Edinburgh Castle entrance, as well as, an overlook of the entire city. Along this road are many shops and local artists. Stop by, admire their work and maybe even grab a souvenir to remember your time in Edinburgh. Along this road is St Giles Cathedral, Mary's King Close, and many gratuity based walking tours such as Sandeman's . 9. End your day at Brewdog We recommend trying the Elvis Juice. This American IPA cannot be overlooked. Elvis Juice is loaded with citrus flavor, specifically a orange and grapefruit combo, which packs a powerful flavor to delight the senses. Brewdog started in Ellon, Scotland (a couple of hours north from Edinburgh) in 2007 and now has grown to the scale of a multinational craft brewery due to rapid success among craft brew fans globally. More Time in Edinburgh? Check out our Complete Guide to Edinburgh Scotland Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Fact: Dublin has the youngest population in all of Europe Table of Contents THINGS TO DO WHAT TO EAT WHAT TO DRINK WHEN TO GO WHERE TO STAY GETTING AROUND SUGGESTED DURATION Views 1. Sandeman's Walking Tour We had a great experience on our first Sandeman's tour! Our tour guide's name was Lisa, a native to Ireland who was great at incorporating a lot of Irish jokes. We learned a lot about the history of Ireland, about their 1916 independence from Britain, and saw the Dublin Castle. She took us to Trinity College, the Molly Malone Statue, and even taught us the song about Molly Malone (which we heard live many more times throughout our trip in Dublin). Tickets : Free! (with optional gratuity) 2. Cliffs of Moher Day Trip Tickets : €50 with Irish Day Tours A day trip to Cliffs of Moher is an incredible experience! Our tour guide was wonderful and there were plenty of stops to break up the trip. All in all, it was a day well spent! First destination was the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, where we had the most time to walk around and explore the cliffs. The tour then led us to Doolin, a small town to walk around and enjoy a Dooliner beer . Lastly, the tour ended with a visit to the "small cliffs" and Galway City on the way back to Dublin. Plan your full day trip to Cliffs of Moher here ! Also Read : Cliffs of Moher Day Trip 3. Temple Bar District This district is named due to its proximity to the "bar", or River Liffey. It is a notable street for people watching, live acts, performances, shops, and restaurants. Do not fall into the tourist trap of visiting "The Temple Bar" restaurant, when the popularity behind Temple Bar is the district itself. Fact : Temple Bar is the name of a district on the south side of the River Liffey, not named after a bar itself. 4. Spire of Dublin (Stiffey by the Liffey) There is a large pole that towers in the air on the north side of Dublin, along the river Liffey. Locals have nicknamed it the "Stiffey by the Liffey" as a way to add humor to what they call their "money mistake". Fact : Dublin paid $4.5M euro to display this pole proudly 5. Kilmainham Gaol Hours: Daily 9:30 - 6:00pm An old prison that held Irish revolutionaries by the UK government in the early 1900's. Today it is a museum, however, it was built in 1796 and was used as a prison until 1924. Tickets : €8 for guided tours (available to book 28 days in advance) 6. Trinity College Hours: Daily 9:30 - 5:00pm This is a university in the middle of Dublin, with a beautiful campus and an incredibly massive library. The library is beautiful and worth a visit, with many believing it to resemble Hogwarts from Harry Potter. Many famous Irish men & women have attended this university including Oscar Wilde and Jack Gleeson (Joffrey from Game of Thrones). Tickets for Trinity College Library : €11-€14 (free to explore the campus) 7. St. Patrick's Cathedral This church was founded in 1191 and is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland . It is the largest church with the tallest steeple in all of Ireland. Admission will allow you to learn about the history and traditions of this beautiful Cathedral. Tickets to Enter: €7.50 8. St. Stephen's Green St. Stephen's Green is a public park in the center of Dublin designed by William Sheppard. It holds true to its name by being a tremendous green-space for picnics, walks, and relaxing. Also Read: Top 10 Things To Do in Dublin Ireland 9. National Museum of Ireland Hours: Tue - Sat from 10am - 5pm & Sun - Mon from 1pm - 5pm The National Museum of Ireland is a large museum right across from St. Stephen's Green. This is a great place to check out if you are interested in the history of Ireland, or enjoy learning about art & culture. We would also like to point out, it has free admission! Admission: Free! 10. Dublin Castle Hours: Daily 9:45am - 5:15pm Dublin Castle is located in the center of Dublin, and the starting point of many walking tours (including Sandeman's tour). Tours generally consist of walking the grounds and viewing the outside-architecture of this Gothic Revival building. You can also purchase tickets to get a tour of the inside if you are interested in learning more about the history. Currently, this is a government building was formerly the seat of the British government's Irish administration up until 1922. Ticket Admission: €8 (free to explore the grounds) More Time? You may consider one of the below tours from Dublin: Noms 1. The Brazen Head The oldest pub in Ireland . If you only have time to eat one place in Dublin, it should be here! Make sure to get the Brazen Bangers & Mash as they are absolutely delicious and a local favorite. J&L Favorite: Try the traditional Irish favorite, Bangers & Mash 2. Leo Burdocks Dating back to 1913, Leo Burdocks has the best fish & chips in town! Enjoy some fresh-battered cod served with warm French fries. Leo Burdock's has had quite the list of famous customers, including Tom Cruise, U2, and Bruce Springsteen. Must Try: the fish and chips 3. John Kavanagh - The Gravediggers John Kavanagh's is a great hole-in-the-wall, historic pub with amazing Guinness pints. This is a true Irish Pub that we would consider to be a hidden gem of Dublin. When looking for authenticity and cultural immersion, be sure to add The Gravediggers to your list. Hidden Gem: Authentic Irish pub 4. Moore Street Moore street is home to Dublin's famous open-air fruit and vegetable market. Walk down this street in the morning for an opportunity to sample some fresh grown produce throughout your time in Ireland J&L Recommended: fresh produce and morning flowers. Brews 1. Guinness Storehouse Hours: Daily from 10am - 5pm There are 10 million pints of Guinness produced daily in Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse is home to five floors of history and the beer making process. You will receive a small glass, learn the proper way to taste beer, and discover the smell of hops and barley (smells like chocolate!). Once you reach the top floor of the museum, you can visit the Zero Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy your complimentary pint of Guinness while taking in an incredible view. Tickets: starting from €22 (self-guided tour and 1 pint of Guinness) 2. Wicklow Wolf Brewery Recommended Brew: Elevation Pale Ale Wicklow Brewing is new on the Irish craft brew scene and opened its doors in 2014. Located just south of Dublin, this fledgling brewery is already turning heads. This flavorful and aromatic Pale Ale is bursting with fruity flavors typical of the Mosaic hop. Its light and hoppy flavor characteristics are very satisfying to the senses. Also Read: Best Craft Brews of Europe 3. Smithwick’s Brewery Recommended Brew: Red Ale Smithwick’s brand (founded by John Smithwick) originated in Kilkenny, Ireland in 1710 and ran until 1965 when it was bought by Guinness. This delicious red can be found on tap in most bars around Dublin. Its smooth, malty, and light flavor is quite refreshing. Also Read: Edinburgh Scotland Complete Guide 4. McGargles Rye River Brewing Company Recommended Brew: McGargles Francis’ Big Bangin’ IPA Brewed in a small town just west of Dublin, Big Bangin' IPA is a modern take on the US West Coast IPA style. In 2017, Rye River Brewing opened its doors to the public and hasn't looked back. If you visit in Kildare, they offer brewery tours to demonstrate how this tropical and hoppy drink is made. Also Read: Best Craft Breweries of Michigan 5. Murphy's Irish Stout Everyone knows of the classic Guinness Draught, but what if you are looking for something a little different? Murphy's Irish Stout has slightly less ABV at 4.0% which is easy to drink with very little after taste. Murphy's has a long history of success dating back to 1856 in Cork, Ireland . You cannot go wrong with this creamy, smooth, and coffee flavored stout. Planning Your Trip Where is the best place to stay in Dublin? Temple Bar/Trinity College Area. For our top-pick hostels based on location and value see Best Hostels of Europe . J&L Recommended: Jacob's Hostel If hotels are more your style, search for a great deal on Dublin hotels during your travel dates below! How do I get around Dublin? We would recommend only using public transportation to/from the airport and for any day-excursions outside the city. The city is very walk-able and you will likely get places faster by foot due to traffic. Here is a map of the Dublin rail and airport bus system to plan your route. Information regarding public transportation tickets can be found here . Tip: here is a wonderful interactive site to assist in planning your transportation to/from the airport or within Dublin. When is the best time to visit Dublin? June through August are the most popular months to visit Dublin due to the pleasant temperatures and festivals that fill the streets. However, to avoid the crowds while still experience moderate weather, we recommend May or September. J&L Recommended: M ay or September How long should I spend in Dublin? We recommend 2-3 days in order to see the top sights of Dublin. Have less time? Check out our 24 hour guide to Dublin here . J&L Recommended: 2 -3 days Affordable International Data Want to avoid roaming charges and $10/day international data fees? Airalo allows you to download an e-SIM to your phone and activate while in Europe for a very affordable price. We bought 3 GB of data valid for 30 days from activation for only $7. It worked great throughout our entire Europe trip and was very easy to install. Airalo offers e-SIMs all around the world and we can validate that it works with ease in multiple European countries. Get $3 off with code NBV8668 by signing up here ! Happy Adventuring! J&L

We know travel time is precious, and that sometimes there are just too many things to do on your bucket list than time allows. Although we recommend spending 2-3 Days in Dublin , below outlines the highlights of this great city, easily completed in just 24 hours. Morning in Dublin 1. Grab some brunch at Brother Hubbard Brother Hubbard is a lovely place for any meal, however, they are known for their brunch. Brother Hubbard is a café-style restaurant where you can also find delicious coffee and baked goods. 2. Admire the Spire of Dublin There is a large pole that towers in the air on the north side of Dublin, along the river Liffey. Locals have nicknamed it the "Stiffey by the Liffey" as a way to add humor to what they call their "money mistake". Fact : Dublin paid $4.5M euro to display this pole proudly 3. Head to the "Hogwarts" library at Trinity College Hours: Daily 9:30 - 5:00pm This is a university in the middle of Dublin, with a beautiful campus and an incredibly massive library. The library is beautiful and worth a visit, with many believing it to resemble Hogwarts from Harry Potter. Many famous Irish men & women have attended this university including Oscar Wilde and Jack Gleeson (Joffrey from Game of Thrones). Tickets for Trinity College Library : €11-€14 (free to explore the campus) Afternoon in Dublin 4. Enjoy a lunch of fish and chips at Leo Burdocks Dating back to 1913, Leo Burdocks has the best fish & chips in town! Enjoy some fresh-battered cod served with warm French fries. Leo Burdock's has had quite the list of famous customers, including Tom Cruise, U2, and Bruce Springsteen. Must Try: the fish and chips 5. Learn about the history of Ireland at the National Museum of Ireland Hours: Tue - Sat from 10am - 5pm & Sun - Mon from 1pm - 5pm The National Museum of Ireland is a large museum right across from St. Stephen's Green. This is a great place to check out if you are interested in the history of Ireland, or enjoy learning about art & culture. We would also like to point out, it has free admission! Admission: F ree! 6. Kick back and relax at St. Stephen's Green St. Stephen's Green is a public park in the center of Dublin designed by William Sheppard. It holds true to its name by being a tremendous green-space for picnics, walks, and relaxing. Also Read: Cliffs of Moher Day Trip 7. Appreciate the beauty of St Patrick's Cathedral This church was founded in 1191 and is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland . It is the largest church with the tallest steeple in all of Ireland. Admission will allow you to learn about the history and traditions of this beautiful Cathedral. Tickets to Enter: €7.50 Evening in Dublin 8. Taste the best pint of Guinness you'll ever have at the Guinness Storehouse Hours: Daily from 10am - 5pm There are 10 million pints of Guinness produced daily in Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse is home to five floors of history and the beer making process. You will receive a small glass, learn the proper way to taste beer, and discover the smell of hops and barley (smells like chocolate!). Once you reach the top floor of the museum, you can visit the Zero Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy your complimentary pint of Guinness while taking in an incredible view. Tickets: starting from €22 (self-guided tour and 1 pint of Guinness) 9. End your day with a traditional Irish dinner at The Brazen Head The oldest pub in Ireland . If you only have time to eat one place in Dublin, it should be here! Make sure to get the Brazen Bangers & Mash as they are absolutely delicious and a local favorite. J&L Favorite: Try the traditional Irish favorite, Bangers & Mash 10. Catch a live performance on the streets of Temple Bar This district is named due to its proximity to the "bar", or River Liffey. It is a notable street for people watching, live acts, performances, shops, and restaurants. Do not fall into the tourist trap of visiting "The Temple Bar" restaurant, when the popularity behind Temple Bar is the district itself. Fact : Temple Bar is the name of a district on the south side of the River Liffey, not named after a bar itself. Happy Adventuring! J&L

These towering cliffs are arguably one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Ireland . They have been featured in movies such as Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, Leap Year and countless others. Stretching roughly 5 miles long with heights just over 700 feet, the Cliffs of Moher is home to many flora, fauna, and numerous birds species. Cliffs of Moher makes for an easy day trip from Dublin (just over 3 hours one way by car) and is best paired with seeing some of the quaint country-side towns that surround County Clare on the west side of Ireland. The below itinerary was completed by purchasing the Cliffs of Moher Irish Day Tour . Check their website for the most up-to-date pricing, however, rest assured this is likely the best deal in the area compared to renting a car and driving yourself. In addition to four amazing stops, the day trip includes a professional driver with entertaining and educational commentary, comfortable couch transportation with Wi-Fi on board, and entry into the Cliffs of Moher visitors center. Table of Contents DAY TRIP ITINERARY PLANNING YOUR TRIP DAY TRIP RECOMMENDATION Departure: 6:50 AM The Irish Day Tour to Cliffs of Moher begins at 6:50am a the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street (see map below). You will board a coach bus and travel 3 hours to the western side of the country (plus a rest stop), passing through rolling hills, countryside, and castle ruins. We recommend bringing a rain/windproof jacket, camera, packed lunch or money to purchase lunch, sunglasses, and a good pair of walking shoes. Also Read: Dublin Ireland Complete Guide First Stop: Cliffs of Moher The Cliffs of Moher are comprised of family-friendly walking paths and footpaths that take you up close to the cliffs (stay safe and keep your distance from the edge). Take in the breathtaking scenery and panoramic views as you gaze out into the awe-inspiring sea. Included in the Irish Day Tour is entrance to the Cliffs of Moher and visitors center. The tour allows roughly 1.5 hours to explore the grounds, which is plenty of time to walk on both the northern and southern trails. Be sure to experience both the northern and southern trails as the spectacular views change with every step and vantage point. On a clear day, look for the Aran Islands , Galway Bay , the Twelve Pins , and Maum Turk Mountains . Make your way north along the Cliffs of Moher to the 1835 observation tower used to overlook the sea and Aran Islands, O'Brien's Tower . This tower was built by Cornelius O'Brien in order to provide an observation deck for tourists visiting County Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way. Tickets to the tower can be bought on-site at the visitors center. However, we found the views from the ground to be more than satisfactory. Just past O'Brien's tower, gaze out into the immaculate green pastures and wave to the local cattle. A picture-perfect Irish backdrop. Also Read: Top 10 Things To Do in Dublin Double back and head on the southern trail to take in even more astonishing views. If you make the mile trek up to the Southern Cliffs of Moher Viewpoint , you will be rewarded with a delightful side-profile of the cliffs with crashing water on the rocks below. However you spend your time at the Cliffs of Moher, be sure to spend time appreciating its natural beauty. Second Stop: Doolin The tour then takes you to the charming village of Doolin to grab a bite for lunch and appreciate the relaxing atmosphere of this quaint countryside town. Stop for a cup of tea or a local Dooliner Irish red beer (pictured below) in one of the quaint pubs of Doolin, Fitzpatrick's . You may even have time to pet one of the locals. Also Read: Top Craft Brews of Europe Third Stop: The Burren National Park After lunch, the tour takes you to the rocky limestone landscape of " The Burren " or what some people call the "mini Cliffs of Moher". Take a stroll on this rocky cliffside landscape and see if you can spot the gentian blue flowers or orchids that only grow in this part of Ireland . Enjoy roughly 30 minutes of exploring the area, views of the sea, and discovering new natural wonders. Fourth Stop: Galway City Galway City is known for its brightly painted pubs, cafés, live music, and of course, Ed Sheeran's song Galway Girl . Galway is also known as "the festival capital of Ireland" hosting an average of 122 events per year. A notable place to add to your visit in Galway City is the St. Nicholas Collegiate Church. Founded in 1320, St Nicholas Collegiate Church is the largest medieval church in Ireland that is still in use today. In addition, you may consider visiting Lynch's Castle , the oldest building in Ireland that is still in use today (now a bank). Enjoy your time exploring this beautiful, historic, and vibrant city situated on the Wild Atlantic of Ireland. Also Read: Edinburgh Scotland Complete Guide The tour departs from Galway City at 5:00pm and arrives back in Dublin around 7:30pm. Spend the time traveling back to Dublin reminiscing on the day's experiences and sharing stories with fellow travelers you've met throughout the day. Special thanks to Irish Day Tours for providing us with an incredible day filled with magical experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Planning Your Trip Are the Cliffs of Moher dangerous? As with any tourist attractions, if you use common sense and stay on the designated walking paths, Cliffs of Moher is completely safe. There are small footpaths that trail very close to the cliffs and you may see people taking these paths to get up-close pictures. If you are traveling with children or have a fear of heights, we recommend staying on the paved, family-friendly pathways. When is the best time to visit Cliffs of Moher? Peak tourists season for the Cliffs of Moher is from April to September with the highest foot traffic generally from 11am-4pm. We recommend getting to the Cliffs of Moher as early in the morning as you can to avoid crowds and afternoon clouds that could impair your views. Although the Cliffs of Moher have beauty throughout any season and weather, ideal conditions for viewing panoramic views of the far-stretching cliffside is on a clear, sunny day. Do the Cliffs of Moher cost money to visit? There is a small entrance fee that includes parking, walking the family-friendly pathways, and climbing O'Brien's Tower. Check here for current pricing and plan to buy online ahead of your trip to save some money. Admission : Starting at €7 How do I make Cliffs of Moher a day trip from Dublin? Although you could rent a car, our recommendation is to book a tour. With limited time on your travels, the last thing you want to worry about are the uncertainties associated with renting a car and driving through a foreign country. Our personal recommendation is to book with Irish Day Tours . We had an incredible, knowledgeable tour guide who taught us the history of these breathtaking rolling cliffs and the surrounding villages. Not only will Irish Day Tours take you to the Wild Atlantic to witness one of Irelands 7 Wonders, Cliffs of Moher, but your day will continue as you tour the village of Doolin, Burren National Park, and Galway City. J&L Recommended : Book with Irish Day Tours You may also be interested in these popular tours: Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Fact: Smoky Mountain National Park has one of the oldest mountain ranges on THE PLANET at 200-300 million years old! With over 10 million visitors annually, this is the most visited national park in the United States. Table of Contents THINGS TO DO WHAT TO EAT WHAT TO DRINK WHEN TO GO WHERE TO STAY GETTING AROUND SUGGESTED DURATION Views 1. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte [10 Miles; 2,929 ft. Elevation Gain; Out & Back; Rating: hard] This was our favorite hike we did in the Smoky Mountains. Although one of the longer hikes we did, the trail is packed with landmarks to look forward to every step of the way. 1.4 miles into the trail you will reach Arch Rock, where the trail leads you up a staircase through the rock structure. Hike an additional mile (1125 ft elevation gain) and you will come across Alum Cave Bluffs, a breathtaking natural formation. If you are looking to shorten this hike, a lot of people hike the 4.6 mile round-trip to Alum Cave and back. There are plenty of wonderful views along the first 2.3 miles of this trail, making it a spectacular day-hike as well. However, if you want to make it to the Mount LeConte summit, there are 2.7 additional miles of hiking to go! The elevation gain, as well as, overall difficulty does increase during the next 2.7 miles. There are some narrow passageways, steep drop-offs, and intense inclines, however, the path is very well maintained with guide ropes, stepping stones, and signage. If you are up for the trek, we highly recommend it for the epic views! Tip : Once you get to the Mount LeConte Lodge, BE SURE to go the extra 0.2 miles to the Cliff Tops view. A local at our campsite gave us this advice and it would be a shame to have hiked all 10 miles without seeing this view! While the view from Mount LeConte Lodge is very beautiful, Cliff Tops gives you an un-obstructed view of the beautiful mountain range. This is the most EPIC spot to make yourself a cup of coffee with your lightweight stove , or enjoy a snack. 2. Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail [8.6 Miles; 1,981 ft. Elevation Gain; Out & Back; Rating: moderate] This is a wonderful portion of the Appalachian Trail, that makes for a beautiful day-hike. The best part about this trail is that depending on your preference, you can really turn around at any point. The views on this trail are beautiful from start to finish, therefore, you do not have to hike all the way to Charlies Bunion if you are looking for shorter miles (although we highly recommend making it to the epic views). This trail is accessible from the Newfoundland Gap parking lot . Be sure to get on the trail heading north (follow the sign to the "Boulevard Trail in 2.7 miles"), once at the Boulevard Trail junction, veer right to stay on the Appalachian Trail towards Charlies Bunion (an additional 1.3 miles from the junction). This summit is characterized by a large boulder protruding from the mountain, and is one of the only bare-rock summit's in the entire park. Fact : This summit is characterized by a large boulder protruding from the mountain, and is one of the only bare-rock summit's in the entire park. 3. Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail [1.2 Mile; 331 Ft Elevation Gain; Out & Back; Rated: moderate] This is a short, paved, half-mile hike from the Clingmans Dome parking lot. The half-mile is straight uphill, however, the views are certainly worth it for the highest elevation in the park at 6,643 miles. On a clear day, your views from the dome allow you to see for 100 miles. The road leading back to Clingmans Dome parking (closed in the winter months) also allows for breathtaking views as you wind through the mountains. Fact : Clingmans Dome is the highest elevation in the park at 6,643 miles 4. Andrews Bald Trail [3.5 miles; 856 ft elevation gain; out & back; moderate difficulty] This trail starts at the Clingmans Dome parking lot and leads you through the forest to the beautiful Andrews Bald at 5909 ft elevation. The first mile of the trail takes you down the mountain, where the trail has moderate difficulty due to the rocky terrain. The last portion of the trail take you through the forest and out to one of the few "balds" in the Smokies (named due to having a grass clearing with no trees on a mountaintop). From this vantage point, it is easier to see wildlife. It is also a great spot to sit back and relax with a picnic lunch or mid-hike snack. Tip : Andrews Bald is also a great spot to sit back and relax with a picnic lunch or mid-hike snack. 5. Chimney Tops Trail [4.5 miles; 1,358 ft. Elevation gain; out & back; hard difficulty] This trail is labeled hard for a reason, it has a lot of elevation gain for the short distance to the summit. However, this is well worth it for the EPIC views at the top! The Chimney Top overlook is breathtakingly beautiful and you will forget how tired you are from the intense climb you just endured. Tip : We recommend only doing this trail once the last quarter of a mile is re-open to the public. NPS will be forced to shut down the entire trail if people do not abide by the signage. 6. Grotto Falls [2.6 Miles; 534 ft. Elevation Gain; Out & Back; Rated: Easy] Grotto Falls trailhead begins on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail near Gatlinburg. This is a trail with relatively easy terrain, short mileage, and is the only waterfall in the park that you can walk behind as the water come rushing down overhead. We found this trail to be gorgeous, especially in fall with the changing leaves. There is very limited parking for this trail, therefore, we recommend getting here early to avoid having to park an additional half-mile away from the trailhead. Post hike, be sure to take your time through the remainder of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, as there are many stopping points to view serene rivers and historic settlements. Tip : This is a light/family-friendly hike 7. Laurel Falls [2.4 Miles; 396 ft. Elevation Gain; Out & Back; Rated: Easy] Laurel Falls is a scenic and paved beginner hike that leads to a rushing waterfall. Our personal favorite part of the hike was viewing the changing leaves on our way up to the falls. We saw the most fall foliage on this hike compared to any other hike we did within the park early October. With over 100 species of trees found in this park, it is an amazing place to hike through the fall foliage. This is one of the most popular hikes in the park due to its accessibility for all skill levels. Tip : This is a light/family-friendly hike 8. Cades Cove This is a 11-mile, one-way road loop around a valley that was previously home to many 18th and 19th century settlements prior to joining the Great Smoky National Park. There are 18 landmarks within the cove including barns, log houses, a working grist mill, and churches. Cades Cove has many wildlife sightings in the open fields, such as black bears, coyotes, turkeys, and deer. Be sure to never approach wildlife and to keep a respectful distance whenever encountering. It took us roughly 2 hours to complete the driving loop, however, if you have more time and would like to bike or hike the loop, these options are also available. Tip : This is a great place to see wildlife! Noms - Asheville 1. White Duck Taco Almost every local we came across on our journey through the Smoky Mountains recommended White Duck Taco. This was the first place we stopped for food once we arrived and we have to say, it did not disappoint! From their funky décor to their exotic tacos, it is evident how this became such a crowd favorite. J&L Favorites : Jerk Chicken, Spicy Buffalo Chicken, Korean Beef Bulgogi, and the Duck w/Mole. 2. Chai Pani This is an phenomenal Indian food restaurant that will leave you feeling full, satisfied, and ready to recommend to all of your friends! Even if you are not typically a fan of Indian food, this will satisfy your taste buds and potentially change your mind. With reasonable prices, large portions and fast/friendly service, you cannot go wrong at Chai Pani. J&L Favorites : Butter Chicken and Orka Fries. 3. Moose Café Looking for a good deal and some local southern comfort food? Look no further, Moose Café is a true gem! Their daily $9.99 all-you-can-eat breakfast is the perfect way to recoup after all of those 10-mile hikes. The deal includes eggs, bacon, hashbrown casserole, grits, biscuits and gravy. With exceptional and fast service in this quaint diner-style café, we highly recommend to all travelers. Their location in Asheville is right alongside the Western NC Farmers Market where the fresh ingredients are pulled from daily. J&L Recommended : All farm-to-table with local North Carolina ingredients 4. Biscuit Head As they advertise, "put some south in your mount" with a Biscuit Head sandwich! These sandwiches are huge and delicious, loaded up with meats, cheeses, gravies, jellies, and sides. If you are looking for a delicious local brunch place, be sure to stop here and try the Filthy Animal or Biscuit donuts. J&L Favorites : Filthy Animal or Biscuit Donuts 5. Mellow Mushroom An "out of this world" pizza place with a fun atmosphere and delicious food. They specialize in stone-baked pizza served to a fun and eclectic art-crowd. Founded in the 70s, they hold onto their hippie roots by helping their customers mellow out with their delicious pizza and amazing customer service. Although Mellow Mushroom did not originate in Asheville, each individual location is locally owned and operated. 6. Double D's Coffee & Desserts [Cash Only] Visit Asheville's landmark coffee bus and grab a Lavender Honey Latte or Hot Brownie with Ice Cream from this signature double-decker coffee shop. While the inside is closed for dining during COVID, the convenient location of Double D's is an easy coffee or sweets stop. Tip : Be sure to bring cash as they are currently cash-only! Also Read : Top 8 Things To Do in Asheville NC Brews 1. Last Days of Autumn Brewing [Knoxville, TN] Recommended Brew: Mexican Stout [Stout: 7.1% ABV; 30 IBU] Located in Knoxville, Last Days of Autumn Brewing specialized in small batch, unique ales. This allows them to constantly change their menu, come up with new and innovative brews, and keeps you coming back to taste their new creations. A favorite Last Days of Autumn brew is their Mexican Stout (say whaaat?). You heard correctly, this American stout is made with vanilla, coffee, cinnamon, cocoa nubs, and peach habanero peppers. A brew you have to taste for yourself to believe. J&L Recommended : Unique Brews 2. Alliance Brewery [Knoxville, TN] Recommended Brew: Cubano Coffee Brown [Brown Ale: 6.7% ABV; 28 IBU] Alliance Brewery is located in Knoxville and has a focus on community. NOt only do they create great brews for the people of Tennessee, but they give back through trail building and stream cleanups. When traveling through Knoxville, come support this microbrewery and try their Cubano Coffee Brown, a brown ale that is brewed with cold brew coffee from Three Bears Coffee Company in Knoxville. Also Read : Asheville Brew Tour 3. Green Man Brewery [Asheville, NC] Recommended Brew: Tart Berry (Berliner Weisse Sour- 4.2%) Downtown Asheville's oldest brewery and tasting room that developed the first sour program in the area. This brewery veteran started in 1997 and has been pioneering the way since the beginning. Tart Berry is a fruity and satisfying delight to the taste buds. Make sure to stop by! 4. Wicked Weed Brewing [Asheville, NC] Recommended Brew: Pernicious (American IPA- 7.3% ABV) Wicked Weed Brewing quickly expanded to a macrobrewry with four locations (3 taprooms and a fine dining restaurant) . If you love sour beers Wicked Weed has the south's first sour beer-dedicated taproom called the Funkatorium. Their flagship IPA Pernicious has plenty of hops to satisfy all with its juicy, tropical West Coast flavor. J&L Tip: When at the restaurant, ask to do a brewery tour. Not only will you get a free brewery tour and souvenir glass, but you will be able to skip the line and get seated right after the tour ends! This will save you a lot of time on your Asheville brew tour as it is usually a 1-2 hour wait to be seated at Wicked Weed. Planning Your Trip Is Smoky Mountain National Park Free? Yes! Smoky Mountain National Park is one of the few American National Parks that is completely free to enter and explore! No entrance fee is charged for visitors. Park Admission: F ree! Suggested Lodging Where should I stay in the Smoky Mountains? Hotels near Smoky Mountain National Park: If you are not a camper, we recommend staying at a cabin in Gatlinburg . When staying in Asheville, we recommend Sweet Pea's Hostel for their prime location to all the local noms/brews, affordable price, clean facilities, and friendly staff. For great deals on hotels, visits Booking.com J&L Recommended Hotels : Sweet Pea's Hostel Camping in the Smoky Mountains There are two major campgrounds within the park that will get you closest to most of the major hikes: Smokemont in North Carolina and Elkmont in Tennessee. We stayed at both campgrounds and had beautiful camp sites at each. Both campgrounds have no service, no electricity, and no showers. However, they do have running water, bathrooms, and available campsites along a tranquil river (Little River at Elkmont, Oconaluftee River at Smokemont). Elkmont is a much larger campground and is closer to many of the shorter family-hikes, as well as, Gatlinburg. Smokemont is a smaller campground, however, we found it to be more secluded, quieter, and off the beaten path. Depending on what you are looking for, both Elkmont and Smokemont are excellent campgrounds. However, we preferred Smokemont for its relaxing atmosphere, serene river, and proximity to our desired hikes. If you would prefer to backcountry camp instead of frontcountry, be sure to review these backcountry camping guidelines ahead of time. J&L Recommended Camping : Smokemont Smoky Mountain National Park Camping Tips: Read up on Bear Safety ahead of your trip - over 1,500 black bears live in the Smoky Mountains. Although black bears are less of a threat than grizzly bears, bear spray is still a good precaution. This is an informative video demonstrating how and when to use your bear spray. Opposed to grizzly bears, if a black bear approaches you be sure to FIGHT BACK. Before entering the park, buy bear mace from a store in Knoxville, Gatlinburg, or Asheville - We used Frontiersmen and although we never needed to use it, felt it was a reliable choice. Bring a separate set of clothes to only wear in the tent to avoid the scent of food that could be on your clothes throughout the day Purchase unscented shampoo / soap / deodorant etc. and avoid any body sprays/perfumes/cologne when tent-camping Download your hiking trails on AllTrails ahead of your trip because phone service is limited to none while hiking. Check out our exclusive content for tips on how to navigate without service! Bring waterproof jackets/pants Also Read: Camping Hacks Getting Around Are there shuttles in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? The best way to get around Smoky Mountain National Park is by car. There is a trolley service offered in Gatlinburg that will take you to the Laurel Falls parking area, Elkmont Campground, and Sugarlands Visitor Center from June till October for $2 round trip. The below itinerary was completed with a car. Also Read: Finding Budget Flights How long does it take to drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park? If you are just planning to drive through the Smoky Mountains National Park, plan for two-four hours depending on how frequently you stop at vistas. However, the park has much to see and we recommend spending more than just one day: Smoky Mountain National Park : 3-4 days to complete our itinerary Asheville : 1-2 Days What is the best time to visit Smoky Mountains? June through August draws the most crowds to the Smoky Mountains, however, if you prefer to avoid the crowds you may consider May or September. October draws a second set of crowds in search of the beautiful fall foliage. Below outlines the average temperatures by month in the Smoky Mountains: Tip: Average Low/High ° F April: 71 ° /42 ° May: 79 ° /50 ° June: 86 ° /58 ° July: 88 ° /59 ° August: 87 ° /60 ° September: 83 ° /55 ° October: 73 ° /43 ° Is there cell service at Great Smoky Mountains National Park? NO SERVICE within Smoky Mountain National Park. SAFETY TIP : learn how to download interactive maps to your phone that can give you driving, walking, & biking directions even without cellular service! Visit our Exclusive Content to learn more. Tip: Learn how to download offline maps Happy Adventuring! J&L

Fun Fact: Asheville has more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the United States. What is Asheville known for? Asheville is known for the the Blue Ridge Parkway and America's largest home, George Vanderbilt's Baltimore Estate . However, if you ask us, Asheville is known for craft beer. Asheville has 26 craft breweries within the city (and counting!) with several larger craft breweries setting up satellite locations in Asheville. These breweries include Sierra Nevada, New Belgium, and Oskar Blues. So why are so many breweries popping up in Asheville? Not only for the growing population, southern hospitality, and proximity to the great outdoors, but for the natural water source these breweries can tap into. Thanks to the protected water shed right outside of town in the Smoky Mountains, small breweries do not need to pay the high cost of purifying water to the optimal level for creating craft beer. This has attracted microbreweries and macro-breweries alike. Also Read: Smoky Mountain National Park Complete Guide 1. Start your day at Biscuit Head As they advertise, "put some south in your mount" with a Biscuit Head sandwich! These sandwiches are huge and delicious, loaded up with meats, cheeses, gravies, jellies, and sides. If you are looking for a delicious local brunch place, be sure to stop here and try the Filthy Animal or Biscuit donuts. Tip: We recommend getting here at 8am to avoid the crowds and allow time for a full day of activities in Asheville. 2. Head to the Blue Ridge Parkway for epic views and a morning hike Several mild hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway are the Craggy Gardens Trail (1.9 miles; 574 feet elevation; out & back) and the Craggy Pinnacle Hike (1 mile; 242 feet elevation; out & back). Both are roughly 40 minutes from Biscuit Head in Asheville with half of the time driving being on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering spectacular views and overlooks. For a more moderate hike, you may consider the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail (3.7 miles; 882 feel elevation gain; loop), which is only a 26 minute drive from Biscuit Head. Whether you choose to hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway or simply stop to admire nature at the breathtaking overlooks, be sure to add a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to your Asheville itinerary. J&L Top Choice: Rattlesnake Lodge Trail 3. Refuel after a morning of hiking at White Duck Taco Almost every local we came across on our journey through the Smoky Mountains recommended White Duck Taco. This was the first place we stopped for food once we arrived and we have to say, it did not disappoint! From their funky décor to their exotic tacos, it is evident how this became such a crowd favorite. J&L Favorites: Jerk Chicken, Spicy Buffalo Chicken, Korean Beef Bulgogi, and the Duck w/Mole. 4. Grab a Fat Tire at New Belgium Brewing Company Recommended Brew: Fat Tire (American Amber Red Ale- 5.2% ABV) Fat Tire is an easy-drinking amber that is a crowd favorite. You may recognize this brewery giant, originally based out of Colorado. They have a nice patio that overlooks the river and a big lawn to stretch out on. Tip: Check out and sign up for a brewery tour to learn more about their beers and history (its free!). 5. Explore local art at the Woolworth Walk When walking around Asheville, it is evident that this is a very artsy city, proud and inspired by their local artists. The Woolworth Walk is free to walk around to view the work of 175 local artists. We love walking into museums such as these as a way to appreciate local culture, however, we have never bought a piece of art throughout our travels. That changed at Woolworth Walk. The art here is diverse enough to appeal to all audiences and at a reasonable price. We couldn't help but walk out with a beautiful piece of artwork from a local Asheville artist. 6. Admire a unique form of artwork at Lexington Glass Company Have you ever seen a live blown-glass demonstration? Head over to Lexington Glass Company and you will be able to see a free demonstration on how these talented artists are able to make beautiful glass art. We found this to be an complex and awe-inspiring process requiring a true talent to mix colors and shape designs. Tip: Their completed works on display throughout the shop are available for purchase and for your viewing pleasure. 7. Grab dinner and a brewery tour at Wicked Weed Brewing Recommended Brew: Pernicious (American IPA- 7.3% ABV) Wicked Weed Brewing quickly expanded to a macrobrewry with four locations (3 taprooms and a fine dining restaurant) . If you love sour beers Wicked Weed has the south's first sour beer-dedicated taproom called the Funkatorium. Their flagship IPA Pernicious has plenty of hops to satisfy all with its juicy, tropical West Coast flavor. Tip: When at the restaurant, ask to do a brewery tour. Not only will you get a free brewery tour, souvenir glass, and beverage , but you will also be able to skip the line and get seated right after the tour ends! This will save you a lot of time on your Asheville brew tour as it is usually a 1-2 hour wait to be seated at Wicked Weed. 8. Continue your brew tour and end your day at Green Man Brewery Recommended Brew: Tart Berry (Berliner Weisse Sour- 4.2%) Downtown Asheville's oldest brewery and tasting room that developed the first sour program in the area. This brewery veteran started in 1997 and has been pioneering the way since the beginning. Tart Berry is a fruity and satisfying delight to the taste buds. Make sure to stop by! Also Read: Best Craft Breweries of Michigan Happy Adventuring! J&L