Posted: 5/13/2024 | May 13th, 2024 Croatia has been a bustling tourist hot spot for six or seven years now. Shaped like a boomerang and bordering Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, this small country of four million people punches well above its weight. You can spend time relaxing on the sunny Adriatic Sea, hop between […]

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Posted: 5/13/2024 | May 13th, 2024

Croatia has been a bustling tourist hot spot for six or seven years now. Shaped like a boomerang and bordering Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, this small country of four million people punches well above its weight. You can spend time relaxing on the sunny Adriatic Sea, hop between hundreds of rugged and remote islands, feast on Italian-esque cuisine, or travel inland and visit stunning waterfalls and lush national parks.

While there is a lot to see and do here, most travelers confine their visit to Dubrovnik or Split. And sure, those are cool cities. But Croatia has much more to offer.

But when you only have a week and you want the sun, I understand why you’d want to focus on that part of Croatia. (Pro tip: Like a lot of Southern Europe, it’s best to avoid Croatia during the warm-weather summer months. In addition to the high temperatures and high prices, you’re going to be sharing the country with an army of tourists. If you go in winter, the weather is cooler and the prices are much gentler, but many tourist towns, such as Dubrovnik, practically shut down from late October until mid-April. Your best bet is April-May and early September until early November. Crowds will be smaller and prices won’t be through the roof.)

So, to help you plan your trip, I’ve created this ideal seven-day itinerary for southern Croatia. It covers the highlights while also getting you off the beaten path. You’ll see cities, beaches, villages, and have plenty of time to soak up the local pace of life.

Days 1 & 2: Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a seaside town of just 40,000 people, but based on its popularity, you’d think it was much bigger. It’s the most popular destination in the country, thanks to its medieval walled Old Town, or Stari Grad, which can get packed with tourists, especially during the peak summer season.

While most of Croatia is affordable, Dubrovnik is no longer cheap. A lot of cruises stop here now and prices have skyrocketed in recent years. That said, there are a few things here that are worth forking out outrageous fees for:

Walk the Old Town Walls
Walking the medieval walls is a must if it’s your first time visiting. The entrance fee isn’t cheap at 35 EUR, but the stroll offers incredible views of the Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. It’s 60-90 minutes of awe and totally worth the price tag.

Summit Mr. Srd
Take the cable car up to the top of Mt. Srd. It towers over the Old Town, and while it costs 27 EUR, once you take the ride and see the view you’ll realize it was well worth the cost. If you’re on a budget, you can also hike to the top. There’s a dirt trail that will take you to peak, but it’s a challenging hike. Give yourself about an hour each way. Once at the top, you can take a seat at the restaurant and nurse an overpriced beverage while taking in the jaw-dropping view.

Visit the War Photo Ltd. Museum
There are not a lot of great museums in Dubrovnik, but make sure you visit War Photo Ltd., a gallery started by New Zealand-born Wade Goddard, a former war photographer. The permanent exhibition on the Balkan wars of the 1990s will help you get a better understanding of what went on here 30 years ago. It’s sobering, but eye-opening. Admission is 10 EUR.

Explore Gruž
If you want to escape the tourist crowds, especially when there’s a cruise ship in port, head to Gruž, a once-gritty neighborhood on the marina that now boasts several great restaurants and cafés. It’s also home to Dubrovnik Beer Company, the city’s first and only brewery. The cavernous taproom is a lovely place to sip a local beer after a day of exploring.

When you get hungry in Gruž, check out Kiosk, an outdoor casual spot that serves up Dalmatian Coast fare with some global twists. Or for something truly memorable and very Dalmatian, book a spot at Marija’s House, where chef Marija Papak opens her home to visitors during the warm-weather months and cooks up a nightly feast of peka cuisine — lamb, pork, and/or octopus slow-cooked under a bell-like lid on the grill that renders the meat impossibly tender and delicious.
 

Day 3: Split

About 240 kilometers (150 miles) up the coast is Split, Croatia’s second largest city. This beautiful city was relatively ignored by tourists until recently. But there are a few good reasons to spend at least one day and night here.

The chief attraction in Split is impossible to miss. When Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to retire to the area where he grew up — the central Dalmatian Coast — he had a massive, lavish palace built right on the beach. He died a few years after he moved in, and what happened next is quite interesting: over the centuries, as the palace began to crumble and become a ruin, the city basically moved in and made it part of the fabric of the town.

Today, you can stroll around the center of Split and suddenly realize you’re actually inside the palace. What was once a hallway, for example, is now a narrow, limestone-clad lane. What might have been a bedroom is now a seafood restaurant.

Much of the palace is free to walk around in. If you want an in-depth look at it, though, there are plenty of guided tours.

And while you’re in Split, also don’t miss St. Duje’s Cathedral, Klis Fortress (featured in Game of Thrones), and the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments (home to some 20,000 relics and artifacts).

The other main reason why Split should be on your itinerary is that it’s the main transportation hub for ferries to various islands in central Dalmatia. After spending an evening in town, hop on a morning ferry to Hvar, one of Croatia’s coolest islands, a pleasant one hour and forty-five minutes. If you want to get there more quickly, there’s also a catamaran.
 

Day 4: Hvar

The island of Hvar, known for its lavender production, is a fun place to spend a day. The eponymous Hvar Town is the main attraction for most people. Crammed with centuries-old houses and narrow alleyways, it’s an interesting place to get lost for a while.

It also has attracted a wild party scene. All the boat tours stop here for their passengers to get wasted and go clubbing at the world-famous Carpe Diem so keep in mind this island has a party scene – but there’s a lot more to the island!

For somewhere more laid-back, check out Stari Grad, literally “Old Town,” located on the opposite side of the island from Hvar Town. Recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, it boasts a warren of narrow, stone-blanketed lanes. Be sure to also take a hike through the island’s many olive groves and lavender fields.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, there’s a wine and olive oil tasting tour to this side of the island (you’ll make a stop at the lavender fields too).
 

Days 5 & 6: Sibenik and Krka National Park

About halfway up the coast between Split and Zadar is oft-overlooked Šibenik (pronounced “Shee-ben-eek”), a medieval town of about 35,000 people that is worth spending a couple of days in. For starters, the St. James cathedral is a marvel to look at; it’s the world’s largest church made entirely of stone. The fortress-topped town also boasts of a maze of limestone-topped alleyways. If you feel like a splurge, Šibenik is home to Pelegrini, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up creative takes on Central Dalmatian fare.

Šibenik is also the gateway for exploring nearby Krka National Park and its stunning waterfalls. Make sure you also get there early to beat the tourist buses to see 14th-century Visovac Monastery in the middle of an island on the Krka River. Park admission ranges from 7 EUR in the low season (January-February) all the way up to a staggering 40 EUR during peak season (June-September).
 

Day 7: Zadar

Just one hour by car from Šibenik, Zadar has been getting a lot of attention in the last few years. Its limestone-blanketed historic center juts out into the Adriatic and is crammed with medieval churches (check out the oddly circular church of St. Donatus, the largest church on the Dalmatian Coast).

The city also has a unique sea organ. Located on a set of steps that descend into the sea, the organ makes sounds as the waves crash through it, creating a strange but harmonious sound that sounds like whale calls. The organ consists of 35 tubes and was designed by architect Nikola Basic. Come here at sunset to soak in the picturesque views and listen to the captivating sounds of the sea. After all, Alfred Hitchcock said Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, making this a fitting destination to end your week-long trip along the coast.

***

With over a thousand islands, numerous beaches, and countless hiking trails, you could easily spend months exploring Croatia and still only scratch the surface. But, if you only have a week, this itinerary will show you the highlights while whetting your appetite for future visits. While it’s not quite as cheap as it used to be, the country offers lots of value and is super easy to explore.

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Posted: 5/12/24 | May 12th, 2024 I love planning trips. Researching things to do, reading up on history and culture, planning my itinerary. It’s fun. There are, however, parts of trip planning that can be tedious. Trying to find a cheap flight can be stressful. Booking accommodation can be too. I mean, how do you […]

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Posted: 5/12/24 | May 12th, 2024

I love planning trips. Researching things to do, reading up on history and culture, planning my itinerary. It’s fun.

There are, however, parts of trip planning that can be tedious.

Trying to find a cheap flight can be stressful. Booking accommodation can be too. I mean, how do you know if a hotel is actually good? How do you know what reviews are legit?

While I’ve gotten pretty good at picking out hotels when I go somewhere new, I’m also not afraid to leave a hotel if it’s not what I expected. But that’s a big hassle, wasting time and money in the process.

Fortunately, there’s a website I recently came across that can help make the hotel booking process a bit easier. And it can save you money too. It’s called Plannin.

What is Plannin?

Founded by two former executives of Priceline.com, Plannin is a free membership site that helps you save up to 40% on hotel bookings. As a member, you’ll get exclusive discounts on hotels worldwide. They have over 2 million properties on their site, and more are being added all the time.

In addition to searching for hotels as you would other online booking websites you’re familiar with, Plannin lets creators make accounts that you can follow. That way, you can see honest reviews from bloggers and influencers that you already follow on social media. You can also follow them on Plannin for future travel suggestions and reviews.

They currently have over 1,000 creators on the platform. And since they share actual photos and video content of each hotel (because they stayed there themselves), you can book with confidence knowing the photos and videos of the property are accurate and up-to-date.
 

How It Works

Plannin is super easy to use. You simply visit the website and sign up (it’s free).

Once your account is created, you’ll be able to start searching for hotels in the same way you would on traditional travel booking sites. However, when you search, creator-recommended hotels pop up first, with highly-rated hotels from Plannin’s trusted hotel supply partners (Booking.com, Priceline, and Agoda) populating the list next.

You can also display the results on a map if there’s a particular area of your desired destination that you want to stay in.

At a glance, you’ll be able to see each hotel’s nightly price, star rating, amenities, a few photos, and key features like whether there’s free cancellation, free breakfast, or a pay later option.

You can filter by hotel brand, review score, amenities, and star rating, just like on any hotel search engine. You can also filter by creator.

When you click through to the hotel’s page on Plannin, you’ll be able to see all the details and read the creator’s full recommendation, along with additional reviews of other customers who have stayed there. Here’s my profile, for example.

Once you find the hotel you want to book, simply click “Book” and pay (all through Plannin). That’s it! As I said, it’s super easy.

Currently, Plannin only offers hotel bookings, however, they will be adding experiences and restaurants in the near future.
 

Who is Plannin For?

Considering that Plannin offers members discounts on bookings, I think every traveler should sign up and add Plannin into their travel planning routine. After all, it’s free to join, and the up to 40% discount can really add up. You’ll see the discount highlighted in green on the hotel blurb in search, as long as you’re signed in to your free account.

I think Plannin is also great for travelers who follow social media influencers, bloggers, and creators, as you can follow those creators on Plannin to see what places they recommend and get updated when they recommend new places. It’s a great way to get curated recommendations from people whose input you already trust.

You can sign up for Plannin here to see creator recommendations and get up to 40% off 2M+ hotels worldwide.

And if you’re a content creator, Plannin is definitely worth joining as you can share reviews directly with your readers and earn a commission if they book. Creators get a 5% lifetime commission when someone uses their link.

That means when your audience signs up with a Plannin account through your custom link, you will earn commissions on any booking they make, at any time. There is no expiration on the cookie, making it a great option for travel creators looking to grow their passive income while sharing content with their audience. (As a creator myself, I wish more companies had a lifetime commission!)

If you’re a creator, you can sign up here to start earning on your travel content.

Pros of Plannin

• Easy to use
• Free to join
• Lets you see authentic reviews from creators you trust, not just random travelers
• Up to 40% off discounts can save you a ton
• Expanding to experiences and restaurants soon (in partnership with GetYourGuide and OpenTable)

Cons of Plannin

• Requires an additional login to remember
• Doesn’t have a ton of creators sharing recommendations (yet)

***

As travel prices continue to increase, it’s never been more vital to compare prices and reviews when booking. And since accommodation is likely one of your biggest expenses, it makes sense to check different websites before you book. With free membership, a solid discount, and a way to get recommendations from creators you may already follow, I think Plannin should be added to every traveler’s booking process.

Click here to sign up for Plannin today!

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Posted: 4/26/24 | April 26th, 2024 A compact capital with more bikes than cars, Copenhagen is a lively, modern city perfect for weekend getaways. Copenhagen is also considered one of the world’s happiest cities, boasting plenty of green space, cool museums, and a rambunctious nightlife. Famed for its cyclist-friendly streets, there’s not only more bikes […]

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Posted: 4/26/24 | April 26th, 2024

A compact capital with more bikes than cars, Copenhagen is a lively, modern city perfect for weekend getaways.

Copenhagen is also considered one of the world’s happiest cities, boasting plenty of green space, cool museums, and a rambunctious nightlife. Famed for its cyclist-friendly streets, there’s not only more bikes than cars here, there’s actually more bikes than people!

I’ve been visiting the city on and off for over 16 years and always have a blast. The quality of life here is virtually unrivaled. And while the city is expensive, it’s definitely possible to visit without breaking the bank.

To help you plan your trip, here’s my list of the best hotels in Copenhagen:

1. Hotel Bethel

This three-star hotel is situated right on the canal in the center of Indre By, the most picturesque area of town. The hotel comprises three historic buildings, with large and spacious rooms that are clean and comfortable. The décor is modern, though a little dated, and generally quite minimalist (don’t expect much art or color). The carpeted rooms include a flatscreen TV, a desk, wardrobe, and free Wi-Fi. There’s no coffee/tea maker in the room, but I appreciate that the lounge has free coffee and tea 24/7. The breakfast, while not included, is filling and has a lot of variety, though it’s mostly cold foods like pastries, cold cuts, and cereal. The bathrooms are a bit small, but they are clean and the showers have great water pressure.

While there’s no gym or other facilities on site, the hotel has larger rooms perfect for families or groups. And you really can’t beat the location. It’s an affordable, central, no-frills choice.

Book here!
 

2. Hotel Ottilia

Part of the former Carlsberg brewery, Otilia is a four-star property that has won several architecture awards for its transformation into a hotel. Located in Vesterbro, an area known for its excellent eateries and third-wave coffee shops, the standard rooms here are stylish but minimal, emphasizing contrasting light and dark tones. Rooms feature Wi-Fi, flatscreen TVs with Netflix, coffee/tea markers, and cozy chairs. If you’re on a budget and traveling solo, they have smaller rooms available too. The bathrooms have chic dark tile and include complimentary toiletries. I love that the bathroom floors are heated, so you stay nice and warm even in the winter. The shower pressure is great too, though just be aware that some rooms have open bathroom designs so privacy is limited.

Breakfast is filling and I especially like that it’s 100% organic. It’s served on the top floor so you can take in the view as you enjoy the fresh spread. Another nice touch is the daily happy hour with complimentary wine.

Book here!
 

3. Hotel Sct. Thomas

This three-star hotel is just a short walk from the Central Station and the Tivoli Gardens amusement park. Located in trendy Vesterbro, the rooms here are compact but functional, with a cozy Danish-inspired design featuring taupe and sage-green walls along with hardwood or parquet floors. The simple rooms feature a flatscreen TV, a small desk, clothes rack, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are also quite small, but the showers have decent water pressure. A tasty organic breakfast of fresh bread, fruit, and pastries is offered each morning too.

There’s also a chic lobby bar and a rooftop terrace to hang out on, complete with a bar and a sauna (you have to book and pay to use it though). The hotel was completely renovated in 2024 and is clean, comfortable, and perfect for budget travelers.

Book here!
 

4. Boutique Hotel Herman K

This four-star hotel located in Nyhavn is in a historic transformer station, so the entire place has a chic industrial style. The lobby is especially striking; it’s over two stories high and features a huge 3D-printed sculpture. I like that there’s a cool cocktail bar here too.

The large rooms feature minimal décor and have big windows that let in a lot of natural light. Rooms include soft beds, air conditioning, a Bose sound system, a flatscreen TV, comfy armchairs, a minibar, kettle, and free Wi-Fi. The marble bathrooms are bright and roomy, with complimentary eco-friendly toiletries and excellent water pressure. The breakfast each morning has lots of options (including veg options), and can be ordered as a buffet, a la carte, or continental. There’s no gym or spa on-site, but with its central location, you can pretty much walk to all the main sights from here. It’s a stylish, central choice.

Book here!
 

5. Hotel Nora

Located in the diverse Nørrebro neighborhood, this three-star hotel sits in an ornate 19th-century building. The rooms here are airy and bright and let in a lot of natural light. The décor is minimalist, but the rooms feature bright carpet that really makes the space pop. Amenities include a flatscreen TV, work desk, minifridge, coffee/tea maker, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are a little dated, but they have good water pressure and complimentary toiletries.

A fresh Danish breakfast is available each morning, and you can choose what you’d like to eat in advance (you order the night beforehand). I especially like that you get a bottle of water and a beer when you check in. There’s even a small rooftop terrace where you can hang out and enjoy the view over the city.

Book here!
 

6. Hotel Skt Petri

If you really want to splash out, this five-star hotel is located in Copenhagen’s old Latin Quarter, just minutes away from the main shopping street. The stylish rooms are large and invite in a lot of natural light. They feature darker tones and lots of dark blue, which contrasts nicely with the wooden furniture and minimal artwork. The beds are big and comfy, and rooms include a flatscreen TV, desk, minibar, coffee/tea maker, and parquet or hardwood floors. The large bathrooms are bright and boast complimentary toiletries and plush bathrobes.

There’s a bar in the expansive lobby (the hotel even crafts its own gin), a fitness center on-site, and parking is available for anyone traveling with a car. The breakfast is especially tasty, with fresh waffles, eggs, pastries, fruit, granola, and more. If you want to splurge, stay here.

Book here!

***

Copenhagen is one of my favorite cities in Europe. The quality of life here is infectious and it becomes apparent quickly just why this city is considered one of the best and happiest in the world. And as long as you pick one of the hotels above, you’ll have an amazing visit to this picturesque capital!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

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Posted: 4/22/24 | April 22nd, 2024 Dubrovnik is a gorgeous historic city. Perched on the rugged coast of Croatia, it explodes to life every summer as cruisers, backpackers, and beachgoers flock to the city. With medieval charm, a UNESCO Old Town, and the glimmering azure backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, it’s no surprise that this […]

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Posted: 4/22/24 | April 22nd, 2024

Dubrovnik is a gorgeous historic city. Perched on the rugged coast of Croatia, it explodes to life every summer as cruisers, backpackers, and beachgoers flock to the city. With medieval charm, a UNESCO Old Town, and the glimmering azure backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, it’s no surprise that this is the most popular city in Croatia.

While the city struggles with overtourism, it’s easy to escape the crowds and soak up the local pace of life if you know where to go (and where to stay).

I’ve visited Dubrovnik a bunch over the years. These days, there are a lot more hotels than when I first arrived. Some are great, some are not so great. To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Dubrovnik:

1. Art Hotel

This beachfront three-star hotel is just a two-minute stroll to the main beach in Lapad. The bright rooms are simply furnished and feature light, natural tones and small pieces of colorful artwork. The rooms have balconies, some of them with nice views, and also air conditioning, large flatscreen TVs, minibars, and a desk. The bathrooms aren’t huge (and the showers are a bit small), but they feature colorful tile, slippers, complimentary toiletries, and the water pressure is good.

The staff is amazing and the complimentary continental breakfast each morning is delicious, with a varied spread of local homemade food (like burek, a type of pastry) that changes daily. The main draw here is the location though. You can’t beat it if you want something near the beach!

Book here!
 

2. Hotel Adria

This relaxing four-star hotel boasts two swimming pools as well as a spa and fitness center, making it a great choice for travelers looking to unwind. The rooms here are spacious and bright, with big beds and large windows that let in a lot of natural light. The décor is minimalist, with calming white and tan tones. Most rooms have balconies that look out over the marina, as well as a flatscreen TV, desk, safe, and coffee/tea maker. The bathrooms are also bright and spacious and the showers have great water pressure.

There’s also a varied (and included) buffet breakfast each morning with lots of options (including fresh fruit, pastries, juice, cereals). If you have a car, use of the hotel’s parking garage is complimentary.

Book here!
 

3. Royal Palm Hotel

This five-star hotel in the Lapad neighborhood is one of the more affordable luxury options in town. The rooms here are a bit dated (the carpet and décor aren’t super modern) but they are spacious and airy and many offer gorgeous ocean views. Rooms include a TV, electric kettle, desk, minibar, and convenient outlets near the bed. The bathrooms are also large and bright, with stylish tile or marble, bathrobes, and complimentary toiletries. Some even have deep soaking tubs.

The complimentary breakfast buffet offers lots of variety, including an egg station, mimosas, and fresh pastries. There’s a relaxing spa here as well, in addition to a pool and gym. The beach is nearby too, but I especially like that the on-site terrace restaurant offers sweeping panoramic views of the Adriatic.

Book here!
 

4. Hotel Lero

Located in the less-touristy Montovjerna neighborhood, this inviting four-star hotel is built around a relaxing outdoor pool. The rooms overlook the Adriatic and are spacious, featuring unique décor and design touches, such as colorful art or murals. Rooms also have air conditioning, minibars, coffeemakers, satellite TV, and large wardrobes.

The bathrooms are simple but the water pressure in the showers is great, plush bathrobes are included, and some rooms have both a bathtub and a shower. There are several fantastic restaurants here too, including a poolside bar, an award-winning Bosnian restaurant, and a Mediterranean restaurant offering a complimentary daily breakfast buffet with plenty of options for all diets.

Book here!
 

5. Hotel More

This luxurious cliffside hotel is perched right on the water. A five-star hotel, all the rooms here have balconies that face the shimmering Adriatic. As a bonus, the hotel boasts the most unique bar in the city: the Cave Bar More. As the name suggests, it’s set in an actual cave right on the water.

The rooms here are massive, with super comfy beds, lots of natural light, and calming tones. They are furnished simply but elegantly, with wooden desks and a separate seating area with a sofa or easy chairs. In-room amenities include a desk, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, minibar, and safe. The bathrooms are also spacious and include slippers, cozy bathrobes, luxe toiletries, and great water pressure. A complimentary breakfast buffet is available each morning, with fresh fruit, cereal, eggs, and pastries.

If you want to splash out on luxury, this is the hotel for you.

Book here!
 

6. St. Joseph’s Hotel

Housed in a historic 16th-century building near two beautiful beaches, St. Joseph’s is one of a few hotels located within the walls of the Old Town. You’ll have a choice between standard hotel rooms and studio/apartment rooms. No matter your choice, all the rooms here are unique, with design touches that include hardwood floors, exposed brick and wooden ceiling beams, chandeliers, and antique furniture. It feels more like a B&B than a hotel. Expect amenities like flatscreen TVs, desk, and coffee/tea makers. The larger rooms have kitchen and laundry facilities.

The bathrooms feature beautiful tile or marble, rain showers (some also have massive bathtubs), slippers, and plush bathrobes. I especially like that the complimentary a la carte breakfast is cooked by a chef and served in your room each morning. It’s a nice personal touch that really elevates the whole experience here.

Book here!

***

A booming tourist destination, Dubrovnik is absolutely stunning. Sure, you’ll likely want to skip a visit in the middle of summer, but as long as you pick one of the hotels from the list above you’ll have an amazing stay in the Peal of the Adriatic.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

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Posted: 3/28/24 | March 28th, 2024 Prague is one of my favorite cities in Europe. Ever since my first visit in 2006, I’ve loved coming here. The winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and spacious squares give the city an unrivaled historic allure. Prague has skyrocketed in popularity. It gets crowded in the summer and I […]

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Posted: 3/28/24 | March 28th, 2024

Prague is one of my favorite cities in Europe. Ever since my first visit in 2006, I’ve loved coming here. The winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and spacious squares give the city an unrivaled historic allure.

Prague has skyrocketed in popularity. It gets crowded in the summer and I don’t even feel like there’s a shoulder season anymore. Just people. All the time. The rising popularity has lead to tons of new development, hostels, and hotels. And, even though it’s a small city, where you stay will have a big impact on how crowded you feel the city it.

To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Prague:

1. Hotel Metamorphis

This four-star hotel is located in a historic building right near the Old Town Square. The rooms are bright, spacious, and airy, with a lot of natural light. The décor is a little dated, but the rooms feature light colors and distinct touches, such as exposed beams or unique tiles. Rooms also include a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk, and coffee maker. The bathrooms look a little dated but they are super spacious. A tasty breakfast with eggs, meat, and fresh bread can be included (though it’s located in a nearby building so you have to walk a couple minutes to access it).

What makes this hotel an excellent choice, aside from the convenient location, is that there is a beer spa on-site. Guests can soak in a wooden tub filled with beer while also enjoying unlimited beer to drink. It doesn’t get more Czech than this!

2. Czech Inn

This three-star hotel is part hotel, part hostel, so there are both private rooms and dorms here. It’s a solid no-frills choice that’s more social than your average hotel, with free walking tours and a lively on-site bar where it’s easy to meet people. The breakfast buffet is filling and has a lot of variety (it’s affordable too). There’s also a well-equipped kitchen in case you want to cook your own meals.

The décor is rustic, with lots of exposed brick throughout. The private rooms are colorful but simple, with lots of natural light that contrasts with the darker colors and furniture. Some rooms even have hardwood or parquet floors. Rooms include a TV, coffee/tea maker, and desk. It’s also just a one-minute walk to the city center. Overall, it’s an inexpensive choice for budget travelers who want a central location.

3. Augustine

Set in a still-working monastery from the Middle Ages, this posh five-star property has 100 large rooms spread out over seven buildings. There’s a luxurious spa on site as well as a 24/7 fitness center with a sauna and steam room. Each room is large and airy, with lots of natural light. Rooms feature stylish furniture, including sofas or armchairs, and historic touches like exposed beams. The beds are super comfy, and rooms also include a flatscreen TV, minibar, and coffee/tea maker. The bathrooms are large and elegant, with beautiful tilework, great water pressure, and even a bidet.

There’s a beautiful courtyard on-site as well as a delicious breakfast (though it’s not cheap). What really sets this hotel apart though is that the basement bar serves homemade beer brewed from the recipe of the monks who live in an adjacent building.

4. Botanique Hotel

Located in Karlin, a popular foodie neighborhood, this four-star hotel is chic and minimalist, with an eco-friendly focus. The recently renovated rooms feature lots of light wood, soft colors, and large windows that invite in lots of natural light. The rooms are spacious too, and include a flatscreen smart TV, desk, minifridge, Nespresso machine, and complimentary bottled water. The bathrooms, which are also spacious and modern, include organic bath products as well as rain showers with great pressure.

There’s both a fitness center and a restaurant on-site that focuses on local and seasonal ingredients. They also serve an excellent buffet breakfast each morning that has a ton of variety (including plenty of gluten-free and vegan options).

5. Art Hotel

This arty property is located near the National Gallery. The avant-garde hotel has its own collection of Czech modern art too. Each boutique room has unique art and stylish décor featuring lots of neutral tones and wooden furniture. The rooms are really big and have large windows that bring in lots of natural light. They also include comfy beds, desks, flatscreen TVs, minibars, and coffee/tea makers. The bathrooms are simple but have excellent water pressure. The breakfast has decent variety too, though the veg options are a bit limited.

This hotel is a good choice for travelers looking to indulge in the city’s nightlife, as the hotel is located in Vršovice, a popular neighborhood for bar hopping that gets busy on the weekends.

6. Dancing House

This is the most unique hotel in Prague. A four-star property, it’s set in a dynamic Frank Gehry-designed building that offers views of Prague Castle and the Old Town (the iconic building looks like it’s moving, hence the name). The upscale rooms are elegant and minimalist, featuring stylish neutral tones. The beds are super comfy, and rooms also include a flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, desk, minibar, and excellent soundproofing so you can get a decent sleep. The bathrooms are large and include complimentary toiletries, a bidet, and showers with detachable showerheads and excellent water pressure.

The breakfast has a lot of variety, including lots of fresh fruit, and there’s both a bar and restaurant on-site. The hotel is located in Naplavka, a neighborhood situated right by the river that’s brimming with bars and restaurants. This is the perfect choice for travelers who want a unique and memorable stay (it’s surprisingly affordable too).

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. That means the city is super popular, with a ton of hotels to choose from. Pick one from the list above and you’ll be guaranteed to have an amazing visit to this postcard-perfect city, no matter your budget.
 

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Posted: 3/28/2024 | March 28th, 2024 Milan is a popular destination for travelers who are into fashion and design. But there’s a lot of history and culture here too. The city was both the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and influential during the Italian Renaissance. I consider it a must-visit stop on any […]

The post Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

Posted: 3/28/2024 | March 28th, 2024

Milan is a popular destination for travelers who are into fashion and design. But there’s a lot of history and culture here too. The city was both the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and influential during the Italian Renaissance. I consider it a must-visit stop on any trip around Italy.

As the country’s second largest city (over 6 million people live here), where you stay during your visit will have a big impact on your trip. While it’s pretty easy to get around the city, you don’t want to spend all your time in transit. Instead, you’ll want to pick an area that’s close to where you want to spend the majority of your time.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Milan for travelers:

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Milan’s historic center boasts architectural gems like the Gothic Duomo, the 15th-century Sforza Castle, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (a 19th-century shopping arcade). You’ll find plenty of art here too, from the huge Palazzo Reale (an 18th-century palace turned art museum) to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper).

The area is extremely walkable and filled with enchanting streets, quaint cafés, bustling piazzas, and fashionable boutiques (head to the subdistrict Quadrilatero d’Oro for the best luxury shopping). It’s the ideal place to stay if it’s your first time in Milan.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico:

• BUDGET: Ostello Bello – Located just a few blocks from the Duomo, Ostello Bello is one of the best hostels in Milan. The facilities are extensive and include a guest kitchen with free food, a bar (where you get a free welcome drink), outdoor terraces, and an indoor lounge. There’s also a great breakfast in the mornings (7 EUR). The dorms are spacious, with comfy beds and en-suite bathrooms, and the helpful staff organizes tons of free events (like walking tours).
• MIDRANGE: B&B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio – This three-star hotel offers simple rooms in an excellent location. The rooms feature lots of natural light, desks, smart TVs, and bathrooms with walk-in showers and bidets. The breakfast buffet is quite varied for the price (9.50 EUR) and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice. Overall, this hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
• LUXURY: Park Hyatt Milan – This five-star hotel located just off the main piazza seamlessly blends classic Italian architecture with contemporary design. Each room is spacious and elegantly furnished, with large luxurious marble bathrooms and all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre. There are two restaurants on site, and one serves an exceptional breakfast buffet in the mornings. It’s a great place to redeem your Hyatt points too.

Where to Stay for Arts & Culture: Brera

While technically part of Centro Storico, Brera is a neighborhood that has a completely different feel than the more touristy area around the Duomo. Known for its artistic vibe, it was once a bohemian haven for Italian writers, poets, artists, filmmakers, and intellectuals in the 1960s (they all gathered at the legendary Bar Jamaica, which is still around). The neighborhood’s narrow cobblestone streets are filled with art galleries and studios, antique shops, boutiques, and trendy cafés. It’s also great for food (though what place in Italy isn’t?), with a diverse selection of eateries serving both traditional Milanese cuisine and innovative dishes from around the world.

While a lot of the charm of staying here lies in wandering these picturesque, pedestrianized streets, there are also attractions like the Pinacoteca di Brera, the city’s best art museum; and the tranquil, 18th-century Brera Botanical Gardens. Plus, the neighborhood is just a short walk from Milan’s most famous sights in Centro Storico.

Best places to stay in Brera:

• BUDGET: As this area is quite high-end, there aren’t any hostels here. Your best bet is to stay at the aforementioned Ostello Bello in the heart of Centro Storico.
• MIDRANGE: Brera Prestige B&B – This three-star hotel is in a perfect location on a quiet street in the heart of Brera, just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo. There are only a few rooms at this boutique property and all are decorated in calming, neutral tones and have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors. Each is newly renovated, with soundproof windows, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a small fridge, and a flat-screen TV. The staff are very friendly too. Overall, it’s a nice place to stay that’s quiet yet still central to everything.
• LUXURY: Bulgari Hotel Milano – This five-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own (with a bar/restaurant). The overall design is sleek and elegant. The rooms feature deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, comfy king-sized beds, and minibars. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.

Where to Stay for Nightlife & Food: Navigli

While Venice is famous for its canals, Milan has several beautiful ones of its own. Picturesque bars and restaurants line the canals of Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, the heart of the city’s nightlife and the best place in town to enjoy aperitivo, the Italian answer to happy hour (a buffet of small bites that come included in the price of a drink at many bars). It’s also a great neighborhood for foodies, as there are many trattorias serving up delicious Italian cuisine, including traditional Milanese dishes, fresh seafood, and artisanal pizza and pasta.

Staying in Navigli offers a unique atmosphere that’s still within easy access to Centro Storico (it’s just a quick tram ride or 30-minute walk away).

Best places to stay in Navigli:

• BUDGET: Combo Milan – Combo is a small Italian boutique-hostel chain. Its Navigli location offers both dorm beds and private rooms in an industrial-chic space. There’s a fantastic free breakfast spread, a beautiful inner courtyard (with a bar/restaurant), a co-working area, and a guest kitchen if you prefer to prepare your own meals. Dorm beds are comfy and have an individual outlet, reading light, and locker, though no privacy curtains. The showers have great pressure too, which is always a plus in my book.
• MIDRANGE: Art Hotel Navigli – This four-star hotel is full of art, and walking down the halls almost feels like you’re in a modern museum. The rooms themselves are minimally decorated and a bit dated, but they’re spacious and all have a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. I think the bathrooms are a bit small and dated but there’s great water pressure. The hotel also has a wellness center with a salt wall, sauna, and steam room, and there’s an expansive breakfast buffet.
• LUXURY: Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum – This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a laboratory on-site and calming scents throughout the property. The spacious rooms are designed in soft tones, with modern art, floor-to-ceiling windows, desks, comfortable beds (you can choose your pillow from a menu), and luxurious bathrooms entirely made of marble. There’s an excellent complimentary breakfast buffet, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.

Where to Stay to Feel Like a Local: Isola

Historically, Isola was a working-class district, with factories and warehouses dominating the landscape. In recent years though, it has undergone a significant transformation, becoming one of Milan’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Today, the area is a hub for artists, designers, and creatives. There’s much colorful street art here, and the industrial spaces have been repurposed into galleries, studios, and creative workspaces. The neighborhood has a bohemian atmosphere, with boutique shops, vintage stores, third-wave coffee shops, and artisanal markets, including the covered Mercato Comunale di Isola, featuring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local gourmet products.

Best places to stay in Isola:

• BUDGET: L’Isola di Romy – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms (which are always kept nice and clean). The rooms are simply furnished but spacious and painted in bright, cheerful colors. Each room has a flat-screen TV, wardrobe, and desk, and some even have a terrace. It’s a good no-frills place.
• MIDRANGE: BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola – This aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes that include a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. They are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, a walk-in shower, and complimentary toiletries. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals.
• LUXURY: Isola isn’t exactly the best choice if you’re looking for luxury, as there aren’t a lot of hotels in this more residential neighborhood. If you are seeking a five-star property, though, head to Excelsior Hotel Gallia in the next neighborhood over, which boasts beautiful, spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, an excellent breakfast buffet, and a rooftop bar/restaurant.

Milan blends historical grandeur and contemporary chic. But there’s a lot more to the city too, whether you want to explore the street art scene or enjoy the energetic nightlife. By choosing one of the neighborhoods and accommodations above, you’ll be sure to have a fun stay in Italy’s fashion capital.

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