Novitec has released multiple upgrades for the Lamborghini Revuelto, designed to enhance the overall driving experience. In the first phase, Novitec has developed three major upgrades for the plug-in hybrid supercar – wheels, suspension & exhaust.
The Revuelto is available with a set of lowering springs, complemented by two centre-locking wheel options: NL5 and NL4.
Then there’s the exhaust system, which comes in three flavours: power-optimized exhaust with flat regulation, race exhaust without flap regulation and catless, and sport exhaust. Novitec also offers specially designed quad exhaust tips in a black or gold finish.
Another feature that is being talked about a lot is the heat protection for the exhaust system. There have been several instances where Revueltos have caught fire. Some of these can be attributed to overheating. Hence, all exhausts offered by Novitec come with heat protection.
The Revuelto is powered by a 6.5-liter V12 hybrid powertrain. The ICE alone develops 813 hp @ 9250 rpm and 535 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission along with three electric motors – two on the front axle and the third paired with the gearbox. The combined output is 1001 hp.
Looking for a one day in Rhodes itinerary? You’re in the right place.
Granted, you could spend a lot more than one day exploring the folds and wrinkles of this ancient island. As the fourth-largest Greek island after Crete, Evia, and Lesvos, Rhodes is a perfect blend of medieval charm, beaches, and spellbinding views.
So, if you’re riding in on a cruise or have a layover, Rhodes is compact enough to see the highlights in one day with smart planning.
From cobbled streets to clifftop views, here’s how to soak up the magic of Rhodes in just one day.
Welcome Pickups Services for a Day in Rhodes, Greece
Explore Rhodes with ease using Welcome Pickups, your trusted choice for seamless, visitor-friendly transport solutions during your one-day adventure!
Book with Welcome Pickups for:
✅ Convenient Airport and Port Transfers: Friendly, English-speaking drivers provide a smooth ride from Rhodes International Airport or the port to your destination, ideal for maximizing your day. ✅ Efficient Island Exploration: Pre-book transport to iconic sites like the Medieval City, Lindos Acropolis, or Kallithea Springs, ensuring you see the best of Rhodes in one day. ✅ Comfortable and Reliable Rides: Modern, clean vehicles with ample space, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups exploring Rhodes. ✅ 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer service to assist with any last-minute changes or questions during your day trip.
These are the best things to do in Rhodes in 24 hours:
Morning in Rhodes Old Town
Starting your day in Rhodes Old Town is ideal, as there are fewer crowds and you’re within walking distance of the port (if you’re arriving by cruise ship).
Here’s the itinerary we recommend for a morning in Rhodes Old Town:
08:30 Visit Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: This 7th-century Medieval castle is a beautiful place to explore for tourists. With mosaic floors, medieval armor, and ancient statues, you’ll learn about the turbulent history of Rhodes among some of the most fascinating artefacts in Greece. Tickets cost €16.
10:30 Amble through the Street of the Knights: Walk down to the cobblestoned lane lined with medieval inns. This is a perfect spot for photos.
11:00 Drive to Kallithea Springs: Take your car or taxi 20 minutes to Kallithea Springs, which is an ancient spa complex with Italian architecture and mosaics. Yes, this is a detour from Rhodes Old Town, but it’s worth it for the picturesque views and peaceful atmosphere.
The Lindos Acropolis is a must-see attraction if you visit Rhodes for one day. It’ll take 1 hour to reach Rhodes Town by car, and it is open from 08:00 to 20:00 in high season (May to October).
Currently, it costs €12 to enter the Acropolis, where you’ll see the Temple of Goddess Athena, which dates back to the 4th Century BC.
Here’s the itinerary we recommend at Lindos:
12:00 Get picnic ready: Pick up some street food in Rhodes and hop into your car, taxi, or bus to Lindos.
13:00 Walk to the Acropolis: Arrive at Lindos and take the 20-minute scenic uphill walk to the Acropolis. (You’ll need good footwear and plenty of bottled water.)
13:30 Picnic in the Acropolis: Find a spot among the ancient columns to eat your street food lunch.
14:30 Explore the stone-washed Lindos village: Snap photos on your walk through the quaint village of Lindos, down towards the bay.
16:30 Swim at St Paul’s Bay: If you have time, take a dip in the St Paul’s Bay beach to cool off.\
Ruins of Lindos Village on Rhodes
Getting Around Rhodes in 24 Hours: Transport Tips
To make the most of your one day in Rhodes, we recommend planning out your transportation before you arrive. You don’t want to arrive at the airport or port and be scrambling to hire a car or find a taxi to take you across the island.
Here’s what you need to know about Rhodes transport to make the best decision for you and your group:
Buses
The bus service in Rhodes, KTEL, runs various services across the island at an affordable price. However, wait times vary, and travel times are much longer than driving or taking a taxi.
For example, No.64, No.103, and No.362 buses all run from Averof Bus Station to Lindos. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and buses depart every 30-60 minutes.
We don’t recommend traveling this way unless you’ve reviewed the timetables on the KTEL website and have planned for the longer transfer times.
Car Rentals
Hiring a car is a great choice if you want to explore beyond Rhodes Old Town. It’s a large island, so many of the most serene viewpoints, beaches, and coves are at least 30-60 minutes’ drive away from downtown.
If you intend to hire a car, here are some quick tips to remember:
Book your car in advance to avoid disappointment when you arrive.
Watch out for narrow roads and limited parking in Old Town.
Taxis & Private Transfers
Official Rhodes taxis are dark blue and roam freely throughout the city center. When the small sign on the side says “vacant”, you can wave down a taxi to hire.
That said, if you’re arriving on a cruise, you’ll compete with your fellow travelers for the taxis in the city. A more convenient alternative is to book a Rhodes Airport transfer from a trusted international company like Welcome Pickups. That way, you can relax knowing you have transport ready and waiting for you. This is also ideal for small groups struggling to find a taxi that can fit everyone.
Welcome Pickups Services for a Day in Rhodes, Greece
Explore Rhodes with ease using Welcome Pickups, your trusted choice for seamless, visitor-friendly transport solutions during your one-day adventure!
Book with Welcome Pickups for:
✅ Convenient Airport and Port Transfers: Friendly, English-speaking drivers provide a smooth ride from Rhodes International Airport or the port to your destination, ideal for maximizing your day. ✅ Efficient Island Exploration: Pre-book transport to iconic sites like the Medieval City, Lindos Acropolis, or Kallithea Springs, ensuring you see the best of Rhodes in one day. ✅ Comfortable and Reliable Rides: Modern, clean vehicles with ample space, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups exploring Rhodes. ✅ 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer service to assist with any last-minute changes or questions during your day trip.
If you’re on a budget or love to walk, don’t worry! The itinerary we’ve outlined so far is perfectly walkable.
Rhodes Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of pedestrian-only streets.
You’ll need a car or taxi transfer to get to Lindos village. However, it is best explored on foot once you arrive, as cars aren’t allowed inside.
Several beaches are within walking distance from Rhodes Old Town, such as:
Elli Beach
Kanari Beach
Kathara Bay
Let’s talk more about beaches next.
Best Beaches and Views to Include in Your Day Trip
The beaches in Rhodes are a must-see aspect of getting to know the island. Here are the beaches we’d recommend exploring during your day trip to Rhodes.
Elli Beach (Rhodes Town)
Best for: Cruise ship visitors
Just a 20-minute walk from Rhodes port, Elli Beach is a sandy and pebbly beach with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Think cafés serving snacks and ice cream. Sunbeds as far as the eye can see. And aquamarine, calm, warm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Beaches in Rhodes, Greece
St Paul’s Bay (Lindos)
Best for: Couples and solo travelers who want to relax
If you’re hiring a car or booking a private transfer to get to other locations in Rhodes, we recommend St Paul’s Bay in Lindos to be one of them.
This heart-shaped cove has calm, sparkly water that are perfect for a dip after exploring the Acropolis. Plus, due to the 1-hour distance from Rhodes Town, St Paul’s Bay draws fewer crowds than Elli Beach, making it more relaxing and peaceful.
Note: There are no changing facilities unless you rent a sunbed, so we recommend wearing your swimsuit under your clothes and bringing a suitable towel.
St Paul’s Bay in Lindos
Anthony Quinn Bay
Best for: Hikers and snorkellers
Anhony Quinn Bay was named after the actor who filmed “The Guns of Navarone” here. It has a rocky and lush landscape that is endlessly photogenic. If you love snorkeling, this is one of the best spots to do it on the island. You can hire snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving gear from the beach.
That said, only put Anthony Quinn Bay on your list if you have time. It is located 30 minutes’ drive from Rhodes Town and is difficult to access without a car.
If you’ve booked a Rhodes private transfer or rental car for the day, we highly recommend visiting this unique bay.
Dining Options for a Quick Lunch in Rhodes Town
Where should you head for a quick lunch in Rhodes? Here are our recommendations:
Tavernas
Tavernas are the perfect quick lunch or dinner spots. They are near Socrates Street or tucked just outside the main tourist areas in Rhodes Town.
Here you’ll find a variety of tasty traditional Greek food (mezze), such as:
Grilled halloumi – local cheese grilled on an open fire
Tzatziki – salted yoghurt and cucumber dip
Dolmades – stuffed vine leaves
Spanakopita – spinach pie
Keftedes – meatballs
Best of all, these are quick to prepare and serve, so you won’t be sitting for long, leaving you more time to enjoy your day trip in Rhodes.
Greek street food is cheap, quick, and satisfying. You can find food trucks dotted around Rhodes Town serving gyros, souvlaki, and other Greek staples.
Gyros is rotisserie meat stuffed into pitta bread with tomatoes, onion, fried potatoes, and tzatziki. Souvlaki is similar, but with skewered grilled meat and vegetables served with pitta bread.
For vegetarians, local bakeries offer cheese pies, spinach pies, and sweet bougatsa (Greek custard pie).
If you’re creative, you can get a lunch for under €10.
Tip: If you’re heading to Lindos for midday, grab food in town and picnic near the bay or the Acropolis. That way, you can eat and explore at the same time.
Top Tips for One Day in Rhodes
It’s fair to say that doing a Rhodes one-day tour can be quite stressful if not well-planned. To conclude this guide, here are our top tips for making the most of your whirlwind tour.
Start early: Aim to be at the Old Town by 8 AM to beat the crowds and see as many sights as possible.
Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable walking shoes and plenty of sunscreen. If you’re going to hit the beach, bring a swimsuit, sunhat, and water bottle.
Plan your transport: Review public transport timetables or pre-book a private transfer or rental car before you arrive.
Bring cash in euros: You’ll need cash for beach amenities, snacks, and souvenirs.
Iceland is an absolute gem of a country to explore. There are so many amazing places to see and heaps of quaint towns and even active volcanoes which you can visit! It’s a country filled with fire, ice and heaps of charm! Now, if you’ve been to the country before or want to explore some of the hidden places in Iceland that most people miss, then you need to go beyond the Golden Circle.
The Golden Circle is great, don’t get me wrong! It’s accessible, beautiful and perfect to explore if you’re based in Reykjavik or the wider Golden Circle area. That being said, there are so many more, lesser-known and undiscovered places you really shouldn’t miss.
Over the years, we’ve visited Iceland heaps of times and travelled the length and breadth of the country. So, we’ve jotted down some of the hidden places in Iceland you might not have thought of visiting before. Oh, and as always, pop us a message if you’re stuck or unsure about any of your plans. We’re always happy to offer advice! Have the best time visiting Iceland.
1.) Ásbyrgi
Nestled in the North of Iceland, Ásbyrgi (Google Maps pin) is a vast glacial canyon that’s pretty easy to drive to if you’re basing yourself in Husavik (about a 45-minute drive away).
Now, the great thing about Ásbyrgi is that it’s accessible by car. You can park in this small parking area and explore the horseshoe canyon, which is so beautiful and serene. Head to this viewpoint, Botnstjörn (Google Maps pin), that’s right in the heart of the Canyon itself. You see the destruction that the last Ice Age caused in Iceland, and it’s immense to see.
Also, if you’re travelling from Akureyri, then book this incredible day trip tour. This tour includes a hiking stop off at Dettifoss for hiking, alongside more Diamond Circle gems like Husavik, Tjörnes and Goðafoss. It’s the perfect way to cover lots of ground and explore the lesser-known hidden places in Iceland that visitors don’t tend to think about seeing.
Over the last few years, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano has been as active as ever, with official trails opening up (and sometimes closing due to safety) since the most recent eruptions began. Now, the great thing about visiting the Fagradalsfjall Volcano when visiting Iceland is that it’s right in the heart of the action!
It’s not too far from the main airport in Keflavik (Iceland’s international airport) and a stone’s throw from the Blue Lagoon – one of the most famous places in all of Iceland.
Now, most visits to Iceland will go through this area, but a much smaller proportion of people explore these hikes while here. When you’re in Iceland, check local advice to see if there have been any fresh eruptions; this way, you’ll know when to go (and when to avoid the area). To make things easier, we’ve written a whole post on the best routes to hike, what to expect and much more.
Afterwards, head on over to Sol Restaurant (Google Maps pin) that’s in Hafnarfjörður. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the hiking area around Fagradalsfjall and perfect if you’re heading back to Reykjvik for the night. You actually get to dine on top of the growing crops in the greenhouse, and the food is so yummy.
Just off driving Route 1 (the main road that circles Iceland) is, Lómagnúpur. It’s an incredible area of Iceland to visit and a place that doesn’t always get enough attention, in my opinion, as it’s really easy to visit.
You see, you can easily stop off at this point (Google Maps pin) and see Lómagnúpur safely from the roadside.
Also, if you’re in the wider area or heading to Vik, that’s relatively close by, then book this Ice Cave Tour. You’ll get to explore the Katla Ice Caves, and they are honestly incredible to visit.
Just be sure to book your tickets in advance of your trip – tickets do sell out, especially in the height of summer.
If it’s waterfalls you’re searching for in Iceland, then look no further than Kvernufoss (Google Maps pin). It’s just shy of Skogar and really easy to visit if you’re driving west (or east along Route 1).
Now, most people, when visiting Iceland, tend to stick to the closer waterfalls near the Golden Circle (like Seljalandsfoss and Selfoss). Incredible, yes, but there are heaps of others that you can’t miss and are totally underrated to visit if you’re looking for places a little more off the beaten path.
One of our favourite hidden places in Iceland is Kvernufoss. This is because the paths are really well maintained and due to its ease of access. You see, you don’t want to be tracking for days to get to see one sight in Iceland, especially if you’re only here for a week or so.
Park up at the Freya Cafe parking area, and you’ll then be able to follow the trail that will take you straight to Kvernufoss. Just make sure to wear good shoes; the paths can get slippy in icy conditions.
5.) Raudisandur
Right in the northwest of Iceland, Raudisandur (Google Maps pin) is incredible for its sandy beach and bay. I’d go as far as saying it’s one of my favourite beaches in Iceland to visit. It’s idyllic, and you just know this landscape hasn’t been touched by humans. It’s that serene.
Don’t expect any amenities when you’re here. There are no real cafes, restaurants or lodgings on the beach. This means you should take everything you need with you on your trip. Snacks are a must!
Afterwards, you can drive to the geothermal pools at Íþróttamiðstöðin Brattahlíð swimming pools and hot tubs. It’s around a 35-minute drive from Raudisandur and the perfect place to warm up after a monring at the beach.
Right on the western fringes of Iceland, Seyðisfjörður (Google Maps pin), is a small community that’s so worth visiting if you’re driving Route 1 around Iceland. It’s one of the hidden places in Iceland that, really, I suppose, isn’t hidden at all. It’s a small town.
Now, what makes it special for me is that you can easily base yourself in Seyðisfjörður and explore more of Eastern Iceland.
Once here, don’t forget to drive to Gufu waterfall (Google Maps pin), which is totally beautiful and just shy of the town itself. Also, make sure to visit nearby Klifbrekku Waterfall (Google Maps pin) and visit the Vök Baths. These geothermal baths are right on the side of the lake, and they’re one of our favourites in all of Eastern Iceland.
7.) Kerid Crater
If you’re venturing mainly around the Golden Circle in Iceland, then stop off at the Kerid Crater. It’s pretty popular, but lots of visitors to Iceland miss this spot when self-driving the Golden Circle route itself.
Once here, you’ll pay an entrance fee and you’ll be able to explore the Kerid Crater and volcanic remains that make this area of Iceland so unique.
Staying in Reykjavik? To make things easier, book this amazing Golden Circle tour that includes a stop at the Kerid Crater. Visits take around 8-10 hours, and you’ll go through the whole region. It’s a great way to see the area, especially if you don’t drive (or just don’t want to).
Hverir (Google Maps pin) is one of our favourite geothermal areas in Iceland to visit and is totally unique. It’s nestled between volcanoes in the north of Iceland, about a 45-minute drive from Husavik. It’s one of the hidden places in Iceland to visit if you’re venturing into the lesser-discovered north of the island – and we love it!
After parking (for which there is a small fee), take a wander around these bubbling vents and sulphur pits. It honestly looks like another planet.
Also, if you’re driving, make sure to visit nearby Krafla Volcano (Google Maps pin), where you can walk around the rim of the caldera. It’s immense and so incredible to see in Iceland.
We visited a few times, and on our last visit, we were there at 1 am in the summer. It was still bright, and no one was around. It all felt so special.
Rauðhólar (Google Maps pin) is right next to Reykjavik, and so few people actually stop to visit or explore. It’s right in plain sight and one of the hidden places in Iceland that is totally easy to visit. You see, most visitors to Iceland just drive out of Reykjavik, thinking you need to travel vast distances to see Iceland’s awesome nature. That’s just not true, and Rauðhólar is the perfect example of this.
The volcanic area will take you around 25 minutes to stroll around and the landscape is beautiful.
10.) Krysuvik
Not too far from the Blue Lagoon is Krysuvik and Seltún Geothermal Area (Google Maps pin). Now, this is more of a stopping point, rather than a destination in itself, as visits will take only around 30 minutes. Though it can be easily added onto a wider trip around the Reykjanes Geopark area of Iceland, which is totally beautiful.
Around a 2.5-hour drive north of Reykjavik is the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. For some reason, everyone seems to miss this area of Iceland when visiting for the first time, but it’s so worth a trip if you want to find a more underrated or hidden place in Iceland.
Once you’re in the area, I’d recommend staying for a night or two to explore the wider Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We loved the area around Arnarstapi (Google Maps pin).
Make sure to see the rugged coastline at Gatklettur (Google Maps pin), and of course stroll the wider Arnarstapi Cliffs. Always be cautious with the winds in Iceland and never stand too close to the edge.
To make things extra special, book this private Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour from Reykjavik that will whisk you away to the untouched landscape of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It’s amazing and you’ll cover so much ground and see some of the best places around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with a qualified guide.
As far as travel trends go, none are making a splash in 2025 quite as hard as “noctourism.” In fact, Booking.com named it the No. 1 travel trend of the year. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: nocturnal tourism, ensuring people don’t just see their favorite destinations in the daylight. This trend is all about what happens in these spots after dark. And few spots are as spectacular after the sun goes down as Australia.
“We’re seeing an increase in visitors coming specifically for the night sky, but also for our nocturnal wildlife tours and dark-sky experiences,” Sarah Clark, the chief executive of Tourism Tasmania, recently shared with ABC. “Tourists are coming for the natural beauty during the day, but staying for the nighttime spectacles like the aurora. It’s a major driver for visitors, particularly from international markets.”
And while certainly gorgeous, travelers should stay up late for far more than the aurora.
From torchlit prison tours and twilight roof climbs, to artistic illuminations and private after-hours museum access, these seven nighttime experiences from Cultural Attractions of Australia members will make your next night visit to Australia all the more memorable.
Badu Gili projections depicting Celestial Navigation are seen on the Opera House sails.
Don Arnold/Getty Images
Badu Gili, Sydney Opera House
Every evening, the Sydney Opera House transforms into a glowing canvas as Badu Gili, which translates to “water light” in Gadigal language, illuminates the eastern Bennelong sails with spectacular First Nations art. The free art exhibit runs multiple times each evening after sunset, so check here for the full schedule.
Torchlight Tour, Fremantle Prison
Visit Western Australia’s only UNESCO World Heritage site after dark with a spooky and educational nighttime tour. The Torchlight Tour at Fremantle Prison takes visitors into the cells, tunnels, and courtyards of the prison, all by handheld light, with guides recounting the stories of those imprisoned in the 19th-century penitentiary. Book a tour here.
Night at the Gallery, National Gallery of Australia
Live out a real-life “Night at the Museum” experience at Canberra’s National Gallery, which opens its doors after hours for select Night at the Gallery events. Get access to marquee exhibitions, performances by local creatives, food and drink pop-ups, and a more intimate vibe than your average daytime visit. See exhibition dates here.
Visitors climb the roof of the Adelaide Oval.
Peter Parks/Getty Images
RoofClimb Twilight, Adelaide Oval
Get a bird’s-eye view of South Australia’s capital by signing up for the RoofClimb Twilight experience. As the sun sets, guests will strap in and ascend the curved rooftop of the Adelaide Oval, a historic sports arena, taking them all the way to the top. There, guests can gaze upon the twinkling city lights and the River Torrens below. Book your climb here.
Aura, Sovereign Hill
Aura is far from your average historic reenactment. This immersive nighttime show at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat includes projection mapping, storytelling, and sound design to help guests more deeply understand the impact of the discovery of gold in the area. Learn about the chapters of Australia’s history by booking the experience here.
The company of Carmen during a media preview of Handa Opera’s production of Carmen at Sydney Harbour.
James D. Morgan/Getty Images
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour
Experience the magic of live theater under the stars with open-air productions at the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbor. With seats over the water, the stars above, and the Sydney skyline behind you, it certainly has cinematic appeal. See what’s coming to the stage for your next visit here.
Dinner with David, MONA
Travelers can sit down for one of the most exclusive meals in the world with Dinner With David at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). The event, hosted by MONA founder David Walsh, is a rare experience that brings each guest into his orbit for an evening of food, wine, and unforgettable conversation. Get a seat at the table here.
If you’re in the market for a classic 12-cylinder Ferrari, there are quite a few options available. One of the iconic models from the 90s is the Testarossa, and the F512 M is definitely worth considering.
The Ferrari F512 M is rarer and more modern than the original Testarossa. Yes, it doesn’t have the pop-up headlights, but the flat-12 engine packs a greater punch.
A 1995 Ferrari F512 M is currently listed for sale on Bring a Trailer. There are a few genuine reasons why this particular car caught our attention. First up, it simply looks gorgeous in Rosso Corsa over tan leather and rides on 18-inch Speedline alloy wheels.
This is chassis no. 103233 that was delivered new to Italy before being imported to the US in 2025. It’s a one-owner car with just 6,200 miles on the clock. It comes with its original Blaupunkt cassette stereo, factory literature and service records. It received a Ferrari Classiche Red Book in 2016.
The F512 M was the last iteration of the Testarossa. Around 500 of these were built between 1994 and 1996. At its heart is a 4.9-liter flat-12 engine that produces 434 hp @ 6750 rpm and 370 lb-ft of torque @ 5500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed transaxle, which enables the car to sprint from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds, and it has a top speed of 196 mph.
Planning a Scotland road trip? Trying to figure out where to go and what to do during your visit? Here are the best Scotland itinerary ideas for variety of durations, including long weekends, 4-5 days, 7-10 days and 14+ days, although you can mix, match or extend as you wish!
Don’t forget to grab your free guide to the best places to see on a Scotland road trip below- to help you plan your perfect road trip.
*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own.
If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)
Scotland Road Trip- why visit?
Put simply- Scotland is just magical.
It’s one of those incredible places where you turn corner after corner and each is more breathtaking than the last! (Exactly the same as Norway).
You can expect to say ‘wow’ a lot and stop frequently to take a million photos of the scenery. And the Highland cows. And sheep.
Did I mention the scenery?
The problem is there is SO MUCH to see.
Planning a Scotland road trip can be DAUNTING. Trying to squeeze a visit to a country into just a few days is tough, but it IS possible to plan a Scotland travel itinerary with the best places to visit, as well as some places off the ‘beaten track’.
In this post, I’ll show you the best scenic routes & driving roads in Scotland, lochs, castles, towns you definitely should visit, plus how to visit the Scottish Highlands.
Whether you’re touring Scotland by car on a self-drive holiday, motorhoming or campervanning in Scotland or exploring by motorbike (or any other vehicle!), my map of my Scotland road trip will help you plan your own adventure.
How to plan a Scotland Road Trip
So, how DO you narrow down all the ‘must-visit’ places into a reasonable itinerary, especially if you only have a few days for your Scottish road trip?
Do you focus on visiting beautiful cities like Edinburgh, seeing the history of Scotland, like Culloden, visiting HARRY POTTER sites, hiking in the Highlands, driving the North Coast 500? Or a bit of everything??
In thisblog post of Scotland Itinerary ideas, I’ve included a bit of everything to allow you to create your perfect Scottish Road Trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
The Wandering Bird Scotland Road Trip Planner
Feel overwhelmed? Wish someone could do all the hard work for you?
You’re in luck!
If you want to enjoy a Scotland road trip without the weeks of planning and struggling to figure out where to visit first, consider using my Scotland Road Trip Planner.
Planning a trip to Scotland?
We’ve done the hard work for you!
Grab our complete Scotland travel planner and get:
80+ ideas for places to visit
Maps and itinerary suggestions
Routes and things to see along the way
Tips, customs and much much more!
Complied after years of experience touring and exploring Scotland, it contains all the best things to see and do, plus everything you need for incredible Scottish road trips for years to come.
It helps you compile a day-day plan for your trip, removing the stress whilst leaving you plenty of time to enjoy yourself, both before and during your trip!
Where should I go on a road trip in Scotland?
As you’ll see below, there are many (many!) beautiful places to visit in Scotland.
Your exact itinerary will be created from the things you enjoy. Plan a UK road trip itineraries like this and it’s not let me down yet!
For me, I prefer to stay away from big cities when I’m travelling in my motorhome and instead focus on areas like national parks, nature reserves, mountains, waterfalls… you get the idea.
‘Scenic Scotland’ does not disappoint- I’ve seen some of the most breathtaking places on my trips to Scotland, which I share with you in this itinerary.
Having said that, Edinburgh is an incredible city and well worth visiting if you can. So are several others. So don’t write off all towns and cities on your Scotland Road Trip itinerary just yet!
What is the best road trip in Scotland?
The ‘best road trip in Scotland’ is going to be subjective based on what you enjoy and also what the weather is like!
Certainly, the most famous road trip in Scotland is now the NC500 (North Coast 500 route), which is 516 miles of pure magic around the north of Scotland.
I’ve driven the NC500 in my motorhome and it was fantastic- highly highly recommend it (although NOT in the school holidays as it gets very crowded.)
The NC500 also includes John o’Groats, which has to be one of the most famous points in Scotland. The 10 day Scotland road trip itinerary I’ve included below also includes this landmark.
However, there are several incredibly scenic roads in Scotland which I highly recommend you explore- some of them are perfect for just a few days, while some require a little more time to drive.
How long does it take to road trip Scotland?
Oh, that’s an open question! How long do you have?
Whether you have a weekend, 5 days, 7-10 days or longer, you can absolutely fill your time. I know people who’ve spent 3 months exploring the Scottish Highlands and STILL didn’t see everything they wanted to.
The Scotland road trip itinerary below took me 10 days, but there are some bits you can miss if you only have 7 days for your trip. See my alternative 7-10 day North Coast 500 itinerary here.
Likewise, if you have longer, you can either travel more scenic routes around Scotland (especially on the Highlands tourist route), see more incredible places, do some more tours around Scotland, taste more whisky or just take your time and linger a while over your favourite places.
When I drove the North Coast 500, I took just under 14 days to do most of the loop. This was just the part in Scotland- it also took me a week to get up there!
TOP TIP for Scotland Road Trips: Be sure not to plan too much into your itinerary, as many of the roads are narrow and slower and you won’t be able to travel as far or as fast as you might expect.
How to travel around Scotland?
Scotland is very well connected to the rest of the UK; at least, the lowlands are. You can easily reach Glasgow and Edinburgh by road, train or air.
If you’re hiring a rental car or renting a motorhome, these are the two cities to aim for as there is so much choice.
Of course, if you’re driving your own vehicle up via England, there are plenty of motorways near the border, so it’s easy to travel around.
Of course, you can use public transport or even a guided tour if you prefer not to drive yourself, but for the purposes of this blog post, I’ll assume you have your own vehicle.
When is the best time to visit Scotland?
If you want to road trip Scotland and would like to increased your chances of enjoying good weather, then the best time to go is either late Spring/ early Summer (May or June) or in early Autumn (September/ October).
This way, you avoid the high crowds AND the midges, which are mostly around in July and August.
I did my NC500 tour in September/ October and the roads were fairly quiet, I had some fantastic weather (plus a couple of storms) and there were only a few patches with really bad midges. All in all, Autumn is usually a wonderful time for a Scottish adventure!
Want some more ideas for places to see in Autumn? Here are 27 of the best places to experience Autumn in Europe.
Scotland Road Trip Map and Itinerary
The map below shows one of my Scotland trips, the 10-day driving route tour of Scotland.
I travelled from the Isle of Skye to John o’Groats using the main driving roads (which are quicker), but otherwise, I tried to take scenic roads where possible (although that’s not always easy in a Motorhome!)
Because I only had 10 days, my itinerary missed out the beautiful west coast of Scotland. If you have extra time, I highly recommend doing this coastline (part of the NC500 route) as it contains some of the prettiest views in Scotland.
Scotland Itinerary Road Trip Map
This Scotland Itinerary is around 800 miles (1300km), with around 23 hours of actual driving over a 10 day trip.
The map starts on the west coast of Scotland, but, of course, you can do the drive in reverse if you prefer.
My Scotland Itinerary planner:
Planning a trip to Scotland?
We’ve done the hard work for you!
Grab our complete Scotland travel planner and get:
80+ ideas for places to visit
Maps and itinerary suggestions
Routes and things to see along the way
Tips, customs and much much more!
Scotland Itinerary Ideas- Day One
Start your Scotland tour in either Edinburgh or Glasgow. Of the two, I much prefer Edinburgh…
(That sound you hear is me being skinned alive… one of my best friends comes from Glasgow. Sorry hon xx)
Edinburgh
The city of Edinburgh- a great place to start or end your Scottish road trip
Edinburgh is the perfect city to dip in and out of. There’s always something going on.
If you’re looking for a relaxing long weekend in the UK, you could fly up to Edinburgh. Similarly, if you only have 3 or 4 days in Scotland, it’s a wonderful start to get a taste of the country.
Don’t miss visiting Edinburgh Castle, which has spectacular views over the rest of the city and Arthur’s Seat.
I also recommend a visit to George Street (grab a cocktail from the Dome) and enjoy the atmosphere, especially around Christamas.
Rose Street and Cockburn Street have wonderful independent boutiques where you can find great gifts (for others or yourself!)
Driving in Edinburgh
Before we go any further… DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH.
No. Really.
Let me repeat that so it sinks in.
DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH!!!
I tried it in the past. With a Motorbike trailer on the back.
It did not go well. There are NO Motorhome parking spaces near the City Centre. And the streets are narrow and not designed for lorries, let alone Motorhomes!
I stopped in Edinburgh for a few hours and, honestly, the only thing I did was see Edinburgh Castle- which is beautiful but left me wanting more. I was gutted as I’d already planned a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh– yes, really.
If you enjoy food- you’re in for a real treat- Edinburgh has some FANTASTIC eating places. Here are 10 vegan-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh for everyone to enjoy.
Where to stay
There are plenty of places to stay in Edinburgh. If you’re in a motorhome, stay outside the city and get public transport in. I recommend the Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome club site.
If you’re driving a car, book a hotel with parking, as it can be difficult to find in the city centre. The Sheraton Grand Hotel, which has rooms overlooking Edinburgh Castle, is a brilliant option if you want to treat yourself.
Glasgow
There is PLENTY of things to see and do in Glasgow and you can easily spend a couple of days enjoying the city before you set off on your driving holiday.
TOP TIP– If you’re not from the UK and you don’t really understand football (soccer!), don’t mention football in Glasgow.
The rivalry between Celtic and Rangers fans (both clubs are based in Glasgow) is HUGE and openly supporting the wrong one could end in tears- for you. Different pubs support different teams and it frequently gets… heated!!
Scotland Road Trip DAY 2- LOCH LOMOND and the Trossachs National Park
Loch Lomond- the perfect addition to your Scotland Itinerary
Loch Lomond National Park
Ok, now that you’ve enjoyed a couple of days in Glasgow or Edinburgh, let’s head up into the ‘real’ Scotland. Loch Lomond is one of my favourite spots, and is definitely one of the must-visit places in Scotland.
Loch Lomond is actually part of the Trossachs National Park, which has 22 lochs! Loch Lomond is the biggest. You can kayak, paddleboard, canoe and even hire jet-skis in the summer. There are 30 islands on Loch Lomond alone to explore- plenty to keep you occupied if you want to stay for a few days.
The loch is absolutely breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky enough to see it on a sunny day.
Don’t believe me? See it for yourself:
WATCH VIDEO of us at Loch Lomond (and seeing the Harry Potter sites!)
Wild Camping/Parking in Scotland
Wild Camping is regulated within the Trossachs National Park, so be careful where you park up for the night if you’re in a camper. You need to have a permit between March and September and can only stay in approved areas.
Find out more about wild camping in Scotland here
Road Trip Scotland DAY 3- Oban and Fort William
Beautiful sunset near Oban- another place to visit on your Scotland Road Trip
If you have time while you’re touring Scotland, detour to Oban. I LOVE this town- it has the prettiest harbour and in Summer you can do a ferry tour out to some of the islands- well worth the trip on a calm day.
I stayed here in a log cabin a many years ago (before I got a motorhome) and the views were spectacular- especially at night.
I remember standing outside the log cabin and gazing up at the stars in absolute amazement- they were so bright and clear. Magical.
Another detour worth the effort is to Devil’s Pulpit– a hidden waterfall between the rocks. Full directions can be found here.
Fort William is known as ‘the gateway to Ben Nevis’, which is the UK’s highest peak. It’s also close to Steall Falls– the second highest waterfall in Scotland at 120m and the waterfall in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in case you’re wondering!! (Check out these other beautiful waterfalls in Europe)
Getting there is about a 2.5 miles walk and takes about 1.5-2 hours depending on how often you stop. It’s suitable for kids, as you can read here.
Scotland Itinerary DAY 4- Harry Potter Time!
Scotland is full of places used in the Harry Potter films. I have visited a few of them, all on the way to Mallaig (where the ferry is for the Isle of Skye. In one day I saw:
See the Glenfinnan Viaduct on your Scotland Road Trip
Glenfinnan Viaduct
This is the viaduct made famous in the Harry Potter films. You can walk right up to the base of it.
You can also ride on the Jacobite Steam train, which is the one used for the film and which goes straight over the viaduct! The train goes from Fort William to Mallaig and does get booked up well in advance, so be sure to book early!
I got my favourite travel drone out and took some amazing shots of the viaduct and Loch Sheil, as you can see in the video above.
Loch Shiel
This is the loch used as Hogwarts Lake, along with Loch Morar. This is where Buckbeak dips a happy toe (claw?) in the waters in Prisoner of Azkaban.
I parked in the visitor centre on the shores of Loch Shiel, which also allowed a walk up the slope for incredible views of the viaduct, even in the rain!
Scotland Road Trip- Loch Shiel
Dumbledore’s Grave
Loch Eilt, along the same road as the viaduct and Loch Shiel, is where the little island of Eilean na Mòine lies, which played the starring role as the site of Dumbledore’s Grave.
I sent the drone up to get a picture of this beautiful island… but alas, Mr WB is NOT a die-hard Harry Potter fan (boo!) and therefore had no idea which island he was meant to be filming. Bless him, at least he tried!
It’s about an hour drive from the western end of Loch Ness to Mallaig, which is where the ferry to Skye goes from. You can also drive over the bridge to the Skye- but it’s much further north.
Click to learn more about the Scotland Travel Planner
Scotland Road Trip Itinerary DAY 5 & 6- Isle of Skye
Isle of Skye- part of our Scotland itinerary
Search “Isle of Skye” on Google and you’ll get pages and pages of blog posts and itineraries, all waxing lyrical about the beauty of Skye. And they’re right- it is beautiful. And there is loads to see and do.
As long as it’s not raining!!
My Isle of Skye itinerary contains things to do in the sunshine, but also things to do in the rain- as it rained for 48 hours when I visited!
I am not a ‘hike whatever the weather’ person and I really don’t enjoy getting sopping wet climbing a mountain when there’s no view anyway, so you might find that itinerary useful if the weather is looking… unpleasant.
Having said that, Skye is beautiful and well worth a trip if you’re touring the west coast of Scotland.
Driving Scotland Day 7- Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness and up to Thurso
Eilean Donan Castle- a must visit castle in Scotland
Eilean Donan
This was one of the longer driving days- about 5 hours and 350km. Leave Skye and head up towards Thurso, stopping at the incredible Eilean Donan Castle on the way.
I didn’t go inside, as I knew I had a long day ahead, but it’s beautiful from the outside. There’s also a little cafe at the carpark here which does a great coffee!
DECISION TIME
At Eilean Donan, you need to make a decision. Do you keep driving up to Loch Ness, or start on the NC500 route? If you’re going up the western coast, this is where you turn off and start the slower (but probably prettier) roads. If you don’t have the extra time, stick to the faster roads via Loch Ness.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
You can’t come to Scotland and not stop to search for the Loch Ness monster-especially if you have young children.
Loch Ness village itself is VERY touristy. It’s ok for young kids, but it’s pretty expensive, so if you’re on a budget you might want to keep driving and stop at one of the many laybys alongside the loch.
You can also visit Urquhart castle, which are impressive ruins along the shore of Loch Ness. There is parking here, but it can be limited for Motorhomes, so be prepared to have to park some distance away in high season.
Alternatively, why not treat yourself to a boat trip on Loch Ness and be taken there in style!!
Driving Tips for Scotland
Be aware of your fuel levels on this part of the trip- I passed very few fuel stations.
I did debate going all around the western edge and completing the NC500 (there are some beautiful campsites on the North Coast 500), but I only had 10 days for touring Scotland, so I decided to cut across to save time, plus see Loch Ness and to escape the rain!
I used the A87, which passes down the side of Loch Clunie, a hydroelectric dam. It’s a beautiful place for a picnic if the weather is pleasant.
If you have time, Inverness is definitely worth a visit. Again, I made a compromise and chose to visit Orkney instead- I’ll get to that shortly!
Highlands Road Trip Day 8 – John o’Groats and Duncansby Stacks
We made it to John o’Groats on motorbikes!
John o’Groats
John o’Groats is one of those places which is a bit tacky but you need to go just to tick it off the list!
It was great to make it and see the famous post, but the place is a little underwhelming! There are a few tourist shops, a harbour and a snack shack- that’s about it!
That’s the weirdest thing about travelling- when you finally get to your destination, it can sometimes feel a little hollow. But I was blessed with INCREDIBLE weather at John o’Groats- definitely made up for the misery of Skye!
Duncansby Stacks
Duncansby Stacks near John o’Groats- part of our Scotland driving Tour
Whilst I was at John o’Groats, I saw a postcard of the Duncansby stacks, which were apparently just down the road! I’d never heard of them before, but they looked pretty, so I decided to pay them a visit.
They’re a little tricky to find but well worth the effort! Basically, head for Duncansby lighthouse and park right next to the lighthouse. Then walk (with the lighthouse on your left) over the field and keep going- you’ll see them from the bottom of that field. PLEASE be careful with kids and dogs… it’s a sheer cliff and a long drop.
Here’s the first EVER video where I flew the drone over the sea… the views of the shoreline and the rocks are incredible.
Dunnet Head
I stayed at Dunnet Bay campsite near John o’Groats for a couple of nights. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to stay, I highly recommend this campsite- lovely wardens, great little shop and stunning location right on the beach!! Just look at this view!!
Dunnet Bay Campsite in Scotland- fantastic motorhome parking by the beach
Day 9 – One day trip to Orkney
Orkney- an unexpected addition to our Highlands driving itinerary- but well worth it!
I didn’t plan to visit Orkney during my first Scotland road trip- and I definitely didn’t plan to visit Orkney on my motorbike (back when I travelled with my motorbike).
However, the day after I visited John o’Groats, the weather was still beautiful and I learnt I could get to Orkney by ferry for just the day- so I did! It is a beautiful place, although VERY busy in July and full of tourists.
Still, if you have the time, you should try to add Orkney into your itinerary. If you don’t want to drive, there are guided tours by coach which go all day, so book yourself onto one of them.
Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Day 10- Dunrobin Castle and Aviemore
Beautiful places to visit on a Scotland Road Trip- Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is possibly one of my favourite castles. It’s about a 90-minute drive south from Thurso. It’s the largest castle in the Northern Highlands- and set in the most breathtaking scenery! You can pay to walk the gardens, but I decided to press on and head south before the rain closed in.
Aviemore & The Cairngorms
If you enjoy hiking and national parks, you need to put the Cairngorms onto your bucket list. It’s the largest National Park in the UK and was voted as one of the top 20 places to visit IN THE WORLD by National Geographic.
The park is 4500 square kms and contains a fantastic mixture of mountains, scenic views, castles, whiskey distilleries and outdoor pursuits.
One of the most popular reasons to visit is hiking. There are multiple trails and walks within the park (you can purchase guidebooks at the tourist offices), or you can just turn up and wander wherever you fancy.
Dog walking is allowed, but the area is full of wildlife, so please be cautious and obey local signage. A word of caution– the weather can change VERY quickly in this area, so please carry appropriate equipment/ clothing.
If hiking isn’t for you, how about another sport? Within the Cairngorms you can enjoy cycling, skiing (in winter), golf, fishing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, windsurfing or gorgewalking. There are several watersports centres in the park and they offer lessons and gear hire.
Aviemore is in the Cairngorms National Park and is Scotland’s winter sports mecca, but there’s plenty to do in the summer too, including a visit to the famous Speyside Distilleries.
Restaurants and shops were open, as were many outdoor activities for all ages. The Aviemore website is a great place to find out more.
If you’re not wild camping in Scotland in a motorhome or camper, there are plenty of places to stay within the park, including local B & Bs, hotels, hostels, campsites and log cabins.
The Perfect Scotland Itinerary idea
As you’ve seen, this Scotland driving itinerary can be adapted to suit all tastes, vehicles, abilities and durations.
If you’ve only got a few days in Scotland, don’t cram too much in- you’ll get overwhelmed and exhausted.
Conversely, if you’re retired and have no deadline, take your time to really explore the culture and heritage of this wonderful country.
Some things you need to know about Scotland before you go.
Scotland is part of the UK, so they speak English *I really want to insert a bad Scottish joke here… but I’ll be good! ;)*
British Pound is the currency. Don’t worry if you get notes saying ‘Bank of Scotland’ instead of Bank of England- they are all Pound Sterling (although some places in England get funny about taking Bank of Scotland notes- there’s no reason for this; it’s perfectly legal tender.)
There is another language in Scotland called Gaelic (pronounced GAH-LICK) which is technically the National language, but only 1% of the population speak it. You might see some signs in Gaelic around the country, but there will always be an English version too! (It’s the same in Wales- see my Wales road trip itinerary ideas here)
Driving in Scotland isn’t any scarier than anywhere else with mountains. They drive on the left, just like the rest of the UK.
There is no proper border between Scotland and England, so you can explore Scotland from England without taking a passport. I drove right up after my England Road Trip
Weather in Scotland- is it suitable for a driving holiday?
It rained solidly for 3 days on the west coast- the Isle of Skye was a complete washout, even in July, but up at John o’Groats it was beautiful weather- so I detoured and went up there instead!
My suggestion is to plan your itinerary on Google Maps, and then be as flexible as possible to work around the weather. This is obviously easier if you are touring Scotland in a camper, instead of driving in a car and using hotels, but do the best you can.
The weather in Scotland can change very quickly, so please dress appropriately and take suitable clothing if hiking etc.
What is the best month to visit Scotland?
If you’re driving in Scotland, the best months to visit are April- October. Roads should be free of snow then and the temperature is warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. My favourite time to visit Scotland is June or October. (Want more ideas for October travel? Here are 15 of the best places to enjoy Europe in October)
Planning a trip to Scotland?
We’ve done the hard work for you!
Grab our complete Scotland travel planner and get:
80+ ideas for places to visit
Maps and itinerary suggestions
Routes and things to see along the way
Tips, customs and much much more!
When is peak tourist season in Scotland?
UK school holidays are July and August. I would try to avoid these if you possibly can.
Where is the most beautiful place in Scotland?
There are too many to pick just one and a lot will depend on the weather. Personally, I love Loch Lomond and Glen Coe, Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan viaduct- but that was because I’m a Harry Potter nerd.
I also love the Cairngorms and the Scottish highlands are always breathtaking- you need to include them on your Scotland road trip!
But some of the most beautiful places on mainland Scotland have to be on the western coast- the beaches are stunning. So are the fairy pools on Skye if you get them on a sunny day.
Don’t forget to grab my free list of 57 best (and secret!) places in Scotland (which includes the pyramid in Scotland!
What is the best way to travel around Scotland?
In my opinion, a road trip holiday is the best way to see Scotland- and by that I mean a self-drive holiday, not a tour. Having your own vehicle allows you to set your own itinerary, plan your visits, pick the best roads in Scotland and generally be more in control.
Having a motorhome or campervan will further increase your flexibility and allow you to choose the scenic route based on weather or interest, not on hotels you’ve booked.
How far are the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh?
Did you know there is actually a place called Highland in the Scottish Highlands?? Driving time from Edinburgh to Highland is 3 hours and 15 minutes (157 miles)
How long does it take to drive to Scotland?
Well, this obviously depends on where you’re starting from (!) but driving to Scotland (from London to Edinburgh) takes about 7 and a half hours.
If you’ve been road tripping in Cornwall and want to drive from Lands End to John o’Groats, it will take you about 15 hours non-stop.
How long does it take to tour Scotland?
As long as you have- or as long as you let it!! 🙂 If you are lucky enough to have longer than a couple of weeks to explore Scotland, there are LOADS of places to visit you can add into your itinerary.
Have you visited Scotland? Where was your favourite place? If you haven’t, where would you like to go first?
You arrive in Kraków thinking it’s just another pretty European city. But something shifts once you’re here.
The pace changes. You start walking slower, noticing more. A street corner smells like fresh bread. A tram rings its bell like it’s announcing something important. You’re not rushing.
And that’s when Kraków starts to speak to you.
If it’s your first visit – even if you’ve only got two or three days – here’s how the city might unfold for you.
Morning Light and Coffee in the Square
Everyone says to begin at the Main Square, so you do. But what no one tells you is how it feels at 8am – before the horses, the tours, the crowd. The light is softer. A few locals are setting up their market stalls. Someone plays a saxophone under the Cloth Hall arches, not for money – just because.
You grab a coffee and sit on a bench. You’re not thinking about what’s next. You’re just… here.
Later, maybe you step into St. Mary’s Basilica and hear the sudden hush inside. Or you head underground, to the Rynek Underground Museum, and find yourself walking through layers of stone and stories beneath the surface of the city. It’s not loud history. It’s quiet, real, and close.
St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow’s city center.
A Castle That Doesn’t Need to Show Off
You wander uphill toward Wawel, not entirely sure if you’re doing it “right.” And that’s fine – this place doesn’t need explanations. You’ll see students sketching the courtyard, a bride posing for photos, someone eating lunch on the grass by the walls.
The view over the river makes you pause without even realising it. You might enter the Cathedral just because the door’s open, and stay longer than expected because the silence feels right.
Wawel castle in Krakow, Poland.
Kazimierz Has Its Own Rhythm – And You Fall Into It
There’s a shift when you step into Kazimierz. It’s not curated. It’s real. You pass cracked windows and overflowing flower pots. A man sells pickles out of the back of his van. Someone plays jazz on a battered keyboard. You weren’t looking for anything – but you find a corner café that becomes your temporary home.
You stop by the Remuh Synagogue and cemetery. No tour guide. Just you and the uneven stones.
Kazimierz in Krakow, Poland.
History That Gets Under Your Skin
The Oskar Schindler Factory isn’t loud. It doesn’t try to shock. It lets the details do the work – the name on a typewriter ribbon, a child’s shoes behind glass, a black-and-white street photo with no caption.
The rooms carry you through wartime Kraków slowly, and by the time you reach the end, something in you has shifted.
👉 Take the Schindler Factory tour if you can. The guide connects the dots – not with facts, but with stories.
When you leave, you don’t speak much. You just carry it with you.
Schindler’s factory in Krakow, Poland.
Across the River, a Different Kind of Stillness
Crossing into Podgórze, everything quiets down. Wide streets, old tenements, a slower heartbeat.
Then you see them – the chairs in Ghetto Heroes Square. No need for plaques. Each one sits there in silence, and you understand more than any description could explain.
Nearby, the Eagle Pharmacy still feels like a place of quiet resistance. It’s small, but it stays with you.
A Walk That Brings You Back to the Present
You need to breathe after all that. And the Vistula River is where the city lets you. You follow the path. A dog jumps into the water. Someone’s playing guitar under the bridge. Teenagers sit on the grass, sharing stories, music, snacks.
As the sun drops behind Wawel, you realise this is your favourite moment of the day – the in-between, the unscheduled.
Vistula River in Krakow, Poland.
With One More Day…
If Kraków gives you more time, it’s generous with what you can see. Two places make an impression that lasts long after you leave:
Wieliczka Salt Mine – like entering a dream. A cathedral carved from salt, hundreds of feet underground.
Auschwitz-Birkenau – difficult, necessary. You go quietly. You leave with a heavy heart. And that’s exactly why you go.
Practical Tips for Your First Visit
Kraków is easy to fall into, but a few things can make your first trip even smoother. Here’s what I’ve learned – sometimes the hard way.
Getting around
The Old Town, Kazimierz and Podgórze are best explored on foot – they’re walkable and full of details you’d miss from a taxi. For longer trips, trams are reliable and cheap. You don’t need a car. Uber and Bolt work well too.
Cash or card?
Most places accept cards, even small cafés and bakeries. But it’s still smart to carry a bit of cash (Polish złoty), especially for market stalls or older shops.
Where to stay
If it’s your first time, look for a place in or near the Old Town or Kazimierz. You’ll be able to walk to most spots, and the atmosphere is hard to beat – especially in the evening.
When to visit
Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and plenty going on. July and August can be hot and packed. December has Christmas markets, but it gets cold – dress warmly.
What to eat
Don’t overthink it. Try pierogi (dumplings), zapiekanki (Polish street pizza), barszcz (beet soup), and obwarzanek (a twisted bread sold from blue carts around town). For something sweet, go for sernik (Polish cheesecake) or szarlotka (apple pie).
Language
You’ll get by with English almost everywhere in central Kraków. Learning a few Polish words (like dziękuję – thank you) goes a long way and often gets you a smile.
Tour bookings
If you plan to visit popular spots like the Schindler Factory, Wieliczka Salt Mine, or Auschwitz-Birkenau, it’s best to book in advance – especially in high season. Guided tours are often worth it, not just for the convenience, but for the context they provide.
Last Thoughts Before You Go
Kraków isn’t a place that needs to be conquered. You don’t have to “see it all.” Let yourself slow down. Watch. Listen. Let the city reveal what it wants to.
Take fewer photos. Drink the coffee hot. Ask for directions even if you know the way. Get lost on purpose at least once.
That’s when the good stuff happens.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
Pack your best kaftans and consider upgrading that SPF — there’s a new player on the Turkish Riviera, and it’s coming for your sun-drenched, Aperol-fueled dreams. Meet XO Cape Arnna, the debut jewel in the glitzy tiara of the new XO Collection, which officially flung open its impeccably landscaped doors on April 15. It’s part all-inclusive haven, part Bond-villain lair — only instead of world domination, it’s focused on curated cocktails, synchronised pool choreography, and massages involving actual Himalayan salt.
Located just outside Fethiye (aka the Riviera’s charmingly understated cousin to showy Bodrum), this sprawling 100,000sqm wonderland promises to “redefine luxury”. And redefine it they have — by building not one, but two resorts in one: The Club (adults only), and the Resort (bring the kids, the grandparents, the inflatable flamingos—everyone’s welcome). Let’s begin where all proper holidays do: poolside.
With 37 heated and cooled pools — because why should you ever experience the discomfort of water not being your exact preferred temperature — you’ll never be more than a few steps from your next languid float or poolside selfie. Bonus points for the in-pool seating areas, where you can ponder life’s big questions (like, “Is three mojitos too many before lunch?”) from the comfort of a submerged bar stool.
Families rejoice: there’s a private water park, complete with six slides that sound suspiciously like theme park rides (“black hole” and “aquatube,” anyone?). Meanwhile, grown-ups can sneak off to The Club, where private cabanas and sunken hot tubs whisper, “You deserve this.” And let’s talk rooms — 530 of them.
From two-bedroom Grand Family Suites to penthouses with personal plunge pools and saunas (because heaven forbid you share), the design language is all warm beiges, rust reds, and minimalist Mediterranean chic — with just enough stone, wood and backlit mirrors to keep your Instagram glowing.
The food scene? Oh, only 17 restaurants. Yes, seventeen. If you’re the type who feels a buffet is beneath you, allow Seasons by XO Gastro to wine and dine you with Ottoman-inspired fare. Or head to Sun Tzu, where sushi meets the Turkish coast, and sashimi pairs perfectly with sunset views.
For sweets? Dedicated patisseries and ice cream parlors mean you can keep your blood sugar high and your spirits higher. And should you grow restless between meals, fear not: There’s a sailing academy, martial arts classes, Padel Tennis, and even aerial yoga, in case you’ve ever wanted to work on your core while suspended from the ceiling like a Cirque du Soleil understudy.
Wellness warriors will be pleased to know there’s a spa complex that’s practically its own postcode: Turkish hammams, bio saunas, an igloo room, and treatments so elaborate they might just reverse time. When the sun goes down, the resort doesn’t. Expect live performances, theme nights, beach parties, and festivals — because apparently, sleep is optional when you’re this well-fed and pampered.
In short? This is what happens when a luxury resort looks at the concept of “all-inclusive” and says, “Cute. Now watch this.” Whether you’re a couple in need of a curated adults-only escape or a family with children to exhaust, there’s a slice of paradise here with your name on it (likely embroidered into your pool robe).
Final verdict: It’s lavish, it’s sprawling, it’s got more pools than you have swimsuits. XO Cape Arnna doesn’t just mark the spot — it is the spot. Just don’t be surprised if your “long weekend getaway” turns into a recurring summer tradition.
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Nestled within the green valleys of Mid Wales, the Elan Valley might just be one of Wales’ most scenic and underrated places to visit. Now, what makes the Elan Valley even more special is that there are heaps of trails, lakes (or reservoirs) and stunning drives to take.
Over the years, I’ve visited the Elan Valley many times, and honestly, it’s beautiful. It’s one of those things about Wales, there’s always some view, some region or stunning coastline to visit. In fact, I’d go as far as saying that’s the beauty of Wales; it’s nature.
Now, to make sure you get the most out of your visit, I’m sharing my Elan Valley travel guide that will help you navigate one of Wales’ most beautiful places.
How to get to the Elan Valley?
Okay, so the public transport infrastructure, outside of main areas in Wales, is quite limited. Almost non-existent in certain areas. It’s fine if you’re following higher populated routes like North Wales or South Wales – but it is harder in that middle bit.
If you want to visit by train, the easiest stop to get off at is Llandrindod Wells (Google Maps pin) in the county of Powys. Again, most towns around this rural region of Wales are small, so choices can be limited (but not obsolete) when it comes to finding hotels or inns to stay at.
Personally, just due to the geographic region and limited train and bus options, I’d always recommend visiting the Elan Valley by car. The roads are great, a little winding, but great nonetheless.
Where to stay in the Elan Valley?
For a larger base to stay in, you can consider the town of Aberystwyth (which is about a 75-minute drive) or much closer places like Llanguirig (Google Maps pin) or Builth Wells. Alternatively, if you fancy camping in Wales, then check out nearby Glangwy Farm Camping. It’s a lovely site in the heart of the Elan Valley, making it so easy to drive to and from here.
Where to visit in the Elan Valley?
One place I always recommend visiting in the Elan Valley is the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. The team here are great to advise on routes, closures, advice on trails and to learn more about the history of Elan Valley itself.
Also, right next to it is the Cnwch Wood trail that will lead you out, beyond the woods, to Caban Coch, one of the four largest lakes in the Elan Valley region. You can also drive next to the Elan Valley Public Footpath that takes you around some of the biggest lakes here. This is a great way to get your bearings of the area, or if you have limited mobility. You still get to see so much of the incredible scenery, regardless of whether it’s on foot or by car.
Now, as you wander passed Caban Coch lake, you want to make sure you also stop off at Garreg Ddu lake. They almost feel like the same body of water, and there’s just a road separating the two. Once here, be sure to spot the iconic Foel Valve Tower (Google Maps pin).
Be sure to visit Pen y Garreg and Craig Goch lakes too. Both of these are stunning, and you can kind of follow the road from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and see them all. They almost look like ribbon lakes, but obviously created to collect water.
Oh, and my Elan Valley travel guide would be complete without me recommending the lovely Elan Valley Waterfall Trail, which is around 1 mile or so. It’s a relatively easy hike – more of an intense stroll and totally easy to follow if you fancy getting out from behind the wheel of the car.
Alternatively, just stick to the Garreg Ddu Loop, which makes it easy to follow as you know you’ll end up back where you started. It’s always an easier option if you’re not great with map reading.
I forgot to mention! In the summer months, there are ‘Dam Open Days‘ where you can actually go inside the dams themselves. It’s actually much more interesting than it sounds and well worth checking out on these self-guided tours. There’s a small charge to go inside, but it really isn’t too much at all.
Earlier today, a Mercedes-AMG One hypercar was completely destroyed after it caught fire. Videos showing the car engulfed in flames have surfaced on social media, but there isn’t much information out there at this time.
Videos posted by @chrimbu on Instagram show firefighters trying to put out the fire, which already appears to have burnt through the rear section of the car. The second video shows the aftermath, where the AMG One has been reduced to a pile of burnt metal and carbon fibre.
As I said at the outset, little is known about this accident. Mercedes-Benz will most likely be investigating it thoroughly, and only then will we get to know the exact cause of the fire.
The AMG One was designed as a Formula 1 car for the street. It is powered by the same 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine. The IC engine is paired with two electric motors for a combined output of 1063 hp. Mercedes claims the AMG One will do 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds and 0-124 mph in 7 seconds.
This particular chassis was finished in Emerald Green Metallic and had a beige leather interior.
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