Colorful, narrow buildings guide your eyes upwards towards snowcapped mountains, backdropping the turquoise-green River Inn, and you feel adventure beckoning. The aromas of espresso drinks and trattorias add to the moment.Maybe you came to Innsbruck for the adventure sports and nature. But you’ll want to stay for the Tyrollean twist on Austrian culture. Read on for our travel guide to Innsbruck.
Big To-Dos
Culture
We didn’t spend enough time in Innsbruck to visit many museums and galleries. Two that I regret not visiting are the Tyrollean Folk Art Museum and Hasegg Castle.
Regardless, we recommend purchasing the Innsbruck Card if you’re in town for two or three days. The card includes access to 22 locations, such as museums, galleries, and cable cars.
Castle Ambras
One of the region’s most famous destinations is technically located outside Innsbruck, but is literally next door. In fact, we walked to this 16th-century castle from our hotel.
Castle Ambras consists of an upper and a lower section. The views from the upper castle are stunning. Meanwhile, the lower castle hosts one of the world’s oldest museums and a Medieval armory collection that will take your imagination for a gory ride. It takes a couple of hours to see everything.
The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dalchl)
Like the town’s busiest restaurant that doesn’t serve the best food but benefits from superb location, the building with the golden roof is somehow Innsbruck’s tourism epicenter. Constructed in 1500 under Emperor Maximilian, the roof is indeed real gold. We honestly found it pretty but underwhelming, overshadowed by the commotion of vendors selling trinkets and masses of tourists walking by.
The Roof is close to museums (plus has one of its own), the Inn River, and Maria-Theresien-Strasse.
rare uncrowded street near golden roof
Maria-Theresien-Strasse
We spent a lot of time wandering downtown and by the river. This main avenue is named for Maria Theresa, the powerful Hapsburg ruler who reined for four decades in the 18th century. At one end souvenir shops cram together, each selling the same trinkets.
But if you look around, you’ll notice the shops are inside well-preserved 16th-century buildings. You’re surrounded by captivating Alpine architecture. And once you make it to the wider plaza, Maria-Theresien-Strasse turns into a chill place for a drink and window shopping.
The Outdoor Stuff
The adventure sports are what truly make Innsbruck stand out. You can’t miss the juxtaposition of a well-dressed couple lazying away with afternoon espressos as cyclists in tight clothing and thick mountain bikes caked in mud pass by. Both groups are in their own moments, which couldn’t be more different.
Hiking
There are so many hikes in and around Innsbruck of all levels of difficulty and accessibility. But the great thing is, each one is beautiful. Check out AllTrails to filter down to a handful that you’d like to trek. The AllTrails offline location mapping worked beautifully for us when we didn’t have internet or cell phone service, too.
Castle Ambras to Lanser-See
On that note, if you visit Castle Ambras, try the walk from there to Lake Lans (Lanser-See). The hike is only one mile long but it’s steep; it took us an hour! Use a mapping app to avoid getting lost, as various trails criss-cross the area.
Once you leave the castle grounds, you immediately hear the Alpine winds bending the skinny pines, and the creaking sounds as the thick canopy swished back and forth alarmed us. The wind is constant here; a local assuaged our concern by explaining it’s “magical”. The occasional honking of the tram cuts through the chirping of birds and crickets. You’ll pass picturesque villages and views of snowcaps. It smells clear and piney, like a scented candle without the stuffiness.
Once you arrive at the lake, take a dip or continue to the villages. We walked to Igls, where we found a relaxing spot for a coffee and snack. Apparently both Arnold Schwarzeneggar and Barack Obama dined there, among many other famous people.
You can walk downhill from the villages back towards Ambras or take the Tram 6. Nicknamed “The Forest Tram”, it leaves every half-hour and passes through the same beautiful Apline forest.
Riverside Biking
You don’t even have to leave town for this one. Rent a cruiser and take a relaxing, beautiful ride next to the River Inn. Paths wind through city parks and the most popular tourist zones.
Of course, you can rent a mountain bike and explore the trails outside of town, too. Being an adventure sport town, Innsbruck has multiple quality bike rental locations.
Skiing
Innsbruck and surrounding towns are hugely popular for their prime locations near world-class ski resorts. Consider the town of Landeck and the picturesque village of Pfunds for more intimate options.
For world-class ski jump viewing and views of the city, go to the tower of Bergisel ski jump. Some spots in town have views of the jump, too.
Essential Information
How to Arrive
Innsbruck has an international airport, but direct flights from outside Europe aren’t common. Trains come and go for other cities in Austria and all over the continent.
We booked a compartment for an overnighter to Austria and slept fine; like a futon, the “beds” are a thin pad separating you from the hard surface. But we were given breakfast and a wake-up call, which we didn’t have in the coach car going to Innsbruck. That train arrived early, and we almost slept through towards Zurich!
When to Visit Innsbruck
Like Vienna,there’s no bad time to visit Innsbruck. Come in winter for an Alpine Christmas or skiing; visit the rest of the year for world-class hiking and mountain biking! July-August and December are particularly busy (and pricey).
Where to Stay
Innsbruck isn’t a large city, so anywhere you stay will be close to something worth visiting. You can’t go wrong lodging near Maria-Theresien-Strasse.
But we stayed in the more residential Bichlweg neighborhood. Bichlweg is a short tram ride (or 20-30 minute walk) to city center, and next door is Castle Ambras. Because there are only homes and small lodgings, the views of the mountains are better here.
Food
Innsbruck is full of traditional Austrian and Tyrolean restaurants, and there are solid international spots, too. The proximity to Italy means there are a multiple amazing pizzerias near the Golden Roof. Just beware that this is a sleepy town; late nights aren’t its specialty!
Travel Guide to Innsbruck: Conclusion
We found Innsbruck to be a microcosm of the entire country of Austria. There is no bad time to visit, and there are more outdoor options than one can handle in a short visit. So despite Innsbruck being Austria’s 5th largest city, you’ll need to dedicate plenty of time to fully appreciate this Tyrollean treasure.
Austria’s clean, well-organized capital pulls off being sophisticated without being snobby. The city has a whole section called the “Museum’s Quarter”, and the well-dressed citizens are quietly friendly. Naturally, most articles titled “The Best Vienna Travel Guide” will include very detailed information on museums, composers’ homes, and Vienna’s famous Ball schedule.
But hiking and exploring are our thing, so of course that was our angle when visiting Vienna. We were pleasantly surprised. First, Vienna is an excellent spot for wandering around neighborhoods and beautiful plazas. And it turns out, the city is the spot of or very close to several of Austria’s best hikes.
Big To-Dos
Museumsquartier
Cafes, museums and cultural curiosities comprise this 90,000-square meter plaza. The Leopold and Mumok museums are the biggest attractions, focusing on classical and modern art, respectively. Leopold’s collections include work by Gustav Klimt.
We actually didn’t go to the museums but simply walked around the huge plaza.
Tip: take the elevator to the roof of Leopold Museum. The views of the city were stunning and there is a bar with shaded seating. Highly recommend!
Vienna State Opera
This is one of the busiest and most famous opera houses in the world. But if you aren’t into opera (like us), there are other shows, and a tour of the Neo-Renaissance-style building is a popular choice.
Tip: Standing-room only tickets are sold 80 minutes before performances and only cost EUR 10.
Schonbrunn Palace
The Hapsburg’s opulent, borderline ostentatious summer palace demands at least a half-day’s visit. The rooms are so uniquely ornamented that I found a striking resemblance to cake icing. You can spend hours exploring (at no charge) the gardens and fountains.
Buy tickets to see the baroque architecture or an opera at Schonbrunn ahead of time. We didn’t do this, and our options were limited to the smallest tour, the State Apartments.
Tip: Try the cafe or restaurant! We arrived on a rainy morning and snagged the cafe’s one open table before our tour. The Mozart cake and quiche were especially good.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
As a general guide, the more concentrated the streets are with tourists, the closer you are to St. Stephen’s. Crowds mingle, take photos and dance around vendors and classy-looking (but normal-scented) horse-drawn carriages. The Cathedral itself is quieter but not less crowded.
You can spend hours marveling at the towers, glass-stained windows, altars, and catacombs. Construction for the Cathedral started in 1137, but didn’t finish for over four centuries. So each section is from a different era, providing its own history lesson.
Entrance is free. You have to pay to go upstairs (this is Vienna’s tallest building) or to see the catacombs.
Also Check Out
Beethovengang
This tranquil, tree-lined neighborhood is full of streets with a truly Medieval feel. Go here for breather from the packed historic center and check out Beethoven’s house, too!
The neighborhood is at or near the end of multiple tram lines. It’s also where Vienna City Hiking Trail 1 (see below) begins.
Vienna City Hiking Trail 1
Vienna’s metamorphosis from busy city to forested trail is so quick it’s almost unbelievable.
The 6.8-mile hike is a loop, heading to the hilltop wineries before sloping back to town. Butterflies, traditional Austrian homes, and apiaries surround you during the walk uphill. The chirping of insects and birds provides a pleasant melody as you walk aside a forest with a low-flowing creek. The descent will give you splendid views of Vienna and the river.
Bring water and cash, and of course wear comfy shoes.
Vienna is a safe, walkable city full of classical curiosities. So take time to wander in the historic center. While doing so, we came across the Judenplatz (Jewish Plaza) and its very moving monument to the victims of the Holocaust.
What to Eat
Vienna is a crash course in Austrian food. It’s tough to find international options (unless you count Italian), but not impossible. In fact, we found both a Thai and a Syrian spot close to our hotel. Vegetarian food isn’t the city’s strength, but hey, it’s Central Europe. They do meat and potatoes, and they do it spectacularlywell.
Coffee! First and foremost, this is a coffee city. People drink coffee all day. And I REALLY mean all day. Try a Viennese coffee for the local (better?) version of a caffe mocha.
You’re always close to a cafe, but one we returned to was Cafe Pruekel. This is an elegant location with lots of outdoor seating.
Goulash: The beef soup is light years better than the name sounds.
Italian food: Austria shares a border, and culinary influence, with Italy. Our personal recommendation is Pizzeria Riva. Riva has two locations; one is on the riverfront and only opens in warmer months.
Pork Schnitzel: In Vienna, Schnitzel is advertised more than Mozart. If you’re a meat eater, here’s the OG meat-and-potatoes dish. Do it with a beer.
Radler: Especially after a hike or for the heat! Light Austrian beer is topped off with homemade lemonade for a refreshing buzz.
Spatzle: An Austrian comfort food made of egg noodles and cheese.
Spritz: Aka Aperol Spritz. The perfect pre-dinner cocktail is available almost everywhere.
Strudel: The people of Vienna love their desserts. We found the strudels to be not too heavy or too sweet and excellent with a black coffee.
Prices of Food in Vienna
You can spend a lot more on a fancy dinner. But we paid these prices for basic street food, lunches, and drinks:
Bratwurst: EUR 4.50
Pork Schnitzel: EUR 18.00
Radler Beer: EUR 4.50
Shwarma: EUR 6.00
Viennese Coffee: EUR 4.00
*A 5-10% tip is expected in restaurants and cafes*
Essential Information
Getting Around
Depending on your point of origin, you’ll get to Vienna by plane or train. Once in the city, walking can be your main mode of transportation. You’ll likely use the efficient public transportation system, too; probably the tram (trolley) and U-bahn (subway).
You can buy one-trip (EUR 2.40) or multiday tickets in subway stations and on the tram. A 24-hour ticket costs EUR 8.00. The Flexible Weekly Ticket is the best deal at EUR 17.10. They are only available online.
Train tickets to other parts of the country vary by price according to level of service. It’s also best to purchase ahead of time for sleeper trains or longer routes (ie, to Innsbruck).
When to Visit Vienna
There’s no bad time to visit Vienna. Particularly popular months are December (Vienna’s majestic during Christmastime!) and July/August. Those are also the priciest months to visit. Vienna’s Ball season starts on November 11 and ends in February.
Where to Stay
Again, there is no real “dangerous” neighborhood in Vienna. The closer you are to St. Stephens Cathedral or the Museumsquartier, the closer you are to the action. For a quieter spot try a neighborhood further out, like Beethovengang.
We stayed at Roosevelplatz (Roosevelt Plaza). The plaza has a park and church (see photo above) and is a nice walk from the Historic Center.
Pensions vs Hotels
Pensions and hotels are the main types of lodging in Vienna. Pensions are usually smaller, family-run guesthouses. They tend to be cheaper and sometimes more basic but can be an excellent bargain!
The Best Vienna Travel Guide: Conclusion
Vienna is a great getaway not just for culture and classical music lovers but for anyone who appreciates a beautiful city. There are enough museums, cafes, and composers’ home to keep one busy for weeks. Actually, Vienna’s streets and architecture are art museums in themselves. Each plaza holds a unique story or something of cultural importance.
Vienna is a well-balanced city, too. As we discovered on the Vienna City Hiking Trail, there is even something for people who enjoy being outdoors! So check out the Austrian capital for both the culture and the opportunities to just wander.
You’ll find the quintessence of American winters near the bottom of a coffee mug, as you sit next to a window gazing at the snowy Montpelier sidewalk. Central Vermont is packed with sleepy, straight-out-of-a-novel New England towns. It also has a ton of adventure that is waiting for you to warm up and head back outside.
Granted, winter isn’t the only time to visit. Most snow sport areas have hiking trails that are wonderful in other parts of the year. And of course there’s The Long Trail, which at 272 miles/438km was the inspiration for the Appalachian Trail. So no matter when you visit, there will be adventure to be had, with an added dose of American quintessence.
When to Visit/Weather
Vermont is like your best friend’s house; there’s no bad time to visit. The off-seasons of spring, summer and fall offer hiking and other fun outdoor adventures. In particular, here the weather is mild in summer compared with other parts of the USA.
Average winter highs hover around the upper 20s F (-2C), and the lows are around 7 F (-14C). In peak summer highs are in the upper 70s F (25C), with lows in the 50s (12.5C).
Precipitation occurs year-round but is highest in summertime. Snowfall starts as early as October and ends in March or April.
The Places
None of the towns in Central Vermont are particularly big or busy (the largest, Barre, has a population under 9,000). Stowe attracts crowds of skiers and snowboarders in winter but is quiet the rest of the year.
Barre
Barre (7 miles/11.3 km SE of Montpelier) is small but walkable, with enough restaurants to provide an option if you’re in a pinch. But the biggest draw for us was the town’s proximity to Montpelier (a 15-minute drive without getting on the highway). Hope Cemetery is a creepily beautiful walk.
Montpelier
The smallest state capital in the United State (there are only 8,000 inhabitants!) is a cozy New England town. The main area takes up maybe six blocks, with an eclectic variety of colorful cafes and independent bookstores. It’s also where you can buy outdoor equipment, and within walking distance is the picturesque Vermont State House.
Where to Eat
Get some tasty breakfast sandwiches at Capitol Grounds cafe, or if it’s lunchtime on a weekday, Wiliawan’s Kitchen serves DELECTABLE (worth the all caps) Tom Yum Soup. I assume they sell other delectable Thai dishes, but that was indeed some outstandingly yummy Tom Yum. Julio’s Cantina serves quality Mexican-American food (and great margaritas).
I’d avoid the crepe chain Skinny Pancake. They seemed to offer everything, yet nothing we ordered was worth the long wait time.
Where to Get a Cuppa
coffee in the snow… the perfect wake up combo
Capitol Grounds makes a mean espresso, and Rabble-Rouser‘s drip coffee will placate the choosiest coffee snobs.
Stores: Outdoor Equipment
Rent or buy snow sport equipment at Slopestyle, which is a couple minutes’ drive from town center. Check out Onion River Outdoors on Main Street for buying equipment or clothes. Both stores are locally-owned.
Waterbury Center/Village
Waterbury (15 miles or 24km NW of Montpelier) is a pretty town in itself, but we honestly only went for the ice cream. So, unfortunately, we can’t report on the rest.
Where to Eat
BEN AND JERRY’S ICE CREAM. You can show up for a tour without signing up ahead of time. Don’t eat before the tour; the free samples are huge!
What to Do
Less than 13 miles/21 km west of Waterbury is Cochran’s Ski Area. Cochran’s is great for families or skiers/snowboarders who are shaking off the rust. Lift tickets are $19/adult and free for kids under 5 (not a typo). They do not offer rentals.
Stowe
Keep driving for about seven miles after Waterbury, and you’ll hit the area’s biggest outdoor draw. Beautiful and fun, Stowe manages to stay chill despite its fame.
Where to Eat
The Alchemist Brewery‘s food options are limited but hit the spot. Their beers are on point, and the artwork gets trippier as those beer glasses empty. You can spend a few hours here without noticing.
What to Do
Stowe Mountain Resort is the big-name ski area and covers two mountaintops. If you’re okay with the price (daily lift tickets are well over $100), your whole experience can be run at picturesque Stowe; tickets, rentals, and even lodging.
Alternatively, check out the Stowe Recreational Path for hiking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Playing around with the GoPro on a snowy, breezy hike on Stowe Recreational Path
Is It Expensive to Visit Vermont?
Well, yes and no. Food and lodging are not cheap. That’s because basic goods like utilities and groceries are more expensive here than in the vast majority of the USA. We found a fully furnished apartment for just $90/night, but prices at restaurants and bookstore were a bit higher than in our Mid-Atlantic hometown.
You can offset these costs, however. Vermont abounds in extraordinarily cheap outdoor adventures. These include hiking, autumnal leaf peeping, and skiing (if you find the right ski area).
A great hack is to rent snow sport equipment and use it at an inexpensive ski area or even a trail with no charge to enter!
Central Vermont Outdoor Adventure Guide: Conclusion
Central Vermont doesn’t just provide adventure opportunities year-round, but for each type of adventurer. There are options for snow sport experts and those just learning. Both families and solo travelers will feel safe here, too.
You can be in the middle of it all during winter in Stowe, or rent a house in a small town during the off-season. And you’ll always be a short ride from the next town, ski area, or trailhead, no matter when or where you visit.
This is a refreshingly rugged, culturally-rich land that offers a top-notch food scene and an endless menu of outdoor activities. The vertiginous Andes provide some of the best hiking experiences in the world (and seriously scary bus rides). You may already know that Cusco and Machu Picchu are the main draws with their cultural and historical significances. And because of this, most tourists head directly to Southern Peru.
Now, Southern Peru is objectively amazing, but below I’ll explain why you should also visit areas outside of the “gringo trail”.The diversity of cultures, wildlife, and climates in Peru create opportunities for memorable experiences all over the country and not just in one region. Because of this, your trip for Peru just may be the most memorable you’ve ever had.
But before you travel to Peru, make sure you are properly prepared. This includes picking the place or activity you simply cannot miss and having enough time (and cash) to do so. This article includes everything you need to get started.
Best Time to Travel to Peru
Generally the best time to travel to Peru is from May to September, as you’ll avoid the rainy season in the Andes and the jungle. Unfortunately these months are Lima’s cloudiest and chilliest. The Northern coast is warm and sunny year round.
If you’re looking for awesome discounts, the rainy season is ideal. But you’ll have to be flexible because roads and trails often close due to the conditions. The sweet spot for cost and convenience are the shoulder months- April and October.
How Much Money do I Need?
Unfortunately, this is a loaded question with no straight answer. The amount of money you need to visit Peru will depend on the choices you make:
Will you stay in a hotel with a private bathroom, or a shared-bedroom hostal?
Will you take a plane between cities, or are you OK taking it slower and going by bus?
How many days do you plan to be in the more touristy cities compared to places that rarely have visitors?
More than anything, pick the one or two activities you MUST do when in Peru. This may be visiting Machu Picchu (including train tickets), hiking the Inca Trail, or surfing in Mancora. Budget for these must-do activities and ensure you have enough for lodging, food, souvenirs, and transportation.
As a general guide, these are the average prices for things in Peru:
Budget hotel room (not shared): $30
Lunch: $5-8
Cocktail: $3-4
Overnight bus ride (7-9 hours): $10-35
Intercity plane ticket: $50-150
Souvenirs: varies; a comfy hand-made alpaca wool hat can go for $5-8
Prices are almost always in Peru’s currency, the NuevoSol, but US dollars are accepted. One USD is worth 3-4 soles depending on the current rate.
Haggling is typical in markets, but don’t expect the price to drop by more than about 5-15%. Tipping is only expected in restaurants in big cities, and in those cases 10% is enough. In other cases, it is always appreciated but not expected.
Finally, have cash on hand, especially in small towns and rural areas.
How Much Time do I Need?
Peru is over three times larger than Italy, and its crazy geography means you won’t find any transportation remotely like the high-speed trains of Europe or Japan. Because of this, we recommend picking a region and staying there for a bit. This provides a richer, more immersive experience, and you’ll avoid feeling you’ve been in a plane/bus/car the entire trip.
Also, if you visit the Andes (and you SHOULD), anyone coming from a lower altitude must take a day or two to adjust before hiking or other activities. Add a couple of days to your time in Cusco or whichever Andean city is first on your itinerary for this.
Finally, to answer the question: We recommend 10 days as the absolute minimum for visiting Peru. That’s because the country is large, not particularly easy to get around, and offers so much to enjoy.
Travel to Peru: Requirements
Vaccines for Peru
In addition to routine vaccinations, you should be up-to-date with the following vaccines:
Hepatitis A & B
Measles
Rabies
Typhoid
Yellow Fever (especially if traveling to the jungle)
People going to certain areas of the jungle should take anti-malarial drugs, too. Always consult a doctor before traveling.
Visa Requirements for Peru
People from the Andean Community countries, European Shengen area, USA, and Canada can visit without getting a visa ahead of time. The same goes for Ireland, the UK, most of South and Central America, and the Caribbean.
Peru’s Foreign Relations Ministry has an updated list of visa-free countries here.
Packing List
Each geography and climate is so drastically distinct in this country that your packing list will depend on the exact destination(s) you have in mind. Having said that, there are a few basics that you’ll need regardless of your destination or activity. Read our full article on what to pack for Peru for more info!
Where to Visit in Peru
The Big-Ticket Spots
The torreon (tower/turret) at Machu Picchu
Let’s start with the most-visited destinations in Peru. In general, there is more tourist infrastructure at these locations, although during the peak months of June-August the most popular spots get more crowded than a college party with free beer.
It’s not all just crowds, though; each of these is popular for good reason, and less-touristy spots are never too far away.
Arequipa
Peru’s 2nd-largest city sits at 7,661 feet above sea level in a valley surrounded by volcanoes and snow-capped peaks. Arequipa is considered to be safer and cleaner than Lima (and it may even have better food, if that’s possible!). Nearby, the planet’s two deepest canyons (Cotahuasi and Colca) provide terrific treks through traditional villages and world-famous condor viewing.
Tip: If you’re going to Southern Peru, head to Arequipa before Cusco or Puno. This way you’ll acclimatize to the altitude more gradually.
Chachapoyas
“Chacha” has gradually received more tourists in the past decade, especially since its airport opened. The cobblestoned city is a beautiful base for visiting archaeological sites such as Kuelap, which is the most impressive Chachapoyan site that we know of today. Day hikes to some of the tallest waterfalls in the world are a most awesome highlight, too.
Cusco
If you’re going to travel to Peru, then the ancient Incan capital has to be considered. The city is a time machine; its pristine historic center is nearly identical to its look 500 years ago. From Cusco you can venture into the Sacred Valley and on to Machu Picchu.
Tip: Make sure you tour the city, including making time to visit the museums, nearby archeological sites and the Qorinkancha temple before trekking to the Lost City of the Incas. And eat a sopa verde when the evening gets cold.
Huaraz
Much like Chachapoyas, Huaraz doesn’t receive the same amount of attention as Cusco and Lima. But this place is a trekker’s and climber’s dream. The standout hikes are the resplendent, 4-day Santa Cruz and the multiday Huayhuash. Day trips to glacial lakes and a visit to Alpine-like Huaraz National Park are perfect for anyone looking to sleep in a hotel bed every night.
Tip: Take a comfy, overnight buscama from Lima, and you’ll get a decent enough night’s sleep without losing a day of travel (or paying for a hotel)!
Ica, Paracas and Nazca
This area just south of Lima is packed with pisco, sandboards and a literal desert oasis. You need to take a plane to see all of the mesmerizing and enigmatic Nazca Lines, although you can spot some of them from towers in and around Nazca.
Tip: Take a bus to Ica from Lima (4-5 hours), then hit the road to Arequipa afterwards.
Iquitos
Smack-dab in the middle of Northern Peru’s Amazon, this is Earth’s largest non-road-accessible city. Most people fly here, but rugged and adventurous (or crazy) types take the boat.
At 12,507 feet above sea level, this is the world’s highest navigable lake. The scenery is striking, the weather brisk, and the culture captivating. Most people agree that the Bolivian side is better, but don’t overlook the floating Uros islands. Even better, consider staying with a local family in Taquile or Amantini island for a cultural experience, and a night sky, that you’ll never forget.
Lima
Peru’s cluttered capital is often depressingly cloudy and just not as enticing as its Andean and Amazonian counterparts. But you’ll probably arrive here since those other cities don’t have large international airports. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised with the seaside neighborhoods of Barranco and Miraflores- oh, and the continent’s most famous food scene!
Machu Picchu
Almost every visitor makes it to Peru’s (and perhaps South America’s) most recognizable spot. And we have entire articles about not only Machu Picchu, but the treks to and within the site as well. The best recommendation anyone can give is this: make sure you have plenty of time at the actual site of Machu Picchu when booking your hotel and train tickets!
Mancora
Peru’s most popular beach hangout is a great surfing spot. It’s warm and sunny all year, and the party never stops. Towns just a few kilometers north and south of Mancora provide a more intimate experience.
Manu/Tambopata
The heart of the Peruvian Amazon is a short plane ride from Cusco and Lima. You’ll get the chance to learn how the locals survive and thrive in the world’s largest rainforest, and sports such as kayaking and hiking are popular. Definitely go with a guide and consider an all-inclusive lodge.
Sacred Valley
The area outside of Cusco is peppered with picturesque pueblos. Each has a claim to fame, from Incan sites that rival Machu Picchu to amazing, traditional textiles and colorful markets. There are some excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities, too.
Tip: Avoid the Sacred Valley day trips from Cusco, unless you’re really into getting to know the insides of a Peruvian bus. Instead, spend a few nights in one of the towns such as Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Pisac or Urubamba.
Off the Gringo Trail
When you travel to Peru, the most memorable moments could be far off the well-trodden routes referred to as “The Gringo Trail”. I’ll never forget chewing bitter coca leaves with ladies in bowler hats and ponchos, waiting for the pounding rain to let up as we crouched into a nook on the side of the mountain and they described their day-to-day life with me. Or sipping a delightfully dark artisanal coffee, sourced mere meters from my table, while the sun rose over the cloud forest and warmed my face.
Definitely go to the big-ticket spots that catch your fancy; you won’t regret it. But make sure to take a side trip to a place where tourism isn’t the main form of income for the locals. It’s a different, slower vibe, and you’ll feel the “real Peru” that the custom tour crowd misses.
Chiclayo
Pimental beach near Chiclayo
Go to Chiclayo for the nearby archaeological sites and museums, especially the Lord of Sipan museum. Local beach towns are popular among Peruvians, even though they don’t get international attention.
Tip: Take some time here on the way north if you’re going to Chachapoyas.
Huancayo
Huancayo is a sprawling city with a strong Andean identity. It’s surrounded by artesian villages, each of which has its own specialty, from silver jewelry to gourd carvings. A day hike to snowcapped Huaytapallana and mountain bike rides to the central jungle (Oxapampa) are excellent outdoor choices.
Tip: Huancayo is in the center of Peru, so take a bus from Lima, Oxapampa or Yauyos to easily add it to your trip!
Matucana
As you head eastward from Lima, Matucana marks the end of the dry desert foothills and the beginning of the Andean Sierra. It’s a charming town with a few solid hikes that always lead you to lakes or a waterfall. Your visit can be a long day trip or a nice 2-3 day break from Lima or even Huancayo.
Tip: It’s easy to find a bus, colectivo (shared taxi) or private taxi from Lima to Chosica. From there buses and colectivos leave for Matucana on a regular basis.
Oxapampa
“Oxa” is a popular vacation spot among Peruvians, but it’s still a secret to foreigners. The town is cradled in a verdant valley of the High Jungle, making the weather warm but not sweltering. Bavarian architecture and German breweries will make you second-guess what country you’re in!
Tip: Stay at an all-inclusive lodge just outside of town. Ulcumano has stunning scenery, great food and a menu of outdoor activities.
Yauyos
We saved the last one for those who REALLY want to rough it- in exchange for truly fantastic views and experiences! The Reserva Paisajistica Nor-Yauyos Cochas is both a mouthful and a literal Landscape Reserve. In other words, it’s being preserved because the land is considered to be so majestic (which says a lot in a country full of natural beauty). The story Ashincuy is from here, too.
Tip: You can visit from Lima, but it’s much safer to go via Huancayo. You’ll take a colectivo for the 3-4 hour trip.
The 5 Most Bomb-Ass Hikes in Peru
No doubt, Peru is a trekker’s dream come true. Every Andean town seems to have its own secret, ancient site with beautiful trails to explore. The vastness and beauty of the Andes mountains, the diverse ancient cultures being preserved in the towns along the trails, and world-class archaeological sites are enough to mesmerize and fascinate the most well-travelled hiker.
So no matter where you go, chances are you’re close to an amazing hike. This plethora of options is exciting, but if you need help narrowing down your choices, here are my top 5 hikes for Peru:
El Misti: This one is here because it’s a relatively easy one-nighter (and barely that). Summit a 19,101-foot tall volcano (don’t worry, it’s dormant) for vistas of the Arequipa landscape. Then skip or slide your way down the ash on the other side of the mountain, taking mere hours to undo the day-and-a-half climb you took. Trust me, it’s a hoot.
Huayhuash: Depending on the year and who’s doing the ranking, this hike on the “other side” of Huaraz is often ranked the world’s best.
Inca Trail: It’s the most popular hike in Peru for a reason! Summit mind-bogglingly tall peaks, explore Incan sites that escaped the destructive Spanish, and sleep under a sky with no light pollution on your way to Machu Picchu. We have all the info you need here.
Salkantay: Somehow Salkantay figures out how to be the Inca Trail’s even wilder brother. Check this one out for a more nature-based hike, which also ends at Machu Picchu.
Santa Cruz: This 4-day hike outside Huaraz has been known by the trekking community but not the “regular” tourist crowd for some time now. It’s a 3-4 day hike through the Cordillera Blanca, a mountain range for which superlatives wouldn’t do justice– you just have to experience it! Clever Hiker has a good guide, although it’s a bit dated.
The Best (Non-Hiking) Outdoor Activities
Canopy walks @ night!
Of course, hiking isn’t all there is to do for outdoor activities in Peru. Here’s a few examples of what else you’ll find in the country:
Canopy Walks: In the jungle, many lodges have hanging bridges that bring you right to the forest canopy. Totally worth a try, especially at night when the animals come out.
Paraglide: Especially in Miraflores in Lima. You go accompanied by a pilot, and you can often sign up the day of. Just walk up to the paragliders on the malecon; you can’t miss them.
Surfing: With some of the longest breaks in the world, Peru has excellent surfing spots. Lima and Mancora are the most popular for rentals and lessons, but there are dozens of chill surf towns along the coast.
Wildlife Viewing: Especially in the Amazon. Tours to the Macaw clay licks or Sandoval Lake in the Manu/Tambopata region are a good bet. So is the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve near Iquitos– they have PINK dolphins!
Zipline: The Cusco region and parts of the jungle have some exceptional ziplines over stunning scenery. The “Inca Jungle” hike to Machu Picchu and Ulcumano Ecolodge are good options to check out.
Is it Safe to Travel to Peru?
First and foremost, it’s always best to check with your country’s embassy in Lima for updated safety information.
The political tension and violence that resulted from protests have dropped considerably since early 2023. That means for travelers, Peru is pretty much as safe as it’s ever been (especially in areas that now depend on influxes of visitors such as Cusco and Lima).
You still want to be smart when you travel to Peru. Pickpocketing is the most common problem, and be especially careful with your passport. Keep valuables in a safe in hotel rooms when possible. Use your common sense, too; going down a dark street late at night isn’t a good idea anywhere.
Transportation
With the dangers of nighttime highway driving, narrow cliffside passes, and panic-inducing taxis, this deserves an article on its own. Which is why we wrote one.
Books to Read Before You Travel to Peru
Before you go, read up on Peru’s history and culture in order to have a fuller experience. My top recommendations are Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie and Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams.
We have a full list of recommended books for Peru here.
Travel to Peru: Conclusion
Peru is a top destination in multiple travel categories. It’s chock-full of culture and provides a range of outdoor activities, from the adrenaline to the awe-inducing. And much like other South American countries, it’s not terribly expensive to have a trip of a lifetime here.
The most difficult part of creating your itinerary to travel to Peru is picking where to go once in country. Long bus rides and expensive flights can make it unfeasible to visit each major region in one trip.
At the very least, it’s best to decide which part of Peru you’d like to prioritize. Which is why we’ve created sample itineraries focusing on three regions of the country:
Southern Peru offers the big-name options: Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, and the Amazon jungle, for example. Check out our Peru Bucket List itinerary to decide how you’d like to visit this part of the country.
Northern Peru is growing in popularity, especially for backpackers and surfers. This includes the jungle metropolis of Iquitos, beautiful Pacific beaches, and the Chachapoyas region. Our Northern Peru Sample Itinerary has all you need to get started.
Central Peru, unfairly overlooked in my opinion, is ideal for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. The Bavarian jungle town of Oxapampa is here, as are the hiker’s dream (Huaraz) and the inscrutable Huancayo. You’ll wonder how this region receives so few visitors, and won’t be surprised if it doesn’t stay that way.
Now here’s one final tip: Peru is a truly fascinating place, and the more I visit, the longer my list of things to do there grows. Try not to be overwhelmed by the many choices of places to go, things to do, and foods to eat. Just enjoy the moment.
Let us know in the comments or by emailing GringoInca@gmail.com for any tips or specific questions on Peru. Thanks for reading!
Surfing will teach you lessons you may have forgotten. Like how to appreciate nature and to try something new. And definitely patience. Patience with yourself as you learn, and also with your surroundings as you wait for the right conditions to ride that one wave. In Portugal you can learn to surf in Ericeira, the only European spot to earn the Surf Reserve designation.
We chose Ericeira because I always search for surfing spots when traveling. And after researching beaches near Lisbon, Ericeira seemed a bit less touristy and developed than nearby spots like Cascais.
Read on to find out how you can visit and surf in Ericeira.
(Note: This is an article on my favorite thing to to in Ericeira. Read our complete guide to visiting the townhere.)
Surf in Ericeira- How I Did It
Getting There
Getting to Ericeira was remarkably easy. From Sintra you can take a private car or bus. The bus is unsurprisingly cheaper (EUR 4.50) and only takes 45 minutes. The company Malfrense provides regular service from both Sintra and Lisbon.
We actually booked our hotel ahead of time. We chose a small local chain, Vila Ana Margarida. And we could not have done better. Vila Ana has an original aesthetic that speaks to Ericeira’s history as a fishing town, plus excellent food and a helpful staff.
Not to mention high water pressure, which I really appreciated during my hot shower after surfing in the cold Atlantic!
The Experience
It was just as easy to find a surf class as it was to arrive. One morning I simply strolled down the street and signed up for the next day’s beginner class. There are several surf schools where you can do this.
We all met the following morning at 8. Then we walked for about 10 minutes across the town plaza to a parking lot adjacent to one of the beaches. Every day instructors choose a different beach, using class size, experience level, and ocean conditions as criteria.
We put the wetsuits on and walked down to the shore, where a 15-minute lesson on surf technique, terminology and etiquette was given. Then we grabbed our boards and went in!
I hadn’t expected the water to be so cold, despite my mid-Atlantic roots. And the waves were a bit choppy. But I got in a couple decent rides and overall had a good time.
Cost
The group lesson I took cost EUR 40 per person. The whole experience was 2 hours long.
Surfing schools offer private lessons for EUR 100 plus camps and surf schools at varying costs (depending on length and number of participants).
Tips Before You Go
You don’t need any experiencein surfing to ride a wave! It was fairly easy, and your instructor will help. Everyone in my group got in at least one wave.
Take a private lesson for more time on the waves and to learn faster.
The water was chilly. Def have a warm shower available!
The water was rather rough for a beginner class. At risk of sounding obvious, make sure you are comfortable swimming in the ocean before taking a surf lesson.
Embrace surf culture and take a few days to explore and find your perfect wave. Although you CAN take a day trip from Lisbon for this experience, I recommend spending some time in Ericeira. It’s a cool, pretty town, and just jetting in to catch a quick wave cheapens the experience.
Conclusion
There is a modern problem with the commodification of everything related to surfing- from the clothes to the literal making of waves.
Conversely, there is something romantic and irreplaceable to the experience of waiting for the perfect wave, including taking time to know the people and way of life adjacent to the sea.
So stay in Ericeira for a bit, and take the time to learn surfing and the patience it involves if you’re interested.
