The Best Barcelona Itinerary and Complete Guide To The City

Heading to the magical city of Gaudi? Scroll down to find out everything you need to know in order to organise the best Barcelona itinerary for 3 or 4 days, including a list of top Barcelona tourist attractions, best hotels, great places to eat, and more.

Barcelona has become a top bucket list destination for so many reasons! It has a vibrant city center, insane architecture, a rich, artistic history and, to top it all off, a beach to enjoy the Spanish sun! A long weekend Barcelona trip of 3-4 days should be good enough to give you a flavour of this Catalonian capital, but if you have more time to spend, the city offers so much more to enjoy.

Map of Spain with Barcelona marked on the map

Expect magnificent churches, majestic museums, glorious beaches, and vibrant markets, street musicians, and mouth-watering dishes that will open up worlds for you. Below, I’ve rounded up my ultimate list of things to see, things to do and places to eat, drink and stay that will have you screaming “Oh my Gaudi!” while you explore the highlights of the heart of Catalonia!

By the way, feel free to organize your itinerary day by day as you wish, mixing and matching the 10 best places to visit in Barcelona that I listed below (in no particular order)!

Top 10 things to do in Barcelona

1 – Sagrada Familia

Melissa sitting under a tree with La Sagrada Familia in the background

A visit to Sagrada Família is a total must-do for all itineraries for Barcelona, regardless if you’re staying for one day or seven. After all, it’s one of the most unique cathedrals on the planet! Antoni Gaudí, the Catalan architect famous for the Art Nouveau school, designed it to be unorthodox and compelling. The exteriors depict the life of Christ with great artistry, while the stained-glass windows inside are majestic for their attention to detail.

If there’s only one place you visit in this architectural marvel of a city, let it be the Basilica de la Sagrada Família! Here are my recommended ticket options and tours to add to your Barcelona itinerary:

La Sagrada Familia tickets: 20€. I recommend buying your tickets online in advance on the official website.
La Sagrada Familia skip-the-line + guided tour: 47€. Book your tour here.
1-hour and 15-minute Sagrada Familia private tour: 110€. Book your tour here.
Sagrada Familia + Barcelona Highlights bike tour (Gothic Quarter, Gaudi sites such as Casa Mila): 27€. Book your tour here – it’s a great option for active, eco-friendly tourists!

Buy a skip-the-line + guided tour

2 – Park Güell

Melissa sitting at the Park Guell in Barcelona

If you only have 3 days in Barcelona, make sure you don’t omit Park Güell from your bucket list – a UNESCO World Heritage site! Park Guell was the result of Antoni Gaudi being commissioned by the businessman Eusebi Güell to create a fairytale-like space that defies all conventional norms associated with a public park. It’s wildly colourful, with non-linear pathways and viaducts, all conjuring up a fantasy in the middle of the city. Park Guell also offers spectacular views of the city and the sea!

Here are my recommended Park Guell tickets and tours:

Park Güell entrance fee: 10€. You can buy your ticket in advance here.
Park Güell skip-the-line ticket + guided walking tour: 27€. Book yours here.
Park Güell + Sagrada Familia skip-the-line + guided tour: 82€. Book yours here.

Buy a skip-the-line + guided tour

3 – Casa Milà and Casa Batlló

Casa Mila and Casa Batllo are two more of Gaudi’s buildings and some of the most popular Barcelona attractions:

Casa Batlló

Antoni Gaudí designed Casa Batlló in a Modernist style for the businessman Josep Batlló i Casanovas, and from the looks of it, he clearly had a lot of artistic freedom! The facade makes it look more like a castle in a fairytale than a city residence. The roof, designed like a wave, is simply magical!

Casa Batlló entrance fee: 25€. I recommend buying your ticket in advance on the official website.
Casa Batlló 10D Experience. 35€. Book yours here.
Casa Batlló Night Visit with Live Music on the Roof Terrace. 49€. Book yours here.

Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Architecture of Casa Mila by Gaudi in Barcelona

For Casa Mila in Eixample, Gaudi’s inspiration seems to have been a stone quarry. With non-linear, wavy shapes, the building is a brilliant example of the avant-garde style of architecture.

Casa Mila (La Pedrera) entrance fee: 24€. You can buy your tickets with the audio guide here.
La Pedrera Night Experience: 34€. Book your tour with an audiovisual show on the terrace here.
Skip-the-Line Casa Batlló & Casa Milà Gaudí Tour. 79€. Book yours here.

TIP: If you have enough time on your hands, make sure to visit Casa Vicens as well! It’s Gaudi’s first house in Barcelona and probably the most colourful one as well. It’s less visited by tourists and one of my faves!

4 – Arc de Triomf Barcelona

Melissa standing in front of the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona

Arc de Triomfe in Barcelona during sunset

Almost every European city worth its history has an arch, but what makes Arc de Triomf of Barcelona unique is its New Moorish architecture. The red bricks, intricate artworks and the giant columns speak of a synergy between various cultural influences that the Catalan region has always been proud of. A must-see in Barcelona!

TIP #1: If you want to visit Arc de Triomf as part of a guided tour, I recommend this Barcelona bike tour with a stop at a beach bar. It includes Parc de la Ciutadella, Plaça de Catalunya, the Gothic Quarter and more.

TIP #2: Make sure you wear something of a contrasting colour to make sure that you don’t get lost in the red backdrop in your photos.

5 – Barcelona Cathedral

Girl Around the World at Barcelona Cathedral

Nope, we’re not talking about Sagrada Familia again! Barcelona Cathedral or, if you want to use the official name, The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is not as famous as Sagrada Familia but it’s a must-visit anyway. It’s located in one of the most beautiful parts of the city, the Gothic Quarter, it has a superb facade and it’s full of nice monuments and chapels.

Barcelona Cathedral entrance fee: 9€ and it includes a visit to the rooftop as well. Buy your ticket online on the official website here.
Old Town + Gothic Quarter Barcelona walking tour: 16€ – it includes Barcelona Cathedral (from the outside), La Boqueria Market, Las Ramblas and more. Book your tour here.

6 – Recinte Modernista Sant Pau (Sant Pau Hospital)

This is a former hospital and, trust me, it’s simply gorgeous! Once you set foot here, Sant Pau will transport you to 20th century Barcelona; you’ll also be able to learn about Art Nouveau architecture and old medicine practices. By the way, this is one of the best things to see in Barcelona if you want to take some incredible pictures!

Sant Pau entrance fee: 15€. You can buy your tickets online in advance here.

7 – Bunkers del Carmel

Melissa sitting at the edge on the Bunker El Carmel in Barcelona

Melissa standing at the El Carmel Bunkers in Barcelona

Few cities worldwide are blessed with viewpoints like this. Situated atop Turó de la Rovira, El Carmel Bunkers offers some of the most panoramic and spellbinding views of Barcelona. Once an anti-aircraft offensive point during the Civil War, now the Bunkers serve one of the best points for an almost cinematic, bird’s eye view of the city. By the way, there is no entrance fee here. Whoop-whoop!

TIP: You’ll have to hike for a while in order to get to the top, so please keep this in mind when planning your Barcelona itinerary.

TIP #2: The best time to visit is certainly for sunrise for the most incredible view all to yourselves!

8 – Palau de la Musica

Melissa standing between the pillars at Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona

Close-up of Melissa in front of the Palau de la Musica Catalana

When in Barcelona, it’s good to sometimes remind yourself that there are structures in the city that were not built by Antoni Gaudí. The Palace of Catalan Music, also known as Palau de la Musica, is a sublime mixture of form and function. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this is a must-visit for not just those interested in music, but all those who like beautiful architecture! Oh, and did you know the building is a UNESCO World Heritage site?

You can buy concert tickets on the official website here or
You can take a self-guided tour in order to find out everything there is to know about this gorgeous site and its architecture. 10€. Book your tour here.

9 – Barceloneta Beach

Girl Around the World on Barceloneta Beach with W Barcelona in the background

Of course, no trip to Barcelona is complete without spending some time on the beach as well! Picture this: long boardwalks, palm trees, lively bars and teeming cafes. Yep, the beaches in Barcelona are lively – and Barceloneta has to be THE most popular and beautiful one. While you’re there, you can surf, sunbathe, or just lay around in a beach chair, spying yachts in the sea.

By the way, Barceloneta Beach is also an excellent place to try out the famed Catalan seafood, as there are tons of amazing bars and restaurants there.

RELATED READ: 10 Best Beaches in Mallorca, Spain

10 – Cable car to Montjuic

Also known as Telefèric de Montjuïc in Spanish or the Montjuic cable car / funicular, this cable car will take you from Barcelona up to Montjuic Hill, where Montjuic Castle is located. It’s one of the most unique things to add to your Barcelona itinerary and an unforgettable way to experience the city.

Montjuic cable car ticket price: 13.50€ for the round way trip. You can buy your ticket online here.

BONUS: Extra things to add to your list

Can’t get enough of Barcelona? Haha, I get it! Here are some extra things that you can consider for your dream Barcelona itinerary:

Plaça de Catalunya – there are TONS of shops here!
Las Ramblas – iconic for shopping as well; La Rambla is the main pedestrianised street that runs through the city, and a landmark in itself;
La Boqueria Market / Mercat de La Boqueria – 800 year old market with more than 200 stalls offering traditional Spanish and Catalan food;
Magic Fountain Show – water and light show, free to visit. You can check the Magic Fountain times here. One of the best things to do in Barcelona at night!
Picasso Museum – for all Picasso lovers out there;
Joan Miró Foundation / Fundació Joan Miró – for fans of modern art;
Camp Nou / FC Barcelona Stadium – largest football stadium in Europe;
Passeig de Gracia – a visit here will give you some authentic Catalan vibes;

Best Barcelona tours by type of traveller

Melissa at Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona

If you don’t want to make all the effort of organizing and timing your Barcelona itinerary all by yourself, I have an excellent solution for you: take multiple organized tours for the attractions that interest you the most! There are literally TONS of options out there, so things can get confusing, but here are my hand-picked recommendations:

Sagrada Familia and Park Güell Tour – for those that want to see the most important Gaudi sights in one day;
Barcelona Hop On Hop Off Bus tour – for those that want to do extensive sightseeing over the course of 1 or 2 days;
Historical Barcelona 3-hour guided bike tour – for the active, eco-friendly tourist;
Gaudi highlights with tapas (Passeig de Gracia and Gaudi houses) – for the foodie traveller;
“Vicky Cristina Barcelona” 2 hours film tour – if you’re a movie fan;
1-hour Catamaran Tour – if you want to feel like a VIP!

Find more Barcelona tours

Where to stay in Barcelona

Now that you know everything there is to know about what to visit in Barcelona, it’s time to take care of accommodation. Luckily, Barcelona caters for all types of travellers out there, so you’ll find plenty of hotels, hostels and apartments for all tastes and pockets.

Here are my hand-picked places to stay in Barcelona for an incredible experience:

BIG SPLURGE: Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Hotel Neri – Relais & Chateaux

MID-RANGE OPTION: Occidental Diagonal 414

BUDGET OPTION: Eco Boutique Hostal Grau

HOSTEL: Rodamon Barcelona Hostel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Be Mate Paseo de Gracia

As for the best area to stay in Barcelona, I recommend the city center to all travellers coming to the city for the first time – Plaça de Catalunya, Las Ramblas, El Born, and the famous Gothic Quarter. All of them are well-connected with public transport and they’re full of fun landmarks, restaurants and pubs. Eixample is the place where you’ll find some of the city’s most luxurious hotels. If you’re on a budget, I recommend Plaça España or Poble Sec – a bit further away, but still close to the city center.

Book your place in Barcelona

Where to eat in Barcelona and what dishes to try

No Barcelona itinerary is complete without some food stops, of course! And, luckily for us, this city offers some of the best Spanish food and tapas in the entire country. Honestly, I could just spend an entire day in Barcelona just roaming around, eating and sitting in cafes and restaurants and, in the end, I’d consider it to be a day well-spent! If you’re like me, here are the best places to eat in Barcelona to add to your list:

BEST LOCAL FOOD: Taverna El Glop

FAVOURITE PLACE FOR TAPAS: Colom

BEST PAELLA: 7 Portes

GREAT BRUNCH SPOT: The Egg Lab

PERFECT DATE NIGHT: Casa Lolea

VEGETARIAN: Flax & Kale

UNMISSABLE BARCELONA FOOD

What about unmissable Barcelona food? If you want to make sure you don’t miss anything important, here is my list of must-try dishes during your Barcelona itinerary:

PAELLA

A real symbol of Spanish cuisine; the seafood version is a must-try!

TAPAS AND PINCHOS

Various appetiser plates; Pinchos are my favourite! Cheap and super delicious. Head to Carrer de Blai to sample some from each cafe.

Tapas and Pintxos at Carrer de Blai in Barcelona Spain

JAMON IBERICO

Iberian ham, my favourite was found at La Boqueria Market;

CHURROS

Deep-fried pastries, very similar to doughnuts, only crunchier and often dipped in warm, melted chocolate. Heaven on Earth!

PATATAS BRAVAS

Roasted potatoes with plenty of sauce;

CREMA CATALANA

Creamy vanilla custard, very similar to creme brûlée.

Getting around Barcelona

There are various ways of getting around the city for all types of travellers that are planning a trip to Barcelona:

Melissa standing in front of a door in Barcelona Spain

FGC, metro and tram – quickest and most convenient options;
Bus – there are many buses in the city, but it can get crowded during high-peak hours;
Hop On Hop Off bus – made for tourists. You can buy tickets for 1, 2 or 3 days and you can take unlimited rides during those days. They have predetermined touristic routes and you can get off whenever you want, then once again hop back on the next bus. You can check the prices and buy your ticket here.
Bike – did you know that Barcelona is a super bike-friendly city?
Taxi or Uber – a bit more expensive but very convenient;

There are also various travel cards that you can use if you need a way to get from point A to point B using a variety of vehicles such as FGC, metro, tram, bus and even Renfe trains. I recommend getting a Hola! Barcelona Card (2, 3, 4 or 5 days) which offers unlimited travel on public transport for metro, bus, tram and commuter trains, as well as roundtrip airport transfer.

SHOULD YOU GET A BARCELONA CITY PASS?

If you only have 3 days in Barcelona or if you’re planning on exploring as much as you can, a Barcelona city pass might be an excellent idea for you! There are plenty of options available for one day or multi-day and most of them include the entrance fee to some of the top Barcelona attractions and public transport as well.

Here’s a round-up of some of the best available options out there:

Barcelona Card – doesn’t include Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, but it has public transportation and a 20% discount to multiple attractions;
Barcelona City Pass – includes Sagrada Familia and Park Guell and 20% discounts to multiple attractions – my recommendation!
Go Barcelona Pass – includes Casa Batllo, Casa Mila and Hop On Hop Off bus, but doesn’t include Sagrada Familia and Park Guell
Turbo Pass Barcelona – includes Sagrada Familia but not Park Guell; includes public transportation

Best day trips from Barcelona

If you have more than 3 days in Barcelona, for example, you might want to explore the surrounding areas as well during a day trip. Sure, the city has tons of things to offer and there are always more places to explore, but the surrounding area is excellent as well! Here are two of the best day trips to add to your Barcelona itinerary:

Costa Brava

Located around 60km from Barcelona, Costa Brava is an amazing vacation spot made of multiple beach towns and it makes for an unforgettable Barcelona day trip. Once you’re there, you can do some kayaking, snorkelling or simply laying on the beach, as Costa Brava is well-known for sunny spots, summer festivals and good food.

Here are my recommended Costa Brava tours:

6-hour Costa Brava kayak and snorkel day tour – for the adventurous ones;
Costa Brava full-day tour from Barcelona – for the ones that want to discover the superb coastline.

Girona

Girona is another popular destination close to Barcelona thanks to its rich history and ancient, well-preserved Old Town. Expect to see lots of medieval walls, cobblestone streets and colourful buildings! Below are my recommended tours and day trips:

Girona Game of Thrones day tour – for GoT fans;
Girona and Figueres full-day tour – for Salvador Dalí fans;
Girona small-group walking tour – if you’re already in Girona.

TIP #1: Want to visit both of these locations? Here is a great Girona and Costa Brava tour with hotel pick-up from Barcelona!

TIP #2: Some other great places to add to your Barcelona itinerary for a day trip are Montserrat Mountain and Monastery and Tibidabo Amusement Park.

That’s it, guys and girls! This was my complete Barcelona itinerary for three-four days and more! I added TONS of practical info to this article so that you can create the best itinerary for Barcelona EVER! From the best things to do to the best hotels, top places to eat and even some day trips and organized guided tours, you’ll find everything you’ll wish for and more here. Thank you so much for reading!

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain (in my humble opinion), and if you want to further explore this beautiful country, I recommend reading all my articles and adventures in Spain here.

xoxo,

Melissa

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15 Best Cities for Christmas in Europe

Do you want to spend Christmas in Europe this year? What an excellent idea, I couldn’t agree more! A traditional European Christmas is all about Christmas markets, twinkling lights, spiced hot wine, candy and lots of fluffy snow (if we’re lucky enough).

There are SO many amazing Christmas destinations in Europe that it gets hard to choose which one to visit. But no worries! Scroll down to find my ultimate list of the 15 best cities for Christmas in Europe, as well as reasons why each of them is a wonderful choice, the most Christmassy things to do there, traditional dishes to eat and more! We have the magical Vienna, the ever-so-elegant Paris, Santa’s birthplace and many other famously festive destinations as well.

In Europe, Christmas celebrations take more than one day – at least three! The main event usually takes place on Christmas Eve, at midnight, as that’s the time when Jesus Christ was born. Europeans celebrate with the Midnight Mass and a big, festive meal. Of course, traditions differ depending on the country, but one thing’s for sure: some of the best places to spend Christmas are in Europe! And the Christmas markets in Europe are simply… incomparable!

The best time to visit each of these European cities is, usually, from mid-November ‘til Christmas day, but most festive markets remain open until New Year’s Eve or until the first days of January.

RELATED READ: 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Now let’s find out all about my hand-picked selection of 15 Christmas destinations in Europe:

15 Best cities for Christmas in Europe

1 – Vienna, Austria

Streets in Vienna with people walking past and a large building in the background

Vienna is hands-down THE best place for a European Christmas in my opinion!

Vienna’s Christmas Markets (called Christkindlmarkt) are literally the best ones in Europe. The entire city is filled with lights, food and concerts in every corner. When winter comes, this wonderful capital city has something for everyone – from big ice rinks where the little ones can have the time of their lives to traditional stalls that serve gluhwein (mulled wine) hot enough to unfreeze the heart of a grinch.

You can shop for Xmas ornaments, indulge in some stuffed goose or sacher torte at Hotel Sacher or simply walk around the beautifully lit streets in the evening. But, whatever you do, make sure you don’t miss a classic Christmas concert such as the ones at Vienna Opera House – they’re magical!

REASONS TO CHOOSE VIENNA AT CHRISTMAS TIME: around 24 superb Christmas markets all around the city, unique cuisine and cookies, loads of classical holiday concerts everywhere

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one in front of the City Hall (Rathausplatz) called “Vienna Magic of Advent”

MUST-DO CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: taste Weihnachtspunsch (Vienna’s Christmas punch), see the nativity play at St. Peter’s Church, visit Schönbrunn Palace, catch the famous concert called “Christmas in Vienna” by the Vienna Boys Choir at Wiener Konzerthaus, walk along Der Graben street at night, go to the Snow Globe Museum

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DISHES: stuffed Christmas goose with red cabbage, Christmas carp, gluhwein (mulled wine), Christstollen (traditional Xmas cake), sachertorte (chocolate cake)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 3°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Vienna

2 – Prague, Czech Republic

Prague's center square seen from above with thousands of people walking on the streets at night

If you’re going to the Czech Republic, Prague must be #1 on your list. But did you know this wonderful capital city is also one of the best European destinations for the Christmas holidays? When December comes, the Old Town Square fully transforms and becomes a Winter Wonderland full of tiny Christmas lights and music.

While you’re there, make sure to admire the Christmas tree in front of St. Vitus Cathedral, the Gothic architecture all around the city, shop for some beautiful glass decorations and indulge in as much traditional food as you can. And hot spiced wine, of course!

REASONS TO CHOOSE PRAGUE AT CHRISTMAS: some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, beautifully lit Gothic architecture and cathedrals, delicious food

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one in the Old Town Square, followed by the one at Wenceslas Square

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: visit the Xmas markets, admire the Old Town Square and St. Charles Bridge, indulge in grilled sausages and beer

CHRISTMAS DISH: fish soup, fried carp, Pražská Klobása (grilled sausage), Prazska Sunka (spit-roasted ham), Trdelnik (chimney cake)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 2°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Prague

3 – London, England

Street in London with people and Christmas angels hanged above the streets

Disclaimer: I’m not adding London as #3 on this list because I’m a London girl, but because it 100% deserves it’s spot here!

Sure, London is an excellent destination all year long with its world-famous landmarks, beautiful streets, buildings and incredible cuisine. But the city seems to completely transform in December! There are countless ice rinks, midnight mass celebrations, beautifully decorated window shops everywhere you look, Xmas markets and everything in-between. London is a mix of cultures and traditions, so don’t be surprised to find food stalls serving international cuisines at the Christmas Markets!

REASONS TO SPEND XMAS IN LONDON: lots of gorgeous Christmas markets, skating rinks, excellent shopping opportunities, festively decorated shops, Christmas carol concerts, endless xmas activities

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Southbank Centre Winter Market and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: the Carol Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, midnight mass at Westminster Abbey, admire the Xmas tree at Trafalgar Square (which is donated by Norway every year), do some seasonal shopping at Regent Street

CHRISTMAS DISHES: turkey, Yorkshire pudding, pigs in blankets, mince pies, cranberry sauce

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 5°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in London

4 – Strasbourg, France

Street in Strasbourg at night with lots of christmas decorations hanged

Did you know that Strasbourg is known under the nickname of “Christmas Capital”? Yep – and that’s because it hosts one of the oldest Xmas markets in Europe.

This gorgeous place in Alsace, France has Christmas Markets (called Marchés de Noël) dating from 400 years ago, giant Christmas trees and incredible half-timbered houses scattered everywhere you look. And let’s not forget about traditional Alsatian gastronomy which is really… something else!

TIP: In case you get bored of Strasbourg and want to further explore the region, this city is a perfect starting point to explore other towns on the Wine Route of Alsace. You can either do this by train or with a rented car for a complete Christmas getaway!

REASONS TO CHOOSE STRASBOURG AT CHRISTMAS: no less than 2 million people go to Strasbourg for Christmas each year to admire its architecture, explore some of the best Christmas markets in Alsace, and indulge in its German-French-fusioned gastronomy

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one at Notre-Dame Cathedral (Marche de Noel Strasbourg Christmas Market) – also considered one of the best in the world!

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: see the giant Christmas tree at Sharing Village, shop for traditional crafts at the markets, wander around the Old Town (part of UNESCO World Heritage)

CHRISTMAS DISHES: flammekueche (tarte flambée), honey gingerbread, bredele cookies, roasted chestnuts, vin chaud (mulled wine)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 3°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Strasbourg

5 – Budapest, Hungary

Large Christmas Tree in the center of Budapest with a fence around it and lots people surrounding the fence

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and a brilliant European destination, especially for city breaks. This city has something for everyone: monuments, cool restaurants, hot baths, lots of culture and everything in-between. But I’m pretty sure you didn’t expect it to be #5 on my list of top places in Europe to spend Christmas, right? Heh, I guess Hungarians really take their celebrations seriously with lots of markets scattered all around the city, carolling and heaps of traditional food.

One of the best things about spending your winter holidays in Budapest is the fact that this city is definitely on the affordable side when it comes to plane tickets, accommodation and general expenses. Oh, and if you’re feeling too chilly, you can always take a hot dip at the Szechenyi Baths, a traditional outdoor hot spring – one of the most Budapest-y things to do!

REASONS TO CHOOSE BUDAPEST AT CHRISTMAS: affordable + the main Xmas Market in the city was awarded the third most beautiful market in Europe in recent years

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one at Vorosmarty Square

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: skate at the ice rink in Budapest Park, take a ride with the Christmas Light Tram, attend the Christmas Mass at St. Stephen’s Basilica, join the Hungarian Folk Show, go to the Grand Opera House to see “Budapest Nutcracker Ballet”

CHRISTMAS DISHES: Kurtoskalacs (chimney cake), roasted chestnuts, goulash, grilled sausages, forralt bor (mulled wine)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 2°C

CHRISTMAS TOUR:

Book a hotel in Budapest

6 – Tallinn, Estonia

empty streets of Tallin with christmas decorations at night

Although small, Tallinn is one of the most charming destinations in Europe, especially when it comes to December celebrations! Seeing the beautiful Christmas tree in the Town Hall Square of Tallinn is already a tradition – they’ve been putting it up since 1441 and it was basically the first Christmas tree in the world, can you believe it?

Although Tallinn is a great destination year-round, it’s at Christmas that this capital city comes to life and its main square becomes glittering and jolly. There are Christmas markets and Christmas Villages scattered all around the city, heaps of gingerbread sweets, hot chocolate, spiced wine and, if the snow becomes too much for you, you can always go to a local sauna to warm yourself the traditional way.

REASONS TO CHOOSE CHRISTMAS IN TALLINN: very high chances of snow due to its location, iconic destination as it’s the first city in the world to have a public Xmas tree erected in its main square

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one at the Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats)

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: visit the Christmas Village at the Estonian Open Air Museum, admire the medieval churches (UNESCO-listed), ice skate in the Old Town, climb to see the views from Toompea Castle, join a classical concert

CHRISTMAS DISHES: pork with black pudding, sauerkraut and lingonberry jam, aspic (meat in gelatin), blood sausage (verivorst), gingerbread, marzipan

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: -3°C

Book a hotel in Tallinn

7 – Nuremberg, Germany

Streets of Nuremberg with people walking down the street and christmas decorations hanged up

Now here’s a well-known fact among Xmas lovers: nothing can compare to German Christmas Markets. And the one in Nuremberg (called a ‘Christkindlesmarkt’), a city in Northern Bavaria, is the first one to become a true landmark of the city, attracting thousands of tourists every winter. You’ll find countless stalls selling food, sweets, handmade objects but also contemporary design items, which I think is a pretty cool addition.

By the way, did you know that most Christmas traditions all around Europe originate from Germany? I’m talking about gingerbread, mulled wine, grilled sausages, Christmas markets (dating from the 16th century) and more. So if you want to truly experience this wonderful holiday, you know where to go for a German Christmas!

NOTE: If you’re going to visit Nuremberg’s Christmas Market, make sure to pay a visit to the Sister Cities Market as well! It’s a secondary, equally charming Xmas market where you can buy themed goodies from partner cities from all around the world. How awesome is that?

REASONS TO CHOOSE NUREMBERG AT CHRISTMAS: nothing can compare to a German Xmas market (especially the one in Nuremberg), fairytale setting, lots of Christmas traditions emerged here

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Christkindlesmarkt in the main square

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: visit the Sister Cities Market, attend a traditional concert in one of the churches, take a tour of the city in a horse-drawn carriage, take the kids to Hans-Sachs-Platz for some Christmassy activities, get drunk on Feuerzangenbowle

CHRISTMAS DISHES: Nürnberger Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies filled with a spice mixture), gingerbread houses, Nürnberger Bratwurst (grilled sausage in a bun), mulled wine (glühwein), Feuerzangenbowle (hot drink with wine and rum)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 1°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Nuremberg

8 – Paris, France

Street Leading to arc de triomphe in Paris with cars driving past it

You know how they say… Paris is always a good idea! And this stands true at Christmas as well, when the entire city is covered in snow, twinkling lights and magically decorated shops. Except for the world-famous attractions and charming cafes, Paris at Christmas is THE place to taste traditional dishes, try your hand at ice-skating and, of course, shop ‘til you drop (for gifts or shoes – your choice!). Except for these charming, elegant details, there’s one major advantage of visiting Paris in the winter: fewer tourists! Which means less time wasted in lines at the major attractions and cheaper accommodation.

TIP: In case you’re visiting the City of Lights at Christmas with your little ones, I only have one word for you: Disneyland!

REASONS TO CHOOSE CHRISTMAS IN PARIS: shorter queues at Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, cheaper accommodation compared to the rest of the year, gorgeous decorations + tons of shopping opportunities

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one next to Notre Dame Cathedral, in Square René Vivani

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: see the gorgeous Christmas decorations at Galeries Lafayette, admire the 400 Christmas trees on Champs-Elysées, buy traditional food and trinkets at the wooden stalls from the Marchés de Noel, go to the Eiffel Tower in the evening

CHRISTMAS DISHES: boeuf bourguignon (beef stew), foie gras, escargots, mulled wine, Kouglehopf (dried fruit cake), souffle

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 6°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Paris

9 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

canal in amsterdam with boats parked up in the evening with christmas decorations on the surrounding trees

Amsterdam starts celebrating Christmas in November, so it’s the perfect destination for all enthusiasts that want to get into the Christmas spirit and experience the shiny lights and decorations as soon as possible! Christmas markets, concerts, yummy food, beautifully lit buildings, ferris wheel rides and wonderful walks along the canals – that’s what makes Amsterdam an ideal destination for your Christmas vacation!

TIP: If you choose Amsterdam to spend a magical Christmas, make sure to visit Zwolle as well to attend the Netherlands Ice Sculpture Festival in case you’re interested.

NOTE: Compared to other destinations I mention in this article, in Amsterdam most of the different Christmas markets are held during one weekend only (different for each of them). Luckily, the one at Museumplein is open all season.

REASONS TO CHOOSE CHRISTMAS IN AMSTERDAM: fewer tourists, gorgeous decorations on the bridges and canals, high chances of snow, hearty food perfect for cold days

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: the one at Museumplein

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: take a canal cruise to see the gorgeously lit bridges, Amsterdam Light Festival (different theme each year, which is super cool), take a ride on the huge Ferris Wheel, go see the Christmas tree at Dam Square

CHRISTMAS DISHES: Stamppot (mashed potatoes with veggies and meat), Bisschopswijn (mulled wine), Kruidnoten (yummy ginger cookies), Oliebollen (a type of festive donuts)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 4,5°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Amsterdam

10 – Dresden, Germany

Dresden streets during the day with lots of christmas decorations on the houses

Ah, Dresden… a gorgeous Saxon city you probably never had on your shortlist for a vacation, am I right? Well, let me change your mind!

You know all those pretty wood decorations that all Europeans use to adorn their homes and trees when winter comes? Well, they all originated in Dresden, together with the famous nutcrackers, during those times when wood carving was the main activity in the city! Aaand they make some pretty neat souvenirs for your Christmas shopping.

Oh, and did you know that Dresden Christmas Market is the oldest Xmas market in the world? Thank you, Dresden, for such wonderful traditions!

REASONS TO CHOOSE CHRISTMAS IN DRESDEN: the city hosts THE oldest Christmas Market in the world with 200+ stalls, gorgeous wood trinkets, hearty food

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Striezelmarkt (Dresden Christmas Market), right in the city centre

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: visit the ‘medieval’ market at Dresden Royal Palace for a 100% authentic experience with traditional artisans from the nearby villages, take a walk along Elbe river, join a concert or Xmas show at the theatres or museums

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DISHES: Dresden Christstollen (dried fruit bread), sausages, mulled wine

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 2,5°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Dresden

11 – Salzburg, Austria

streets of Salzburg with christmas decorations everywhere

If you love the mountains, narrow streets and… Mozart, you might fall in love with Salzburg at the first sight. Although this amazing city in Austria is an excellent destination year-round, the city really comes to life in the winter. In addition, it holds one of the best Christmas markets in Europe where you can buy sweets, wooden toys and decorations, plus warm drinks to keep you up and going through the day.

Ahhh… before I forget: you surely are familiar with one of the most famous Christmas carols called “Silent Night” (Stille Nacht), right? I’m sure you do, it’s all around the world. Well, you’ll probably be surprised to know that Salzburg is its birthplace. Yep, Amadeus Mozart was born here!

TIP #1: Movie lover? Why not try the original Sound of Music Tour!

TIP #2: If you want to enjoy a truly magical Christmas, make sure to organise a day trip to the village of Hallstätt as well, only 1 hour away from Salzburg. It’s one of the most beautiful Austrian villages and it looks exactly like it was taken out of a fairytale book. It’s got skiing, carriage rides, 12th century buildings and a superb background of the snow-rich Dachstein Mountains.

REASONS TO CHOOSE SALZBURG AT CHRISTMAS: it’s Mozart’s birthplace and the birthplace of ‘Silent Night’ carol, lots of day trip opportunities, warming food, gorgeous 17th century buildings

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Salzburg Christkindlmarkt in the centre, in Residenzplatz

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES:

CHRISTMAS DISHES: fried carp, Salzburger Nocker (sweet souffle), knödel (dumplings), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Glühwein (mulled wine), apple strudel, kletzenbrot (fruit bread)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 1°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Salzburg

12 – Rovaniemi, Finland | Lapland

Close up of a street lamp and some houses with snow everywhere in Rovaniemi

Everyone knows that Santa Claus was born and lives in Lapland or the North Pole, right? I was told this information ever since I was a little girl! But did you know that his exact, official home is at Rovaniemi, a city that actually exists in Finland? And now I’m pretty sure you know why I added this place on my list of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe! Yes, Rovaniemi is in Lapland, so we weren’t told lies in our childhoods. And it’s inside the Arctic Circle, so expect some low temperatures and an authentic experience that few people can brag about!

By the way, because Rovaniemi takes its role seriously, you can actually go to “Santa Village” and have a meet & greet with Santa all year round, not just around Christmas time!

Some other traditions around this area include ice sculptures, reindeer rides in the snow and making gingerbread cookies. You simply can’t get closer to the spirit of Christmas than this!

REASONS TO CHOOSE A ROVANIEMI CHRISTMAS: it’s the home of Santa Claus (and you can actually visit it!), you can take reindeer or husky rides, you can see the Northern Lights and the entire setting is postcard-like

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: no Christmas Market here, but you can visit the Santa Claus Village instead

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: go meet Santa and his little helpers at Santa Village (or, if you manage to go on the 23rd of December, you can even wave him off while he starts his journey), visit the Santa Claus Post Office, have a reindeer or husky ride around the city, see the Northern lights, try snowshoeing, help Mrs. Claus make gingerbread cookies, warm yourself in a traditional sauna, stay in an ice hotel

CHRISTMAS DISHES: mashed potatoes with sautéed reindeer, salmon soup

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: -10°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Rovaniemi

13 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Streets of Copenhagen at night with christmas decorations

Super cosy, sparkling and festive – that’s how I would describe a Christmas vacation in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark. If you identify yourself with the concept of ‘hygge’ (= ‘cosiness’, then this is surely one of the best places to spend your Christmas day!

Copenhagen is very careful about its festive traditions and, during winter, the city awaits with HUGE Christmas markets (of course), Christmas lights (d’uh), lots of goodies to eat from the street food stalls and a relaxed, festive atmosphere that only Danish people can put together!

REASONS TO CHOOSE COPENHAGEN AT CHRISTMAS: gorgeous architecture, big Christmas markets, high chances of snow

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Nyhavn Christmas Market or Julemarked Kongens Nytorv

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: visit Tivoli Gardens amusement park, take a relaxing walk on the waterfront of Nyhavn, join and dine at the Royal Copenhagen’s Christmas table tradition, take a tour of the old candy factory, sip some mulled wine at Hotel d’Angleterre, have some fun at the Frederiksberg Have ice skating rink

CHRISTMAS DISHES: roast pork or roast duck, glögg (mulled wine), risalamande (cold rice pudding with hot cherry sauce), flødeboller (chocolate cream puff)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 3°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Copenhagen

14 – Edinburgh, Scotland

Streets of Edinburgh at night with christmas decorations and cars driving through

Christmas Eve in Edinburgh is hands-down one of the best ideas ever! And if you’re not looking for a huge city, but a charming little one that offers something for everyone instead… then your answer is clear.

The capital of Scotland is a wonderful option filled with music, lights, handmade souvenirs and heaps of warming food. All window shops are adorned with Xmas decorations and the shopping possibilities are pretty much endless. Make sure you end the day with a stroll on Princes Street!

REASONS TO CHOOSE: charming atmosphere, amazing ice rinks, good weather

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Edinburgh Christmas Market near the Central Station

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: take a walk on Princes Street and George Street, try your skills on an ice skating rink, sip some traditional English tea or festive drinks at the Dome, go see the winter flowers at the Royal Botanic Garden, admire Edinburgh Castle, take an adventure inside the Christmas Tree Maze

CHRISTMAS DISHES: leek and chicken soup (cock-a-leekie soup), roast turkey with roasted potatoes and Brussel sprouts, pigs in blankets, Scottish smoked salmon, Christmas pudding,

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 4°C

CHRISTMAS TOURS:

Book a hotel in Edinburgh

15 – Reykjavik, Iceland

snowy landscape of Reykjavik's city centre

In case you’re looking for a bit of an unconventional option for your special Christmas in Europe, why not try Reykjavik? Although it may look like the capital of Iceland doesn’t have a lot going on, it’s actually one of the best Christmas destinations and a great choice for a prolonged winter holiday. That’s if you don’t hate low temperatures, of course!

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world, so you literally can’t get closer to Greenland and winter itself!

Christmas carols, colourful lights and unique dishes for the festive celebration – this is what Reykjavik is all about!

TIP: Reykjavik can be quite expensive, so if you’re already planning on going there… might as well make the best out of it and embark on a cool road trip around the country, right? Road tripping is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland and I’m 100% sure it will be one of your BEST European vacations.

REASONS TO CHOOSE: super winter-y weather and atmosphere, road trip opportunities (ice caves, whale watching etc), Northern lights,

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET: Yule Town Christmas market

UNMISSABLE CHRISTMASSY ACTIVITIES: watch the Oslo Christmas tree being lit up, join the Winter Woods Wonderland at the City Hall, buy a traditional sweater made of Icelandic wool, see the Northern Lights, whale watching, go to the famous Blue Lagoon

CHRISTMAS DISHES: Humarsúpa (langoustine soup), Hangikjöt with uppstúfur (smoked lamb with potatoes, peas and Bechamel sauce), Reykjavik Hot Dog, Hangikjöt with uppstúfur (Xmas drink made of a combination of 2 juices)

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN DECEMBER: 1°C

CHRISTMAS TOUR:

Book a hotel in Reykjavik

Other notable options for a Christmas holiday in Europe

Grand Place of Brussels on a snowy evening

Can’t get enough of this list? Here is my extra list of amazing destinations in Europe for a fairytale-like Christmas:

Zagreb, Croatia – Zagreb is one of those cool European cities that’s been winning the European Advent for the last few years, so it’s surely high up on my list! Plus, I consider it to be a great alternative to Prague if you’re looking for a similar vibe.
Koln / Cologne, Germany – Cologne (or Köln in German) is one of the most charming cities in Europe for Christmas shopping, for exploring the nicely decorated streets and for sipping on spiced mulled wine, as this is the place where this drink originated!
Vilnius, Lithuania – This is truly one of the most underrated destinations in Europe for Christmas, at least in my opinion! This cute city has Xmas markets, charity bazaars, a huge Christmas tree in the centre, wool souvenirs and more!
Brussels, Belgium – An enormous Christmas tree in the middle of Grand Palace, ice skating, yummy food and, of course, LOTS of chocolate waffles – this is what Christmas in Brussels is all about! If you want to read more about Brussels, check out all my articles here.
Berlin, Germany – I know that there are many other German places to visit at Christmas before Berlin, but if you’re looking for a mix of coolness and fun traditions, don’t overlook the capital as well! And the restaurants near the Xmas markets in Berlin are perfect for some chilling and socialising.
Kraków, Poland – Beautifully decorated squares, church concerts, snowy days and tons of shopping opportunities – sounds pretty good, right? And let’s not forget about the traditional plum cakes!
Basel, Switzerland – this might be one of the most unexpected cities in Europe for Christmas, right? But it’s here where you’ll find the most beautiful Christmas market in Switzerland, as well as festive cruises down Rhine River and a unique vibe that will make you fall in love with this celebration!

RELATED READ: 15 Destinations for a Sunny Christmas

BONUS: Christmas itineraries in Europe

Car driving through a road in the middle of a snowy mountains besides the sea

Now that you know all about the BEST Christmas destinations in Europe (at least in my opinion), let me offer you some itinerary ideas for those that want to really embark on a beautiful Christmas trip around different cities and destinations. Why choose from these 15 best places when you can visit 3 of them (or more)?

NOTE: All these itineraries are do-able in at least 7 days, preferably 10.

Budapest -> Vienna -> Prague
Budapest -> Bratislava -> Prague
Munich -> Salzburg -> Vienna
Salzburg -> Vienna -> Prague
Salzburg -> Nuremberg -> Rothenburg ob der Tauber -> Munich
Zagreb -> Ljubljana -> Salzburg
Paris -> Strasbourg -> Basel
London -> Paris -> Amsterdam

Now I’m pretty sure you’re ready to choose THE perfect destination to spend Christmas in Europe! From Vienna to Prague, Paris, London, Rovaniemi and everything in-between, I have told you ALL my Christmas facts about my 15 top Christmassy places in Europe for an unforgettable vacation. Plus 7 bonus options, as well as 8 itineraries for all Christmas fans out there that want to make the best out of their winter holiday!

Which one is your favourite?

xoxo,

Melissa

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15 Magical European Christmas Destinations

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Complete Guide: 9 Exciting Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is one of the oldest and largest cities in Belgium. With quirky bars and restaurants to world class museums and medieval architecture, this city has lots to offer for all kinds of audiences! And in case you’re planning a trip to this wonderful port city soon, this guide is here to help you out. Scroll down to find my complete list of things to do in Ghent, as well as exciting info about where to stay, which tours to take, where to eat and more. Lots more!

Let’s dive right into it and find my best recommendations for the top things to do in Ghent:

Why visit Ghent, after all?

Melissa leaning on an iron bar next to the river of Ghent

Never heard of Ghent before? Well, I’m sure you’re not the only one. But this means you have no idea what you’re missing! Ghent (or Gent in Dutch) is a charming city in Belgium renowned for its numerous classified buildings. If you ask me, it’s one of the top hidden gems of this beautiful country!

Even though you might not expect it, there are SO many things to do here – beautiful architecture, canals, and incredible food! Plus, Ghent is very pedestrian-friendly, which means you can visit all those incredible places during a long walk. I totally recommend spending more than one night in order to completely soak in everything that this wonderful destination has to offer. A weekend would be best!

RELATED READ: 12 Top Attractions in Brussels, Belgium

9 Best things to do in Ghent, Belgium

Cathedrals, three impressive towers, canals, bridges, squares and more. Here are the best things to do in Ghent in my opinion:

1 – Gravensteen Castle

This is one of the landmarks of the city and definitely one of the best things to do in Ghent! Gravensteen Castle (or the Castle of the Counts) is an impressive castle to explore. It’s dating from the 12th century and it was built for none other than the Count of Flanders. In later years, it was used as a cotton mill for a short period of time.

The awesome thing is that the castle has been incredibly well maintained and is the only castle in Flanders to have an intact defence system and moat! There’s a lot to be explored here – the castle’s gatehouse, ramparts, keep, count’s residence and stables are all open to the public. I recommend you head down to the castles pantry as well in order to see the unique collection of torture equipment on show.

Price: 10€/person for adults. Kids under 18 years old can enter for free.

TIP: Don’t forget to check out the rooftop as well if you want an amazing view of the entire Ghent city!

2 – St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Drone photo of the St. Bavos Cathedral in Ghent

Close-up photo of the St. Bavos Cathedral in Ghent

St. Bavo’s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal) is another iconic cathedral in Ghent, dating from the 11th century! Why is it so famous? One of the main reasons is that Charles V (the Roman Emperor) was baptised here. Another reason is “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” which can be found here – an iconic Ghent altarpiece painted by Jan van Eyck and Hubert in the 15th century. It is said to be one of the earliest oil paintings in the world!

Price: 4€ to see the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Visiting the rest of the cathedral is free.

TIP: Don’t miss St. Bavo’s Abbey as well – an impressive abbey dating from the 7th century.

3 – St. Nicholas’ Cathedral

Drone photo of the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium

Yes, yes, another cathedral on my list of Ghent attractions, but they’re all worth it, trust me! St. Nicholas’ Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is built in a Scheldt Gothic style. This impressive landmark is located in Ghent centre, in front of the Korenmarkt (Wheat Market), a beautiful square. By the way, the central tower of Saint Nicholas’ Church is one of the three main towers of Ghent and is an iconic part in the city’s skyline!

Price: Free

4 – Ghent Belfry

Melissa looking over her shoulder holding the Ghent magazine in front of the Ghent Belfry

Close-up image of the Ghent Belfry, one of the best things to do in ghent

Prepare for the tallest belfry in all of Belgium and one of the best places to see a panoramic view over the city! The Ghent Belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the three towers that overlook the city centre. At 91 meters tall, it is said that Ghent Belfry’s dragon (a copper one, not a real one for sure!) watches over the city and guards the belfry. Once used as the main watchtower of Ghent, visitors can now climb to the top of the bell tower for views of the city. Don’t worry though, you can take the lift to/from the first floor!

Price: 8€. You can purchase your skip-the-line ticket in advance here.

5 – St. Michael’s Bridge

Photo of the St. Michael's Bridge with the St. Nicholas Church in the background, Ghent

St. Michael’s Bridge (or Sint-Michielshelling) is another landmark of the city and a great place to go if you want to capture some postcard-worthy photos of medieval Ghent. Why is it so special? Here’s the catch: from this bridge you can spot most of the city’s main sites – Gravensteen Castle, St. Michael’s Church and the three famous towers of Ghent: Ghent Belfry, St Nicholas’ Church and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

After going to St. Michael’s Bridge I also liked walking down the Graslei (river quay) to check the impressive architecture of the riverside buildings. A must-do!

Price: Free

6 – Graslei & Korenlei

Melissa standing next to Graslei and Korenlei

A walk along Leie River is definitely well-worth if you want to see Ghent from a different perspective! Grasley and Korenlei literally means the “Grass Quay” and the “Corn Quay”. These two beautiful quays located along Leie River are located right in the centre of Ghent and they’re the perfect place to go for a cup of coffee and people watching. Plus countless photo opportunities, as this is one of the most photographed places in the entire city – and with good reason.

7 – Geeraard de Duivelsteen

photo of the Geeraard de Duivelsteen castle on a sunny day

Geeraard de Duivelsteen, also known as the Castle of Gerald the Devil, is a gothic castle from the 13th century. The building has survived through multiple renovations and has been used as a knight’s residence, an arsenal, a monastery, a school and a bishop’s seminary. Yes, it has an impressive history and it is definitely a must on your Ghent itinerary!

Price: Free

8 – Vrijdagmarkt

Photo of the square of Vrijdagmarkt in Ghent, Belgium

Vrijdagmarkt (literally meaning the “Friday Market”) is a place of history and tradition. This is one of the main squares in Ghent’s historic centre and, as the name suggests, you can find a market here each Friday – ever since the 12th century! The entire square is lined with 18th century guildhalls that are now home to restaurants and bars. In the middle of the square stands a statue of Jacob Van Artevelde, a man who sided with England during the Hundred Year’s War and died in the square in 1345.

Price: Free

TIP: While you’re there, you might want to consider a visit to Dulle Griet for a drink. They have a beer called “Max” that comes in a boot-shaped glass and I think that’s oh-so-Belgium! It doesn’t get any better than this when it comes to drinking a pint.

9 – Take a canal cruise

photo from above the canal of Ghent showing a crowd having a boat tour in ghent

Okay, we’ve done quite a lot of walking on the streets of Ghent until now in order to take a look at the famous Saint Nicholas Church, the Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s as well, but what if I told you there’s another way of exploring the city’s highlights? Yes, I’m talking about a canal cruise! Pick a sunny day and head over to the multiple locations in the city that organise canal cruises and start your adventure of admiring some beautiful buildings and learning more about Ghent city’s history. Or you can book your canal cruise in advance by picking one of my suggested tours below:

Extra things to see in Ghent to add to your list

Now that you know all about the best things to do in Ghent that are definitely unmissable even though you only have one or two days in the city, let me expand that list a bit and suggest some other unique things to see in Ghent if you have more time:

Street art – Surprisingly or not, Ghent is full of awesome street art! The best place to go for numerous street art pieces is the Graffiti Alley and along the canals as well – or you can download this Street Art Walk and follow the itinerary. By the way, one of the most famous street muralists of Ghent is ROA and you can see his work all over the city.
Great Butcher’s Hall – Unusual things to do in Ghent, anyone? This is a place of history, dating from the Middle Ages (15th century) where you can see various types of ham hanging from the ceiling. Everything’s made according to an ancient recipe! After you’ve seen the ham, you can buy some traditional regional produce on-site to take home as souvenirs.
Citadel Park – A relaxing oasis to escape the tourist areas in the city center. Make sure to plan ahead, as the park is located around half an hour walking from the centre. You can find more info about it here;
Hot Club Gent – A super nice jazz bar located in the centre of Ghent where you can go to listen to some music and drink some good Belgian beer;
The House of Alijn – this is the only almshouse in Ghent, transformed into a museum. It’s one of the best places to go if you want to see how locals lived in Ghent in the past!
Ghent Illuminated Walk – if you want to see Ghent in the evening/night where it is beautifully illuminated, then taking this self-guided walk is an excellent idea. Trust me, Ghent is equally beautiful at night! You can download the Ghent Illuminated Walk here.
Ghent Festivities – if you’re lucky enough to visit Ghent in July, during Ghent Festivities (a 10-day cultural festival), then you’ll have SO much fun joining the exhibitions, concerts, street performances, parades and more. Plus lots of Belgian beer, of course. It’s well worth it!
MIAT Museum – the best place to go if you want to learn more about Ghent’s industry – from 250 years ago until the present times.

BONUS: Best tours of Ghent

I know that there are SO many things to do in Ghent and just the thought of organising your itinerary may seem exhausting. So why waste precious time doing it when you can book some organised tours? I really love this idea and I think tours are an excellent solution because you’ll have an entire itinerary organised for you and you’ll also be joined by a professional local guide that will offer you lots of precious insights. It’s a win-win situation!

If this sounds like your type of thing, here are my recommended Ghent tours!

CITY TOURS IF YOU’RE ALREADY IN GHENT:

Private 2-Hour Walking Tour – if you only have a short time in Ghent;
50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip – if you want to see Ghent from a unique perspective;
3-Hour Guided Urban Mountain Bike Tour – a Ghent city tour for active travellers;
Ghent: Discover Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local – if you’re all about tasting some excellent Belgian beer!
Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Local – for all the foodies out there;
Private Chocolate Tour with a local guide – chocolate day, anyone?

Find more Ghent tours

DAY TRIPS TO GHENT:

Should you get a Ghent City Card?

Melissa sitting in front of St. Michael's Cathedral in Ghent

duck standing in front of the Ghent canal

Yes, there’s also the option of buying the Ghent CityCard and I think you should consider it if you know you’ll be spending more than one day in Ghent and you want to make the best of your time here.

Why is it a good idea? In short, the card offers you free entry to all Ghent tourist attractions and museums, a boat tour, plus free bike rental for a day. Sounds pretty good, right? The price is 38€ for the 48-hours card and 44€ for the 72-hours card.

TIP: If you’re planning on visiting Ghent on a family trip, I think there’s no point in buying the Ghent Citycard for the little ones as well, as people under 18 years old have free entrance to most paid attractions anyway.

Where to stay in Ghent, Belgium

If it’s your first visit to Ghent or you only have a couple of days to explore, you’ll want to stay in the city centre. This is where you will find the majority of the attractions in the city, all within walking distance. As Ghent is a less popular destination than Brussels or Bruges, you’ll be able to find some great value hotels – check out some of my best finds below.

MY EXPERIENCE: We stayed at the NH Belfort during our visit. The location is unbeatable, only a stone’s throw away from the city hall and easy to walk everywhere, making it one of the best hotels in Ghent. The rooms are modern and spacious and the hotel has underground parking which was a selling point for us as we were road tripping across Belgium.

MORE HOTELS IN GHENT:

Here are my best finds for Ghent accommodation, sorted by budget:

SPLURGE: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Hotel Harmony Ghent

MID-RANGE: Hotel Onderbergen

BUDGET HOTEL: Casa Blanca Ghent

HOSTEL: Hostel Uppelink

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Getaway Studios Gent

Find a place in Ghent

Best restaurants in Ghent & what to eat

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: you simply CANNOT go to Belgium and not indulge in their food. It would be a sacrilege! That being said, here are the most iconic, traditional foods to try while you’re in Ghent, plus recommendations for ah-mazing places to eat each of them if you want the “real deal”:

WAFFLES

Etablissement Max – this is my go-to place for waffles in Ghent. They do the fluffiest classic Belgian waffles EVER and you can choose from different toppings to snazz them up. Personally, I’m all about the melted chocolate, strawberries and cream.

FRITES

Frites Atelier may be the fanciest place I have ever been that specialises in fries, but wow are they good! They offer some of the best frites I have ever had (and that is saying something as I am OBSESSED with all things potato!). Famous for their gourmet sauces, you have got to try the deep truffle sauce, although their classic mayonnaise is also insanely good solo. In the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger – I’ll be back!

TRADITIONAL BELGIAN FOOD

‘t Oud Clooster serves traditional Flemish dishes with a modern twist. The space is set up to be cosy with a speakeasy kind of vibe. Think cocktails and croque – T’Oud Closster is a great, trendy spot to taste some of Belgium’s typical flavours. The food is served in generous quantities so come with an appetite!

CUBERDONS

Bobonne Cuberdon. Cuberdons are the specialty sweet of Ghent. These pyramid-shaped treats come in multiple colours and favours, typically containing a jelly center with a soft raspberry inside. They are also affectionately called “little noses” due to their shape. You can find them in street stalls all over the city, but Bobonne Cuberdon is definitely my go-to place for these.

KROAKEMANDELS

Cafe Folklore. Kroakemandels are deep-fried peas in oil, served with plenty of salt on top. They’re a delicious snack and a must-try while you’re in Ghent, especially during Ghent Festivities. Other than the festival, you can eat this snack all year round at Cafe Folklore.

BRUNCH

Luv L’oeuf – this is an all-day breakfast place in the centre of Ghent with a focus of perfectly pretty presentation. Think avo toast, waffles and pancakes with drizzles of sauce, sprinkles of seeds and a scattering of edible flowers. Each plate is created to appease your eyes as well as your taste buds. This great place gets pretty popular so make sure you’re prepared for long queues or head there early to avoid them.

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN

Le Botaniste. I love the menu at Le Botaniste; from green bowls of goodness, to hearty stews and fresh salads. They focus on healthy vegan options and even have a list of vegan wines to accompany your meal.

How to get to Ghent

First of all, where is Ghent located?

Ghent is located in the Flanders region of Belgium, in the Northwestern side of the country. It is actually the capital of East Flanders province and the third largest city in Belgium. Ghent is less than 1 hour away from Brussels Airport by train and it’s not far from Bruges and Antwerp either. It’s basically half-way between Bruges and Brussels, the capital.

And here’s a Ghent map so you can clearly understand its location:

If you were wondering how to get to Ghent from other cities of Belgium, here’s a breakdown of the distances, times and prices you’ll need to know in order to plan your itinerary:

HOW TO GET FROM BRUSSELS TO GHENT: 58 km. 30 minutes by train. Around 11€ for the one-way ticket.

FROM BRUSSELS AIRPORT TO GHENT: 55 km. 1h10’. Around 18€ for the one-way ticket.

FROM BRUGES TO GHENT: 53 km. 25 minutes by train. Around 9€ for the one-way ticket.

FROM ANTWERP TO GHENT: 60 km. 1 hour by train. Around 11€ for the one-way ticket.

TIP: In case you’re excited to discover more of Belgium and you want to take your time to explore this wonderful country, I recommend renting a car and doing a roadtrip. Personally, we took our own car across the Eurotunnel from London and visited Brussels, Ghent and Bruges along the way. I loved our experience on the roads of Belgium and I definitely recommend you try it too!

That’s it, this was my complete Ghent guide – one of the most underrated cities in Europe! People from all around the world travel to Ghent yearly in order to admire its cathedrals, canals and charming streets and to indulge in its amazing gastronomy. In case you decided to do the same, this article has everything you need to know before going! From what to see in Ghent to the best restaurants and hotels, I’ve compiled all the information I learned about this destination while I was there in this complete piece. Now you’re ready for the perfect Ghent city break!

I have two more things left to say: prepare to fall in love with Ghent. Irremediably. You’ll even want to go back. ASAP. Plus, get ready for a lot of walking, as there is so much to see and do!

If you want to explore more destinations in Belgium, I recommend clicking here to read all about my adventures in the heart of Europe.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Belgium?

Check out all my Belgium Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here!
Did you not get travel insurance yet??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Belgium so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

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Complete Guide: 7 Unmissable Things to Do in Bruges, Belgium

Welcome to the “Venice of the North” and one of the most romantic cities in Europe!

With canal boat rides, cobbled lanes and medieval buildings, Bruges (or Brugges in Dutch) is famous for attracting couples looking to explore a city overflowing with romance. In case you’re planning a trip here soon, you’re in luck! This article will tell you everything you need to know for travelling to Bruges – from the best things to do in Bruges to the best hotels, restaurants and precious info about how to get around the city. And more!

With over 50 medieval bridges and one of the most well-preserved medieval regions in Europe, Bruges is often compared to Venice in Italy. It has been so well maintained that it even preserved the street layout since the era before the introduction of automobiles!

Even though this fairy-tale town is popular with couples, don’t cross Bruges off your list if you’re flying solo. They may have preserved the old architecture but the feel of the city is young. I’d recommend an overnight stay if you have the time or at least a day trip to explore.

In case you want to do so, here are the best attractions in Bruges to tick off your list:

7 Best things to do in Bruges, Belgium

Let’s begin this Bruges guide properly, shall we? Get your pens ready, ‘cause here’s my list of highlights that will make your trip to Bruges simply special and unforgettable:

1 – Bruges Markt Square & Belfry Tower

The Belfry of Bruges (Belfort met Beiaard or Belfry and Carillon) located in Markt Square (Markt Bruges) is the main landmark of the city. Dating back to the 13th century, this tower has been through destruction and reconstruction. It is also where the main documents of the city are preserved. And, to top it off, this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site! For views of the city, it’s only 366 steps to the top. You got this!

While you’re there, take your time to explore Brugge Markt as well – it’s the main market square in the city with dozens of stalls and fun things to buy and taste.

Entrance Fee: 14€

TIP: While you’re at Belfry Tower, you can also take a peek at the Salvador Dalí Exhibition (Museum-Gallery Xpo: Salvador Dalí). For only 10-11€ you can see the famous painter’s work in a carefully curated audio-visual space.

2 – Burg Square & Bruges City Hall

The Burg Square in Bruges with a tree in the foreground

Formerly a fortress, Burg Square is one of the oldest parts of the city centre. This square is surrounded by buildings that showcase different architectural styles, from the Gothic to the Renaissance to the Neo-Classicist. One of the prettiest buildings in Bruges, the Gothic Town Hall, stands in the Burg Square, surrounded by cafés and restaurants – be sure to check it out!

3 – Rozenhoedkaai – Bruges Canal Tour

Rozenhoedkaai is one of the best things to see in Bruges

Although you can see the city on foot, the main highlight of Bruges is its canals and a canal boat ride is a must-do while you’re here! You can catch a boat from the Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary) that will take you around the medieval old town of Bruges. Price is 10-15€. One of the best things to do in Bruges if you want to take unique pictures and see the city from a different perspective!

Alternatively, you can book a tour in advance online so you can secure your spot on your desired date and time, such as this “Best of Bruges Private Tour with Local Guide” which includes a boat ride as well.

TIP: Make sure you grab a seat at the very back or very front of the boat to get unobstructed photos during the ride.

4 – Lovers’ Bridge & Lake of Love

The Lake of Love is located right in the centre of Minnewater Park and it’s an excellent spot to go and unwind after a full day of exploring the city on foot. While you’re there, you can catch a glimpse at the Lovers’ Bridge, a cute landmark, especially for all my hopeless romantics out there. Plus, there are lots of awesome photo opportunities all around the place!

5 – Bonifacius Bridge & Church of Our Lady

Bonifacius Bridge and the Church of Our Lady in Brugges Belgium

Melissa sitting on the Bonifacius Bridge in Brugges

When it comes to not-so-popular things to do in Bruges, the Bonifacius Bridge is probably my favourite location in the city! The beautiful cobble bridge crosses a canal with a backdrop of the Onze Lieve Vrouw (Church of Our Lady) and the Gruuthuse Palace. This picturesque location was one of my highlights for its fairy-tale scenery of medieval buildings – and a superb photo spot as well!

And talking about the Church of Our Lady – you should not only visit the church, but also the world-famous sculpture: Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, carved in 1503.

6 – St Salvator’s Cathedral

We’re talking about the oldest church in the city and one of its main points of interest here! Truth be told, this cathedral is very beautiful indeed, with neo-gothic architecture and lots of Flemish artworks on the inside.

7 – And, of course, the windmills

Did you know that the outskirts of the city are very different from the touristic old town centre? And they’re well worth a visit as well, that’s for sure! If you decide to get out of the city centre and go to the outskirts, you’ll find green, tranquil parks lining the riverside and the Windmill Walk – 4 windmills (the remaining of the original 23). Some of them are open for tourists to explore, so make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity. Even though, if you ask me, just the walk itself is totally worth it!

Extra things to see in Bruges to add to your list

But my list doesn’t end here, my friends! Apart from the famous Market Square, the colourful canals and Belfry Tower, there are some other things to do and see in case you have more time in this romantic city. Here are some bonus suggestions for you:

Groeninge Museum – for all Flemish and Belgian art lovers (Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling and more!
Basilica of the Holy Blood – a gorgeous Catholic basilica that dates back to the 12th century. You can visit it for the beautiful Renaissance building and see the… well, holy blood of Jesus on a sacred piece of cloth;
Museum of Torture – in case you’re “passionate” to see some instruments of torture dating from centuries ago. Freaky, but very interesting!
Ten Wijngaerde – the only preserved beguinage in the city that dates back to the 12th century. It still looks medieval and untouched, so it’s a great spot to escape the touristy places of Bruges;
Old St. John’s Hospital / Sint Janshospitaal – one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, dating from the 12th century, right next to Church of Our Lady;
Ice Sculpture Festival – one of the unmissable things to do in Bruges in winter and one of the best things to do in Bruges with kids;
Hof de Jonghe Park – a real hidden gem of the city! This is a park where you’ll find sheep and lots of greenery, so it might be a quirky addition to your itinerary;

BONUS: Best tours in Bruges

Melissa standing next to the boat captain in Brugges Belgium

Melissa sitting next to the Bruges canal

I know, my list of things to do in Bruges might be overwhelming, especially if you only have half a day or one day in the city. What’s there to do, in this case? No worries – one of the best things to do in order to maximize your time is to book some organised tours in Bruges. Think of it like this: you’ll get to explore the city with a local, professional guide and you’ll get lots of extra interesting information. And everything else will be taken care of, so no need to create your own itinerary!

Sounds good, right? If you’re with me, then here are my best tour recommendations for your Bruges trip, divided into three different sections:

BEST TOURS ONCE YOU’RE ALREADY IN THE CITY

Tour Bruges: 3-Hour Beer and Chocolate Tasting Private Tour – for all my foodies out there;
Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Bruges – even better!
Tour Bruges Guided Rickshaw Tour – if you’re looking for a unique way to tour Bruges;
Tour Bruges: 1.5-Hour Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour – if you’re all about urban legends and mysteries;
Bruges Private 2-Hour Walking Tour – a local guide will take you to all the must-see spots in the city in this walking tour of Bruges;
Free walking tours Bruges – I love the concept of free walking tours! They’re hosted by locals, passionate in sharing all kinds of fun, precious insights with tourists and at the end, you can pay as much as you want/have/feel like for the entire experience. No pressure! I recommend this free tour of Bruges; but you can find more options here.

Find more Bruges tours

BEST DAY TRIPS TO BRUGES FROM OTHER CITIES

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BRUGES

Here are some extra ideas in case you want to explore some other destinations once you’ve seen the town of Bruges:

Great War Flanders Fields – 70 km away, you can take this minibus tour from Bruges
Zeebrugge (beach destination) – 20 km away
Knokke-Heist (beach destination) – 20 km away
Zwin Nature Park – 23 km away
Ostend – 30 km away
Ghent – 50 km away

Best restaurants in Bruges and what to eat

You simply cannot travel to Bruges without digging into some yummy food! And when it comes to food… Belgium is here to impress every day! Here are some unmissable dishes to try while you’re in the city, plus some great restaurants where you can go for each of them:

WAFFLES

House of Waffles. This one comes as no surprise – one of the main things to eat in Belgium is waffles! You can find places to eat this sweet treat that the Belgian people brought to the world all around the city, but my absolute favourite waffle stop was House of Waffles – they do the most amazing waffles generously topped with chocolate, cream, fresh fruit or sweets. For me, this was by far the most impressive waffle I ate in Belgium!

FRITES

Chez Vincent. Anyone who knows me well knows I have a bit of a potato addiction, but you simply need to try the traditional way of making a worldwide favourite, the amazing Belgian “frite” (fries to the rest of the world)! Usually, they come served in a cone with a generous portion of mayonnaise on the side. Yum!

CHOCOLATE

Chocolatier Dumon. If there’s something this country knows how to do, it’s chocolate. Within the Bruges Old Town walls, you’ll find lots of different chocolatiers. I spent big parts of my day just exploring and taste testing all the different types and flavours! One of the most renowned chocolatiers in Bruges is Chocolatier Dumon and you can find them in three different shops around the city.

BEER

The Beer Wall. It is also a fact that Belgium is famous for its artisanal beer. With thousands of different breweries across the country, there are lots of different flavours to try and this is an unmissable experience for all you beer connoisseurs out there. One of the most famous bars in Bruges for beer is The Beer Wall. My boyfriend Guga loved it! Another good place is Brewery De Halve Maan.

RELATED READ: If you’re looking for more places to eat in Bruges, read my blog post: 9 Places to Eat in Bruges

Where to stay in Bruges

Finding a great place in Bruges won’t be hard. Due to the high number of tourists, there are lots of great options for accommodations catering to different budgets. If you’re visiting Bruges for the first time, you’ll want to stay somewhere near the heart of Bruges (close to the Bell Tower, Town Hall and the Market Square), where you can find most of the attractions the city has to offer.

OUR EXPERIENCE: During our visit, we stayed in Hotel Monsieur Ernest and I truly think that some of its advantages make it the best hotel in Bruges if you want to be in the heart of the city! The rooms are simple, beautiful and comfortable – but it’s the central location which sets it apart from its competitors. The hotel staff are super helpful and gave us some great recommendations for places to eat during our stay. I definitely recommend it!

Bed at the Hotel Monsieur Ernest in Bruges

OTHER HOTELS IN BRUGES:

And here are some of the best places to stay in Bruges I selected for you, grouped by budget:

SPLURGE: Hotel Dukes’ Palace Brugge – one of the best hotels in Bruges!

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Hotel Monsieur Ernest

MID-RANGE: Hotel Duc De Bourgogne

BUDGET HOTEL: Ghesthouse Orchid

HOSTEL: Snuffel Hostel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Bsauna & Wellness

Find your hotel in Bruges

How to get to Bruges

Where is Bruges located? Bruges is a charming town located in northwestern Belgium, in the northern Flanders region, around 100 km away from Brussels, the capital. In fact, Bruges is the capital of West Flanders in the Flemish region.

Here’s a Bruges map so you can clearly visualise where this city is located:

There are several ways of getting to the city, depending on your preferences and where you are located in the world:

BY PLANE

The closest airport is Brussels Airport, around 110km away. From there, you can either take a train or a taxi. A taxi will be around 150€ (1 hour and a half) and a train will be around 20€ (same duration).

BY TRAIN

There are multiple trains connecting not only Brussels but several other European cities and capitals to Bruges. For example, it will take you around 1 hour from Brussels to Bruges by train (starting at 16€/ride), 3 hours and 30 minutes from London, 3 hours from Paris and 3 hours from Amsterdam. This is probably the best way to travel to Bruges if you are already in Belgium if you ask me!

BY CAR

You can get from Brussels to Bruges in about 1h15’ (97km) and I recommend you rent a car if you have a desire to explore this beautiful country.

TIP: If you want to book a fully organised day trip from Paris, London or Amsterdam to Bruges, scroll up to my recommended tours and you’ll find some awesome options there!

This was my complete travel guide to Bruges which includes my 7 top things to do in this wonderful city! As I mentioned countless times before, this charming town is a beautiful destination and would make for a great city break, regardless if you’re visiting as a couple or not. So if you’re excited to see some old canals, many colourful houses, a beautiful central square and more than 80 bridges, this is the place for you and this article is here to tell you everything you need to know before your Bruges visit!

In case you want to explore some other parts of this country as well, click here to read all about my adventures in Belgium!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Belgium?

Check out all my Belgium Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here!
Did you not get travel insurance yet??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Belgium so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Where to Stay in Brussels – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

Brussels, Belgium’s capital, is an excellent destination in Europe, famous for its museums, architecture, gastronomy and, of course, beer. If you’re planning a trip there soon, you might be wondering where to stay in Brussels – a perfectly valid question! And to answer you, I have compiled this complete list with the best areas to stay in Brussels for tourists, as well as hotel recommendations in each of them. Scroll down to find everything you need to know!

Finding the best place to stay in Brussels might be a bit complicated and frustrating as well, especially if you’re on your first visit ever. The city is divided into different areas and neighbourhoods, each of them with its own charm and strong points. In this article, you’ll find my top 3 selections for areas to stay in Brussels, as well as 5 bonus neighbourhoods if you’re not visiting for the first time.

Luckily for us travellers, Brussels has an excellent public transport system, making it super easy to explore all the major tourist spots by train, metro, bus or tram. So, when it comes to choosing an area to stay, it mainly depends on your budget and preferences!

Okay, enough talking. Here’s my list of the most popular neighborhoods in Brussels, together with hand-picked hotel recommendations (sorted by budget) and nearby attractions.

Where to stay in Brussels, Belgium – 3 best areas for tourists

In case you’re visiting Brussels for the first time ever, you will surely want to make the most out of your experience. You’ll want to stay as close to the main attractions as possible and also be well-connected by public transportation to the rest of the city (the Central Train Station being your best bet). You’ll wish to have plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops around and maybe some museums and art galleries as well.

If you agree with all these points, then the following 3 areas are perfect for you!

Brussels City Centre / Historic Centre

In case you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels for the first time, this one’s for you! The Historic Centre is the heart of the city and the place where you will find most of the main tourist sites, making it the best area to stay for all types of tourists. Brussels Grand Place, Manneken Pis, the Town Hall and the Royal Palace are all nearby landmarks and the cobbled streets and narrow lanes are really sites in themselves! You’ll find chocolate shops and waffle stands everywhere, as well as frite stalls and high street brands. This is the perfect place to stay for first-time travellers as it’s easy to explore on foot!

Brussels City Centre is, indeed, the heart of the city and it revolves around La Grand Place (Grote Markt), the main and oldest square in the city. If you choose to stay here, get ready to be surrounded by stunning architecture, iconic attractions and plenty of food options. Plus, you’ll also be close to the Central Railway Station (less than 500m away), a main transportation hub of the city. As for hotels, there are plenty of choices in this neighbourhood!

Where to stay in the Historic Centre

LUXURY HOTELS

Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo
Secret Suites Brussels Royal – My top pick, right next to the Grand Place!

BOUTIQUE HOTELS

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Book your hotel in the City Centre

What to do in the Historic Centre of Brussels

Manneken Pis statue in Brussels, Belgium

Admire the Grand Place (Grote Markt) and the Gothic architecture of the Town Hall building;
Find Manneken Pis, Brussels’ symbol – the bronze statue of a little peeing boy;
Marvel at the Brussels Stock Exchange for beautiful architecture again;
Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center if you’re interested in comic strips and their importance in Belgium;
Go and take a tour of Brussels City Museum or the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Belgium;
See a show at Royal Theatre of the Mint;
Go to the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert for a luxury shopping experience;
Visit St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral.

RELATED READ: For more interesting, exciting things to do in Brussels, as well as my complete guide with tips for this amazing city, I recommend reading this article: 12 Top Attractions in Brussels, Belgium – A Complete Guide to the City

Ixelles

Although more residential than the Historic Centre of Brussels, Ixelles is still sky-high on my list of best places to stay in Brussels. An international community of residents mixed with a high number of university students transforms Ixelles into a young, artsy and vibrant area in the city. Expect a great night-life, trendy restaurants and good shopping streets (such as Avenue Louise, which I will talk about in detail below in the bonus section), all without the tourist trap destinations you would find in the centre.

In short, Ixelles is the best area to stay for ALL types of travellers, from those of you looking for some high-end hotels and shopping venues to backpackers who want to discover the city by foot. There are also plenty of restaurants in the area, as well as quiet parks, vibrant bars and culture-rich museums. Needless to say that you’ll be very well connected to the other parts of Brussels via public transportation, right?

Where to stay in Ixelles

LUXURY HOTELS

BOUTIQUE HOTELS

Hotel Made In Louise
Jardin Secret – My top pick!

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENT

Sweet Inn Apartments – My top pick!
The Livorno

Book a place in Ixelles

What do to in Ixelles

Shop ‘til you drop at Chausée d’Ixelles; or Place Fernand Coq;
Head to Place Fernand Coq for a cool bar scene, traditional Belgian pubs and restaurants.
Check out what’s on at the Flagey building (“yellow boat”) – you’ll find movies, concerts, live speaker events and workshops;
Relax and unwind at Tenbosch Park;
Visit Musée d’Ixelles;
Admire the beautiful gardens of Abbaye de la Cambre.

Saint Gilles

Wondering where to stay in Brussels for culture? Here’s your answer, in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the capital!

Saint-Gilles is an artsy and young neighbourhood that contains lots of art galleries, vintage shops and hipster events, while still maintaining the personality of local life that you might miss out on in more touristy neighbourhoods. If you decide to stay here, get ready for some superb Art Nouveau buildings, local markets and more.

TIP: It might be best to not stay very close to Gare du Midi, even if it’s a good transportation hub in the city, as the streets surrounding it might get a bit shady after dark, especially for a solo traveller!

Where to stay in Saint-Gilles, Brussels

LUXURY HOTELS

Hotel Manos Stephanie – among the best hotels in Saint Gilles
Pullman Brussels Centre Midi

BOUTIQUE HOTELS

Hotel Manos Premier – One of the best hotels in Saint Gilles if you’re looking for 5-star service

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENT

Book a hotel in Saint Gilles

What to do in Saint-Gilles

Search the sidewalks for street art by BONOM – he’s Belgium’s Banksy.
Get thrifty and pick out some gems at the vintage shops, such as the Midi Market (at Gare du Midi) that takes place on Sundays;
Take an art-house cinema trip to the Vendôme;
Visit Art Nouveau Horta Museum if you’re a fan of ceramics and stained glass by Victor Horta;
Go to Place van Meenen to indulge in oysters on Monday afternoons;
Walk along Chaussee de Waterloo, explore the unique shops and taste some local food;
Visit Saint Gilles’ Church;
Relax in the laid-back Parc de Forest or Parc Pierre Paulus for a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

BONUS: Other great areas to stay in Brussels

The neighbourhoods above are the three best areas to stay inside or super close to Brussels City Centre, especially if you want to be near the Grand Place and tons of restaurants, bars and chocolate stores. But, of course, there is more to Brussels than this! Here are some other excellent options for you:

Sablon / Zavel

In case you’re looking for an upscale area full of incredible chocolate shops, while still being centrally located (not far from the central railway station), Sablon is your answer!

While you’re here, make sure to check out Notre-Dame du Sablon Church (Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon), one of the highlights of this neighbourhood, located between Grand Sablon and Square du Petit Sablon, the two main squares of this area. You can also go to Place du Grand Sablon for some vintage shopping during the weekends, to the Magritte Museum for some interesting, surrealist masterpieces and to the many art galleries for a big dose of art and culture. As for hotel choices, you’ll see that there are plenty of options for all pockets and tastes here.

LUXURY: NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Place Rouppe Brussels

MID-RANGE HOTEL: 9Hotel Sablon

BUDGET HOTEL: B&B La Maison Haute

HOSTEL: Hostel Bruegel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Sweet Inn Apartments – Régence

Book a place in Sablon

Avenue Louise – Where to stay in Brussels for shopping

If you’re ready to shop ‘til you drop, then Avenue Louise (or Louizalaan) is THE place for you! This is the area where you’ll find plenty of high-end, boutique hotel options with spacious rooms, luxury designer shops on a 3km-long avenue, as well as world-class restaurants. Yes, this is the best area to stay if you’re looking for an upscale experience close to the heart of Brussels, so keep that in mind if you’re choosing it!

While you’re around Avenue Louise, you can check out King’s Garden for some relaxation, Place du Chatelain for a good coffee and some people watching and all the Art Nouveau buildings scattered around the neighborhood.

LUXURY: Steigenberger Wiltcher’s

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie

MID-RANGE HOTEL: Qbic Hotel Brussels

BUDGET HOTEL: ibis Styles Hotel Brussels Louise

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Minimalistic In Premium Location

Book a place near Avenue Louise

Les Marolles – Where to stay in Brussels on a budget

In case you want to experience the city from the perspective of a local and if you don’t have a huge budget for accommodation, Les Marolles may be the best place to stay for you!

Les Marolles is an older, multicultural neighborhood, rich in flea markets, as well as bars and restaurants and the best place for a budget stay in Brussels! And, if you ask me, this is one of the most underrated parts of Brussels when it comes to tourists! While you’re here, make sure to check out Vieux Marché flea market, indulge in some international cuisine (there are TONS of restaurants here serving Spanish, Turkish, Syrian cuisines and more) and admire the stunning façade of Notre-Dame de la Chapelle, one of the oldest churches in Brussels.

LUXURY: Novotel Brussels Centre Midi

MID-RANGE HOTEL: The Pantone Hotel Brussels

BUDGET HOTEL: B&B Le Lys d’or

HOSTEL: Hostel Bruegel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Citadines Toison d’Or Brussels Aparthotel

Book a place in Les Marolles

Saint Gery – Where to stay in Brussels for nightlife

Are you a night owl excited to explore the best of Brussels’ clubs and bars? Saint Gery is definitely the best place to stay in Brussels for nightlife!

This lively area that never sleeps is scattered with lots of places to party, but also many excellent places to eat and indulge in traditional cuisine. This area is best visited during summer, when you can sit on a sidewalk café, enjoy a drink and admire everything around you. For one of those unmissable experiences in Brussels, make sure to go to Les Halles Saint-Géry – a local market that transforms into a cool bar when the night comes!

Saint Gery is not far from the Grand Place at all, so you can rest assured that all the well-known attractions in the centre will be within walking distance. Plus, you’ll only be a 15-minute walk away from the Central train station!

LUXURY: Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place – One of the best hotels in Brussels Saint Gery

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Boutique Hotel Saint-Géry

MID-RANGE HOTEL: Atlas Hotel Brussels

BUDGET HOTEL: B&B Villa 36

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Grand Place The Looks Apartment

Book a place in Saint-Gery

Saint-Josse-ten-Noode

Saint-Josse-ten-Noode is another highly underrated area in the city of Brussels, where you’ll find tons of hidden gems and interesting experiences. It’s a great area to stay if you want to be in walking distance to traditional eateries around Place Flagey, Place Jourdan and Place St. Josse – make sure you don’t forget to try the frites (fries)!

The best advantage of this area is that it’s only 10 minutes away from the centre, which makes it the best place to stay in Brussels if you want to enjoy the main attractions (such as the Grand Place) while also avoiding the hustle and bustle of the tourists staying in the most popular areas! In short, this is a laid-back, residential area with a lot of potential, especially if you’re on a budget.

LUXURY: NH Brussels Bloom

MID-RANGE HOTEL: B&B Welcome To My Place

BUDGET HOTEL: Hôtel Méribel

HOSTEL: Jacques Brel Youth Hostel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Luxurious Apartment in City Center

Book a place in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode

Still wondering where to stay in Brussels? I think this guide will 100% answer your question! In the post above I have told you everything you need to know about the best areas and best places to stay in Brussels, regardless if you want to be as close to the Grand Place as possible or a bit further away to save some cash.

I have also given you my hand-picked hotel recommendations broken down by budget, so I’m pretty sure you’ve already found the ideal place in Brussels for your vacation!

In case you want to read more about Brussels, Belgium, I recommend checking out this section here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Brussels?

Check out all my Brussels Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here!
Did you not get travel insurance yet??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Brussels so you don’t miss a thing!

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Complete Guide: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

In case you have Kuala Lumpur on your bucket list and you’re actively planning a trip to the city, you should prepare to be amazed! This is one of the most mesmerizing destinations in Asia and a complex city. If you’re wondering where to stay in Kuala Lumpur before your trip, I got you! This guide will tell you everything you need to know, together with some of the best hotels in the city I could find.

Kuala Lumpur is an eclectic metropolis where you can enjoy everything from world-class shopping to sites that represent Malaysia’s rich culture. There is a lot going on in KL; with many museums, the famous Petronas Towers, shopping centres filled with both designer and local brands, and restaurants that serve the best local and international cuisines.

If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur soon, here are some of the best areas to stay with some of my favourite hotels in each of them:

The best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur by type of traveller

Before jumping right into it and talking about the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur, I feel like a short round-up of the best areas in the city broken down by interests is well-needed, especially for first-time visitors. Here’s a useful guide I put together for you:

KLCC Area – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for first timers
Bukit Bintang – The best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur for shopping
Chinatown – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget
KL Sentral – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for luxury
Chow Kit – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for a local vibe

For a better idea of the city, check out the map below:

where to stay in kl map of the best areas

Kuala Lumpur City Center / KLCC Area

petronas twin towers kuala lumpur city centre

The Petronas twin towers from the ground.

The KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) is truly where all the action happens in the city. Located at the heart of it all, KLCC is the perfect neighbourhood to stay in, especially if you’re a first-time tourist to Kuala Lumpur. Being central to most of the tourist spots (Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park, KL Tower) dining options, shopping centres and transportation hubs make it the easiest place to book your room if you’re hoping to navigate Kuala Lumpur by public transport or on foot.

It’s also the perfect location if you’re only staying in the city for a few days, as it holds so many of the city’s top tourist destinations along with KL’s best shopping malls. The popular Suria KLCC has a reputation for being Malaysia’s grandest shopping centre which, in my eyes, is the perfect excuse for a hefty dose of retail therapy! Hehe!

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur KLCC

MY TOP PICK: Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur – This one’s a gem among all hotels in KL! If you’re dreaming of staying in a superb room with floor to ceiling windows and a rooftop infinity pool at your disposal, then Mandarin Oriental is your choice. It’s basically a 5-star luxury hotel that offers everything you can dream of – and more!

Pool at the Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur

Other accommodations in KLCC that I would recommend:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Book your stay in KLCC

Bukit Bintang

Known as Kuala Lumpur’s shopping and entertainment district, Bukit Bintang area is another good, central location to pick a hotel in. With a bit more culture and more of a local feel than the super popular KLCC area, Bukit Bintang is an excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for some world-class shopping! This neighbourhood is overflowing with shopping mall options, bars, cafes, restaurants, night markets and hawker-style eateries that will surely keep you busy during your stay. And did I mention that Bukit Bintang is THE best area to stay for shopping?!

If you find it hard to choose, please know that Bukit Bintang and KLCC are equally amazing locations, you just need to figure out what type of action you want to be close to! You simply cannot get bored in either Bukit Bintang or in the KLCC city centre!

Where to stay in Bukit Bintang

MY TOP PICK: JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur – In case you’re looking for a superb, upscale hotel in Bukit Bintang that offers unforgettable city views and an outdoor swimming pool, look no further! This is hands-down one of the best luxury hotels in Kuala Lumpur, located only minutes away by foot from multiple shopping complexes. For example, Starhill Gallery Mall is directly connected to the JW Marriott hotel!

Other accommodations in Bukit Bintang that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book your stay in Bukit Bintang

Chinatown

A great option for the budget traveller, Chinatown or Pasar Sensi is one of the cheapest neighbourhoods to stay in Kuala Lumpur. In fact, this is a backpacker’s heaven because of the many cheap accommodations that you find around the area and delicious street food places that you can try. Worry-not, as you’ll still be relatively close to the major tourist spots in Kuala Lumpur, such as the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park as well.

Chinatown is all about shopping for knock-offs along Petaling Street, sampling street food from hole-in-the-wall stalls, dining in hip little cafes and marvelling the street art at Kwai Chai Hong. Even if you don’t choose to stay in this area, it should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!

Where to stay in Chinatown

MY TOP PICK: The Majestic Hotel – I know I mentioned before that Chinatown is one of the top places to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you’re looking for the best hotels for cheap deals. But this doesn’t mean the area doesn’t have its upscale options too! If you’re dreaming of an authentic stay in KL, this accommodation offers neo-classical, colonial-style décor and excellent service. Outdoor swimming pool included!

A spacious hotel room at the Majestic Hotel in KL.

Other accommodations in Chinatown that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Chinatown

KL Sentral

Petronas towers in a foggy day in Kuala Lumpur

In case you’re looking to splurge on 5-star hotels, then KL Sentral is one of the best neighborhoods in Kuala Lumpur! This area surrounds KL Sentral Station, which means that, if you choose to stay here, you’ll be conveniently located close to one of the main transportation hubs of KL. This makes KL Sentral an amazing place to stay in case you’re planning any day trips, as you can easily access other parts of Malaysia from this train station.

In terms of accommodation, there are many upscale, luxurious hotels around (family-friendly hotels, too!), but also some more budget friendly options too, of course. You’ll also have NU Sentral Shopping Mall close-by, with plenty of shopping opportunities.

Where to stay in KL Sentral

MY TOP PICK: Le Méridien – This is a great place to stay in this area and my top recommendation! This hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, gorgeous rooms, 4 restaurants, and stunning panoramic views over the city. Definitely one of the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur if you’re dreaming of an unforgettable vacation!

Other accommodations in KL Sentral that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in KL Sentral

Chow Kit

Melissa sits in her hotel bed, looking out the window at the Petronas Towers in KL.

Chow Kit is, hands-down, one of the most underrated areas around. If you’re looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur located in an authentic part of the city, away from the hustle and bustle of KLCC and the numerous shopping malls, this one’s for you. This is the area where you can experience and enjoy a local vibe and traditional atmosphere, so I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to travellers who aren’t coming to the city for the first time.

Local street markets, Indian eateries and real life vibes – if this is what you’re looking for instead of groups of tourists, then you should consider picking a hotel here.

Where to stay in Chow Kit

MY TOP PICK: Sheraton Imperial – If you’re dreaming of picture-perfect views of the city, this is one of the top hotels in this area! Outdoor swimming pool, 5 on-site restaurants, superb, spacious rooms – this is what you’ll find in this accommodation – and more! In my opinion, this is one of the most luxurious Kuala Lumpur hotels!

The pool facilities atthe Sheraton Imperial in Kuala Lumpur.

Other accommodations in Chow Kit that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book your stay in Chow Kit

Aaand we have reached the end of my complete guide to the best areas to stay in KL and top accommodations! In this post I have talked about the most famous and convenient neighbourhoods in the city, from KLCC with its Petronas Twin Towers to Bukit Bintang and everything else in-between. I have also given you my hand-picked hotel recommendations, so I hope you have already found the perfect hotel in Kuala Lumpur for you here!

Kuala Lumpur will surely surprise you with everything that it has to offer. Unlike what most people think, this city is much more than just the Petronas Towers – it’s actually grown into a melting pot of different cultures where you can experience great shopping, dining, history and culture!

In case you want to read more about Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I recommend checking out my articles about the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur right here!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?

Check out all my Kuala Lumpur Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Kuala Lumpur so you don’t miss a thing!

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Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia pin 1

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Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) is one of the most famous attractions in Malaysia! There’s an observation deck, a sky deck, a revolving restaurant and more, all offering incredible views of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

But which one of these is worth buying a ticket for? Is the Sky Box KL Tower really worth its hype?

I’ll tell you everything you need to know in the article below!

Quick facts about the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

Birdseye view of the Menara Tower in KL.

The iconic KL Tower is located on a hill in the city centre of Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, atop Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. It is the tallest freestanding tower in the city (followed by the Petronas Twin Towers with a difference of 100m) and the seventh-tallest in the world. Standing at 1,381 feet or 421 meters, this communication tower dominates the city’s skyline and offers the best view of Kuala Lumpur.

It’s true, Menara may not be as famous as the neighbouring Petronas Twin Towers, but visitors are pulled in by its many attractions, mainly the Sky Deck which provides THE best 360-degree bird’s eye view. The reviews are saying it and I’m here to confirm, but there are a few things you need to know about this experience, all of which will help you decide if you want to add the Sky Box KL Tower to your itinerary in Kuala Lumpur!

What is the Sky Box?

Melissa sits in the glass Sky Box KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

You have 3 different spots (4 with the restaurant) to visit at the KL Tower, each with its own price:

the Observation Deck (indoor) – 276 meters, you can admire the view through binoculars and there’s also an audio guide and headsets. There’s also a souvenir shop here;
the SkyDeck (outdoor) – 300 meters, you can see as far as the Genting Highlands if you visit on a clear day;
the SkyBox (the glass box I was telling you about above) – this one extends out from the Sky Deck;
Atmosphere 360 Revolving Restaurant – one floor above the Observation Deck. Elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows, but pricey. You can see the Petronas Twin Towers from up here! You can sometimes find discounted deals for meals on Klook here.

There’s a fast elevator taking you from the ground level to the top of the tower and all these different platforms. The most popular attraction is, without a doubt, the SkyBox at the Sky Deck. A glass observatory protruding from the Sky Deck ledge at 300 metres above the ground (yes, glass floor included!). There is something super cool about seeing the world drop below your feet, but this glass box sure isn’t for those with a fear of heights!

With fully transparent glass walls and floor, this vertigo-inducing view of Kuala Lumpur makes you feel like you’re literally on top of the city. Inspired by the Eureka Skydeck 88 in Melbourne, the Sky Box at Menara Kuala Lumpur has become one of KL’s most Instagrammable spots.

You’ll get access to the Sky Box if you buy the separate ticket (it’s not included in your admission to the Observation Deck). However, the experience is all a bit rushed when it comes to the amount of time you get in the box. I’ll tell you all about my experience below.

Is it worth it?

Melissa sitting upside down in the Sky Box at KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

Melissa sitting inside the Sky Box in the Menara Tower in Kuala Lumpur

There are 2 Sky Boxes on the Sky Deck – A and B; and they both provide a different view of the city. When you get to the Sky Deck, your group is given a ticket with a number (kind of like waiting in line at a deli). You wait your turn on the Skydeck until your number is called.

We waited 35 minutes until our number was called. Even though we enjoyed the Sky Deck view of the city, it ended up feeling like too long a wait, as there is nothing really to do on this level apart from admire the view. Also, limited seating on the Sky Deck had us feeling a bit tired and impatient. Once our number was finally called, it switched to a bit of a mad rush! We headed to Sky Box A and the guard at the box asked us to take off our shoes to head onto the glass. Before our shoes were fully off, the guard had punched a button to start a count-down timer. Our allowed time was literally running out.

We were told we would get 5min in the box, but once we were in there, we were told it was only 60 seconds per group! We frantically hurried out onto the glass and everything became a bit of a blur as we rushed the experience. There was hardly time to get comfortable walking on the glass, enjoy the view, get a cool snap and figure out what we were even looking at. Before we knew it, we were being hastily ushered out of the box and it was all over.

MY CONCLUSION:

All honesty, the whole experience left me feeling a bit deflated. It had taken up our entire morning and, for me personally, I regretted wasting the money and – especially – time. From the moment we arrived at Menara Kuala Lumpur to the moment we got back down to ground level, it had been 3 hours!

It is a cool concept – but no – I don’t think it is at all worth it and I wouldn’t do it again. If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur, I can think of much better ways to spend half a day of your precious vacation time.

RELATED READ: You can find my sightseeing recommendations in my dedicated post: 12 Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur – Tours, Restaurants & More

KL Tower tickets

Cityscape of Kuala Lumpur taken from the KL Tower

There is a different KL Tower ticket price and different combos to take into consideration depending on what you want to visit in the surrounding area. Here are all the available options below:

Observation Deck

Adult: RM49 / 11.90 US$
Child: RM29 / 7 US$

Sky Deck (includes Observation Deck + Sky Box)

Adult: RM99 / 24 US$
Child: RM52 / 12.50 US$

Observation Deck + Blue Coral Aquarium

Adult: RM52 / 12.50 US$
Child: RM31 / 7.50 US$

Observation Deck + Mini Zoo

Adult: RM66 / 16 US$
Child: RM47 / 11.30 US$

Observation Deck + Upside Down House

Adult: RM55 / 13.30 US$
Child: RM36 / 8.70 US$

Observation Deck + XD Theatre

Adult: RM55 / 13.30 US$
Child: RM36 / 8.70 US$

There are also some combo tickets available for the Sky Deck instead of the Observation Deck. You can buy single or combo tickets on the official KL Tower Menara website right here.

TOP TIP: I found way cheaper single tickets on Klook right here – 9.65 US$ for the Observation Deck and 21.25 US$ for the combo ticket. 100% recommended!

Best tours of Menara KL Tower

Alternatively, I recommend joining a group tour with a knowledgeable guide if you want to find out more! Or you can have a combo experience that includes some other important attractions for your trip.

The KL Tower as seen from the Eco Forest Park in Kuala Lumpur.

The Menara Tower surrounded by fluffy clouds.

Here are the best tours I can recommend:

Petronas Towers Observation Deck and KL Tower Tickets – excellent combo choice for those short on time, as you’ll get to skip-the-line for admission to the Observation Deck + Sky Bridge at Petronas plus KL Tower Observation Deck;
Kuala Lumpur: Private Half-Day City Tour – admission to KL Tower is not included, but I think this tour is a great sightseeing option for those that want a customised tour and to see as much as possible in a short amount of time. If you want an option with the admission included, I recommend this one.
Kuala Lumpur: Buffet Dinner at Atmosphere 360 and Night Tour – dinner, a quick visit to Petronas Twin Towers for some pictures, KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show, then end your tour at Merdeka Square.
KL Tower Revolving Restaurant and Central Market Night Tour – enjoy a buffet dinner at the revolving restaurant, then head over to the market with a knowledgeable guide that will tell you some interesting facts. Hotel pick-up and drop-off included!
Kuala Lumpur by Night Tour with KL Tower Ticket – if you prefer an after sunset experience with the Night Bazaar at Chinatown included.

Find more KL Tower tours

Best time to visit KL Tower

Melissa sitting in the Sky Box at the KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

Melissa looks out over the city of Kuala Lumpur from the Sky Deck at the Menara Tower.

KL TOWER OPENING HOURS

Open every day from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except on holidays and special events.

Since the observation decks can get crowded, especially in the afternoon, it’s best to visit in the morning hours when there are fewer visitors and you can take your time taking photos of the city. Another great idea is to visit in the evening at sunset for some striking colours in the sky.

We went during the day, but I imagine it’s probably also pretty awesome to visit the KL Tower at night, for a different kind of city view. You could always book a table for dinner at Atmosphere 360 (the revolving restaurant) but you’ll be paying the price for that view. For example, at the time of writing this article, afternoon tea is 75 MYR/person (18 US$) and a lunch set meal is 95 MYR (23 US$).

HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND THERE:

I recommend you spend at least 1 hour to fully explore the KL Tower and Sky Box, to get to the top of the tower and take all the pictures you need. However, be prepared for the experience to take much longer due to the long queues to get back down the tower again.

TOP TIP: Make sure you check the weather beforehand, as the Sky Deck can be closed on certain days depending on this. A clear, sunny day is what you should be aiming for.

How to get to the Menara KL Tower

Where is the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower?

KL Tower address: No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.
Co-ordinates: 3.152601, 101.703505

Check out the exact location of the KL tower in the map below:

Map of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia with KLCC and KL Tower signalled

TAXI

Since the Kuala Lumpur Tower is located near the KL city centre, it’s pretty easy to book a taxi or jump in a Grab if you are staying in a central location. It takes around 5 minutes to get from the Petronas Towers to the KL Tower Menara and should cost no more than RM10 (2.50 US$).

KL MONORAIL

Take the KL monorail to Bukit Nanas station, then walk to Jalan Puncak. There is a free shuttle that will take you to KL Tower from there. The free shuttle runs every 15 minutes, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

TRAIN

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend taking the train as the stations are not situated anywhere near the KL tower. You will still need to grab a taxi from the nearest station or walk for 30 minutes, which isn’t comfortable in the hot and humid weather in Kuala Lumpur. If you do want to take the train, the closest stations are Dang Wangi LRT Station and Masjid Jamek LRT Station.

My best tips for visiting KL Tower

Views across the city of KL from the Menara Tower.

So, if you do decide to go – these 4 helpful tips and insights are super important for you! Commit them to memory!

Try and get your deli ticket for Sky Box A as Sky Box B does not have views of the Petronas Towers.
If you are visiting as a group, ask to get 1 ticket each when claiming your Sky Box tickets. This will collectively get you all a bit more time out on the glass and give you time to take individual photos.
Check the weather before heading to the KL Tower as the Sky Deck closes to visitors with poor weather conditions. It’s a safety thing. Basically, lightning equals no Sky Deck access.
This one is the most important tip I can give you! – The longest part of the entire experience is getting up and down the tower. Specifically getting down the tower! Usually, you get sent up to the Sky Deck first, then visit the Sky Box and end on the Observation Deck. Once on the Observation Deck, there are HUGE queues to get on the elevator back down. We were shocked at the line which wrapped itself all the way around the floor. Here’s what we did to skip the queue and save some time. We kept our tickets to the Sky Deck and went to find the stairs. We showed the man on the door our tickets that proved we had paid to visit the Sky Deck. Then I asked if we could head back up for another look. We were granted access to walk up 2 flights of stairs to the Sky Deck. From here, there was no queue. We jumped straight on the elevator all the way down. Cheeky I know, but time is money people! 😉

Other attractions near Menara KL Tower

Now I know we’ve been talking all about the KL Tower here, also known as the 7th tallest tower in the world, but it’s not the only notable attraction in the area! There are a couple of other cool spots around and within the base of the structure if you feel like going to the top of the tower is not worth it or you simply have a couple more hours to kill in the area.

Landscape of Kuala Lumpur with the KL Tower in the foreground during sunset

These are mainly family-friendly activities such as a Mini Zoo and the Blue Coral Aquarium (don’t forget to get the combo admission if you want to visit them!). Here are a couple of the more interesting ones:

Jelutong Tree – This 95-year old, giant of a tree is one of the highlights of the KL Tower. Mainly because of how the builders spent RM430,000 (103.777 US$) just to make sure that the tree was kept safe while building the KL tower, so it can still be enjoyed by future generations. Nawwww, if that isn’t a feel-good fact, then what is!
Upside Down House – Just beside the KL Tower is the unmistakable Upside Down House, where not only the house itself is upside down but also all of its furniture. There’s even a Morris 1974 hanging at the entrance. This spot is more popular with kids, but it also works for a cool photo opportunity!
KL Forest Eco Park – A forest in the heart of the city. Take the canopy trail across a set of jungle bridges with skyscrapers soaring above the trees. Beware the pesky monkeys though – during our visit, Guga and I had to run for it as they made a grab for the camera!
Atmosphere 360 – Back up at the top of the KL Tower there is a revolving restaurant. If you fancy some fine dining at the KL Tower with a view, this is a good option. Obviously, prices are sky-high to match the location.

BONUS: KL Tower fun facts

Now allow me to get you all hyped up and excited about your upcoming visit to the tower with some fun facts you probably didn’t know!

Melissa sits in the glass sky box in the KL tower, smiling.

Melissa and Guga pose for a photo on the Sky Deck at the Menara KL Tower.

KL Tower height: The official height of the KL Tower is 421 meters;

The KL Tower is located in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, one of the oldest in all of Malaysia. You can take a walk around there for a dose of nature in the middle of the city and see how the construction of the tower didn’t “spoil” the natural surroundings;
The design of the KL Tower represents humanity’s search for perfection in life. You can see a mix of Arabic and Islamic elements and details in its construction such as patterns and ceramic tiles;
The tower actually has two restaurants! There’s also a McDonalds inside the KL Tower, making it the highest McDonalds in the world. Now that’s a FUN fact!
You can see the smallest horse species in the world at the Mini Zoo on the ground floor of KL Tower;
You can have a heightened shopping experience at the KL Tower (get it? heightened?), as there’s a souvenir shop up top on the observation deck.

This was my complete guide to the KL Tower, the 7th tallest tower in the world! In this post, I have told you everything you need to know before visiting this famous attraction – if it is worth it to buy a separate ticket to the top of the tower at the Sky Box (the famous glass floor viewing platform), entrance fees, precious tips to know, which tower tours to take, how to get there and everything else in-between.

If you need more helpful information for planning your trip to Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this city. And here you’ll find all my articles and stories about Malaysia.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?

Check out all my Kuala Lumpur Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Kuala Lumpur so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

Want To Stay In The Loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Batu Caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia – and with good reason! The Batu Caves are an incredible limestone hill scattered with 4 different caves. Tourists flock to this interesting sight from all over the world each year (5.000 per day!) and, if you’re going to be one of them soon, this complete guide is here to help! In the post below I will tell you literally EVERYTHING you need to know about visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Are you ready?

First of all, why should I visit the Batu Caves?

Melissa stands at the bottom of the rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves

The colourful rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves.

The Batu Caves are one of Malaysia’s national treasures, hosting the tallest statue of a Hindu deity. I recommend this site to ANYONE visiting Kuala Lumpur, as it’s a real highlight. And this is not even an overstatement!

Sure, Kuala Lumpur by itself is pretty cool and there are countless things to do, see and eat here, but your trip just won’t be the same without seeing the beautiful Batu Caves on the outskirts of the city. They’re full of history, they’re super interesting and they provide countless photo opportunities. Plus, visiting Batu Caves can be as cheap as 5 US$, so why not?!

RELATED READ: In case you’re curious to find out about some other unmissable places in KL, I recommend checking out my dedicated article full of precious info: Complete Guide: 12 Things to Do in KL

Everything you need to know about visiting the Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur

The golden status of the Hindu god Lord Murugan at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Quick info about the Batu Caves

The bright rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves are fast becoming one of the modern wonders of the world ever since its colourful renovation in 2018. With 272 steps leading up to the 4 limestone caves, this place of Hindu worship is more than just an Insta-famous tourist attraction, trust me! Oh, and did I mention the limestone formations are 400 million years old?!

In fact, the Batu Caves are one of the most important Hindu shrines outside of India, especially during the festival called Thaipusam, which sees over 1 million visitors every year.

The caves are dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Murugan. An impressive 50-meter golden statue of him stands guard at the bottom of the Batu Cave stairs. During Thaipusam, Lord Murugan is celebrated with offerings and acts of penance. These are carried out in order for the worshipers to receive forgiveness and relinquish their negative traits.

About the 272 Batu Cave steps: Hey, don’t get discouraged! Although there are 272 stairs until you reach the main temple (Batu Caves Temple Cave), the climb itself isn’t so bad. 272 steps might seem like a lot but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pretend to check out the view while you take a break. The perfect excuse to catch your breath!

Where are the Batu Caves located?

The Batu Caves are located in Gombak Selangor, around 13 km north of the centre of Kuala Lumpur.

Check out the map below for a clearer idea of where to find them:

Map of Malaysia with the Batu Caves signalled

BATU CAVES ADDRESS: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor

CO-ORDINATES: 3.237874, 101.684026

How to get to Batu Caves

There are various ways you can get to the Batu Caves from central KL, but the two easiest, most direct methods are definitely by taxi or train:

TAXI OR GRAB

30 minutes from the city centre. This is probably the easiest way to get to the Batu Caves, especially if you are hoping to get there early. You can hail a cab for around 20-30 RM (4.90 US$) from central KL or order a Grab (the Asian equivalent of Uber) which is a bit cheaper. If you decide to get a taxi, make sure you ask the driver to turn on the meter to make sure you get the correct price at the end.

TRAIN FROM KL SENTRAL TO BATU CAVES

The most direct journey by public transport is with the KTM Komuter train (the Batu Caves is the last station on the line). The journey will take a bit less than 45 minutes and the ticket costs 2.60 RM (0.60 US$) one-way. Running from 6:45 AM to 11:46 PM, every 30 min – 1 hour. I recommend checking the KTM Komuter timetable here. The caves are only 5 minutes by foot from the Komuter train station.

BUS

You can also take a bus, but I don’t really recommend it – the trip will take close to one hour and the train is way faster and more comfortable than the bus.

TIP: If you are planning to use public transport around Kuala Lumpur a lot, I recommend getting the KL TravelPass which gives you unlimited rides around the city for 2 consecutive days. The pass also works to and from the airport and will save you a bit of cash if you’ll be using it lots! You can buy it at KLIA Ekspres Ticket Counters. Or you can buy it online here. You can find more information about it on the official website here.

Best time to visit Batu Caves

Melissa sits on the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves opening hours: The Batu Caves are open every day, year-round from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

AIM FOR: If you want to get photos on the stairs without the crowds, you’ll have to get there early, close to the opening time. However, you won’t have it completely to yourself. Hindu monks will be making their way to worship and sleepy monkeys waking up for the day. For me, this is the perfect time to see something authentic. By 9:30 AM the tour buses will start to arrive and the entire place will begin to get crowded.

Also, if you arrive early and want to visit the Dark Cave, you will need to wait as it only opens at 10:00 AM. Alternatively, you can also visit late in the evening, near the closing time.

AVOID: Visiting on weekends or public holidays. During Thaipusam Festival – that’s when Batu Caves are most crowded, but you’re bound to have a special experience.

HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND AT THE BATU CAVES: Around two hours for the entire temple complex. I recommend reserving a half-day for this experience if you consider the travel time as well.

What can you see at the Batu Caves, Malaysia

There are 4 beautiful caves on-site and one giant statue of Lord Murugan, as follows:

TEMPLE CAVE / CATHEDRAL CAVE

This is the main cave and it can be reached by climbing the 272 steps (beware of the monkeys! – more info below). Its ceiling is vaulted and it’s over 90m tall. The entire cave is devoted to Lord Murugan. This one’s free to enter, but you can leave a donation at the entrance if you wish.

DARK CAVE

Halfway up the stairs, you’ll find the Dark Cave, also known as the wildest of the 4 caves. This one is full of limestone formations and cave animals (spoiler alert: the rarest spider in the world can be found here!). The Dark Cave can only be visited with a tour. There are two types of tours available – the Educational Tour (shorter, good for kids) and the Adventure Tour (3-4 hours, a bit more hardcore), both of them are very interesting. I’m mentioning the fee for each tour below. If you take a tour, expect to do some crawling, so I recommend you bring some fresh clothes to change afterwards.

NOTE: Sadly, the Dark Cave has been closed since January 2019 until further notice. I recommend checking out their official Facebook page for further info, maybe they’ll open the tours again soon!

CAVE VILLA

The Cave Villa is probably the easiest cave to access, as it’s located right at the foot of the hill. No stairs needed here! To access it, you’ll need to pay a cost of 15 RM (3.60 US$) and cross a crooked bridge. There you’ll find not one, but two illuminated caves with statues and Hindu paintings.

RAMAYANA CAVE

The Ramayana Cave is located on the left side of the hill, near a tall, green statue depicting a monkey god (Hanuman). This cave is filled with statues and paintings showcasing different scenes from the Ramayana, as well as a light show. The entrance fee for this one is 5 RM (1.20 US$).

TIP: Make sure you don’t miss the five-legged bull statue in the courtyard right outside the caves, it’s a sight to see!

Batu Caves price and tickets

Melissa smiling with the golden statue and the rainbow stairs at the Batu Caves behind her

Below you’ll find all the information you need about the entry cost for tourists for each of the temples (spoiler alert: the main temple is free to enter!):

Main Batu Caves Temple (Temple Cave / Cathedral Cave): Free, but you can leave a donation in one of the boxes at the entrance if you want to.
Cave Villa: 15 RM / 3.60 US$
Ramayana Cave: 5 RM / 1.20 US$
Dark Cave – Educational Tour (currently closed): 35 RM / 8.50 US$
Dark Cave – Adventure Tour (currently closed): 80 RM / 19.50 US$

Best Batu Caves tours

The insides of the Temple Cave at the Batu Caves in KL.

In case you don’t want to spend precious vacation time organising your trip to the Batu Caves, I recommend booking an organised tour. These are usually organised by knowledgeable local guides who can also provide you with some interesting information about the site’s history, along with some fun facts along the way. There are also combined tours available, which I think are VERY good if you want to save some time.

Here are my hand-picked Batu Cave tour recommendations below:

Find more Batu Cave Tours

Batu Caves dress code

Melissa waving her dress at the Batu Caves rainbow steps

Melissa smiles, standing beside the rainbow building of the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves are a place of worship, so please remember to dress respectfully on your visit. The dress code is quite relaxed up until the main entrance to the temple. Here they request women to cover their chest, shoulders and knees and if men are wearing a shirt, for it to be buttoned up.

Don’t worry too much if you don’t have anything that meets the criteria of the dress code. You can cover up with a sarong or scarf before you enter. If you don’t have something that you can use, there are people at the entrance that rent covers for around 5 RM (1.20 US$).

Also, remember those 272 bright and colourful steps? Make sure you wear comfy shoes to help you manage them and remember to remove them when prompted to in certain parts inside the temple.

Monkey business

Two mischievous macaque monkeys laze on the colourful steps of the Batu Caves.

Be prepared to make some new friends on your adventures to the Batu Caves, as you’ll find the area surrounded by ‘mischievous’ macaque monkeys. I know what you’re thinking, aww cute, Monkeys!, but think less Curious George and more Donkey Kong on this one! The monkeys here are pretty fearless with humans, after all, you’ve come to visit them on THEIR turf. Keep your valuables out of sight as they’re known to grab and dash with your wallet, sunglasses, phone, keys… I think you get my gist. Just keep a good hold on the things you want to keep! And make sure you don’t feed the monkeys unless you want to pestered for your entire visit!

Rock climbing at Batu Caves

A man in a yellow shirt is rock climbing a steep wall.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be happy to find out that the area around the caves and the limestone hills can be climbed. The area is called Gua Damai and it is said to be the best rock climbing experience in Southeast Asia!

There are more than 150 routes to choose from, rated from 5A to 8A+ and you can find something for any skill level. No need to be a pro, you can simply do some hiking or bouldering if you want to. I recommend this Guided Gua Damai Rock Climbing & Batu Caves Visit.

Packing list for Batu Caves, Malaysia

Don’t forget to bring:

mosquito repellant – always be prepared!
a sarong or a scarf – to cover your chest and shoulders in the temple.
a bottle of water – must keep hydrated!
some toilet paper – always good to have on hand as public toilets in KL are often without.
150 RM in cash – if you want to enter the other four caves which have entrance fees.

BONUS #1: My best tips for visiting Batu Caves

tips for visiting batu caves in kuala lumpur 3

Melissa swishes her skirt at the entrance to the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Malaysia.

Of course, I just couldn’t let you leave without sharing some of the most precious tips I found out after going there myself. Sharing is caring!

Beware of the monkeys. As I mentioned above, make sure you keep your valuables and any food you may carry out of sight. They can be quite annoying, but they provide awesome photo opportunities;
Don’t forget to bring a couple of water bottles with you, so you won’t get dehydrated while climbing the stairs and walking around the temples. It can get hot!
Make sure you bring a change of fresh clothes with you, especially if you want to visit the Dark Caves as well. And don’t forget about the dress code for the Hindu temples!
If you get hungry, you can get some Indian food at the site from the food stalls at the entrance. They offer pretty okay food for a (still) affordable price – around 30 RM for a meal (4.90 US$);
Don’t forget to bring cash for the entrance fees to the various temples!
The area is not handicap-friendly because of the stairs, especially if you want to visit the two main temples (and I’m assuming you want to);

RELATED READ: 10 Best Local Foods in Kuala Lumpur

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Batu Caves

Picture of canon camera on a deck in nature.

The Batu Caves provide amazing photo opportunities. If you want to make the best of them, make sure to pack your best camera and lenses. Here is what we have in our gear:

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Everyday lens: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens
Portrait lens: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Lens
GoPro camera: GoPro HERO8 Black
Tripod: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect
NV filter: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter
Camera bag: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack
Hard Drive: LaCie 4TB

This was my complete guide for visiting the Batu Caves temple complex!

Get ready to climb the colourful stairs, to see the giant statue of Lord Murugan, the unique Dark Caves and some unique light shows at the most famous Hindu temple complex outside of India. And don’t forget, the Batu Caves are a must for all tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur.

If you need more help in planning your trip and itinerary for Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles and tips about this wonderful country!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?

Check out all my Kuala Lumpur Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Kuala Lumpur so you don’t miss a thing!

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Batu Caves a Complete Guide Kuala Lumpur

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3 Exciting Day Trips From Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Planning a trip to Palma de Mallorca? Woo-hoo! But let me tell you one thing: PLEASE, please consider exploring at least a bit of the rest of the island too; it would be such a shame not to! In case you’re looking for some exciting day trips from Palma de Mallorca, I got you!

When we visited Mallorca, we stayed in Palma. It made sense, as there was so much to see and do in the city. However, our favourite days were the ones we spent exploring the rest of the island. There are SO many beautiful towns to be explored and stunning beaches to see that made our trip to Mallorca feel complete. Below you’ll find the itineraries of my 3 favourite Palma de Mallorca day trips that we did on our trip and we really enjoyed ourselves.

Map of Mallorca with Day Trips from Palma de Mallorca signalled

NOTE: These day trips are a drive away, so you’ll need to take a bus, taxi or rent a car. Taking public transport around the island can seem a bit tricky, so I wholeheartedly recommend renting a car if you can. You can check for the up-to-date rates and available cars right here.

NOTE #2: Please remember to bring cash with you, as there will be restaurants that don’t accept card and all parking must be paid in cash.

1 – Formentor and around

Melissa sitting on a rock with a view over the Cap de Formentor

Going to Formentor means doing a day trip to the Northern part of Mallorca, which will offer you the opportunity to take a quick tour around the island. It will also take you to some of the nicest beaches and little towns in Mallorca. The shoter driving time gives you enough time to slowly explore each place and enjoy the day to the maximum.

TOTAL DRIVING TIME: 2h30m-3h
PRICE: 40-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY: Easy. The roads are easy to drive and safe
STOPS:  Pollença, Platja de Formentor, Cap de Formentor and Port de Pollença (if you choose to)

Click here for a link to the map

WHERE TO EAT

Lunch option: Celler es Moli does €12 amazing menus del dia that include bread and olives, water or a bottle of red or white wine, a typical Mallorcan dish and dessert.
Dinner option #1: La Llonja (€€€€) – This fancy seafood restaurant has one of the best locations in town and provides a great meal with an amazing view over the Port of Pollença.
Dinner option #2: Ca’N Josep (€€) – A less expensive option that does not sacrifice quality. The menus del dia are incredible, providing a really strong seafood meal at an affordable rate.

ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT

I recommend you leave Palma in the morning, after having breakfast in town.
Drive to Pollença and explore this historical hotspot. This town will keep you busy for a few hours, as there are so many little roads to walk with boutique shops and places to eat and drink to explore. Have lunch in Pollença (I recommended some places above) and then move on to your next stop.
Drive up to Playa de Formentor. Spend some time on this beautiful beach with a view over the mountains spread across the horizon. Don’t spend too long though, you want to get moving to the next spot before sunset!
Drive up to Cap de Formentor for sunset. Important to note that you can only drive there before 9 AM and after 7 PM during high season, otherwise they won’t let you pass. Enjoy the sunset in the most beautiful place in Mallorca!
At this point, you can choose to go back to Palma or go for dinner in one of the amazing specialized seafood restaurants of Port de Pollença.

2 – Sa Calobra and around

Melissa standing on a rock with the winding roads of Sa Calobra in the background

Melissa standing close to the camera on a rock at Sa Calobra

Going to Sa Calobra means doing a quick run through some picturesque little towns and the high hills of Mallorca, showcasing the most beautiful landscapes you’ll see on this island in just one trip. I’m not kidding, this day trip will show you some of the most famous places on the island!

TOTAL DRIVING TIME: 3h20m-3h40m
PRICE: 40-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY: Hard. The roads are quite hard to drive, and less-experienced drivers will struggle going down the twisting roads down the mountains leading to Sa Calobra. But it’s definitely doable!
STOPS: Valldemossa, Deià, Sa Calobra and Fornalutx (if you choose to)

Click here for a link to the map

WHERE TO EAT

S’Hortet – This lovely healthy food restaurant in a corner of Deià is an amazing place for breakfast, brunch or lunch, as you sit in the nice and fresh backyard garden. They have food options for vegetarian and gluten-free.

ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Drive to Valldemossa, one of the prettiest towns and most touristy destinations in Mallorca. I recommend you visit quite early so you can enjoy the town almost to yourself. You don’t need very long to catch the feeling of Valldemossa and move on with your trip.
Next, drive to Deià. This cute little town in the hills is a lovely place to explore on foot, as you walk through the steps and alleyways of the Tramuntana Mountains. Enjoy 1h – 1h30m in this beautiful town and then move onwards with your trip.
Make sure to buy some snacks before moving on to Sa Calobra. The drive is long and eating in this half-deserted place is not as easy or as enjoyable as it sounds, so I recommend you get something to eat on the go.
Enjoy the beautiful popular beach of Sa Calobra for a few hours. After you’re done (or it gets dark), move on to your next stop or to Fornalutx, if you’re still up to visit another little town. Fornalutx is known for being a mix of a dreamy medieval village and for its local and authentic feeling of Mallorcan culture. Stopping here will only add 20 minutes to your drive home, unless you choose to stay for dinner.

3. Beach hopping around the island

This is an easy tour across some easy-going beaches found in the East of Mallorca. This day trip features an enjoyable and easy drive and a relaxed day at some of the most remote beaches on the island.

TOTAL DRIVING TIME:  2h30m-3h
PRICE: 30-80€/pp
DIFFICULTY:  Easy. The roads are easy to drive and safe.
STOPS: Cala Pi, Calo Des Moro, Cala Llombards and S’Amarador (if you choose to)

Click here for a link to the map

WHERE TO EAT

La Torre (Bar) is one of the best restaurants in town for a delicious, quick and cheap meal.

ITINERARY, TIPS AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Drive to Cala Pi. This is one of the dreamiest beaches in Mallorca so make sure to enjoy some time here. I recommend you move on with your trip at least one hour before your ideal lunchtime to give yourself enough time at your next stops.
Drive to Calo Des Moro. This beach is the most famous beach in the whole of Mallorca and for such, it will probably be more crowded than other places. Regardless of that, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca, so you don’t want to miss it!
Time for lunch at La Torre at Calla Lombards (recommendation above).
After lunch, move on to the actual Calla Lombards for some more beach time.
After Calla Lombards you can choose to either head back to Palma or stop by and visit Praia S’Amarador as well, as it only adds about 20m to your drive home. This beach is located in the natural park of Mondragó and is an absolute beauty!

RELATED READ: 10 Best Beaches in Mallorca, Spain

BONUS: Organised day trips from Palma de Mallorca

Melissa standing in front of the 365 calvari steps in Pollenca in Mallorca

All three day trips above are self-organised and we did them all ourselves, so I can totally vouch for the experience.

BUT! If you cannot rent a car or don’t want to do it all by yourself, worry not, as I have a simple solution for you: booking an organised day trip! These day trips are organised by local guides that will take care of the transportation and the itinerary/activities for you. These are usually done as private tours or in small groups – both are equally charming. Plus, another huge benefit is that you won’t have to drive or worry about arranging transportation yourself!

Here are the best organised day trips from Palma I have found for you. All of them have pick-up from Palma available:

Mallorca: Scenic Island Tour from the South – Looking for some Palma de Mallorca boat trips? Heh, get ready! This scenic tour offers a complete experience by bus, tram, train and boat. You’ll be going to Lluc, a charming town in Mallorca, you’ll ride the famous Tren de Soller and you’ll also be exploring Sa Calobra Cove by catamaran.
Mallorca: Off-Road Quad Biking, Snorkeling & Cliff Jumping – up for an adventure? During this tour, you’ll be exploring the area around Palma by quad bike. You can also cliff jump, snorkel and swim – how awesome is that?
The Caves of Drach Full or Half-Day – The Caves of Drach on the East coast of Mallorca are a famous attraction that’s worth visiting if you have the time. There’s also an underground lake to be explored there with a live concert included.
Mallorca: Soller Port and Valldemossa – During this tour, you’ll go to the town of Valldemossa and to Port de Soller as well. You’ll visit the main points of interest here with a knowledgeable guide.
Mallorca Half-Day Coasteering Experience – cliff jumping, sea caving, rock scrambling and abseiling – all in one half-day tour at Alcudia/ Cala San Vicente!
Majorca Winery Tour – if you’re a wine aficionado, this tour is definitely for you. You’ll go from Palma to the fascinating La Raixa Estate and some other wineries as well to sample some exquisite wines!

Find more day trips from Palma

This guide is based on my honest experience driving around Mallorca and 3 of my recommended Palma de Mallorca trips. Although there are so many interesting things to do in Palma de Mallorca, it would be a real shame not to visit some other parts of the island as well such as Port de Pollença, Valldemossa, Deià, Sa Calobra, Cala Pi and more! And the best way to do this is to organise your own Palma de Mallorca day tours or to join some organised experiences. Regardless of your choice, you have ALL of our tips above to create the perfect Mallorca road trip!

In case you need more helpful tips and personal stories that will help you organise the best itinerary for your Mallorca adventure, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this wonderful destination.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Mallorca?

Check out all my Mallorca Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your boat to get to the Islands? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Mallorca so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

10 Best Beaches in Mallorca, Spain

People aren’t wrong when they say Mallorca is all about the beaches. With over 200 stretches of sand, it’s hard to choose where to enjoy the sea on this Balearic Island. There is the resort haven of the southern beaches, the more remote beaches further across in the northeast, and the stunning stone beaches etched into the cliffs in the west. So which are the best beaches in Mallorca?

Wait ‘til you hear it: there are no less than 262 beaches in Mallorca and their added length is 50 km. HOW on this Earth could you choose just one?!

Luckily for you, below are 10 of my favourite beaches around Mallorca, each a little different from the other and all worth a visit! And by the way, I totally recommend going around the island to explore the different strips of fine white sand instead of staying in one place – it would be such a shame!

Here we go:

A couple of things to know before

Without a rented car, it may be tricky to reach some of these beaches, as you’ll need to make your way there by bus. So I totally recommend you rent a car for your trip around Mallorca – this will help you reach the more off-the-beaten-path beaches. You can check for up-to-date prices and types of cars available right here.
There are many blue flag beaches in Mallorca which means they respect all health and safety rules.
The weather in Mallorca is warm all year long; in summer the temperatures can reach 40ºC with an average of 30ºC.
The high season in Mallorca is from June to August. I recommend visiting in mid-May or September-October if you want to enjoy perfect weather and fewer tourists on the beaches.
If you want to explore the best beaches in Mallorca from a different perspective, I recommend taking a boat tour. I recommend this 5-Hour Catamaran Cruise, this North Coast Catamaran Cruise with Lunch or this Luxury Catamaran Tour with Buffet Meal and Mimosas!
Should you book one of those Mallorca beach hotels? Most people choose to spend their vacation in an all-inclusive beachfront resort. That’s an excellent idea and here are some very good options – St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort, Pleta De Mar Luxury Hotel By Nature and Iberostar Selection Playa De Muro Village. However, I recommend doing at least a couple of day trips to different beaches in order to explore a bit – remember, all of them are different from each other!
You won’t find any shops near many of the beaches in Mallorca, so I recommend buying everything you might need before getting there.
Be a conscious traveller and make sure you don’t leave any garbage behind on the beach. There aren’t many trash cans either, so I recommend taking your garbage back with you and maybe taking a bag with you for this exact purpose.
Make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen when swimming.
ALWAYS make sure you bring cash as you cannot pay for parking by card and there are no ATMs around the beaches. Guga and I got caught out with this and it was really not fun.
Getting there by scooter? Make sure you set your sat-nav to avoid highways as scooters are not allowed to drive on them.
Last but not least: be considerate of other people on the beach and your surroundings.

10 Best beaches in Mallorca

It has been SO hard to choose, but below you’ll find my short list of the 10 best beaches in Mallorca, with a few extra (bonus) recommendations down below in a separate section:

map of mallorca with the best beaches signalled on the map

1 – CALA FORMENTOR

Located on the most northern tip of the island in a stunning bay, you would think that Cala Formentor would be pretty untouched. But its reputation is out and Cala Formentor has become a popular spot with tourists. Even though it’s popular, I didn’t find it particularly overcrowded. Its setting is so pretty, with mountains sat at either side and crystal-clear blue water giving home to little boats moored in the distance. You can rent leaf huts (with a little safety box for your valuables) or loungers if you’d prefer some shade.

HOW TO GET TO CALA FORMENTOR

Car: 1h10m drive from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs between €8-12 for the day.

Bus: TIB bus – line 353. Leaving from Alcudia, duration of 30min – costs 1.85€ each way. Leaving from Port de Pollença, duration of 1 hour – costs 1.55€ each way.

Melissa standing on Cala Formentor Beach in Mallorca

WHERE TO EAT

La Veranda Restaurant serves Mallorcan traditional dishes as well as some western favourites like pizzas and burgers.

WHERE TO STAY

Mar Calma Hotel is a great value option offering modern and comfortable facilities at below-competition prices, located in the nearby town of Puerto Pollença.

RELATED READ: For more information about Puerto Pollenca, I recommend checking out my article about the 12 Most Beautiful Mallorca Resorts, Cities and Villages

2 – SA CALOBRA

With sharp turns through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, it’s a thrilling drive to reach the beach of Sa Calobra. The way the road snakes up and down is spectacular in itself, but if you get motion sickness, make sure you shotgun a front seat!

Once you arrive, you’ll find the beach itself is tucked away between the cliffs. There’s a 15min walk down a narrow footpath through a tunnel etched into the rocks to reach it. Although the beach is small, and with pebbles instead of sand, it’s very beautiful. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular with tourists! I loved swimming out of the small opening of crystal clear water and into the open sea. With the gigantic mountains hugging the ocean on either side, it makes you feel so small.

TIP: Be prepared as this beach can get REALLY crowded, especially if you are visiting in the high season.

HOW TO GET TO SA CALOBRA

Car: 1h30m from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs 0.50€ for 30min and 5€ for the entire day.

Bus: TIB Bus – line 355. Leaving from Alcúdia at 10:15 AM, duration of 2h 35m– costs 6.90€. Leaving from Pollença at 10:50 AM, duration of 2 hours, costs 4.80€. Returning from Sa Calobra at 3 pm. There is only one bus a day (one going to Sa Calobra and one returning), so keep in mind that you are dependent on bus times and seats.

Boat: There are lots of companies that offer boat tours to Sa Calobra, most commonly from Port de Soller. A good company to check out is Civitatis.

WHERE TO EAT

There are a few restaurants on your walk down from the car park to the beach, however, I would not recommend eating here. These restaurants are more expensive and don’t have particularly great reviews. I would opt to eat in the nearby town of Soller instead or bring a packed lunch to have while at the beach.

WHERE TO STAY

Tuent Experience is a remote hotel hidden amongst the Sierra de Tramuntana, located close to Cala Tuent and 10 minutes away by car to Sa Calobra.

3 – CALA COMTESA

The beach of Cala Comtesa just outside of Palma de Mallorca

Looking for the best beaches near Palma? Just south of Palma de Mallorca, Cala Comtesa is the closest beach to the capital to resemble paradise. Its stretch of fine white sand, prettily surrounded by rocks and trees, looks perfectly aesthetic. However, what is not perfectly aesthetic is the crowds of locals and tourists alike who set up their towels packed up like sardines along the shoreline.

Initially, I wasn’t sure if I should include Comtesa in this post but it’s still a very beautiful spot, even if it is very crowded. My favourite thing about this beach is that you can follow the water to the right and explore a little rocky peninsula. There are even some private spots where you can set up among the rocks (be careful as they can be a bit jagged) and cave-like entryways down into the sea.

TIP: Splash out and spend a day at a nearby beach club. That way you get the privacy AND the view! Check out Purobeach Illetas which is one of Mallorca’s best relaxation spots!

HOW TO GET TO CALA COMTESA

Car: 20-minute drive from Palma de Mallorca. There is a car park nearby and also street parking.

Scooter: 20-30min from Palma de Mallorca.

Bus: EMT Palma – line 3. Leaving from multiple stops in Palma, duration of 45min – costs 1.5€ each way. This bus goes all the way through the city, stopping at the main hub for public transportations Plaça d’Espanya. There are buses every 20 minutes, with the first one at 5.45 AM.

Melissa lying down on a rock at Cala Comtesa in Mallorca

Melissa standing on a rock at Cala Comtesa Mallorca

WHERE TO EAT

You can find a tiny restaurant above the beach where you can eat a quick lunch, but I still recommend bringing your own food with you in case you’re visiting late in the day, as the restaurant closes after lunchtime.

WHERE TO STAY

Bonanza Palace Playa Resort & SPA is a great 4-star hotel located only 15 minutes away by foot from this beach.

4 – CALA DEIA

Melissa sitting on a rock at Cala Deia in Mallorca

Cala Deia is a very pretty, small cove made up of large, smooth rocks, small pebbles and a short dash of sand. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding rolling hills make Cala Deia a highlight. However, my favourite part of Cala Deia would have to be the jump spots! There is a higher jump point (3 meters) to the right side of the cove and a much smaller one in the middle if you need a warm-up jump to help build up your confidence.

NOTE: Please make sure it is completely safe before you jump in. Watch out for swimmers below and check for depth and any hidden rocks hiding under the water before taking the leap!

TIP: Bring water shoes if you are not comfortable with pebble/rock beaches. You may appreciate them!

HOW TO GET TO CALA DEIA

Car: 1h from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs approximately 1.50€ per hour

Scooter: 1h20m from Palma de Mallorca. We took this option! The drive felt safe and relaxed, and we split up the journey by stopping in the town of Valldemossa. The benefit of scooters is free parking and how easy it is to find a space!

Bus: EMT Palma – line 210 Leaving from the TIB’s station in Plaça D’Espanya, duration of 45min – costs 2.95€ for a single and 5.90€ for a return. There are buses roughly every 1–2hrs, with the first one at 6:30 AM. The bus takes you to the town of Deia, then you must walk 20-30min downhill to Cala Deià. You can also get a 10min taxi which will cost 5-7€.

WHERE TO EAT

S’Hortet is a great, healthy option in the town of Deia. The meals are prepared with fresh and creative ingredients and they make some delicious cakes too!

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Des Puig is a pretty 4-star hotel and apartment with a gym, cosy communal living spaces and two outdoor pools.

5 – CALA MAJOR

The best beach in close proximity to the capital of Palma would have to be Cala Major. With 250m of golden sand surrounded by hotels, bars and restaurants, this beach isn’t the place to go if you’re in search of the secluded beaches on Mallorca island but it gives you everything you need if you’re looking for good summer vibes. It’s pretty popular, but there is a little rocky area to the right of the shore that’s a good place to set up base if you’d prefer to sit further from the crowds.

HOW TO GET TO CALA MAJOR

Car: 15min from Palma de Mallorca. Parking costs are approximately 1.50€ per hour

Scooter: 20min from Palma de Mallorca.

Bus: EMT Palma – line 3, 20 or 46. Leaving from multiple stops in Palma, duration of 20min – costs 1.50€ each way. This bus goes all the way through the city, stopping at the main hub for public transportations Plaça d’Espanya. There are buses every 15-30min, with the first one at 5:29 AM. All of the buses stop directly in front of the beach.

Melissa sitting on a rock at Cala Major Mallorca

WHERE TO EAT

The Crow’s Nest serves delicious, authentic food with South African influences. Some excellent vegetarian options as well!

WHERE TO STAY

Nixe Palace is a 5-star beachfront accommodation with an outdoor pool, a spa and more!

6 – ES CALO DEL MORO

This is not just a beautiful beach… but it’s probably one of the MOST beautiful ones on the coast! There’s one downside to it, though – like all good things in life, it’s not as easy to access. You’ll have to climb down some rocks in order to reach it, but the effort is totally worth it. Es Calo del Moro is a small, natural, well-preserved beach that will feel like your own strip of secluded Paradise with blue waters. A great spot for snorkelling too!

HOW TO GET TO ES CALO DEL MORO

Car: 1 hour from Palma de Mallorca.

Scooter: 1h20m from Palma de Mallorca.

Bus: I’ll warn you from the start: it’s very hard to get to this beach without your own car. You can only get to Es Calo del Moro by bus from Santyaní. So you’ll first have to get to Polygon S’olivo bus stop from Palma. Then take TIB bus no. 505 to Calo del Moro – duration 20min.

WHERE TO EAT

There are no restaurants, beach clubs, bars or sun loungers on this beach. You can grab a bite at Cala Figuera, which is close by.

WHERE TO STAY

There are no accommodations on the beach. The White Beach House is a beautiful holiday home located only 20 minutes by foot from Es Calo del Moro.

7 – S’AMARADOR

S’Amarador Beach is one of Mallorca’s most nature-rich beaches! It’s located right in Mondrago Natural Park (a protected nature preserve) and it’s surrounded by sand dunes, rocky coves and pine and cypress trees. And yes, you guessed it, it’s truly natural and unspoiled! And because it’s only reachable by car, it’s one of the most secluded beaches on Mallorca Island that you surely want to visit. It’s a good choice for a family with children as well, as there’s plenty of space for the little ones to play frisbee and run around the sandy beach.

While you’re here, make sure you check out the nearby Cala Mondragó which is smaller but equally nice!

HOW TO GET TO S’AMARADOR

Car: You can only get to this beach by car. Travel time is 1h10min from Palma de Mallorca. You can leave your car at Strand Cala Mondragó for 5€/day which is donated to charity (so nice!). Then you can walk to the beach.

WHERE TO EAT

There are no restaurants on this beach (but there’s a beachside bar). However, I recommend going to Restaurant Sa Font De N’Alis which is only 7 minutes walk. They have yummy seafood dishes as well as some vegetarian options.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Playa Mondrago is not on this beach, but it’s only half a kilometre away and offers nice rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and more!

8 – ES TRENC

Es Trenc Beach is known as being the biggest unspoilt beach on the coast of Majorca – after all, it’s 3.5km long and 60m wide! It’s surrounded by sand dunes and turquoise waters and there are also two beach bars with cool drinks and music. If you visit during the weekend in the summer, don’t expect it to be quiet, as you might encounter lots of tourists and locals alike.

HOW TO GET TO ES TRENC

Car: 50 minutes from Palma de Mallorca. There’s limited free parking available and paid parking right near Es Trenc Restaurant (they give you a voucher which you can deduct from your restaurant bill).

Bus: There are no direct buses or bus stops close to Es Trenc Beach.

Houses on the hills of Es Trenc in Mallorca

WHERE TO EAT

There are a couple of beach bars here but they’re really expensive (12€ for a drink). You can eat at Es Trenc Restaurant where the food is good and, if you use their parking (costs 10€) you can use deduct the price of the parking ticket from the price of your meal (not available for drinks or kids menu).

WHERE TO STAY

Es Trenc doesn’t have any hotels on the beach. I recommend staying at Agroturismo Ses Arenes which is a super nice country house located only 1 km from this beach.

9 – CALA TORTA

This beach is located near Arta town, in the northwestern part of the island. It’s not that easy to reach, as you’ll have to drive on an unpaved road – but the effort is definitely worth it, especially if you’re looking for a natural sandy beach, turquoise water and some peace of mind. Although you can’t do any water sports here (no sun loungers or toilets either), the clear water is excellent for snorkelling or scuba diving in the bay. Make sure you check out Arta and Cala Mesquida as well while you’re there!

HOW TO GET TO CALA TORTA

Car: 1h30min from Palma de Mallorca. Car park available for free. This is the only way to get there (or a scooter), but please keep in mind that the last kilometre of the road is not that “friendly”, as it’s a dirt road with lots of potholes. If you have a rented car, pay attention!

WHERE TO EAT

There are no restaurants or beach bars here except for a small snack stand only open in the summer.

WHERE TO STAY

No hotels directly on the beach. If you want to be as close to it as possible, book a room at VIVA Cala Mesquida Resort & Spa which is a 4-star resort located 1.2 km away. They have 7 swimming pools (what?!), sun terraces, parasols, hammocks and everything else in-between.

10 – CALA VARQUES

Located on the East coast, Cala Varques is a beautiful bay and one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets. Part of its charm is the fact that it’s not easily accessible – you’ll have to park your car, then walk through pine trees to get to the beach. What you’ll find there is a quiet, laid-back beach, but please note that it’s not advisable to reach it with your kids, as there’s a bit of climbing included. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, Varques Beach might just be the best one for you on the entire coastline!

There are no water sports or loungers here… but there IS a slight chance you’ll find people practising nudism here.

HOW TO GET TO CALA VARQUES

Car: 1h10min travel time from Palma de Mallorca. You’ll have to leave your car in the “Fig Parking Place” on Google Maps and then keep walking (15 mins) until you reach the end of a road. That’s where you’ll find a metal gate. Follow the arrows and then climb the 1.8m tall wall (you’ll have some rocks there to help you) then another short wall. After this, you’ll clearly see your way to the beach.

WHERE TO EAT

There’s a small snack stall on the beach with drinks. That’s it. I recommend taking food with you when you go and maybe a coolbox with drinks as well!

WHERE TO STAY

No hotels on the beach. The closest accommodation is Finca Son Josep de Baix which is a nice country house with private apartments, BBQ facilities and more.

BONUS: Other notable beaches in Mallorca

Playa de Alcúdia – a popular blue flag beach perfect for families, located in the Northern part of Mallorca;
Cala Mesquida – a super nice beach to visit, right near a nature reserve and pine trees, as well as sand dunes. Recommended for a secluded experience, but with several restaurant options! Plus, it’s one of the few ones where you can surf!
Playa de Cala Pi – busy beach located between cliffs with a very nice vibe. The road down to it offers an impressive view too!
Banyalbufar Beach – a superb, scenic beach in western Mallorca surrounded by pretty vineyards. Water shoes are recommended if you want to swim, as there are lots of rocks on the seabed here.
Cala Barques – this one is located in San Vicente town and it’s a blue flag beach with lots of hotel options along the coastline. There are also water sports, sun loungers and lots of other amenities.
Magaluf – a very popular beach and the perfect spot to make some travel friends. There are also lots of hotels, shops, food places and cute cafes along the beach and the vibe is young and fun.
Cala Mondragó – located in the Natural Park of Mondragó, this superb double bay has soft sand, turquoise waters and a laid-back vibe, ideal for families with kids.
Cala d’en Borgit – right near Cala Mondrago, this one is tiny and charming, hidden between big bushes. A small piece of Paradise on earth!
Sant Elm – this is actually a gorgeous beachside village with mountain views – what more do I need to say?! There are two beaches here – Sa Platja G (bigger, lots of amenities) and Cala Petita (smaller, good for kids).

This was my complete guide to Mallorca’s best beaches – Cala Formentor, Deia, Sala Calobra and 7 others! Most of these are not among the most popular ones where all tourists flock year-round. Instead, I tried to recommend some real hidden gems where you’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself. But if this is not enough, I also have a bonus section with extra recommendations – you know I always got you covered! 😉

If you need more info and advice for planning your Majorca beach holidays, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this wonderful destination.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Mallorca?

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