Wonderful Wanderings gives independent travelers detailed itineraries, honest reviews, and practical travel advice for more than 40 destinations. The blog has helped people travel better prepared since 2012.
Hi! Travel blog Wonderful Wanderings launched in the summer of 2012 with the goal of helping people travel in a better prepared and more confident way. It shares detailed itineraries, gear reviews, and other practical travel advice.
Tell me more39 countries have their own guides on this blog. Tap a highlighted country to open them.
These are the 20 most recently published or updated guides.
1 Week in Iceland in Winter: a South Coast Itinerary
A day-by-day week in Iceland in winter along the south coast: Reykjanes, the Golden Circle, Thorsmork by super jeep, the waterfalls, Jokulsarlon and an ice cave, with what has changed since.
18 Destinations in Iceland: Towns Worth Stopping In
18 destinations in Iceland and what each is a base for: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Selfoss, Vik, Borgarnes, Husavik and Stykkisholmur, plus what has changed at Grindavik since the 2023 evacuation.
Where to See Puffins in Iceland: 8 Spots and the Season
Puffins are ashore in Iceland from mid-April to mid-August, and Látrabjarg, Hafnarhólmi and Heimaey are where you can stand a few metres from them. Here are 8 colonies, how close you get at each, and what is open when.
24 Things to Do in Reykjavík: Museums, Sights and Free Stops
24 things to do in Reykjavik, from Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa to Perlan and Kolaportid, with which ones are free, which are ticketed, and how to fit them into two days.
Iceland Holidays Guide: Regions, Costs and When to Go
An Iceland travel guide: the eight regions and what each is for, how to get there and around with no railway, what to eat, when to go for the northern lights, and what it costs in krona.
45 Facts About Iceland, and Why Each One Matters
45 facts about Iceland and what each one means for a trip: a population of 396,500, no mosquitoes, no army, no McDonald's, geothermal heating in nine homes out of ten, and the krona rather than the euro.
Icelandic Food: 20+ Traditional Dishes Worth Trying
Icelandic food ranges from everyday dishes like skyr and plokkfiskur to fermented shark, hakarl, which needs curing because fresh Greenland shark is toxic, not just an acquired taste.
10 Things to Do in Bydgoszcz, Poland’s Overlooked River City
10 things to do in Bydgoszcz, Poland's overlooked river city, with 2026 prices in złoty, the free Thursday at the District Museum, and an honest answer to whether it is worth a stop at all.
Things to Do in Český Krumlov: Castle, Theatre and the Vltava
Český Krumlov takes one full day, and staying a night is what makes it worth the trip. Here is which of the seven castle tickets to buy, what the Baroque Theatre needs and how to get there from Prague.
Things to Do in Liberec, Czechia: Ještěd, Zoo and 2-Day Plan
Liberec needs two days: one for the town hall, museums and zoo, one for Ještěd and the Jizera Mountains. The Ještěd cable car has been out of service since 2021, so plan to walk or take the chairlift.
14 Things to Do in Brno, Czechia’s Second City
Brno needs two days and one advance booking: Villa Tugendhat sells out in minutes, while Spilberk Castle, the St James ossuary and the labyrinth under Zelny trh take walk-ups. With 2026 koruna prices.
17 Best Castles in Czechia, With 2026 Ticket Prices
Seventeen Czech castles worth a route, five of them UNESCO-listed, with 2026 koruna ticket prices, the Monday closures and which tour route actually reaches the room you came for.
12 Things to Do in Ceske Budejovice, With 2026 Prices
Two days is enough for Ceske Budejovice: the Budvar brewery, the arcaded main square, the Black Tower and a river boat, plus Hluboka castle and UNESCO-listed Holasovice. With 2026 koruna prices and opening days.
Prague City Pass or Prague Card: Which Is Worth It in 2026
Prague Card and Prague City Pass are two different products in 2026: Prague Card is the physical version of Prague CoolPass, while Prague City Pass is a separate 1,800 Kč card covering Prague Castle and the Jewish Quarter.
14 Things to Do in Olomouc, Moravia’s Overlooked City
Olomouc has the country's second largest heritage centre after Prague, a UNESCO Baroque column, seven fountains and an astronomical clock rebuilt with factory workers instead of saints. 14 things to do.
14 Things to Do in Plzen, the Home of Pilsner Beer
Plzen is where pilsner was invented in 1842, and the brewery, the Brewery Museum and 20 km of medieval tunnels sit within a few streets of each other. Here are 14 things to do, with 2026 koruna prices.
Malta Travel Guide: Where to Go, Costs and Travel Tips
Malta fits into 5 to 7 days and you can see the whole of it: Valletta and the Three Cities, Mdina, Gozo and Comino's Blue Lagoon, which now needs a booked slot. April to June and September to October are the months to come.
Getting Around Czechia: Trains, Buses, Trams and Car Hire
Use trains and coaches between Czech cities, trams and the metro inside them, and hire a car only for the villages and castles neither reaches. Nothing in Czechia is more than about four hours from Prague.
Prices in Czechia 2026: Is It Expensive and What Things Cost
Czechia is not expensive: a mid-range day costs about 2,800 Kč (€117) per person in Prague and a fifth less elsewhere. Here is what food, beer, transport, hotels and attractions actually cost in koruna in 2026.
Things to Do in Karlovy Vary: Springs, Colonnades and Spas
Karlovy Vary needs one day: walk the colonnades, drink from the 13 springs with a porcelain spa cup, ride the funicular to the Diana tower. The town has been UNESCO-listed since 2021.
These gear reviews and packing lists come from the blog's own trips.
Travel photo shoots: Flytographer review (+ flytographer coupon code!)
Want some great travel photos of your next trip that you're actually in as well? Then photo shoot service Flytographer is the solution. Flytographer has photographers all over the world to capture your travel moments. I tried them in Berlin and this is the result.
Airalo review: Why use an eSIM for travel?
Something that has long been the traveler’s nemesis is the dreaded mobile data roaming charge. We’ve all been in that agonizing situation where you have no…
SafetyWing Travel Insurance: Who is it for and is it worth it?
There’s a new kid on the travel insurance block and it’s called SafetyWing. SafetyWing travel insurance offers cover for for short-term and long-term travelers. It provides…
46 Fun Ideas for Travel Gift Baskets
Looking for a gift for that one friend who seems to be out of the country more often than in it? Or for that one family…
How to Make International Calls for Free or Cheap
If both you and your loved ones are within the EU, staying in touch isn’t so expensive thanks to the EU removing roaming costs back in…
Keeping your sh*t together with EagleCreek Pack-It cubes
Eagle Creek Packing cubes are great for traveling. They keep your stuff together, so that it's more compact, and offer an easy way to organize your gear and clothes. They can also serve as dirty laundry bags. But are they practical? Here's my review.
Packable K-way rain jacket review: is it truly waterproof?
The K-way packable rain jacket is properly waterproof rather than shower-resistant, and it kept me dry through a full day of heavy rain in Barcelona. Here is how it handles wind, how the sizing runs, and how to fold it back into its own pocket.
Fjallraven Keb Jacket Review – Should You Buy It?
You know that kind of weather that’s just a little too warm for a long winter parka but cold enough to want a proper jacket? That’s…
Day-by-day itineraries and things-to-do guides help you plan a short city break.
22 Best Things to do in Mechelen, Belgium in a weekend!
It might not be as famous as some other Belgian cities, but there are plenty of things to do in Mechelen! This article lists the sights and activities I think you shouldn't miss when visiting the city, based on my own experience. Check it out!
20 Best Things to do in Ghent – Museums, Attractions and Festivals
Ghent is a historic city located in the Flanders region of Belgium. Ghent’s origin dates back to the 10th century, but then grew to become one…
20 Best Things to do in Leuven: Attractions, Museums and Festivals
Leuven is a historic university town located about 30 km east of Brussels in Belgium’s Flemish Brabant province. Some of Leuven’s top attractions highlighted in the…
Things to Do in Rimini, Italy: A Complete Travel Guide
Rimini mixes 15 km of Adriatic beach with a Roman and Renaissance old town, Fellini's hometown museum, and San Marino as a day trip. Here is what to see, with current prices for every paid sight.
26 Best Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium in Two Days
The 26 best things to do in Antwerp, from Central Station and the Plantin-Moretus printing house to the MAS rooftop, the diamond district and Middelheim. What to see in one day, in two, for free and in the rain.
Things to Do in Modena, Italy – Sights, Hours, Prices
Modena packs a UNESCO cathedral complex, the birthplace museum of Enzo Ferrari and the source of the world's balsamic vinegar into one walkable old town in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region.
14 fun things to do in Belgium to do all-year-round
Planning a trip to the land of beer and chocolate? You better come prepared! With these tips on 21 things to do in Belgium in 2021 you'll see, hear, taste and experience the best of Belgium in the new year. Have fun!
Things to Do in Zillertal, Austria: 7 Ideas
Seven things to do in Zillertal, Austria in summer: two waterfall hikes, lunch above the Hintertux Glacier, the Panorama Terrace at 3,250 m, a boat trip inside the Natur Eis Palast ice cave, fishing at the Bochra See in Stumm and the autumn Almabtrieb.
A single week is enough for these itineraries beyond Europe, from Morocco to the USA.
One week in Morocco in December, spent visiting a friend who runs the Morocco travel blog MarocMama.
A 1-week itinerary with fun things to do from Santa Monica to North Hollywood.
Sports hold a special place in American culture, with a wide array of options to watch live.
Ready-to-use Hong Kong itineraries based on first-hand experience in the city, with extra tours.
What to do in Cape Town, where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around.
A tested Aruba packing list: what to wear and what you can't forget.
Food tours and typical local dishes show you what to eat and where to find it.
Traditional Polish Food: 25 Dishes to Try in Warsaw
Traditional Polish food is built on what keeps through a long winter: pork, cabbage, potatoes, beetroot, rye and mushrooms, turned into dumplings, sour soups and slow stews. Warsaw is the easiest place to try all of it.
17 Traditional Swiss Foods and Where to Eat Them in Bern
Swiss cuisine is diverse and rich, shaped by the country's French, German and Italian influences. Several signature dishes represent Switzerland's culinary heritage. Visitors can experience authentic Swiss specialties in Bern, like cheese fondue, melted cheese dish with bread for dipping and raclette, melted cheese served with potatoes and pickles. Other Swiss specialties found in Switzerland include rösti (hashbrown potato pancakes), landjäger (dried sausage), bircher muesli (oat and fruit cereal) and rich chocolate creations. The Swiss locale of Bern on the shores of Lake Bern provides the perfect backdrop to savor Swiss delicacies like papet vaudois, a potato and leek dish, älplermagronen, a hearty alpine macaroni with cheese and potatoes and zuger kirschtorte, a cherry-kirsch cake. Sampling these traditional foods offers insight into Switzerland's diverse culinary heritage.
24 Traditional Croatian Food and Where to Eat Them in Zagreb
Croatia is between central Europe and the Mediterranean. The capital and largest city is Zagreb, an inland continental area with paprika-spiced dishes like štrukli dumplings reflecting Hungarian/Austrian rule. This blend of climatic influences leads to a fusion of continental and coastal cuisine. Inland areas see heartier, meat-based dishes suited to the colder climate and forests, like game goulash and roasted meats. Mild Mediterranean coastal regions utilize abundant seafood, olive oil and herbs like rosemary. Croatia's rugged terrain enables sheep farming and cheese production. Fertile lowlands supply vegetables and paprika and the bora wind helps dry pršut ham.
20 traditional Maltese foods and where to eat them
Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean, boasts a culinary tradition that reflects its diverse history and cultural influences. Valletta, the capital of Malta, offers an array…
20 traditional Hungarian foods and where to eat them
Hungary is a country with a rich culinary heritage, influenced by its neighbors and its history. Hungarian food is known for using paprika, a spice that…
Best Restaurants in Prague: Where to Eat by Area and Budget
Prague's strongest restaurants fall into 3 groups: modern Czech kitchens, serious steakhouses and cheap pubs and canteens. This guide sorts 14 of them by neighbourhood and price band, from Kantýna's butcher counter to Michelin-starred La Degustation, with the dishes to order and when to book.
20 Best Restaurants in Budapest to Eat and Drink
From traditional Hungarian dishes to international cuisines, Budapest offers an array of restaurants that cater to every palate and preference. Hungarian cuisine takes center stage in Budapest, with restaurants like Hungarikum Bisztró proudly showcasing the country's culinary heritage. Guests can savor iconic dishes like goulash soup and paprika chicken, prepared with a modern twist.
15 Best restaurants in Brussels: Where to eat in Brussels?
Brussels is home to several top-notch restaurants that offer exceptional dining experiences. The Lobster House is an establishment known for its exquisite seafood dishes, particularly its delicious lobsters prepared in various styles. Le Bistro-Porte de Hal provides a cozy setting and serves a diverse range of Belgian and international cuisine. The Blue stands out for its Mediterranean-inspired menu, featuring flavors from the region. Comme Chez Soi is a celebrated fine-dining restaurant offering a fusion of French and Belgian gastronomy.
These multi-day driving itineraries map the routes, the stops, and the costs.
Driving in Poland in 2026: Rules, Limits, Tolls and Fines
Driving in Poland means dipped headlights at all times and a blood alcohol limit of 0.02%, a quarter of the UK and US limit. Speed limits run 50 km/h in towns to 140 km/h on motorways, and only three motorway sections still toll cars.
Driving in Switzerland: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Driving in Switzerland requires full attentiveness to frequently changing speed limits, winding mountain roads and winter driving hazards. Obey all posted limits, as enforcement is strict…
Driving in Czechia: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Driving in Czechia is relatively easy and safe due to well-developed roads, familiar signs and strictly enforced rules. An extensive highway network with proper maintenance facilitates…
Driving in Croatia: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Croatia is in Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and requires careful driving to navigate its roads and highways safely. Road safety tips in Croatia include…
Driving in Malta: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Driving in Malta presents unique challenges and experiences due to its distinct road conditions and traffic culture. The nation drives on the left, inheriting this from…
Driving in Hungary: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and Car Rentals
Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe that offers visitors many cultural and natural attractions. Driving in Hungary is a convenient way to explore the…
Driving in Iceland in February: everything you need to know
When dad and I headed to Iceland for a week in February to road trip along the south coast, we knew we could expect all kinds…
The South of France itinerary: skipping the big cities
When I was planning our trip to the South of France earlier this year, I knew I had to include plenty of coastal towns and skip…
Winter and summer ideas are matched to the season of your trip.
These cold-season trips go beyond the ski slopes.
These warm-season itineraries cover islands, cities, and mountains.
Market guides for Belgium, Germany and beyond cover the dates, the food, and the atmosphere.
Ghent Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions
The Ghent Christmas Market, known as the Ghent Winter Festival, opens on Thursday, December 7, 2023 and closes on Sunday, December 31, 2023. The market is located in the historic city center of Ghent, Belgium, spreading across several central squares and along the Graslei Harbor.The market features over 150 wooden stalls selling gifts, ornaments, festive foods, drinks and local handicrafts. Key attractions of the Christmas market include the Ferris wheel, carousel, musical entertainment and the medieval cities of Graslei and Korenlei decorated with Christmas lights. Visitors can visit sights like Saint Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry of Ghent and Gravensteen Castle, which were decorated for the holidays.
20 Best Christmas Market in Germany to visit in 2023-2024
Christmas Market in Germany is a traditional outdoor celebration held annually throughout the country. Some of the most well-known and iconic markets include Nuremberg Christmas Market,…
20 Fun Christmas Markets in Belgium to visit in 2023 – 2024
Belgium is home to several enchanting Christmas markets, including the Brussels Christmas Market, Bruges Christmas Market, Antwerp Christmas Market and Ghent Christmas Market. The Brussels Christmas…
Berlin Christmas Markets 2023-2024: Dates, Location, Attractions
Berlin is popular for its large Christmas markets. In 2023, the city of Berlin will once again come alive with the spirit of the holiday season, offering visitors a magical experience featuring multiple Christmas markets to choose from. The Christmas Market at Alexanderplatz is one of Berlin's largest and most popular winter markets. It is located at the iconic Alexanderplatz square and features around 100 illuminated wooden stalls selling gifts, decorations and food.
Cologne Christmas Markets 2023: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions
The Cologne Christmas Markets are a beloved tradition that draws visitors from near and far to the city of Cologne, Germany, during the festive season. These markets are popular for their enchanting atmosphere, decorations and an abundance of unique gifts, crafts and traditional Christmas items, which offer a delightful blend of local and international flavors, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Trier Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions
The Trier Christmas Market is one of Germany's oldest and most popular Christmas markets. It has a rich history dating back to the medieval trading fairs and church bazaars held in the city during December, which evolved into an annual Christmas market that attracts more than 1.5 million visitors. The market is divided between two main squares: Market Square (Hauptmarkt) and Cathedral Square (Domfreihof), which are filled with over 100 beautifully decorated wooden pavilions.
Rüdesheim Christmas Market of Nations 2023: Dates, Location, Attractions
The Rüdesheim Christmas Market of Nations is an annual Christmas market held in Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany. The market was established in 1993 and aims to celebrate and share Christmas traditions and culture from around the world. The market features 124 stalls representing 12 nations across 6 continents, offering a range of Christmas decorations, ornaments, food and drinks. The market is open from Monday, November 20, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023.
Braunschweig Christmas Market 2023. 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions
The Braunschweig Christmas Market is an outdoor Christmas market located in the city center of Braunschweig, Germany, surrounding the St. Blasii Cathedral. The market opens on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 and closes on Friday, December 29, 2023. The Christmas market attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually from Germany and abroad.
These landmark experiences come with practical planning details and honest reviews.
15 Castles in Poland Worth the Ticket, With 2026 Prices
Malbork is the largest castle on earth by land area, Wawel holds the Polish crown jewels, and Kwidzyn is shut until 2030. These 15 castles in Poland come with 2026 ticket prices in złoty, closing days, timed-entry rules and how to reach each one without a car.
16 Best Castles to Visit in Switzerland
Switzerland is home to numerous historic castles that attract visitors interested in the country's medieval history and architecture. The castles are spread across different cities and regions, often located in strategic positions on lakesides or hilltops. The castles were built from the 10th century onwards, serving as fortresses, administration centers and noble family residences. Some of the most notable castles in Switzerland include the 13th-century Gruyères Castle, which was home to the Counts of Gruyères, Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva, originating from the 11th century when it was occupied by Savoy rulers, Spiez Castle, which is a medieval fortress on a hilltop above Lake Thun dating back to the 10th century, the 12th-century hilltop Lenzburg Castle overlooking the Aare River valley and Grandson Castle on Lake Neuchâtel built in the 11th century known for its eventful history of battles and sieges. These castles allow visitors to explore Switzerland's rich medieval past through their settings, historic architecture and informative museums.
17 Best Castles in Czechia, With 2026 Ticket Prices
Seventeen Czech castles worth a route, five of them UNESCO-listed, with 2026 koruna ticket prices, the Monday closures and which tour route actually reaches the room you came for.
16 Best Castles to Visit in Croatia
Croatia has medieval castles that offer glimpses into its complex past and the nobility’s privileged lifestyles. The city features Trakošćan Castle, a 13th-century fortress renovated into…
12 Best Castles to Visit in Malta
Malta is home to some of the Mediterranean's most intriguing castles and palaces. Fort St Angelo, dating back to medieval times, was a pivotal Knights Hospitaller base and has been a naval base, prison and now a tourist site. Verdala Palace, built in 1586, was a hunting lodge turned summer residence for the Knights and currently serves as the summer residence of Malta's President. Casa Rocca Piccola in Valletta, constructed in the 16th century, offers a rich display of Maltese nobility and history. San Anton Palace, originally a 17th-century villa for Grand Master Antoine de Paule, now functions as the President's residence, with its gardens open to the public. Fort St Elmo, instrumental in the 1565 Great Siege, has been transformed into Malta's National War Museum. These historic sites, each with unique architectural and historical significance, offer a window into Malta's rich past. Visitors can explore, learn and engage themselves in the legacy of knights, sieges and governance that shaped this island nation.
17 Best Castles to Visit in Hungary
Hungary has a rich and diverse heritage and its castles are a testament to that. The castles in Hungary reflect the different historical periods, cultural influences…
Best Museums in Prague: 23 Picks, Priced for 2026
Twenty-three Prague museums checked against their own sites in September 2026, with 2026 koruna prices, closing days and the two that moved or shut. The Army Museum Zizkov is free all year.
20 Most Popular Museums to visit in Budapest
Budapest has witnessed centuries of evolution and transformation, leaving behind a treasure of historical and artistic treasures. Budapest has diverse museums that cater to a wide array of interests, making it a great place for art and history lovers.
The blog's Belgian home base supplies its own guides: food, film locations, and festivals.
Public Holidays in Belgium 2026 and 2027: Full Dates
Belgium has 10 legal public holidays plus separate community holidays that only close government offices. Here are the exact 2026 and 2027 dates for both, plus school breaks and the replacement-day rule for weekend holidays.
Namur Travel Guide: 15 Best Attractions to visit in Namur!
Namur is the capital of Belgium's Wallonia region, strategically situated at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. This location has made Namur an important military and trade center since Roman times when it was fortified as a citadel. Over the centuries, Namur's citadel and position along key waterways brought both prosperity and conflict as it was contested by European powers.
Mons Travel Guide: 15 Best things to do in Mons, History, Attractions
Mons is a historic city located in the Wallonia region of Belgium, about 45 miles southwest of Brussels. As the capital of the province of Hainaut, Mons has been an important center of commerce, politics and military conflicts throughout its long history. The area around Mons was first settled during Roman times. In the Middle Ages, Mons emerged as a prosperous trading city and was fortified with impressive city walls and gates. Much of the medieval architecture in the city center remains intact today, including the magnificent Grand Place square surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the towering belfry.
Dinant Travel Guide: 17 Attractions to visit in Dinant, History, Hotels & Restaurants
Dinant is a picturesque town situated along Belgium’s Meuse River. Nestled between steep cliff walls in a sharp bend of the river, this medieval town looks…
15 Fun things to do in Ypres: A Visitor’s Travel Guide
Ypres stands as a living testament to a history steeped in valour, resilience and regeneration. Once a bustling hub of the cloth industry, Ypres witnessed significant turmoil during the Great Wars, only to rise again, showcasing an undying spirit that resonates with every visitor who graces its streets. As one embarks upon a journey to explore this remarkable city, a kaleidoscope of experiences awaits.
16 Best things to do in Ninove: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets
Ninove is a city and municipality in the Flemish province of East Flanders in Belgium. It is pronounced as Ninive in French, Nienove in German and Ninova in Italian. Ninove means "new pasture" and has a history dating back to the 9th century. Ninove is located on the river Dender and is part of the Denderstreek, a region known for its agricultural and industrial activities.
15 Amazing Things to do in Kortrijk: Travel Guide: History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets
Kortrijk is a city and municipality in the Flemish province of West Flanders, Belgium. In French and English, it is sometimes called Courtrai or Courtray. In Latin, it was known as Cortoriacum or Cortoracum. In West Flemish, a regional dialect of Dutch, it is called Kortryk or Kortrik. Kortrijk has a long and rich history that dates back to Roman times when it was a settlement near the river Leie and two Roman roads.
15 Top Things to do in Tournai: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Facts and Transportation
Tournai has a rich history, attractions, seamless transportation and vibrant markets. Tournai gracefully straddles the banks of the Scheldt River and has been an integral part…
Music, light and folk festivals across Europe come with practical visitor tips.
Festivals in Poland 2026-2027: Dates and Where to Go
The festivals in Poland worth planning a 2026-2027 trip around run from Unsound Festival in Warszawa and Kraków (2-11 October 2026) to the Jagiellonian Fair in Lublin (20-22 August 2027).
14 Top Festivals to Attend in Switzerland for 2024
Switzerland hosts various popular festivals that attract locals and visitors. The lively Street Parade techno festival held annually in Zurich features stages and parades along Lake Zurich, drawing over 1 million attendees. The Montreux Jazz Festival along Lake Geneva offers free stages and lakefront performances, showcasing jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Aretha Franklin. The Paleo Festival in Nyon is one of the biggest open-air festivals in Switzerland, across multiple stages and attracting headliners such as Muse and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The Gurten Music Festival near Bern combines the city's mountain views and 60 DJs playing various genres. The Festival International de Ballons hot air balloon celebration has occurred for over 40 years in Château-d’Oex, featuring colorful balloon shows and flights amidst the scenic Swiss Alps. These festivals represent Switzerland's diverse festivals and cultural offerings in unique settings nationwide.
Festivals in Czechia 2026-2027: Dates and Where to Go
The festivals in Czechia worth planning a 2026-2027 trip around run from the Pálava Wine Harvest Festival in Mikulov (11-13 September 2026) to Brutal Assault at Josefov Fortress (4-7 August 2027), with the Karlovy Vary film festival and Colours of Ostrava in July 2027 as the largest draws.
Boardmasters Newquay festival: the how, what and when for 2024
Boardmasters is a music and surf festival at Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach in Newquay in Cornwall, the UK. I spent 4 days there. Here you can read all about how to get there, how to get tickets, the Boardmasters campsite and more.
18 Top Festivals to Attend in Croatia for 2024
Croatia has an active festival scene that features the Adriatic coastline and medieval cities to host events spanning music, culture, food and fairs. One of the key festivals to attend in Croatia is Ultra Europe (July 12 to 14, 2024), a 3-day electronic dance music event in Split expected to draw over 140,000 attendees. The Sonus Festival (August 18 to 22, 2024) also showcases house and techno DJs to 25,000 electronic music fans on Zrće Beach. Dimensions Festival (August 28 to September 1, 2024) takes place in the scenic town of Tisno. Those seeking arts and culture can attend the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July 10 to August 25, 2024) to see classical concerts and theater productions staged across Dubrovnik's historic landmarks. The Siege of Sinj 1715 Reenactment (August 15, 2024) brings to life the 1715 battle that saw Sinj against a massive Ottoman invasion through realistically staged fights with hundreds of reenactors in period costumes and weaponry. The festival to attend in Croatia for 2024 promises another stellar lineup of celebrations to enjoy.
18 Top Festivals to Attend in Malta for 2024
Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The capital city, Valletta, hosts several annual festivals, attracting visitors worldwide. Notable events include the Notte Bianca, an arts and culture festival and the Isle of MTV, a popular music festival featuring international artists. The Malta Jazz Festival showcases famous jazz musicians, while the Malta International Arts Festival offers various performing and visual arts. The Valletta Baroque Festival celebrates the island's Baroque legacy through music and theater. These festivals, among others, highlight Malta's status as a dynamic cultural hub in Europe.
14 Top Festivals to Attend in Hungary for 2024
Hungary is a country with a rich and diverse culture, which is reflected in its many festivals throughout the year. These festivals celebrate various aspects of Hungarian history, heritage, art, music, cuisine and religion. They also showcase the creativity and talent of the Hungarian people, who enjoy expressing themselves through different forms of entertainment and performance. These festivals and many others, shape the culture of the Hungarian people by preserving their traditions, promoting their values and fostering their sense of community. They also provide opportunities for visitors to experience the authentic and unique aspects of Hungarian life.
Ghent Light Festival 2024: Dates, Route and How to Visit
Ghent Light Festival is a free light art festival happening every three years in Ghent, Belgium. It runs for five nights and features light installations by…
These country-by-country rental and driving guides cover costs, rules and road habits.
Renting a Car in Poland: 34 Important Tips (2024)
Renting a car in Poland offers the flexibility to explore the country's diverse landscapes, from the busy cities to the scenic countryside. When driving in Poland, road safety is paramount; drivers must be vigilant for road works and wildlife, especially in summer. Observing speed limits is crucial. Headlights must be on at all times, regardless of the time of day. Proper driving etiquette includes priority to traffic from the right and being mindful of buses, which often have the right of way. For those renting a car, carry the necessary documents, like a valid driver's license and possibly an International Driving Permit. Familiarity with Poland's travel rules, like the zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving, will ensure a safe journey. While driving in Poland is manageable, drivers should be prepared for varying road conditions and consult a map to navigate the well-connected road network. Poland, located in Central Europe, offers a rich driving experience. It is necessary to stay informed about the country's specific driving regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Driving in Poland in 2026: Rules, Limits, Tolls and Fines
Driving in Poland means dipped headlights at all times and a blood alcohol limit of 0.02%, a quarter of the UK and US limit. Speed limits run 50 km/h in towns to 140 km/h on motorways, and only three motorway sections still toll cars.
Renting a Car in Switzerland: 34 Important Tips (2024)
Driving in Switzerland, safety tips include being prepared for frequent tunnels, narrow mountain roads with steep unprotected drops and hazardous weather conditions like snow or fog…
Driving in Switzerland: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Driving in Switzerland requires full attentiveness to frequently changing speed limits, winding mountain roads and winter driving hazards. Obey all posted limits, as enforcement is strict…
Renting a Car in Czechia: 34 Important Tips (2024)
Czechia is a landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Czechia’s scenery…
Driving in Czechia: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Driving in Czechia is relatively easy and safe due to well-developed roads, familiar signs and strictly enforced rules. An extensive highway network with proper maintenance facilitates…
Driving in Croatia: Road Safety, Driving Etiquette and How to Rent a Car
Croatia is in Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and requires careful driving to navigate its roads and highways safely. Road safety tips in Croatia include…
Renting a Car in Croatia: 34 Important Tips (2024)
Croatia is a Mediterranean country in southeastern Europe, known for its Adriatic coastline with over a thousand islands. Road safety tips when driving in Croatia include…
Public holiday calendars per country help you plan around closing days.
Poland Public Holidays 2026 and 2027: Dates, School Breaks
Poland has 14 public holidays in 2026 and 2027, all statutory days off since Christmas Eve joined the list in 2025, plus which Sundays shops may trade and school break dates from the Ministry of Education for both years.
Switzerland Public Holidays 2026 and 2027 by Canton
Switzerland has only one nationwide public holiday, 1 August. Every other date, from New Year to Christmas, is set canton by canton, so this guide gives the 2026 and 2027 dates for eight major cantons plus what actually closes.
Czech Public Holidays 2026 and 2027 + School Holidays
Czechia has 13 public holidays a year, and every one of them is a paid day off. This page lists the 2026 and 2027 dates with weekdays, the school holidays set by the Ministry of Education, and the days on which large shops must close.
Croatia Public Holidays 2026 and 2027: Dates, School Breaks
Croatia has 14 public holidays a year. This guide lists every 2026 and 2027 date with its weekday, the school holidays set by the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth, the daylight saving changes and the working days locals still celebrate.
Malta Public Holidays and National Days 2026-2027
Malta has 14 official days off a year: 9 Public Holidays, mostly religious feasts, and 5 National Days marking civic history. Here are the 2026 and 2027 dates for both, and what happens when one lands on a weekend.
Hungary Public Holidays 2026 and 2027: Full Dates
Hungary has 11 statutory public holidays with no weekend make-up day, plus an annual "bridge day" decree that swaps specific Saturdays for a Friday or Monday off. Here are the 2026 and 2027 dates and the confirmed 2026 swap days.
Public Holidays in Belgium 2026 and 2027: Full Dates
Belgium has 10 legal public holidays plus separate community holidays that only close government offices. Here are the exact 2026 and 2027 dates for both, plus school breaks and the replacement-day rule for weekend holidays.
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