a one day trip

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Everyone needs to getaway sometimes

What is a one day trip.

A one day trip is a mini vacation, a shot of adventure squeezed delightfully into 24 hours. That could be traveling after work to your hotel and spending the evening at the theater or on a boat cruise then filling the next day with some urban exploring. Maybe you like to travel in the morning, fill your day with adventures, then relax in your hotel and head home the next morning. Explore our library of one day getaway ideas to get your imagination going and design your dream one day trip around your schedule.

What are some great one day vacation ideas?

Pull on your walking boots, rent a bike, or take to the water on a wonderful outdoors adventure then stay in a luxury cabin for the ultimate detox reset. You might prefer to load up on culture by exploring museums before sipping classy cocktails in a chic hotel bar on a one-day city break. At Expedia, we help you discover new places for your one day getaway and find the right flights, accommodation, and car rental to get you there easily.

How do I find the best one day getaways?

Enter your starting location, destination, and travel dates and explore the fantastic selection of packages that include flights and accommodation. Alternatively, you can build your own one day getaway vacation by clicking on hotels, car rental, things to do, vacation rentals and flights separately. It’s easy to compare prices, find your best option, then just click to book—simple!

Are there any day trip ideas for couples?

Escape for a night in a luxury cabin with ocean views or celebrate a special occasion on a romantic one day getaway in a hotel with a hot tub. Yes, sip bubbles while sitting in bubbles—you know the right short break will bring you closer together.

How do I find one day getaway deals?

Search through the fantastic deals available for you on an impressive selection of one day getaway packages, hotels, and flights. Simply enter your location, destination, and travel dates then compare prices. Our filters make it easy for you to narrow your search by price, location, and amenities. If you’re flexible about when you travel, you could try changing the dates for even more variety.

Why should I book a one day getaway with Expedia?

At Expedia, you save money and enjoy a hassle-free booking journey to booking and your dream one day getaway. There’s a huge range of great escapes just a click away. 

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A practical guide to planning the perfect day trip

Get your fill of adventure and exploration—no overnight stay required

By Archana Ram

There’s a lot to love about the open road: fresh air, incredible sights, connecting with people in a new place. But sometimes life gets in the way, be it a lack of vacation days or kids waiting for you at home. That’s why we love day trips. It packs that sense of wanderlust into a neatly edited one-day excursion. You don’t have to lug a carry-on or figure out how you’ll fit your backpacks, cooler, tent, and sleeping bags into the car.

But just because it’s a single day doesn’t mean some planning isn’t required. With a little foresight, you can make the very most out of a 24-hour getaway, from packing the right provisions to loading your phone with helpful apps. Here’s what you need to know:

How to plan

Consider budget. Cost factors into everything, from where you’ll go to which restaurants you’ll eat at to permits you’ll need to enter national parks. Deciding in advance how much you want to spend—especially when traveling with a group—can help make decisions on where to go and what to buy that much easier. And keep in mind some places (i.e. museums, hot springs, etc.) offer discounts for locals.

Pick your theme. Before you get to the “where,” think about the “what.” Maybe it’s making stops along Route 66 , hiking forest trails, or exploring eerie old resorts. Whatever the theme, stick to one or two to avoid a watered down itinerary. Then, once you’ve got your themes figured out, start making lists of all the top locales that align with them—ideally focusing on places no more than three hours away to maximize trip time.

Limit your areas. Some people fall into the trap of packing too much into a day trip because it’s, well, a day trip. But there’s no point in returning home ragged after running around all over town. Once you’ve picked your destination, try to concentrate on two or three specific  areas. It’ll give you more time to hit the streets, trails, and coastlines, rather than spending all of your time in the car. Remember, it’s about connecting with the place, not getting a superficial scope of things. For example, instead of trying to traverse the whole stretch of Joshua Tree National Park —which can take several hours even without making any significant stops—pick a side, like the western portion, where you’ll find the titular trees (you’ll have extra time to scout the antique shops in town, too!).

What about weather? Do you like the blaring heat? What about getting rained on? These factors can help whittle down options for places and timing. But remember, if you don’t mind putting up with some less-than-perfect conditions, you could be rewarded with fewer crowds. But crowds aside, always be aware of weather conditions and safety.

Examine your car. You want to make the most of your getaway without any car troubles sucking up precious time. Before hitting the road, take the time to ensure your car is armed with a full tank of gas, oil, jumper cables, and flat tire fixes—whether that’s a jack and spare or the number for roadside assistance. And if you’re driving in winter conditions, make sure you have the proper cold weather provisions .

Check schedules. Maybe you’re visiting a museum. Or touring an iconic landmark. If your attraction comes with a timetable, double check to make sure it’ll be open both the day and times you want to visit.

What to pack

Charger. Admit it—your phone is basically another appendage, and on a day trip you’ll likely use it for navigation, music, and finding places to stop. That all takes a lot of juice, so bring either a USB cable to charge within your car or a remote battery pack.

Phone mount. Looking down at the GPS while driving is dangerous. There are plenty of dashboard options out there, some of which even have wireless and solar charging capabilities.

Bring cash . Stash some dollar bills in your wallet and put that ATM fee toward your tip at a roadside diner or a unique find at an antique shop. Many local, mom-and-pop establishments don’t accept credit cards or any form of digital payment.

Flashlight. We know it’s a “day” trip, but should you have car trouble, drop your keys in the grass, or need to see exactly where to pick up the dog poop, you’ll be thankful you have a light at the end of the day. A headlamp is an even easier, allowing you to go hands-free.

Snacks. In case chips and cookies from the local service station don’t sound appealing, oranges, bananas, nuts, and peanut butter sandwiches hold up well. And if you pack enough food, you might even consider subbing those as a lunch-on-the-go so you can make time for other activities.

SPF. Whether it’s 80 degrees and sunny or sub-zero and snowing, if you’re outside, you should always think about protecting your skin. And if you plan to swim in the ocean, opt for a reef-friendly sunscreen .

Water. This can actually be an easy one to forget. Aim for at least one reusable bottle per person. (And don’t forget about the dog !)

Cooler. Larger ones are ideal for beaches and parks. Cooler backpacks are a better idea if you plan to hike or bike.

Towels. They come in handy for everything from picnicking to hitting the beach to cleaning up after muddy treks.

When to ditch the plans

There’s merit in planning things ahead of time. It can mean less traffic, fewer disappointments if something is closed, and avoiding unnecessary purchases. But we all know that spontaneity is what makes a road trip truly memorable. So don’t be afraid to take that local’s recommendation or drive the scenic detour or spend your whole day in a place that was just supposed to be a pitstop. Those off-the-itinerary moments are what make hopping in a car and traveling to a new destination so fulfilling. You’re in control, so seize the day (trip).

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Plan, Ready, Go

1 Day in NYC: Must-do’s for First-timers + Interactive Map

Only have one day in New York ? Maximize your visit with my itinerary created especially for NYC first-time visitors . I have visited New York City several times. During my last two trips, I was accompanied by people visiting for the first time.

I recommend spending at least four days in NYC . However, even one day can give you a taste of this top travel destination.

Key Things to Know: Top things to do in NYC for a day

• Essential Stops: Don’t miss the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, or Central Park for a mix of history and iconic landmarks.
• Transportation Tip: Maximize your time by using the subway for faster travel between Manhattan’s attractions.
• Customization: This itinerary is completely customizable to your particular interests and the exact amount of time you have in New York City.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

One day in New York itinerary 

9/11 memorial (and museum).

9/11 Memorial | Closest subway stops: WTC–Cortland St (1) and Cortland Street (R, W)  

Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan. 

In my opinion, your one-day in NYC itinerary should absolutely include the 9/11 Memorial. It’s one of my favorite free things to do in New York City .   

The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States. In fact, it’s one of the most moving and beautiful memorials that I have ever had the privilege of seeing.

The 9/11 Memorial typically is open to the public all day every day. 

Optional: The 9/11 Memorial Museum is at the same location. Though I haven’t had the privilege of seeing it, I’ve heard great things. There is a charge for admission to the museum.

Statue of Liberty 

Ferry from Manhattan departs from Battery Park | Subway stops: South Ferry Station (1), Whitehall Street (R), Bowling Green (4, 5)  

Your one-day New York City itinerary must include the Statue of Liberty, my absolute favorite place in the city

Buy your tickets ahead of time onlin e, especially if you want to climb up to the crown. When available, those tickets can sell out weeks or even months in advance.    

Even if you don’t want to go up onto the pedestal or the crown of the Statue of Liberty, you can purchase a ticket to enjoy the cruise over to Liberty Island (with great views of both Lady Liberty and Lower Manhattan). You can visit the new museum and walk around the monument’s exterior.

 If you only have a day in New York I recommend skipping a visit to Ellis Island even though it’s included in your ticket. 

More things to do on a day trip to New York City

• Explore NYC with a sightseeing helicopter tour over Manhattan .
• Pay a visit to the top of One World Observatory with this skip-the-line ticket .
• If you’re staying the night in New York, consider this sunset cruise in New York Harbor.

PRO TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Lunch options: where to eat 

By the time you finish your visit to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. The Crown Café offers a wide variety of burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Their menu includes vegetarian options as well as several items that can be made gluten-free upon request. 

Battery Park (where you’ll disembark from your cruise to Liberty Island) is a great picnic spot. You can grab a cheap lunch from a food truck or assemble a picnic from a nearby market.

If a restaurant is more what you’re looking for, wander into the Financial District where you’ll find a variety of popular eateries for all budgets. 

Empire State Building 

20 West 34 Street | Subway stop: 34 St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W), 33 St (M)  

Many believe that visiting the Empire State Building is a must on their trip to New York City.

I will admit right now that in all my NYC trips, I’ve only ever admired this iconic structure from the ground.  I do not like heights, nor do I generally pay money to stand atop them. But you who are not afraid of heights can go as high as the 102nd floor. The main observation deck is on the 86th floor.   

Time-saving tip: Upgrade your Empire State Building ticket to get skip-the-line access.

As an alternative, save the Empire State Building for after dinner, or even enjoy dinner at the State Grill and Bar.  

Times Square 

Subway stop: Times Square–42 Street (N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, 7)   

You’ve seen it in movies and TV shows. Of all the places to visit in New York City, it’s hard to think of anything else that’s more New York than Times Square. Soak it in, take a few photos, and wander through so you can say you’ve been there (it’s great at night also). Maybe even buy a cheap souvenir T-shirt or stop in at M&M’s World.  

Times Square is just a 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building.  

Rockefeller Center 

Between 49th and 51st Streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues | Subway stop: 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M), 49 Street (N, R, W)  

A 10-minute walk from Times Square will take you to Rockefeller Center. It’s a New York City landmark that includes 30 Rockefeller Plaza (NBC Studios), Radio City Music Hall, and more.

In addition to some great shopping and dining, you can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck , skate at the Rink, and more.     

If you’re feeling snackish, I recommend stopping at Magnolia Bakery for something yummy.  

Grab your Top of the Rock ticket here.

Central Park 

From North 110th Street to Central Park South (59th Street), and from Central Park West (8th Avenue) to 5th Ave | Subway stops: There are several subway stops around the perimeter of the park including 5th Ave/59 Street (N, R, W), 59 Street/Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1), Central Park North (2, 3), and 6 stops on the west side of the park.  

Central Park is so quintessentially New York that you absolutely need to make time in your itinerary to see it even if only spending one day in New York.

Now, keep in mind that this park is huge. I mean it. Central Park covers 1.3 square miles (840 acres) of Manhattan. You could easily spend an entire day just exploring this place.  

To start I’d suggest looking at a map of the park and choosing a few things there you want to see. This might be the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, Belvedere Castle, or the Conservatory Water (where you can rent a model boat to sail on the pond).   

The southeast corner of Central Park is just a 15-minute walk from Rockefeller Center. If you want to walk all the way to the Conservatory Water and the Alice in Wonderland Statue, expect a walk of closer to 30 minutes.

Time-saving Tip: Instead of walking to Central Park from Rockefeller Center, jump in a NYC cab.

Interactive map for your one day in New York City itinerary

Click on the yellow pins on the map below to see more information about each stop on your itinerary.

To see this map in your Google account just tap on the little star next to the map name.

Ways to modify this itinerary

With only one day in NYC, there are an incredible number of ways you could spend your time. Here are a few ways you could modify this one-day itinerary to fit your particular interests. It’s important that you get to see the things you want.

• Take the subway to Brooklyn then walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying your view of the Manhattan skyline.
• Enjoy a tour of either or both of two of the premier art museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and/or the Museum of Modern Art.
• Explore Greenwich Village, Soho, and other iconic neighborhoods.
• End your day with a Broadway show.

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

Even if you don’t have a full day or 24 hours to spend in New York City, you can still see a few of the major highlights. Here are a few options:

• Focus on one area such as Lower Manhattan, grabbing a view of Brooklyn Bridge, followed by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
• Explore the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center, and then stroll up to Central Park for some more exploring.
• Get the best of New York’s top art museums at The Met, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim.

New York 1-day tours

Want to see the best of New York in a day, but rather leave the planning to someone else? Leave the planning to an expert tour guide.

• Pack the very best of NYC into one day with this highly rate expert guided tour . See New York’s major landmarks in only 6 hours.
• Go beyond Manhattan’s major tourist sites with this tour of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Harlem, and Coney Island .

Where to stay in New York City

If you’re thinking about spending more than a day in New York, you might be overwhelmed by the many hotel options.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in New York City: 

• Hyatt Place Midtown South (52 West 36th Street): We loved staying at this hotel. It’s just two blocks from the Empire State Building and just around the corner from the 34th Street – Herald Square subway stop. Book Now  
• For a more boutique-style accommodation try Archer Hotel New York (45 West 38th Street). Book Now

How to get around New York City

I say this so often, but I will continue to say it over and over: use your feet and the subway.

I’m serious about the subway. You’ll get where you want to go cheaper than Uber or taxis and of course much faster than walking especially when traveling from one area of Manhattan to another.  You can find subway maps on the MTA website .

Taxis are a fine option for getting around New York City especially if you are in a time crunch or are going someplace that just doesn’t have an easy subway route or a nearby stop.

Final thoughts on one day in New York

There are so many amazing things to do in NYC in a day of course that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best if you have 24 hours in the Big Apple.

From historical monuments to stunning views from the best observatories in the world, you almost can’t go wrong with how you spend your day here.

What do you think everyone should put on their 1-day NYC itinerary?

More articles about New York

• The essential overnight packing list
• Free things to do in NYC
• Must-do things in New York for first-timers
• The top day trips from NYC
• Scenic drives in New York state

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Can’t wait great job

Great article, Darcy! You have prepared an amazing one-day itinerary for people vising NYC along with some great tips to commute within the city. Subways are indeed the best way to get around the whole city. However, if the time permits, why not go sailing as well? After seeing the city on foot all day, one can relax on a sailboat and enjoy the skyline. Several companies offer rental for 2-3 hours including sunset cruises overlooking Manhattan. Book beforehand to get the best deals.

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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

Welcome to One Day in a City!

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• Moscow Travel and City Excursions

Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022

See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, and the former KGB headquarters...

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• Tours by car Transportation by private car/minivan is included

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious life of different Jewish families, as well...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 11:00 - 20:00 Friday 10:00 - 14:00 Saturday not available

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened to two and a half times its original size,...

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to the victims of the repression. You will then...

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the street’s many craftsmen....

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury and the workplace of the Russian President....

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday not available

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and 19th century including works by Rublyov, Karavak,...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10:00 - 20:00

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure served as a convent for women of noble birth...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 17:00

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians themselves and for visitors from abroad....

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 17:00

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was here that Donskoi celebrated his victory over...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 18:00

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra) was built in the first half of the 1340s by...

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic gothic style. The complex includes a landscape...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 19:00 Sunday 11:00 - 18:00

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history dates back to 1715, when the village of Kuskovo...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday not available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone centuries. You will get to know the story...

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 19:00

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy and his family including books and personal...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday 12:00 - 19:00

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's collection includes more than three thousand...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

Moscow City Tours

Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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• 12 Day Trips From Moscow To Explore The Beautiful Capital City Of Russia!

23 Mar 2023

Moscow is a beautiful city and is the capital of Russia and is also considered the cosmopolitan capital. The people of Moscow are vibrant, lively and live their life to the fullest. The city is a perfect mixture of ancient and modern traditions and hold an approximate population of 10 million. You can visit some of the most beautiful destinations if you are a tourist here. From natural beauties to man-made beauties, the city has everything to attract a tourist.

No matter in which season you are travelling to Moscow, the city will give you thrills and chills in all the seasons. Not only in the city, there are some amazing places to visit nearby. You can easily plan a one-day trip to those places and return back to the city in the same day. So, get packed, take this guide for day trips from Moscow along and have an enticing trip!

Top 10 Day Trips From Moscow

Confused about which places to visit on your next day trip from Moscow. Here is the list of the best day trips from Moscow you can take with your friends or family and have an amazing trip!

• Rostov Veliky
• Sergiev Posad
• Kubinka Tank Museum
• Arkhangelskoye Estate

1. Yaroslavl

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If you are planning a full one-day trip from Moscow and return, Yaroslavl is the perfect place for you. A long day trip with amazing sight scenes that will allure everybody and rest assured, the journey will be as fascinating as the destination. It is one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations. The place holds a significant place in the Moscow’s history as well. The museums and monasteries at Yaroslavl are worth visiting and you will enjoy every bit of it.

Location: 250 kms northeast of Moscow.

Must Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

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2. Rostov Veliky

A historical place that teaches you a lot of things about the great history of Russia which is a must visit, if you are on a tour to Moscow. You can easily start the trip in the morning and come back to your place before the dawn itself. It is a wonderful place to visit with your friends and family. Lake Nero is a place in Rostov that you must not miss as it is a beautiful and expansive lake near the town.

Location: Rostov Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia

Must Read: Summer In Moscow: Soak In The Landscapes Of This Stunning City

It is located just an hour away from the Moscow city centre. This was one of the most important industrial areas at the time of Soviet era. During the Second World War the anti-gun tank was produced here in the factory in order to fight with Soviet Union. Once the Germany was defeated they started focusing on space research. Later on the city becomes the space city when people come across the Union and settled down here to launch the space programme. This is one of the most affluent areas in the country and nice place to visit.

Location: Moscow Oblast, Russia

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Moscow That Redefine Luxury Like None Other!

4. Borodino

It is located in the west at the two hour of drive from the west of the Moscow in the battlefield of the Borodino. History says that French won the battle of Borodino and went to capture the Moscow. This place which shows the real history of Moscow and has its own unique identity. Just outside the field of Borodino is a green and grassy field where the battle was fought. Similarly on the top of the hill you will find the lasting monuments of the important events.

Location: Rusakovskaya Ulitsa, 13, Moskva, Russia, 107140

It is located in the south east of Moscow in the city of Kolumna and in comparison to the capital of Russia it is a small town escape. This is one of the oldest Russian city in the region and you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Mainly it is a site for important weapon factories it was opened in 1994 and even now it is not popular among the tourist. It is the great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the walls of medieval age and the city which belongs back to 18th century.

Location: In the south East of Moscow.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Moscow: 14 Top Places That Will Make You Believe The City Is As Classy & Chic As Milan!

6. Zvenigorod

It is an hour away from the Moscow city centre and is the good place to visit as it will give the small break from the life of capital city. It is an old and historic place which gives you ancient view of almost thousand years back. You can explore some beautiful monasteries and museum of Russian desserts where you can see and experience the local culinary culture. It is a true reflection of the ancient history of Russia and surely a must visit place with your friends and family.

7. Sergiev Posad

It is one of the well-known tourist destinations in the surrounding regions of Moscow. This is one of the most suggestive place to visit for the one day trip as many tour company includes it in their travel menu. It is a huge Russian monastery which is here since last hundreds of years and is looked by the monk who looked after the revered tomb of St. Sergius who has its graveyard to rest. Christians consider it as an important pilgrimage for orthodox Christians and an important place for tourist.

Location: Located to the north of the capital, Moscow Oblast, Russia

Suggested Read: Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

9. Arkhangelskoye Estate

This estate is built in outskirts of Moscow dated back in 18th century it was constructed by Russian aristocratic family. It is known for the hub of nobility. This estate was opened by the communist to the public for entertainment and changed into a museum for public. After the fall of Soviet Union the restoration of this place was done after that this looks very attractive and beautiful. You can plan and enjoy wonderful trip at this place if you are in search of one day trip.

Location: Arkhangelskoye, Moscow Oblast, Russia, 143420

Suggested Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

10. Melikova

If you are planning a short trip from Moscow and return, this place is perfect for you and your family. Even if you are leaving for Melikova later in the day, you will be home before the night. A trip to the Moscow suburbs brings you to this famous estate which is a house of renowned Russian writer Anton Chekhov. The museum of Melikova will take you to the life of Anton Chekhov from the beginning till end. A perfect place for a short trip where not only adults will enjoy, the children with you too will have a great time.

11. Vladimir

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is one of the best places for Moscow day tours . This Russian city dates back to the 12th century and has a splendid history. If a few medieval buildings and rich culture entices you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your loved ones.

Location: East of Moscow, Russia

Offering one of the best day trips from Moscow, Russia the small town of Suzdal makes for a great pit stop. It is located only a few kilometers north of Vladimir and houses a top UNESCO World Heritage Site. An abundance of historical stories and culturally rich sites is what awaits you here.

Location: Northeast of Moscow, Russia

Further Read: With The Red Square Turning White, Snowfall In Moscow Hits A 100-Year High!

No matter if you are looking for a short trip or a long trip, if you are looking for day tours from Moscow, the list of above places will act as a perfect destination for you with family and friends. The list includes even the day trips from Moscow by train. Make sure to visit one and all places if possible if you are on an international trip with TravelTriangle .

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BEST of London in One Day: Detailed Itinerary (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 15, 2024

Visiting London, UK, for one day and wondering what to see and how to plan your itinerary for such a short visit? In this guide, we share a detailed London 1-day itinerary that allows you to see many of the top sights in the most efficient way.

London is a huge city that is filled with landmarks, world-class museums, entertainment venues, and tourist attractions. So trying to see the best of London in a day is not an easy task, especially if you want to make the most out of your time, but also keep it enjoyable and fun.

Yes, there are many amazing places to visit, great rooftop bars, and hidden gems in London that would make any visit more memorable… But unless you have much more than one day, you will probably not want to waste your time traveling to the other side of the city in search of a tiny museum or a cute local restaurant that someone recommended…

With just a day in London, you will probably want to see the major landmarks and at least a few of the top sights that London is famous for.

So this is our no-nonsense guide to the VERY BEST things to see and do in London in one day . At the bottom of this article, you can find a short overview of our recommended 1-day London itinerary as well as a map indicating all the places that we mention in this guide. We also include some practical tips for your trip. Take a look!

Top 4 Experiences in London:

• London Eye .
• Tower of London & Crown Jewels .
• Thames Cruise .
• Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio .

As you can imagine, there are millions of ways how you could spend a day in London. This is just one suggestion based on our personal experience. It includes some of the most important sights and must-see places that we think are worth your time the most if this is your first time in the city and you have less than 24 hours in London.

Good to know: Our recommended London 1-day itinerary takes into account the locations and the opening times of the main attractions so that you can actually visit some of them if you want to. Although, keep in mind that with just a day in London, you will have to be very selective about the places you decide to visit inside. As you can imagine, this takes much more time and planning compared to just seeing the landmarks from the outside.

TIP: As an absolute minimum, we recommend that you do a Thames Cruise , plus take a ride on the iconic London Eye and/or visit the viewing decks at The Shard . The views are amazing from both! And because you can get timed-entry tickets (or fast-track tickets at London Eye) it’s well worth it, even if your time in the city is limited. You will find more information about these and other landmarks further below.

READ ALSO: London Travel Tips

Here’s what you could do in London in one day:

1. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the monarch of the United Kingdom since 1837 and is one of the must-sees in London.

Since you probably won’t be visiting the Palace inside (it’s only possible at the end of the summer/early fall – see here if interested), you can start your day in London here as early as you like.

The best place to be is Victoria Memorial , which is located right in front of the main gate of Buckingham Palace. From here, you can take a few obligatory pictures of the palace.

2. The Mall & St. James Park

Located right in front of Buckingham Palace, The Mall is probably the most famous street in London. If you have seen TV broadcasts of any of the official royal celebrations in London, this is the street where they start/end their trips with golden carriages and Royal Guard parades.

In fact, you could see the Changing of the Guards ceremony here, but it only takes place on certain dates and starts at around 11 am. So it’s not something I would recommend if you only have a day in London.

Instead, simply walk down the Mall and/or take a detour via the adjacent St. James Park . The next destination on this itinerary – Horse Guards Parade – is about 15-20 minutes walk from Buckingham Palace.

3. Horse Guards Parade

The Horse Guards Parade is a big parade ground at the end of the far east end of St. Jame’s Park. This is also where The Household Cavalry Museum is located.

This is one of the best places to see the famous Horse Guards in London. They are always around, so you can take a picture of them if you like.

In addition, there is also a daily Changing of the Guard ceremony here at 11 am (at 10 am on Sundays). If your timing coincides with this, it’s nice to see, but I wouldn’t adjust the entire day’s schedule just for this. There are better things to do with just a day in London!

TIP: If interested, you could take a quick detour to the famous 10 Downing Street , the official residence of the UK’s Prime Minister. It’s located just nearby here. However, it’s now closed with high gates at the entrance of the street so you can only catch a glimpse of it in a distance.

4. Trafalgar Square

Next, head to Trafalgar Square which is less than 10 minutes walk from the Horse Guards Parade. This is another must-see in London that you will probably recognize from many movies and travel guides.

In the center of the square, surrounded by fountains and waterfalls, stands a huge Nelson’s Column which is guarded by four bronze lions. There are usually lots of pigeons here too, plus tourists, street performers, etc. The square is also a busy traffic center with red double-decker buses and traditional black cabs zooming in all directions.

It’s a very lively place, but if you come here early in the morning, it can be very quiet. Either way, don’t miss it as it’s always worth a quick visit. It’s a great place to simply sit back, do some people-watching, and soak in the typical London atmosphere.

Good to know: Trafalgar Square is also home to the National Gallery . It’s free to visit and is usually open daily from 10 am. If you feel like visiting a museum during your short trip to London, check it out.

5. Leicester Square and/or Covent Garden (optional)

Depending on your interests and how early you start your day, you may want to take a quick detour and visit either Leicester Square and/or Covent Garden. Both of these areas are located just a short walk from Trafalgar Square.

Leicester Square is a vibrant hub with lots of big-name stores such as M&M’s London or the LEGO Store. There is also a small green space in the middle where you can see all kinds of statues and sculptures, including the statue of Harry Potter flying on a broomstick. If you are visiting London with kids you won’t want to miss this place! But this vibrant area is worth a quick look either way.

TIP: It’s also in this part of the city that you will find some of the most famous London theaters . If you are interested in seeing a show or a musical, you could easily adjust this itinerary a bit and come back here in the evening. In that case, check what shows are available and book your tickets well in advance !

Covent Garden is a cool bustling area just nearby. Here, you can visit the famous Covent Garden Market , with its 19th-century glass roof and wonderful architecture. There are lots of restaurants and cafes here, so this could also be a good place for brunch or early lunch.

6. London Eye

Next, cross the river at Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges and head to the South Bank of London. On the way, you can enjoy great views from the bridge and the riverside.

There is a lot to see and do in this part of the city. The most famous attraction is, of course, the iconic London Eye . The highest observation wheel in Europe, a ride here is a great opportunity to see some of the best views in London . From the top, you can see the entire central London. It also gives you a good overview of the city and many of its famous landmarks.

PRO TIP: The London Eye is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, so be sure to get timed-entry tickets online in advance . We highly recommend choosing fast-track tickets as this can save you several (!) hours. Otherwise, just admire the structure and the views from the ground, and enjoy the views from The Shard at the end of the day (more info further below).

Sundays in March, April, and May 2024: If you happen to visit London this spring and on a Sunday, you can save 40% on the London Eye tickets. Click here to activate the code and book tickets on the official website (if still available, reserve asap – this is the first time I’ve seen them giving such a big discount). They say it’s not available on Easter Sunday, but I tried booking and it showed me a discounted price for that weekend as well. Anyway, this will only work if you are visiting London on a Sunday.

Additional suggestion: If you would like to get a glimpse of some cool places in London, beyond the main landmarks, make a short detour to the colorful graffiti tunnel, aka The Vaults. This is one of the hidden gems of London that is located so close to the popular sights but is overlooked by most tourists. I indicated it on our map below. Keep in mind that you’ll need at least half an hour extra for a quick detour here (it’s about 10-15 walk from the London Eye).

7. Westminster Bridge, Big Ben & Westminster Palace

Next, walk to the iconic Westminster Bridge just nearby. From here, you also have a good view of the famous Big Ben Tower (officially known as the Elizabeth Tower) and the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament).

The view of the bridge with the beautiful gothic buildings of Westminster Palace is among the most recognizable images from London. This is the heart of the city that you really shouldn’t miss, no matter how long or short your visit is.

It’s not possible to visit the Big Ben Tower. There are tours of the Parliament, but – with just a day or even a few in London – it’s probably not the best use of your time. So this is mostly a photo stop, to see some of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

8. Westminster Abbey

If you cross the bridge and walk just a bit further past Big Ben, you will soon see the famous Westminster Abbey .

Westminster Abbey is the site of many of Britain’s most important events. Every British monarch has been crowned here since the 11th century, many royal weddings and funerals take place here, etc. The Abbey is also the burial site of countless famous British historical figures, such as Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton, just to name a few…

This Gothic building is remarkably beautiful and you can visit it inside. If you decide to do this, be sure to book the timed-entry tickets in advance! Keep in mind that you will need at least an hour to quickly visit the Abbey. More realistically, you should count at least 1.5-2 hours for a visit.

9. Thames Cruise

Next, take a river cruise on the Thames from Westminster Pier to the Tower Bridge.

This is a great way to see more of London, rest your legs a bit, and at the same time cover the big distance between the two main areas of the city that we recommend visiting if you have just 1 day in London.

Good to know: There are several piers and so many different Thames River cruise options that it can get overwhelming. This is the best ticket for this particular journey . The boat departs from Westminster Pier (we indicated the location on the map further below) and takes you to Tower Bridge. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

10. Tower of London

It will probably be late afternoon by the time you get to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London . These are among the most important landmarks in the city, so you absolutely have to see them.

Whether it’s actually worth visiting any of them inside if you only have a day in London, I’ll let you decide based on your interests and how you choose to fill the rest of this itinerary.

Don’t take me wrong – they are both absolutely worth a visit. It’s just that everything usually takes a lot more time than you anticipate. And your itinerary for a day in London will be packed…

If you visit just one attraction inside, the Tower of London is definitely among the top choices. Built in the 11th century, the building served as a fortress, a prison, but also as a palace over its centuries-long history.

This is where the Crown Jewels of the British Monarchy are kept (and can be seen inside, if you are prepared for an inevitable queue). The only way to avoid the queue is to come here first thing in the morning and run straight to the Jewels when the site opens.

Good to know: Be sure to get (timed-entry) tickets if you want to visit. Plan to spend at least 1.5 hours inside (and it will be rushed).

11. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is an iconic structure that you can simply admire from the outside (be sure to walk over the bridge too!).

It’s also possible to visit inside, where you can see Victorian engine rooms or walk over the glass walkway and admire nice views of the river and the city.

Also here, if you decide to actually visit the Tower Bridge, be sure to get a timed-entry ticket in advance .

12. The Shard

After crossing the Tower Bridge, walk to The Shard following the river. It’s a nice walk of about 15-20 minutes.

The Shard is an iconic London skyscraper, one of the tallest buildings in Europe, and in the top 100 among the tallest buildings in the world. A visit to its open-air viewing platform Skydeck on the 72nd floor gives you easy access to some of the best 360° views of London. In addition, there are indoor viewing platforms on the 68th and 69th floors.

From the top, you can see the River Thames with Tower Bridge and the Tower of London nearby, plus countless other landmarks in the distance and the entire city at your feet.

Good to know: The Shard is open late in the evening, so it’s very easy to include a visit here at the end of the day. The views are great at sunset, but it’s just as nice to visit during the day or after dark. It never disappoints.

And yes, also here, you really have to book timed-entry tickets if you want to be sure to be able to visit. While walk-ins are possible, they are not guaranteed. So if it’s busy (and it usually is), the only way to visit is by booking in advance.

There are a couple of restaurants in the Shard Tower itself, but they are all quite high-end and definitely have to be reserved.

For dinner, you may want to look for a restaurant in the area around Borough Market . The market itself is closed in the evenings, but there are many eateries nearby. Also here, if you want to dine at a specific place, be sure to reserve a table.

READ ALSO: British Food: best dishes to try in the UK

Theater (optional)

Just like Broadway in New York, London is known for its world-class musicals, amazing shows, and concerts.

While this 1-day London itinerary is quite packed as it is, many people travel to the city just to see a specific show or a musical. So yes, it’s possible to add this experience to this itinerary as well.

In that case, be sure to first check what is available , at which theater, and at what time. Then adjust this itinerary to be sure that you can get there on time, and based on your interests.

London 1-Day Itinerary Overview

Below is an overview of what your day in London could look like.

Important: Keep in mind that you’ll need timed tickets for most of these sites – if you actually want to visit them inside. There is no way you can visit all of these in a day. But you can definitely see them all and visit a few (max 2-3, depending on the place). So you’ll have to plan well and adjust this itinerary based on your interests.

Here’s our recommended 1-day itinerary for London:

• Buckingham Palace.
• St James Park.
• Trafalgar Square.
• Leicester Square and/or Covent Garden (optional).
• London Eye ( book (fast track) tickets if you want to go up!).
• Westminster Bridge, Big Ben & Westminster Palace.
• Westminster Abbey ( book tickets if you want to visit inside!).
• Thames River Cruise ( this is the best ticket for this itinerary ).
• Tower Bridge & Tower of London (book tickets – Tower of London and/or Tower Bridge – and be sure to choose timed-entry (!) if you want to visit any of these inside).
• The Shard ( book tickets if you want to go up!).
• Theater (optional – check what’s available for the day of your visit and adjust the itinerary accordingly if you decide to see a show).

My personal recommendation would be to visit Westminster Abbey and/or the Tower of London and do the Thames River Cruise. I would also probably opt for The Shard rather than London Eye, simply because it’s easier to plan it at the end of the day. The Shard is also open much later in the evening than anything else.

But everything is possible, so pick the sights that look most interesting to you , and plan your own perfect day in London!

Also, start your day very early! The sights that we recommend visiting first can be seen long before any of the landmarks even open.

London is huge but as you can see on the map, many of the major landmarks are located not too far from each other. So you can see and do quite a lot in one day.

To help you with the planning, we created this map indicating all the top places that we recommend visiting in London in a day. You can also see an approximate walking route suggestion. This should give you a better idea of where all these places are located and help you plan a perfect itinerary for your day trip to London.

If you decide to skip some sights or visit them in a different order, it’s perfectly possible too. This is just one of the possibilities, taking into account the opening times of some of the places that we think are worth visiting the most.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical Info & Tips

• If you follow this 1-day London itinerary exactly as it is suggested here, you will be walking a lot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes . This itinerary focuses on the main landmarks, many of which are located too close to each other to take a metro every time, but far enough to give you a good exercise. You’ll only take a boat to get from Westminster to Tower Bridge.
• Use a metro to get to the starting point of this itinerary and back to your hotel at the end of the day. It’s the fastest way to cover big distances in London.
• Be sure to pre-book timed-entry tickets (choose fast-track tickets where available) for any of the attractions that you want to visit. Otherwise, forget it and just enjoy the sights from the outside. With just one day in London, you really don’t want to waste time queuing at one or the other attraction for an hour or two before you can even get inside. Plus, in some places, walk-ins are not guaranteed at all.
• With just a day in London, it doesn’t matter that much where you decide to stay. Of course, it helps if you choose a hotel in a somewhat central location, also because you can explore a bit more of the days of the arrival/departure as well. A lot also depends on how you travel to/from the city. For example, Megaro Hotel is a good option next to King’s Cross and St Pancras International Stations where the Eurostar train arrives from Paris , Brussels , or Amsterdam .

MORE INFORMATION: Where to Stay in London

So, this is our suggested itinerary for one day in London. As you can see, there are many possibilities and options, so use this as an inspiration to plan your own perfect day trip to London!

If this guide inspires you to stay longer, check out this guide with our recommended 2-day London itinerary .

Have a great trip!

More travel inspiration for London:

• Good to know: Tips for Visiting London
• What to see: Top London Sights & Attractions & Hidden Gems of London
• What to eat: Traditional British Food to Try in the UK
• Best views: Best Views in London
• Camden: Camden Town & Camden Lock Market
• Greenwich: Things to Do in Greenwich & Painted Hall & Queen’s House
• For families: London with Kids
• Outside the city: Best Day Trips from London & Best Cities to Visit in the UK & Day Trip to Liverpool from London

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Images: personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: ewelinas85/Depositphotos.com// cowardlion/Depositphotos.com// dvrcan/Depositphotos.com.

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Barcelona (Spain)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in Madrid (Spain)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Paris (France)
• 1 Day in Rome (Italy)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)
• Read also our top tips for planning a trip to Europe .

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Nichole Walz

Monday 19th of February 2024

Thank you for this amazing itinerary! It's incredible helpful for our upcoming trip in May! XOXO

Tuesday 2nd of April 2024

@Jurga, I am also going in May and this is a great help thank you we will be starting in Barcelona then and 11 night cruise ending in Southampton and staying a couple days in Soho

Glad to help, Nichole. Have a great time in London!

Thursday 4th of January 2024

Literally hitting all the places I want to see! THANK YOU for this.. it's almost too perfect! Curious what the ideal to start this in order to hit all these sites.

Monday 8th of January 2024

Hi Ali, it depends a bit on the season when you travel, but mostly on your interests (that is, which places if any you decide to visit). If you start around 9-10, you could probably watch the Changing of the Guard at the Horse Guards Parade (10-11 am depending on the day), but that's really up to you. That way, you could also be at Leicester Square/Covent Garden at around lunchtime. On the other hand, if you want to go up the London Eye and also visit either Westminster Abbey or The Tower of London, then I would start earlier. So first decide which attractions you absolutely want to visit, read our tips for how much time you need, and that will help you figure out when to start your day. You'll also need to prebook timed entry tickets. Hope this helps. Enjoy London!

Monday 7th of August 2023

Hello, thank you so much. I used this post for a day in London and it was so wonderful! Thanks again

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

Glad to hear that you enjoyed your short visit to London, Susan. Happy travels!

Snehalata Tawade

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Thank you for your wonderful blog. I missed my flight connection and was in London just for a day and could enjoy the day perfectly visiting all the places you mentioned. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much. Keep it up. All the best wishes for your future endeavors.

Sunday 6th of August 2023

Glad to help, Snehalata. It's great that you could turn a travel mishap into a fun day in London!

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Planning A One-day Trip? Here Are Some Useful Tips

When planning a one-day trip, there are many things to consider in order to make the most of your time. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when planning your next outing.

Choose a destination that is within driving distance

One of the most useful tips in planning a one-day trip is to choose a destination that is within driving distance, so you don’t waste valuable time traveling. This will save you time and money on transportation, and it will also allow you to better enjoy your trip. Once you have chosen your destination, research what there is to do in the area and plan your itinerary accordingly. Make sure to leave some free time in your schedule, so you can explore spontaneously and take advantage of any opportunity that arises.

Take advantage of public transportation

Depending on where you’re going and what you want to do, different modes of transportation may make more sense. For example, if you’re traveling within a city it might be easiest to take public transit or walk/bike, but if you’re going further afield then driving or taking a train might be better. Consider both the convenience and the cost when making your decision. If possible, use public transportation to get around. Try looking for an affordable train ticket or bus ticket online. This is usually cheaper and more convenient than renting a car or taking a taxi. Plus, it will help you avoid traffic jams.

Another great tip for planning a successful one-day trip is to pack light. Why bring a lot of things when you can only use a few? Bring only what you need and leave the rest behind. This will again save you time and money, and it will also make your trip more enjoyable . This is especially important if you’re traveling by public transit or walking/biking, as you’ll want to avoid carrying around too much stuff. But even if you’re driving, it can be helpful to pack light so that you have more space in your car and less to keep track of. Remember, you can always buy anything you need when you arrive at your destination. This way, you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of lugging around a heavy bag. 

Bring snacks and drinks

Another important tip for planning a one-day trip is to bring snacks and drinks with you. It’s always a good idea to have some snacks and drinks with you, especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking. This will help you stay energized and hydrated throughout the day. This will also keep you from getting hungry or thirsty while on your trip, and it will also save you money.

Plan your itinerary

One of the most important tips for planning a successful one-day trip is to plan your itinerary in advance. This will help you make the most of your time, and it will also ensure that you don’t miss anything important. This also includes mapping out your route in advance. This way, you can make sure to hit all of the highlights on your itinerary and avoid getting lost.

Plan your activities

It can be helpful to create a loose plan for your day before you leave. This doesn’t need to be a rigid schedule, but having an idea of what you want to do and see will help you make the most of your time. Make sure to factor in plenty of time for rest and relaxation too! For example, when you arrive at your destination, start by doing the things that require the most energy first. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and take it easy later on in the day. Make sure to take plenty of breaks throughout the day, so you don’t get too tired, and be sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. If you’re planning to do a lot of walking or sightseeing, make sure to include taking plenty of breaks. Sitting down to rest will help you recharge and avoid getting too tired.

Wear comfortable clothing

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget this essential detail. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. And since you’ll likely be spending time outdoors, weather-appropriate clothing is also key. Layering is always a good idea, too, in case the temperature changes throughout the day. Dressing for the weather is another crucial tip, especially if you’re planning on spending time outdoors. Make sure to check the forecast before you leave, so you know what to expect. And, of course, remember to pack appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.

Time your trip

One of the most useful tips when planning a one-day trip is to time your visit. This means considering the time of year and the time of day when you’ll be traveling. Depending on your destination, there may be certain times of year or days of the week that are more crowded or less crowded. For example, if you’re visiting a popular tourist destination, it’s likely that it will be more crowded during peak season (usually summertime) than during shoulder season (spring or fall). Likewise, if you’re visiting a city, it will probably be more crowded during business hours (9 am – 5 pm) than late at night or early in the morning. By timing your trip accordingly, you can avoid some of the crowds and make the most of your one-day trip.

This may seem like an obvious one, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to do this essential step! A map is always a good idea, even if you’re using your phone to navigate. It will help you orient yourself and figure out where you need to go. Things can happen – you might lose service, your battery might die, etc. So it’s always best to have a backup. Plus, it can be fun to look at a physical map and plan your route in advance. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case you get lost.

At the end of the day, reflect on what you’ve done and plan for next time. With a little bit of careful planning, you can make the most of any one-day trip.

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One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Los Angeles, California

Lights, camera, action! Home to some of the world ’ s most well-known film, fashion and music, Los Angeles is a destination that must be visited – even if just for a day. Whether you want to spend the day on one of Golden State ’ s beautiful beaches or roam around the city’s trendy and gentrified downtown, LA has it all. Los Angeles is your favorite curated Instagram feed come to life.

GUEST POST BY ANGELA STERLEY BLOG: Destination Drifter

What’s the best time to visit Los Angeles?

Store your luggage:  LuggageHero allows you to store your luggage for as long as you want to. If you are there only for a day, or waiting for a check-in, this sounds like a perfect option!

Lucky for Angelenos and   visitors alike, the weather is warm and sunny year-round. The summer months can become overly hot and crowded but autumn and spring create perfect   temperatures and less of a tourist crowd. Winter rarely drops below 55 degrees   Fahrenheit   during the day,   so though it may not be ideal for lounging on the beach it is still comfortable weather for a day of sight-seeing. If you   plan to make a stop at Downtown ’ s LA Live or stroll along the Walk of Fame in Hollywood, it is   recommended to check the award   ceremony scheduled to avoid attraction closures.

What’s good to know about Los Angeles?

Many main attractions such as the Walk of Fame and L.A. Live are not located within   walking distance of   each other. Los Angeles has a metro system between many of the main attractions and ride-share apps such as Uber and Lyft are commonly used throughout the city. Though Los Angeles was a city   built for cars, it is still easy to get around without renting one. Don’t worry about the weather, there is an average of 284 sunny days of the year in the City of Angels so your stay will likely be under the warm California sun.

One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary

Top things to do in los angeles, california.

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Los Angeles.

Santa Monica

Start your morning at the end of Route 66 on the famous Santa Monica Pier. Take a stroll past the musicians and vendors or jump on the roller coaster in Pacific Park if you are feeling like a morning adrenaline rush. After taking in the coastal views head up to the Third Street Promenade for endless shopping or take a moment to take in the sunshine   on the beach.

Venice Beach

Rent a bike in Santa Monica and ride down the beach walk to   Venice Beach . The boardwalk is lined with street performers, artists, restaurants, and shops. Venice is a haven for the artists of Southern California and attracts unique visitors from all around the world.   A round-trip ride from Santa Monica with a walk down the Venice   boardwalk will likely take approximately 2 hours.

After a morning on the coast, hop on the Metro Expo Line in Santa Monica to Downtown LA.

Grab lunch at one of the many incredible downtown restaurants or accompany your meal with a drink at The Upstairs Bar   on the rooftop of the Ace Hotel or at Perch if you are searching for a trendy hang out with city views. Downtown ’ s food scene includes indulging favorites such as the Mexican-fusion restaurant B.S. Taqueria and french restaurant and bakery Bottega Louie.

Avoid the notorious Los Angeles traffic and ride the Metro Red Line to Hollywood Highland . This drops you off directly at the Walk of Fame and Hollywood Highland complex which boasts   views of the Hollywood sign, downtown, and numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions.

West Hollywood/Beverly Hills

After getting your fix walking along the stars, take an Uber over to one (or all)   of the iconic L.A. streets. Window-shop and spot Lamborghinis on Rodeo Drive , hunt through the vintage shops on Melrose , or throwback to the 1980 ’ s rock scene on the Sunset Strip. But first, get your caffeine fix at the trendy cafe   Alfred on Melrose. Eat among the stars and end your L.A. excursion dining in one of the many upscale West Hollywood restaurants.

Where to stay in Los Angeles?

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, Los Angeles

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is a contemporary beachfront hotel Situated on the Pacific Ocean, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond. The hotel features an on-site spa and a large oceanfront pool with a great lounge area.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

627 N LA PEER DR, West Hollywood

Kimpton La Peer Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel, perfect for both business travel and leisure. The luxury you get, its brilliant design and beautiful details are the reason why this hotel is a fantastic choice.

LEVEL Furnished Living Suites Downtown Los Angeles

888 South Olive Street, Downtown Los Angeles

LEVEL Furnished Living Suites is a modern and stylish hotel located in Downtown Los Angeles, very close to Metro. It features fabulous facilities, well-appointed rooms, a heated outdoor pool, gym and even a basketball court.

HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel

1436 2nd Street, Santa Monica, Los Angeles

If you prefer a stay in a hostel, or just want to meet other fellow travelers, HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel is a great choice for your stay in Los Angeles. The hostel provides a bike rental and features facilities such as pool and lounge areas.

Day trips from Los Angeles

LA is definitely a city that has it all, but sometimes it’s good to simply get away from it a little and to spend your day in a less hectic place. Fortunately, there are plenty of options when you’re planning a day trip from Los Angeles, no matter how long you’re staying here. If you want to take a nice break, these are the places you really should visit.

Heading to Solvang means entering a completely different world. The town’s Danish origins are clearly visible on every corner – windmills, houses reminiscent of those in northern parts of Europe, things dedicated to Hans Christian Andersen… the lot! You should definitely stop by one of the many bakeries to try a Danish pastry or two, or check out the farms of ostrich and miniature horses on the town’s outskirts.

Ojai is the perfect place if you want to slow your lifestyle down a bit. Loads of olive and citrus trees are all around it, plus there are some really excellent places where you can grab something to eat. Its main street is home to many excellent antique shops, so if you’re into that kind of thing you’ll be strolling up and down for quite a while. The swimming holes in Sespe Creek are a great way to refresh yourself if the weather is good, and they provide an excellent excuse to enjoy the serene nature of this place even more.

Santa Barbara

Just the trip to Santa Barbara will make your day before you even get to your destination because the route will take along the Pacific Coast and provide some incredible views. But that’s just the beginning of it! Beautiful houses and their surrounding gardens, loads of great shops, excellent food and above all incredible wine and wineries will make sure you always have something to experience. Don’t forget to check out the sandy beaches surrounding this place, either. This is paradise, in every sense of the word.

Want to combine beaches and museums? Then head to San Diego for a visit to its famous Balboa Park where exactly 17 different museums are located. Of course, like so many other places in California, this one also boasts beautiful beaches, but what is particularly nice that many of the things worth seeing are close to the train station. Therefore, if you go on your day trip from Los Angeles by train, you will skip the traffic and arrive at a great location in about two hours. Don’t forget to check out the incredible array of museum ships in the bay.

Extra tips for visiting Los Angeles

– Be aware that if you choose to take a photo with the movie characters walking around on Hollywood Blvd. they will expect you to pay them.

– Downtown LA is located next to Skid Row – which is one of   the United State’s largest homeless populations.   Though it is completely safe to walk around in downtown it is best to stay between Figueroa St. and Los Angeles St. to avoid ending up in a dangerous situation.

– Street vendors and food trucks are a great way to try great LA cuisine for cheap. Most are cash only – come prepared!

– Skip the sightseeing vans in Hollywood. There are so many things to do in Los Angeles and it is not worth it to spend hours driving near   celebrity houses that are often not even placed accurately .

– If you want to blend in with the locals it is best to dress for the seasons . Though the city certainly does not require a winter coat, Angelenos will be wearing cold-weather clothing in autumn and winter no matter the temperature.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Angela Sterley

Angela owns the travel and lifestyle blog Destination Drifter. Coming from a background in fashion she covers how to explore the world in style, location itineraries, and travel inspiration.

I really appreciate these tips as I’m coming in a week and hope to have one day to see what I want to see. I hope it’s possible! Santa Monica pier, walk of fame, are just two of the things I want to see. The food choices are going to be overwhelming! I dont have a lot of money to spend on food.

I really have to commend you with this well written blog that contains all the information that I need to know about affordable tour. Every city and every moment worth it!

Thank you very much for your kind words, this means a lot to us! 🙂

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What to Pack for a 1-Day Trip: Your Complete Checklist [2023]

• June 25, 2023
• Weekend Getaway Checklists

Are you planning a fun-filled one-day trip but feeling overwhelmed with what to pack? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Our team at Travel Checklist™ has put together an extensive and comprehensive packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a memorable day trip. From essentials to optional items, we've got all the bases covered. So, let's dive right in!

Table of Contents

Introduction, essentials for a 1-day trip, optional items, tips for packing, useful links, reference links.

Planning for a day trip can be exciting, but it's essential to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience. Packing efficiently saves you time and hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure. Our comprehensive packing list will help you pack smartly and avoid any last-minute panic.

Before we get into the optional items, let's start with the essential items you should always include in your day trip packing list:

Day Bag : A spacious and durable day bag is a must-have for carrying all your essentials comfortably. Look for a bag with multiple compartments for easy organization.

Water Bottle : Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you're spending the day outdoors. Opt for a reusable water bottle to stay eco-friendly.

Snacks : Pack some nutritious and energizing snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Granola bars, dried fruits, and nuts are convenient options.

Sunscreen : Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Reapply every few hours, especially if you'll be spending prolonged time in the sun.

Hat and Sunglasses : Shield yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses. These accessories not only provide sun protection but also add a stylish touch to your outfit.

Comfortable Shoes : Opt for comfortable and supportive shoes suitable for the activities you have planned. Whether it's hiking, exploring a city, or strolling on the beach, choose shoes that won't leave you with sore feet.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing : Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing based on temperature changes throughout the day.

First Aid Kit : It's always a good idea to have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor injuries or headaches. Include items such as band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary prescription medications.

Map or GPS : Depending on your destination, having a map or GPS device can be incredibly helpful. It ensures you don't get lost and allows you to navigate unfamiliar areas with ease.

Phone Charger : Don't forget to bring a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered up throughout the day. You don't want to miss capturing those memorable moments!

Remember, these are just the essentials. Next, let's move on to some optional items that can enhance your day trip experience.

In addition to the essentials, here are some optional items you may consider packing for your day trip:

Camera : If you're a photography enthusiast or want to capture high-quality images, bring along a camera. You can document your adventure and create lasting memories.

Extra Clothes : If you anticipate getting wet or dirty during your day trip, it's wise to pack an extra set of clothes. This ensures you'll have something clean and dry to change into if needed.

Towel or Blanket : A lightweight and compact towel or blanket can come in handy for impromptu picnics, beach visits, or lounging in a park. It adds an element of comfort to your day.

Entertainment : If you have downtime during travel or waiting periods, bring along a book, crossword puzzle, or portable game to keep yourself entertained.

Travel Pillow : If you're planning to nap during the journey or want extra comfort while on the go, a travel pillow can be a game-changer.

Portable Charger : If you'll be using your phone frequently for navigation or taking photos, a portable charger ensures you never run out of battery throughout the day.

Swimwear : If your day trip involves water activities or visiting a beach, pack your swimwear so you can take a refreshing dip.

Remember, these items are optional, and you can customize your packing list based on your preferences and the nature of your day trip. Now that you know what to pack, let's explore some valuable tips for efficient packing.

Make a Checklist : Before you start packing, create a checklist of all the items you plan to bring. This helps you stay organized and prevents you from forgetting anything important.

Roll, Don't Fold : Roll your clothes instead of folding them to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. This packing technique saves room in your bag and makes it easier to find specific items.

Utilize Travel-Sized Toiletries : If you're only going away for one day, opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space in your day bag. Consider using refillable travel bottles for your essentials.

Pack Versatile Clothing : Choose clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different outfits. This way, you can pack fewer clothes while still having a variety of options.

Maximize Bag Space : Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize the space in your day bag. These organizers can help keep your belongings compact and easily accessible.

Check Weight and Size Restrictions : If you're traveling by air or using public transportation, be mindful of weight and size restrictions for luggage. Ensure your day bag meets the requirements to avoid any additional fees or inconvenience.

Leave Room for Souvenirs : If you plan to buy souvenirs or items during your day trip, leave some extra space in your bag to accommodate them on your return journey.

With these tips in mind, you'll be a packing pro for your next one-day trip. Now, let's move on to some frequently asked questions related to packing for short trips.

How do you pack for a one-night trip?

For a one-night trip, follow a similar approach as you would for a day trip, with a few additional items:

• An extra set of sleepwear and underwear
• Toiletries (daily essentials)
• Suitable clothing for the next day
• Sleep aids, if necessary (earplugs, eye mask)

Pack everything into a small overnight bag or expand your day bag slightly to accommodate these extra items. Remember to keep it minimal yet sufficient for your needs.

What should I pack for a last-minute trip?

If you have a last-minute trip coming up, focus on the essentials to make the packing process quick and stress-free:

• Clothing for each day of the trip (including sleepwear)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, essential skincare)
• Medications and necessary prescriptions
• Phone charger and other electronic essentials
• Wallet, ID, and travel documents
• Day bag or small suitcase
• Personal hygiene items (deodorant, comb, etc.)

While it's tempting to pack everything, sticking to the basics ensures you're prepared without unnecessary items.

What all should I pack for my trip?

When packing for any trip, it's crucial to strike a balance between essentials and comfort items. Here are some key items to include:

• Clothing suitable for the weather and duration of the trip
• Toiletries and personal care items
• Medications and first aid essentials
• Electronics and chargers
• Travel documents and identification
• Money, cards, and any necessary currency
• Comfort items (pillow, blanket, entertainment)
• Day bag or suitcase for carrying everything

Before packing, consider the activities you'll be doing, the duration of your trip, and any specific needs you may have. It's always better to pack light and avoid overpacking.

Now that we've covered the essentials, optional items, and provided packing tips, you're all set for your one-day trip. Have a fantastic time exploring and creating lasting memories!

• Travel Checklist™
• Amazon – Day Trip Essentials
• Amazon – Travel Accessories
• Walmart – Travel Essentials
• Etsy – Travel Accessories

• https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-places-to-travel-in-2022
• https://archive.org/stream/bellsystemtechni12amerrich/bellsystemtechni12amerrich_djvu.txt
• https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/packing/

[Disclaimer: Our article may contain affiliate links for products mentioned. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.]

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A Perfect Day: Vancouver in One Day

Vancouver has everything to offer. Flight attendant Florian Schwebel reveals his best tips for a day to remember

9 AM: Jogging in the park

Running through Stanley Park in the morning is the perfect way to start your day in Vancouver, an opener like a daytrip. 

You’re surrounded by this very dense rainforest, making it impossible to hear or see anything of the city. I often encounter more raccoons than people.

10 AM: Beach time

Stanley Park’s Second Beach, with its gigantic pool by the sea, is perfect for cooling off afterwards

11 AM: Shopping

My tips for shopping in Vancouver can be found on Robson Street, the main shopping street in Vancouver. Roots is the place where you find great souvenirs for friends – for example hoodies with a fun beaver print. 

12 PM: Culture

You can get a great insight into the culture of Canada’s First Nations at the Vancouver Art Gallery, just a stone’s throw away.

1 PM: Harbour Lunch

There’s this lovely place by the harbour called Cactus Café. Order some chicken wings or sushi for lunch and watch the many seaplanes heading to the surrounding islands for a daytrip. My insider tip is the town of Tofino on Vancouver Island. The sea there is as bright as in the Caribbean – except that instead of palm trees, cedars provide the shade. 

For more information about our tips, please click on the points on the map above.

Our recommendations

Roots, 1001 Robson Street

Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby Street

Lupin's Cafe, 6400 Nancy Greene Way

The Sylvia Hotel, 1154 Gilford Street

Bombay Kitchen, 1018 Commercial Dr

Stanley Park, BC V6G 1Z4

4 PM: Coffee with a view

Lupins Café on Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain is highlighted in every travel guide. For good reason - the view of the city and the sea from here is simply breathtaking.

7 PM: Sundowner

At sunset, I like to sit at Prospect Point Lookout close to Lions Gate Bridge. A favorite ritual in Vancouver. 

8 PM: Dinner at Bombay Kitchen

I was really impressed by The Bombay Kitchen restaurant with its own show kitchen. Rarely have I eaten such authentic Indian food as here. 

9 PM: Cocktails by the sea

The cocktails in the city’s oldest bar in the 1954 established Sylvia Hotel at the English Bay are first class. I like to end the day here, with a view of the beach.

Flight attendant Florian Schwebel has been working for Lufthansa since 2006. He has been to Vancouver over 20 times for work, but the outdoor enthusiast is also repeatedly drawn to Canada's second largest city in his private life. He finds Vancouver's proximity to beaches, forests and ski resorts particularly appealing.

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How to Spend One Perfect Day in Savannah, GA (+ Travel Tips!)

With its beautiful 18th-century architecture, dripping Spanish moss, delectable food, and variety of things to do, there’s no doubt that spending one day in Savannah, GA, is always worth it.

No matter how long or far we travel (50+ countries and counting!), we will always rank Savannah among our favorite cities in the world, and continue visiting again and again.

At this point, we’re losing track of how many times we’ve visited Savannah, but this is what I do know: we’ll never be “done” with the city, and we’ll also never regret taking the opportunity to visit, no matter how short of a trip it is.

We’ve lovingly designed this one day Savannah itinerary to show off the beauty of one of our all-time favorite places, and hope that it will help you make the most of your 24 hours in Savannah (or even less–you can use this as a guide to a day trip to Savannah, too!).

Here’s how to see the best of Savannah in a day!

Table of Contents

The Perfect One Day in Savannah Itinerary

Where to stay in savannah, ga, more than 24 hours in savannah, georgia, getting around during one day in savannah, quick tips for seeing savannah in a day.

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Start your morning with a stroll through Forsyth Park.

Savannah’s beautiful Forsyth Park is centrally located, packed with beautiful oak trees, and home to the city’s iconic Forsyth Park Fountain.

It’s also lined with stately homes and properties, and makes an excellent first stop during your day in Savannah!

Forsyth Park is also home to your next stop, which you won’t be able to miss when wandering through the park…

Enjoy brunch at The Collins Quarter.

The Collins Quarter is easily one of the most popular brunch places in Savannah, for good reason.

Their food, coffee, and atmosphere make for the perfect combination!

While we love the original location on Bull Street, when trying to see Savannah in a day, it’s better to stick with the second location inside Forsyth Park.

Also, let me be approximately the 772nd person to recommend the spiced lavender mocha from The Collins Quarter in a Savannah blog post: I generally don’t even like lavender in my food, and this drink is still in the running for the best coffee I’ve ever had in my life.

Seriously. It is that good.

Not a chocolate fan? The Madagascar vanilla latte is a  very  close second.

Keep in mind that The Collins Quarter doesn’t take reservations for brunch!

We highly recommend putting your name down as soon as you arrive at the park, and then enjoying through Forsyth Park as you wait.

Make your way up to Monterey Square.

A short walk north of Forsyth Park, you’ll find the gorgeous Monterey Square.

You can find 22 of Savannah’s original 24 town squares in town today, and Monterey Square is a fantastic first example to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to keep an eye out for two interesting Savannah attractions that you’ll find on the edges of the square!

With only a day in Savannah to work with, odds are that you won’t tour either of these spots–but it’s worth checking out the exteriors as you pass by.

Mercer Williams House

This is the former home of Jim Williams, a notable antique dealer in Savannah who was tried (and acquitted) four times for the 1981 murder of Danny Hansford.

This murder mystery is one of Savannah’s most famous and was the subject of the incredibly famous book  Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , which you should definitely start reading immediately as you plan your Savannah getaway.

Because Jim Williams’ sister owns the house, its most famous story is decidedly not told on the tour, which instead focuses on Jim Williams’ impressive collection of antiques and eclectic objects from around the world.

Congregation Mickve Israel

Congregation Mickve Israel is one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the USA, founded in 1733 (the synagogue itself dates to 1820).

In addition to interesting history and a beautiful synagogue, Congregation Mickve Israel is also in possession of some incredible historical artifacts.

Its notable artifacts include a 15th-century deerskin Torah that is the oldest in North America, and a Torah belonging to a congregation in the Czech Republic that made its way to the USA during the Holocaust.

Guided tours take about 45 minutes.

Head over to Calhoun Square.

No day in Savannah is complete without a stop by as many squares as possible!

A couple of blocks east of Monterey Square, you’ll find Calhoun Square, which is a great place for a quick walk and/or rest in the shade.

(It’s also home to some of the most grisly legends and/or ghost stories in Savannah, but those are stories for later tonight).

From Calhoun Square, turn north and head up to Jones Street.

Be sure to pause to snap some photos on beautiful East Taylor Street on the way!

Stroll down stunning Jones Street.

Frequently hailed as the most beautiful street in America, Jones Street is an absolutely stunning place to snap gorgeous photos of Savannah.

Lined with mature oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, magnificent mansions, cobblestone staircases, and plenty of American flags for a pop of color, Jones Street happens to be one of my favorite places to visit in Savannah.

Pay a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist.

When Savannah was established as a colony in 1733 and the city as we know it today was founded, a few surprising things were immediately outlawed, among them slavery, lawyers… and Catholics.

That quickly changed, however, once founder James Oglethorpe (who worked closely with the local Yamacraw tribe and its chief Tomochichi in the early years of the city) returned to Britain, and by the 1790s, there was an early Catholic parish in Savannah.

The current, beautiful cathedral we see today was built at the turn of the 20th century, and is among the most stunning houses of worship we’ve ever seen in North America.

Don’t miss a chance to step inside during your short trip to Savannah!

Wander through Chippewa Square.

Possibly one of the most iconic squares in Savannah, you can’t miss Chippewa Square during your 24 hours in the Hostess City!

Not only is the square itself charming and peaceful, it’s home to an iconic cinematic moment: this is where the bench that Forrest Gump waited for the bus on once lived.

The actual bench is now in the Savannah History Museum, but the backdrop remains.

You’ll also find Gallery Espresso (one of our favorite Savannah coffee shops ), the facade of the gorgeous Savannah Theatre , and the Foley House Inn (one of our favorite hotels in Savannah and one of its many reportedly haunted hotels) on the edges of Chippewa Square.

Optional: tour a house museum.

Savannah is packed with beautiful and fascinating house museums, each with their own focus and story to tell.

Since you’re trying to see Savannah in a day, you may not want to eat up 1+ hours of your time inside, which I completely understand!

If you’re a history and/or architecture buff, though, or you’re looking for an indoor activity (say, to escape the heat), now is a great time to duck inside a museum.

The Owens Thomas House & Slave Quarters is an excellent option that tells a holistic story of Savannah’s mansions–the good, bad, and horrendously ugly.

Former (or lifelong) Girl Scouts may opt for the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace , where the founder was born and raised.

Alternatively, you could move your house museum tour to the morning and step inside the setting of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil with a tour of the Mercer-Williams House as we discussed above.

Boutique hop along Broughton Street.

Savannah’s premier shopping street is home to some of the best boutiques and restaurants in the city and is a fabulous place for photos, shopping, and snacks.

You’ll see several national and international chains on the street, but the real standouts are the independent boutiques.

You won’t want to miss The Paris Market & Brocante (truly a wild place–don’t miss the basement!) or the Savannah Bee Company (consider stopping for a honey and/or mead tasting).

Broughton Street is also home to Leopold’s Ice Cream , the most famous ice cream parlor in Savannah and arguably one of the best in the world.

Famous for their Tutti Frutti ice cream, the flavors are truly out of this world.

Head over to City Market.

City Market is one of the most popular places to visit in Savannah and a fun, quick stop during your quest to see Savannah in a day!

This warehouse-district-turned-tourist-attraction is home to souvenir shops, a few boutiques, and–because this is Savannah–even more food.

Be sure to stop by Savannah Candy Kitchen for a fresh, warm sample of their classic praline.

Stop by the outside of First African Baptist Church.

While you likely won’t have time for a tour during a Savannh day trip (check the updated tour schedule here ), be sure to make note of the nearby First African Baptist Church while you’re near City Market.

This congregation was founded in 1773 and was primarily built, literally and figuratively, by enslaved people.

The building itself was completed in 1859 (read: two years before the outbreak of the Civil War) and has survived ever since, including through the Civil War, Reconstruction, its time as a stop on the Underground Railroad, and the Civil Rights Movement–just to name a few.

It’s a remarkable piece of Savannah’s history and definitely worthy of your attention!

Stroll along River Street.

Head down (literally) to River Street to stroll along one of the most popular places in Savannah.

Here, even if you don’t want to take a riverboat cruise yourself, you’ll likely be able to snap photos with the Georgia Queen Riverboat!

We also highly recommend ducking into River Street Sweets, home to what are possibly the best pralines on the entire planet.

Yes, that is our second praline recommendation in a handful of paragraphs, and no, you won’t regret trying both!

Want to hit the water? Book your Savannah riverboat cruise today!

Have a delicious Lowcountry dinner at one of Savannah’s best restaurants.

Savannah’s Lowcountry food scene is famous for a reason, and there is no shortage of incredible restaurants in Savannah to choose from.

We have a full guide to what to order and the best Savannah restaurants here , but a few we highly recommend for your night out include The Olde Pink House , Husk , and The Grey .

Looking for something a bit more casual?

Try The Public or Crystal Beer Parlor.

Wherever you go, though, be sure to plan ahead.

Reservations for popular restaurants in Savannah are becoming more and more of a necessity, especially on weekends!

Close out your one day in Savannah with a ghost tour.

If there’s one thing Savannah does well, it’s ghost tours.

Want a light-hearted ride in a hearse? They’ve got that.

A grisly late-night tour where drinking is recommended and kids are best left at home? Yep, got that too.

Horse and carriage ghost tour? Check. Paranormal activity tour?  Check .

Whatever flavor of ghost tour is for you, and whether you’re a true believer or a die-hard skeptic like me, ghost tours in Savannah are a great way to get to know the legends of the city, and I highly recommend enjoying one during your night in Savannah!!

If you’re looking for a solid, not-too-corny, not-too-gory Savannah ghost tour, check out  this trolley ghost tour ! Prefer a more supernatural bent? Try this popular  paranormal activity tour  (skeptics welcome)! For a classic walking ghost tour,  this option  gets great reviews.

Assuming you’re spending one night in Savannah rather than visiting as part of a day trip, you’ll need a place to sleep!

There’s only one place to consider staying when in Savannah: in the historic district (or at least as close to it as you can get).

Forget downtown–it’s a lovely place, but miles away from the tourist attractions that will fill up your 24 hours in Savannah, GA.

Stick with the historic district, and you’ll be able to walk to all of the stops on this itinerary.

From a haunted bed and breakfast to a modern hotel, here are some highly recommended places to stay in Savannah!

Unlike some of our city guides, these Savannah hotels are a bit closer in price than you might think.

Savannah has a shortage of extreme budget properties like hostels, but historical bed and breakfasts can be an excellent value for the experience you receive.

We’ve also included a stunning apartment rental that we’ve personally stayed in and can highly recommend!

Best Western Savannah Historic District  — If you’re looking to stick to a budget during your trip to Savannah while still being in a walkable area, the Best Western Savannah Historic District is the perfect spot for you!

Featuring parking onsite, an included breakfast, and easy access by foot to all the historic district highlights, we were completely satisfied by our stay in this hotel and would be happy to stay again if we were looking for something in a similar budget!

Check rates & book your way at Best Western Historic District!

The Marshall House  — Located on trendy Broughton Street (and dangerously close to Leopold’s Ice Cream), the gorgeous Marshall House is a fantastic option for those looking to stay in a historical inn in Savannah while sticking to a reasonable budget.

Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!

Check rates & book your stay at The Marshall House!

Foley House Inn  — Easily my favorite hotel that I’ve stayed in while in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

The included breakfast is delicious (as are the included afternoon treats–don’t miss the lemon pound cake!), the service excellent, and the decor absolutely gorgeous.

Though there isn’t parking onsite, street parking is plentiful and easy to find.

I’d be thrilled to stay here again–even if it is potentially haunted (the Foley House Inn is featured many of Savannah’s ghost tours!).

Check rates & book your stay at the Foley House Inn!

Apartment Rental

Bird Baldwin Parlor  — Housed in the historic Bird Baldwin House (built in 1838), this apartment is both absolutely beautiful and incredibly well-located.

Located on Liberty Street just steps away from Pulaski Square and Savannah Coffee Roasters, you can’t ask for a better location in a Savannah apartment.

The apartment has a full kitchen–perfect for cooking or, let’s be honest, leftovers–and onsite, off-street parking, a huge convenience in the historic center.

There is some street noise from Liberty Street, but we didn’t find it too bothersome and would love to stay here again!

If the parlor is booked, the Bird Baldwin House does also have several other beautiful spaces available, including the  Magnolia Suite ,  Forsyth Suite , and  Twelve Oaks , among others, but be sure to check the inclusions–not all of them have kitchens.

Check rates & book your stay at Bird Baldwin Parlor!

Lucky enough to have longer to spend in the Hostess City?

You’re in for a fantastic time!

We recommend checking out our detailed Savannah weekend itinerary and our giant list of the best things to do in Savannah if you have more time.

With more than a day in Savannah, you’ll definitely want to check out more of the town’s squares, take a food tour, and sample a couple more museums (such as the popular Telfair Museum).

Savannah’s houses of worship also offer memorable tours, and with more time, we definitely recommend taking guided tours of First African Baptist and Congregation Mickve Israel.

If you want to enjoy Savannah from a different angle, a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River is very popular.

And, of course, with more than 24 hours in Savannah, you’ll have the opportunity to get outside the city center!

Bonaventure Cemetery, Fort Pulaski, and Tybee Island (also known as “Savannah’s Beach”) are all absolutely worth a visit!

If you’re looking for the iconic Savannah tree tunnel, you’ll find it at Wormsloe Plantation.

While the visit to Wormsloe Plantation leaves much to be desired, the tree tunnel is right at the entrance, and you can easily stop to snap a few photos.

This one day Savannah itinerary is designed to be entirely walkable, and you won’t need anything but your two feet to get around throughout the day.

Savannah is one of the most walkable cities in the USA, and that is one of its many charms!

However, if you’d like to rest your feet, the free Dot Express Shuttle runs throughout the historic center of Savannah.

Hoping for more of a tour experience as you zip around town?

Savannah’s Hop On/Hop Off Trolley is extremely popular for good reason, and also includes discounts at many local attractions!

Book your Hop On/Hop Off Trolley Tour in Savannah today!

You don’t necessarily need an early start.

Savannah is not what you would call and early-rising city!

The Collins Quarter opens at 8:00 AM, and the sooner you arrive the less of a wait you’ll likely have for breakfast.

Outside of breakfast joints, though, you can expect most other places in town to open around 10:00 AM.

In other words, there’s no need to rush!

… and consider taking a food tour.

Taking a food tour when you only have a day to enjoy Savannah is a bit of a trade-off: on the one hand, you’ll likely need to skip any museums, hurry through some aspects of this one day itinerary, and only be hungry enough for one sit-down meal at a restaurant.

… On the other hand, you’ll get to sample a much wider variety of Lowcountry foods, try more restaurants on for size, and learn plenty of local history along the way!

We adore food tours and have taken them all over the world, and believe you’ll have a fantastic day in Savannah either with or without one.

If a food tour sounds right for you, this popular tour is a fantastic option!

Book your Savannah food tour today!

Make restaurant reservations in advance where possible.

If you’re planning to enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, we highly recommend making a reservation as soon as you can!

A friend of ours recently missed out on her first and second choices for dinner because the restaurants were already booked for her dates when she tried to make reservations a week in advance.

Wandering is at least half the fun.

There’s a reason this one day Savannah guide is heavy on walking: it’s the best way to enjoy the city!

While you can see plenty of sights and attractions throughout the day, be sure to also take plenty of time to meander down beautiful side streets and admire gorgeous architecture.

Savannah’s beauty is a large part of its charm, and taking plenty of time to slow down and enjoy it is an essential part of any trip to Savannah!

Remember to cool off and take breaks.

Unless you happen to be coming from the south, odds are that Savannah’s downright intense heat and humidity will be a bit of a shock!

Be sure to take breaks, enjoy the shade, and soak up air conditioning wherever you can during your one day in Savannah, GA.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “How to Spend One Perfect Day in Savannah, GA (+ Travel Tips!)”

Hi, this was extremely helpful as we plan to spend a day in Savannah, on our way to Asheville driving up from Miami. I did notice you guys have a gorgeous dog companion, and we are travelling with ours… are all the places you mention in the article “dog friendly”? did you encounter any issues or would recommend finding alternatives?

Hi Rodrigo,

Yes, Ranger is the ultimate sidekick and quite the traveler! 🙂

For Savannah, a good rule of thumb is that anything outdoors is likely to be dog-friendly, and anything indoors is not. The only outdoor activity included on this guide that dogs may not be welcome at is the ghost tour, I’d check when you book.

We’ve visited Savannah many times but have only been with Ranger once (so far), and we stayed at the Bird Baldwin parlor on that trip.

House museums, etc, aren’t typically dog-friendly in Savannah, though I’ll admit we didn’t try to bring him so I can’t speak to specifics.

You guys made the perfect guide for 1 day in Savannah. Thank you very much. Such a beautiful city!

Thanks so much, Erika! Savannah is definitely one of our favorites. 🙂

There was no mention of Cypress Gardens which my son said was a must to see in Savannah. Do you know how much farther and how much time it would take to see that? Is it worth seeing? Do you have to drive?

The only Cypress Gardens I’m familiar with in the region is north of Charleston, about 2.5 hours from Savannah. It’s gorgeous (The Notebook filmed its rowboat scene there) but definitely not close to Savannah!

As far as parking goes, there are several public parking lots and garages around the historic district. The Liberty Street Garage is quite convenient. If you plan to do a hop on/hop off trolley tour, parking at the Visitor’s Center can also be convenient.

Also, where should you park for your itinerary to begin?

Hi – Looking to take this adventure. Where do you park to begin? Is there a print/GPS friendly option to use as you walk? Thank you

Hi Kristie,

Thanks for reading!

There are quite a few places to park in and around the Historic District, The Liberty Street Garage in particular is quite convenient. If you plan to do a hop on/hop off trolley tour, parking at the Visitor’s Center can also be a great option.

We don’t have a printable version at this time, but maybe one day! 🙂

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Your Trip to Washington, D.C.: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Washington, D.C. Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Weekend Getaways

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Where to Ski Near D.C.

Beaches Near D.C.

Camping Near D.C.

Top Museums

Theater Guide

Annual Events

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC

How to explore the nation's capital in one day

It is impossible to see all of Washington DC in one day, but a day trip can be fun, rewarding, and even romantic . Here are our suggestions for how to get the most out of a first-time visit. This itinerary is designed to be a general interest tour. For a comprehensive exploration of the city, check out some of the city’s historic neighborhoods and its many world-class museums and other landmarks.

Note: Some attractions require advanced planning and tickets. ​Be sure to plan ahead, determine what you really want to see and set those sights as priorities. For example, you will need to book your tour of the Capitol Building and your tour of the Memorials in advance.

Arrive Early 

The most popular attractions in Washington DC are least crowded early in the morning. To get the most out of your day, get an early start and you will not have to waste time waiting in lines. Be aware that traffic in Washington DC is very congested and getting in to the city on a weekday or a busy weekend morning is challenging for residents and more difficult for tourists who do not know their way around. Take public transportation and you will avoid the hassle of finding a place to park. 

Begin Your One Day Tour on Capitol Hill

Arrive early at the Capitol Visitor Center (Hours are Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) and learn about the history of the U.S. government. The main entrance is located at the East Plaza between Constitution and Independence Avenues. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and see the Hall of Columns, the rotunda, and the old Supreme Court chambers. From the visitors’ gallery, you can watch bills being debated, votes being counted, and speeches being given. Tours of the Capitol are free; however, tour passes are required. Book your tour in advance . The Visitor Center has an exhibition gallery, two orientation theaters, an expansive cafeteria, two gift shops, and restrooms. Tours of the Capitol begin with a 13-minute orientation film and last approximately one hour.

Go to the Smithsonian

After your tour of the Capitol, head to the National Mall . The distance from one end of the Mall to the other is about two miles. It is walkable, however, you probably want to reserve your energy for the day, so riding the Metro is a good way to get around. From the Capitol, find the Capitol South Metro station and travel to the Smithsonian station. The Metro stop is located in the center of the Mall, so when you arrive take some time to enjoy the view. You will see the Capitol to the East and the Washington Monument to the West.

The Smithsonian is comprised of 17 museums. Since you have limited time to tour the city, I would suggest that you pick just one museum to explore, either the National Museum of Natural History or the National Museum of American History . Both museums are located across the Mall (to the north of the Smithsonian Metro Station) There is so much to see and so little time—grab a museum map and spend an hour or two exploring the exhibits. At the Natural History Museum, take a look at the Hope Diamond and other gems and minerals, examine the massive fossil collection, visit the 23,000-square-foot Ocean Hall, see a life-size replica of a North Atlantic whale and a 1,500-gallon-tank display of coral reef. At the American History Museum view the original Star-Spangled Banner, Helen Keller's watch; and historic and cultural touchstones of American history with more than 100 objects, including the rarely displayed walking stick used by Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln’s gold pocket watch, Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves and a fragment of Plymouth Rock.

You could easily waste a lot of time and money on lunch. The museums have cafeterias, but they get busy and are pricey. You may want to bring a picnic lunch or buy a hot dog from a street vendor. However, your best bet is to get off the Mall. If you head north on 12 th Street towards Pennsylvania Avenue , you will find a variety of places to dine. There are multiple places to grab food in the Ronald Reagan International Trade Building. Central Michel Richard (1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW) is a pricier option, but owned by one of Washington’s most renowned chefs. There are also affordable options nearby such as Subway and Quiznos.

Take a Peek at the White House

After lunch, walk west on Pennsylvania Avenue and you will come to President’s Park and the White House . Take some photos and enjoy a view of the White House grounds. The seven-acre public park across the street is a popular site for political protests and a good place to people watch.

Visit the National Memorials

The monuments and memorials are some of Washington DC’s greatest historic landmarks and are truly spectacular to visit. If you want to go up to the top of the Washington Monument , you will have to plan ahead and reserve a ticket in advance. The memorials are very spread out ( see a map ) and the best way to see them all is on a guided tour. Afternoon tours of the memorials are available by Pedicab, Bike or Segway. You should book a tour in advance. If you take your own walking tour of the memorials, note that the Lincoln Memorial , the Vietnam War Memorial , Korean War Memorial and the World War II Memorial are located within a reasonable walk of each other. Likewise, the Jefferson Memorial , the FDR Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Memorial are located near one another on the Tidal Basin .

Dinner in Georgetown

If you have time and energy to spend the evening in Georgetown, take the DC Circulator Bus from Dupont Circle or Union Station or take a taxi. Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Washington, DC, and is a vibrant community with upscale shops, bars, and restaurants along its cobblestone streets. M Street and Wisconsin Avenue are the two main arteries with plenty of good places to enjoy happy hour and dinner. You may also take a walk to Washington Harbour to enjoy the Potomac Waterfront views and popular outdoor dining spots.

Two Days in Washington DC: A 48 Hour Itinerary

The National Mall: What to Know Before You Go

What to See and Do on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

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Washington, D.C. National Mall Maps and Information

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Thomas Jefferson Memorial: Washington DC (Visiting Tips)

Best 14 Washington, D.C. Museums

Tips for Visiting Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC

The Best Time to Visit Washington D.C.

8 Best Events in the Washington D.C. Area in February

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The Perfect Day Trip to San Diego: How to Spend Just One Day in San Diego

last Updated: May 10, 2023 california San Diego Southern California

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Planning a day trip to San Diego in the near future? Here’s everything you need to know and more! From when to go, what to bring, how to get there, and all my favorite things to do if all you’ve got is just one day in San Diego.

There’s a reason San Diego’s called ‘America’s Finest City’. It’s got sandy beaches, a slower pace of life than nearby Orange County and Los Angeles , and almost guaranteed sun.

There’s sea caves and rugged cliffs to explore, the cutest sea lions known to man, the postcard-perfect resort city of Coronado, and you can even go snorkeling with leopard sharks (true story). And 125+ other things to do in San Diego , but that’s for another time!

The first time I visited the city, I only had enough time to spend a measly one day in San Diego. We were visiting from nearby San Clemente on a much longer Southern California road trip , so figured, why not make the short drive down! And boy did we not plan out our day trip to San Diego correctly. After driving down we honestly didn’t even know where to begin! Whoops!

But since that first failed trip, I’ve been to San Diego a few times and more than made up for it! Once for a girl’s trip full of tons of tacos and San Diego photo spots , and another to watch my husband run the San Diego Half Marathon! So now I’ve got lots more info to share about how I’d spend a perfect day trip to San Diego.

Because sometimes you’ve only got time for one day in San Diego, but don’t worry — you can still eat plenty of tacos and hang at the beach!

→ Have more time in San Diego? Lucky duck! Check out the best way to spend a long weekend (3 days) in San Diego !

Day Trip to San Diego At-A-Glance

• Morning : Coffee, Brunch, La Jolla
• Afternoon : Balboa Park, Old Town or Coronado
• Night : Sunset at Sunset Cliffs, dinner in Little Italy, drinks in Gaslamp

Day Trip to San Diego Logistics

When to Spend One Day in San Diego (Weather)

San Diego’s got near-perfect weather so there’s no horrible time to visit, making the city a year-round destination. The sun shines over 265 days a year, and the average weather is a balmy 70 degrees F. And it hardly ever rains (and when it does, it typically doesn’t last all day). 

It’s basically endless summer over here. And I’m all for it. Sounds pretty perfect to me. Why’d we choose to live in foggy San Francisco again…?

BUT here’s the thing — if you’re looking for beach time, stay away from the area in May and June. Like other parts of the California coast ( Pescadero , Half Moon Bay , Big Sur , etc), San Diego experiences a few months where it’s mostly gray and gloomy with mostly overcast skies. 

Us local Californians call it May-Gray, June-Gloom, and it’s a real thing! And we hate it! Although it’s way easier to capture all the photo spots in San Diego when there’s no sun (because no shadows!).

How to Get to San Diego 

San Diego is as far south as you can get in California — It’s only about 20 miles from the Mexican border! 

Thankfully, despite it’s super southern location, you can easily take a day trip to San Diego from plenty of other major spots in SoCal.

As I mentioned earlier, we were spending a week in San Clemente and decided to hop down the I-5 for just one (but very lovely) day in San Diego. 

Just remember — California is HUGE. Like, San Francisco is almost a 9 hour drive away. I say this to remind you that a day trip to San Diego won’t be possible from everywhere in California.

I wouldn’t recommend planning a day trip to San Diego if you’re further than 3 hours away or so. Plan to visit another time! And plus, there’ll likely be at least a little bit of that horrendous SoCal traffic (no surprise there)!

Here’s a few popular spots in Southern California and their approximate driving times/distance to San Diego:

• San Clemente : ~1 hour, 60 miles
• Huntington Beach : ~1 ½ hours, 95 miles
• Santa Monica/Venice Beach : ~2 hours, 135 miles
• Los Angeles : ~2 hours, 120 miles
• Palm Springs : ~2 ½ hours, 140 miles
• Joshua Tree : ~2 ½ hours, 160 miles

There’s also the Pacific Surfliner Amtrak Train which is a great option for a day trip to San Diego from SoCal if you don’t feel like driving. AND you won’t have to worry about finding parking — double win! 

While the train starts up north in San Luis Obispo, it takes about 8-9 hours from SLO, so obviously not suitable for a day trip. The train from Santa Barbara still takes about 6 hours, so again, not possible as a day trip! 

Coming from OC or LA? It takes about 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively (phew — easily done in just a day). And just for your reference, there’s stops in Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and San Juan Capistrano. Just make sure to factor in getting to the train station and parking your car.

If you wake up early enough you can get to San Diego before 10!

How to Get Around During Your Day Trip to San Diego

The best way to get around during your day trip to San Diego? Well, that kinda depends on how you’re planning to get to San Diego. 

Driving : If you’re driving into the city from nearby, you’ve obviously got your car. But with that comes the possibility of difficult parking (although we’re always able to find a spot eventually — just gotta be patient)! And thankfully if you’re just doing a short day trip to San Diego, I assume you won’t be staying overnight. Meaning no exorbitant overnight hotel parking fees! Which usually cost on average at $30-$50 per night — more money for tacos!

Ride Shares : If you’re taking the train, you’ll need to rely on ride shares like Uber and Lyft, and/or public transportation. Unfortunately, since the city is spread out the cost of Ubers do add up. But if you’ve only got one day in San Diego and aren’t sure when you’ll be back, plan ahead and take the Uber if you can. 

One way to combat this — carefully plan out your day trip to San Diego! This way you aren’t zigzagging back and forth across the city!

Public Transit: While San Diego doesn’t have extensive public transit like say, New York City does, I was surprised to learn there’s actually a few trolley lines and bus routes . And the city does look rather well-connected. 

You’ll undoubtedly need to walk a bunch, but from looking at the maps, you can definitely get around downtown San Diego quite easily. But remember, you’ll wanna leave downtown for sure! Plan to use Uber for those routes!

Scooters : San Diego seems to have a thing for scooters (I mean, the weather’s nearly perfect for them). I don’t trust myself on those things, so can’t give you first-hand experience on scooting around San Diego. 

But there’s tons of them and people use them, so they must work pretty well! Just remember the city is pretty spread out, so you may just wanna just use scooters to go the shorter distances (since you can’t of course scoot on the highway).

Hop On Hop Off Bus: Like so many other cities, San Diego’s got a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . Although it’s not actually a bus, it’s a trolley! How much fun is that?! Sure, it’s super touristy, but if you don’t have a car for your one day in San Diego and want a super easy way to get around, it can definitely come in handy. And considering it gives you unlimited transportation for the entire day, it’s not a bad deal either. 

Is One Day in San Diego Enough?

Yes… but not really, haha. It’s enough to give you a small sampling of what this thriving area’s got to offer, but you’ll 100% wanna stay longer and/or come back. 

But really though, if all you’ve got time for is a day trip to San Diego, opt for the day. It’s better than no time at all!

Sometimes one day in San Diego’s all you got! Maybe you’re taking a much longer California coast road trip down the PCH and ending in SD, or using it as a stopover en route to elsewhere on the west coast. 

Honestly, the city’s got way too much to squeeze into just one day. I really recommend at least 3 days in San Diego , but alas, we don’t always have time for that! There’s too many museums, beaches, unique neighborhoods, historical sites, and foodie and photo spots for a quick 24 hours or less. Trust me — making this one day in San Diego itinerary was difficult! I had to leave off so many of my favorite spots! BUT there’s always next time!

→ Here for longer? Check out this massive bucket list of things to do in San Diego , full of over 125+ things to see and do, and most importantly, eat!

Tips to Maximize Your Day Trip to San Diego

• Start early! If you’re spending the night before your one day in San Diego, wake up and get out exploring at a reasonable hour! If you’re driving down or taking the train, set your alarm so you get to San Diego before 10am!
• Pay for parking if need be. If you’ve only got one day, you don’t wanna spend half your time looking for parking. Yes, paying for parking sucks (I get it — I’d rather save that cash for tacos), but sometimes you just gotta suck it up. Time is money, people!

• Plan out your food stops in advance. It’s hard to have a bad meal in San Diego, but if you’re an indecisive person like me, the choices may overwhelm you. Do your research ahead of time so you don’t waste time deciding where to eat.
• If you are staying overnight, stay in downtown San Diego . You’ll be close to almost everything and centrally located. Plus, the nightlifes great! You can drag your boozy self right to bed!
• The city is spread out — plan for this. Unlike San Francisco, San Diego covers a lot of miles. You’ll wanna give yourself time to get from spot to spot. So cram it all in, but don’t go absolutely overboard. 
• Skip the San Diego Zoo on your day trip to San Diego. Save it for next time when you can give it the time it deserves. On that note — always skip SeaWorld no matter how long you’ve got in the city (we don’t agree with a lot of their unethical practices and questionable animal encounter experiences).

Planning Your One Day in San Diego Itinerary

If you’ve only got one day in San Diego, you wanna make sure you plan your time out right! The city is pretty spread out with plenty of different neighborhoods, so I suggest having a well-thought out plan… this is not the time to just wing it!

You definitely wanna start your day out early in order to see as much as possible. If you wanna skip a few things in the one day San Diego itinerary below, feel free to sleep in a tad, but not for too long! Make the most of your time here!

Just remember — I’ve planned out a pretty jam-packed day trip to San Diego, so if you want a more leisurely day and don’t feel like rushing around, pick and choose your favorites! I tried to incorporate the main highlights into this one day in San Diego, including some beach time, cultural experiences, and of course some food!

No matter what, you’ll wanna come back — one day in San Diego is never enough, I can promise you that!

So let’s get started with our day trip to San Diego — Full of all the iconic spots in the city. The perfect one day in San Diego itinerary, coming right up!

Day Trip to San Diego Itinerary

One day in san diego: morning.

Stop #1: Breakfast/Brunch and Exploring in La Jolla

Start your day off bright and early with a coffee and some breakfast in La Jolla! Remember, this is a busy day in San Diego, so you’ll wanna make sure you’re fueled up for all the fun. Unless you wanna allocate a while for brunch (hey, I get it — you wanna stay time efficient on our day trip to San Diego), I’d pick a spot that won’t take all day.

And if you’re driving, it’ll be easier to find parking in La Jolla earlier in the morning than mid-day.

Here’s a few options for a quick breakfast/brunch in La Jolla:

• Parakeet Cafe: Super trendy but pretty low-key. More of a grab and go and seat yourself kinda place. I wanna try one of their toasts next time I’m in the area — the almond butter and avocado toasts look absolutely delicious. Oh and that cacao waffle. Mmmm….
• Wayfarer Bread & Pastry: Another quick grab and go spot, home to the best sourdough and croissants in town. Expect to find lots of yummy artisan pastries like apple hazelnut croissants and cranberry orange scones in a breezy, beachy cafe!
• Sugar and Scribe: A quintessential La Jolla hangout home of Food Network Champion Chef Maeve (Holiday Baking Championship, anyone?!). Think nutella french toast, fluffy egg whites, and traditional Irish soda bread. And plus, the dog creamer pitchers are so cute!

Need some caffeine? 

• Better Buzz Coffee La Jolla: Skip the Starbucks and head to Better Buzz, a trendy coffee spot with blue starburst tiles and a massive neon BUZZ sign. Try a Mint Infused Iced Coffee — so delicious!
• Coffee Cup San Diego: Nice little place with outdoor seating and great coffee. What else do you need?!
• Bird Rock Coffee Roasters: So many fun and creative lattes here!  Try the gold digger (with honey and cinnamon) or the trophy wife (macadamia nut) over ice. Or they’ve got single origin pour-overs if you’re not in the mood for so much milk.

After you’re full, plan to explore La Jolla for the rest of the morning, one of my favorite areas in all of San Diego! The area’s absolutely gorgeous and known for its rugged coastline, leopard sharks and harbor seals (yes, really!), and tons of street art. You could really spend your entire one day in San Diego just here in La Jolla, but you’ll just need to come back next time! 

Unfortunately, with only a single day in San Diego I honestly don’t think you have time for snorkeling or kayaking — two of La Jolla’s best activities. They both take up a lot of time, especially if there’s other spots you wanna check out on your day trip to San Diego. Plus, you’ll be all gross and wet afterwards, meaning you’ll need to shower and change… yeah, way too much time. 

But don’t get too upset, there’s still lots to do in La Jolla on land!

If I only had a few hours, here’s exactly what I’d do: 

Watch the seals and sea lions at the Children’s Pool: If there’s one thing you do in La Jolla during your day trip to San Diego, make it this. The Children’s Pool is where you’ll see (and hear!) those famous harbor seals and sea lions you’ve probably been hearing all about! As iconic as it gets here in San Diego!

While you are technically allowed to swim in the water here, it’s highly discouraged . As always, keep a safe distance to any wildlife you see to protect not only yourself, but the animals as well. We want them to feel welcome here in San Diego for years and years to come!

Walk a bit north on Coast Blvd and you’ll pass by Seal Rock, to see, you guessed it — more seals basking on the rocks! We enjoyed watching them flop around so much we accidentally spent over an hour here, whoops!

La Jolla Cove: How does a small, picturesque cove surrounded by cliffs and palm trees sound?! That’s La Jolla Cove for ya!  You’ll find plenty of people sunbathing and swimming here on the little beach when it’s warm out, and casually staring out at the beautiful Pacific if it’s too chilly.

Dip your toes in the water and relish in that sweet, sweet San Diego sun. Just don’t get too close to the seals — they tend to hang out here on occasion.

Coastal Walk Trail: Stretch those legs! The Coastal Walk Trail in La Jolla is beautiful and easy, stretching from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores. It’s just about a half mile long so it won’t take too long at all. 

You can either start at the Cave Store or at the small cul-de-sac along Prospect St. (with a small parking lot for about 10 cars). You’ll even find a secret swing over here (if you know where to look). 

Sunny Jim Cave: Not a fan of kayaking but still wanna see a famous La Jolla cave? I get it — I’m way too clumsy to spend any time on a kayak. Make sure you visit the Sunny Jim Cave instead — it’s the only sea cave in California accessible by land. 

You enter by walking through a 100-year-old tunnel inside The Cave Store and heading down a few flights of old stairs. And voila, the cave appears! Just be careful, the stairway is old and can be pretty slippery, so wear proper shoes.

And the best part — the whole experience takes less than 20 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time.

Go Mural Hunting: La Jolla is home to a whole slew of murals perfect for your IG feed; check out this map to find your favorites. I loved the piano fingers and abstract art in the parking lot but both were hard to photograph considering they’re pretty high up. 

But one you need to see?! Roy McMakin’s Favorite Color mural! It’s easily the most popular one and has been around since 2010. And omg so colorful! A must on your day trip to San Diego if you’re looking for the best photo spots in SD!

Before you leave La Jolla I recommend grabbing some of the best tacos you’ve ever had in your life (yes, I said it) at The Taco Stand. Sure, there might be a line, but well worth the additional time!

Stop #2: It’s Taco Time

You can’t leave San Diego without stuffing a few tacos in your mouth. Well, I mean you could, but what kinda life is that?! Since San Diego is so close to the Mexican border, you can just imagine how authentic that greasy goodness is. I swear, we ate at about 5 or 6 different taco jaunts on our 3 days in San Diego last time. 

And yes, they’re that good. Almost as good as the tacos we recently ate in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico .

Tacos are a staple of San Diego, so thankfully finding some great ones aren’t hard to do. If you wanna stay in the La Jolla area, there’s a bunch of great taco restaurants and stands.

A few options for ya:

• The Taco Stand La Jolla: Super casual and fun. There’ll probably be a (long) line depending on when you come, but the tacos are some of the best I’ve ever had. Worth it?… yes! Definitely grab a few al pastor tacos (obviously), but try the churros and carne asada fries too! If I had to pick my favorite taco spot in La Jolla, this would be it!
• Puesto La Jolla: This one’s eclectic and more upscale, with a unique take on artisanal tacos in a bright and breezy brick space. I just love how it’s owned and operated by a Mexican American family. Don’t miss the mango shrimp ceviche and a mango margarita! A tad on the expensive side with tacos at $7-$9 a pop. 
• City Tacos : With locations around the city, this spot is popular for a reason. Try the fried mahi-mahi tacos on homemade corn tortillas, a Mexicali taco (or two), elote (grilled Mexican street corn), and the surf and turf taco. All creative and modern. 

If you don’t mind going out of your way (a tiny bit), you gotta check out Las Cuatro Milpas — an authentic, old-school spot in Barrio Logan. The real deal my friends. We got 2 huge plates of no-frills Mexican food and homemade tortillas for just over $10. 

Day Trip to San Diego: Afternoon

Stop #3: Balboa Park

No visit to San Diego is complete without at least a little time spent in Balboa Park! While you can easily spend a whole day here checking out all the museums and gardens, I recommend picking and choosing a few main things you wanna check out. 

Why?! Because there’s no way you’ll get to everything in Balboa Park with just a day in San Diego — there’s 17 museums here! So you really gotta pick and choose your favorites, especially if you wanna make it to the next stop below (your choice)! 

In all honesty, I’d skip the museums and zoo on your day trip to San Diego, and focus on other activities in the park. You’d be rushing through them anyways, so may as well leave them for when you’ve got a bit more time. And by now you already know you wanna come back…

Thankfully, everything is within walking distance so you can tick off a bunch in only a few hours. But whatever you do, walk up and down the Prado, the main pedestrian street running through the park, admiring the ornate baroque architecture. It’s a true cultural oasis and oh so gorgeous. Stop and look up at Casa del Prado — it’s my favorite!

With a limited amount of time, here’s what I’d do (expect this to all take approximately 2-3 hours if you don’t linger too long in one spot):

Spreckels Organ Pavilion: The largest outdoor pipe organ in the world is housed here in Balboa Park! The 5,000 pipes range in length from the size of a pencil to a whopping 32 feet. And if you happen to get lucky, you may even see a free organ concert (occuring every Sunday at 2pm). We watched an organ rehearsal and every note was absolutely mesmerizing! I especially loved the ornate architecture — so fun to photograph!

Alcazar Garden: Boxwood hedges in a walled courtyard. Flowers blooming year round. Colorful tiled fountains and stunning architecture. I totally felt like I was wandering through a romantic garden of the Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain! A quick little stop but definitely worthy of a few minutes.

Spanish Village Art Center: This was my all-time favorite spot in all of Balboa Park, and one of my favorite photo spots in San Diego ! Strolling along the quaint artist studios and colorful courtyard is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon — and plus, you’re guaranteed to get some great photos for the ‘gram! Even the Spanish-style buildings and floor tiles are painted in bright colors, depicting a charming old village in Spain — so fun! 

Palm Canyon Trail: Kinda a hidden spot in Balboa Park, but definitely not to be missed if you’re a sucker for palm trees like I am! There’s over 450 palms in nearly 2 acres — a true tropical oasis right in the middle of the park! It’s 2 miles but you can always walk a portion of it and turn back around like we typically do if you’re tight on time. Make sure to check out the huge fig tree at the entrance of the trail — it’s absolutely wild!

Lily Pond and Botanical Garden: Two icons of Balboa Park and a must on any day trip to San Diego. Definitely spend a few minutes inside the botanical garden — not only are there an impressive amount of ferns and orchids and palm trees (more than 2,000!) under the domed ceiling, but it’s completely free to enter!  

It’s a dramatic building with a jungle-y interior — I kinda felt like I was walking through the rainforests of Olympic National Park or in Fern Canyon for a hot second! Then take some photos outside near the Lily Pond — it’s absolutely gorgeous on a warm, sunny day.

Stop #4: Old Town or Coronado Island

Depending on how long you wandered around Balboa Park, and depending what time sunset is, you may have time to check out another spot in San Diego. My two choices: Old Town -or- Coronado Island.

Choose Old Town if you wanna experience the cultural birthplace of California, and choose Coronado Island if you want some true beach time!

Old Town is a historic neighborhood in San Diego (created back in 1769) that was considered to be the birthplace of California! Head over to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park to explore what life was like back then — there’s preserved and replicated buildings, museum exhibits, and all around historical entertainment. The last time we were there it was almost Day of the Dead — and what gorgeous altars of remembrance and exhibits there were!

Dip some candles at Toby’s Candle Shop, make a beeline for the barrels of taffy at Cousin’s Candy Shop, watch the daily mariachi band and Folklorico dancing, and check out the Whaley House Museum (one of the most famous haunted houses in the United States).

And whatever you do, don’t miss all the homemade artisan goods and pottery in the shops! They pay homage to Mexican culture and heritage in the early 1800s. I loved browsing all the fun arts and crafts the vendors had to offer, especially the Mexican ceramics. 

OH! And don’t leave without trying a piping hot homemade tortilla from the free tortilla stand (just please be kind and leave a tip). They are absolutely delicious and perfect if you’re a tad hungry. 

Coronado 

The second you get to Coronado Island you’ll see just how charming and cute it is! Such a quaint coastal village and such a different feel than other parts of the city and a must on any day trip to San Diego.

Coronado’s got a gentle surf, sparkling beaches, and a charming main street. There’s a reason it’s known as the crown jewel of San Diego.

Whatever you do, don’t miss Hotel Del. With its distinctive red Victorian roof, picture perfect views of the beach and Pacific, and delicious cocktails (who am I kidding, you knew that was coming), Hotel Del shouldn’t be missed. 

You can wander around, but if you’re here for some beach time, you’re in luck. Although it certainly looks like a resort town, the beach is public and it’s GORGEOUS. To no surprise, it’s commonly said to be one of the best beaches in America (once you see the seemingly-endless white sand complete with gold sparkles you’ll easily see why).

Rent an iconic red and white striped chaise lounge and spend an hour or two just relaxing at Coronado Beach. You earned it!

One Day in San Diego: Night

Stop #5: Sunset Cliffs

After a busy afternoon, it’s time to watch a famous San Diego sunset. And the best spot for that — Sunset Cliffs Natural Park of course. Dramatic sandstone cliffs. Untouched vegetation. Stunning ocean vistas. Sounds like the perfect night to me.

Psst — it can get quite windy so bring along a sweater. It gets pretty crowded but the area’s large enough to accommodate everyone. You’ll definitely wanna keep your camera handy — I couldn’t stop taking pictures! Be especially careful as there’s zero guardrails along the sandstone cliffs and some of them are unstable.

Make sure to check times for sunset and aim to get there at least 30 minutes before sun down in order to find a parking spot and get comfy. Lots of people bring a blanket and some snacks and really get into it! I’ve even watched a proposal here!

Stop #6: Little Italy for Dinner and Dessert

Once you’re done exploring for the day, make your way over to Little Italy for dinner, dessert, and drinks.

There’s a whole bunch of authentic Italian restaurants in this area, but I always find myself going back to Monello for fresh cheese wheel pasta. Did you hear that — pasta made right in a wheel of cheese, and yes, it’s that good.

Here’s some other popular spots that I’m itching to try out:

• Mona Lisa Italian Foods: Lasagna. Need I say more? There’s also pizza and old-world Italian cooking, plus a deli with imported prosciutto and cheese if you want something more low-key.
• Davanti Enoteca: A large patio with shareable Italian cuisine. Everyone raves about the cacio e pepe, cheese focaccia, and the bloody mary towers.
• Ironside Fish & Oyster: Expect super fresh oysters and a seafood focused menu in a quirky renovated warehouse. If you get here before happy hour ends, you’ll find $1 oysters available Monday through Friday from 3-5pm. Definitely taking my husband here next time.
• Camino Riviera: Not in the mood for Italian food? No worries — this buzzy spot has seasonal Mexican food and a fun outdoor patio.

But no matter what you end up having for dinner, leave some room for Extraordinary Desserts! I’ve been here every single time I visited, even when we were only in San Diego for a day! 

We recently tried some of their fall favorites, including the apple crostini, and OMG. The chocolate cake is super delectable too. Always opt for a chocolate chip cookie as well (they’re the perfect after dinner treat; although no judgement if you save it for the next morning — what I always seem to do). 

Stop #7: Little Italy and/or Gaslamp Quarter for Drinks!

Still have some energy? Stay in Little Italy or head on over to the Gaslamp Quarter to check out the craft cocktail scene! There’s really something for everyone over here — eclectic wine bars, nightclubs with rooftop views, hidden speakeasies, and grungy sports bars. 

Here’s some spots to check out:

• Craft and Commerce: One of our favorite cocktail bars meets gastropubs in Little Italy! Just note some of their decor includes taxidermy, so stay away if that’s not your jam. (Little Italy)
• Wolfie’s Carousel Bar: New and unique — it’s fun to go once for the novelty of the spinning carousel bar but the drink menu is kinda small so I wouldn’t stay here all night.  I recommend making a reservation in advance to bypass the potentially long line out front. (Little Italy)

• Trailer Park After Dark: A dive bar serving American comfort food and beers in a funky trailer park-themed atmosphere. Such a fun vibe. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• The Nolen: Expect skyline views and a communal fire pit in this swanky rooftop bar in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego. They even have old fashioneds on tap which are surprisingly good. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• Noble Experiment: Hidden speakeasy anyone?! It’s swanky and secret, tucked behind a secret door in The Neighborhood. You tell them what spirits you like and the bartender whips you something right up! (Gaslamp Quarter)

Other options for your night in San Diego 

Not feeling the San Diego nighttime drinking scene? Take a San Diego City Lights Night Tour instead! The city transforms at night, with beautiful lighting effects in Balboa Park, bright lights and Victorian architecture in the Gaslamp Quarter, and the illuminated San Diego city skyline from Coronado. Read reviews and book your city lights tour here!

And since it’s basically my job to give you a ton of options, if you want something a bit off-beat and different, be sure to check out the historic Gaslamp Quarter walking tour . You’ll learn about the scandals, debauchery, brothels, and more in what used to be San Diego’s red light district. Check out the aptly named Brothels, Bites, and Booze Tour , and make sure to come hungry (maybe have a light dinner), because the food stops are quite filling! Read reviews and book your Gaslamp walking tour here.

Hope this helps you plan out your perfect day trip to San Diego! Are you visiting the city anytime soon?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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The perfect 1-day field trip in Washington, DC, for travelers of all ages

Washington, D.C., offers visitors world-renowned museums and iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol and the monuments along the National Mall. The city isn't only about history, however. There's a booming food and entertainment scene, too.

Many Americans first come to the nation's capital on a school trip. But if you've never been to Washington , it can be hard to prioritize the highlights, or enjoy some sights and experiences that veer off from more well-trod itineraries.

For those who might not be familiar with the city, my colleague, Emily Thompson, and I traveled there together in an attempt to craft the perfect one-day field trip to Washington. Of course, your perfect day may differ from ours, but here are our must-visit destinations for anyone looking to explore the District, along with some ways to maximize points and miles along the way.

National Zoo

• Hours : 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Cost : Free, but entry passes are required for all guests.
• Getting there : Three blocks from Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan Metro station or a 15-minute Uber from downtown. If you drive yourself, the National Zoo charges $30 for parking, so we recommend taking advantage of the plentiful street parking nearby.
• Time required : One hour (8 a.m. to 9 a.m.).

Start your day bright and early so you can arrive at 8 a.m. for the opening of the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. You'll likely see the 2,000-plus animals being more active in the morning than in the afternoon.

Emily and I arrived via the Connecticut Avenue entrance and walked down the Asia Trail, where we passed by the clouded leopard, sloth bear and red panda exhibits.

But the real highlight of the zoo was seeing Xiao Qi Ji, the 2-year-old giant panda. His name means "Little Miracle," a reference to the fact that his 22-year-old mom became the oldest giant panda to give birth in the U.S.

Many kids were fascinated by Kamala (meaning "lotus"), the 48-year-old Sri Lanka-born Asian elephant, while we were there. She arrived with Swarna (meaning "gold") and her second calf, Maharani (meaning "princess"), from the Calgary Zoo about 10 years ago.

After an hour or so at the zoo, you'll have hopefully worked up an appetite.

Related: It's Panda-monium at the Smithsonian National Zoo in honor of popular panda family

Weekend brunch in Georgetown at Farmers Fishers Bakers

• Weekend and holiday-weekday brunch buffet hours : 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Cost : $32.50 per person. Children 6 and under are free and children ages 7 to 12 are $15.
• Getting there : A 15-minute ride-hailing service ride, or a 45-minute downhill walk from the zoo.
• Pay with : One of the best cards for dining , like the American Express® Gold Card .
• Time required : 1 hour and 15 minutes for Georgetown Waterfront (9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.).

Weekend brunch is a big deal in D.C. and Washingtonians fiercely debate about the best brunch spot, but I'm a big fan of Farmers Fishers Bakers.

Serving what it calls "a festival of food," Farmers Fishers Bakers offers an elaborate brunch spread with fresh, sustainable ingredients from local farms and producers.

The buffet includes options like the famous bananas Foster French toast, butterscotch bread pudding, a live omelet station, molasses-glazed ham, freshly cut roast beef, spicy fried chicken, seafood jambalaya, apricot-glazed salmon, chips and guacamole and much, much more.

There are also cold options like bruleed grapefruit, housemade granola and coconut chia bowls.

The dining room is lively and boisterous, and we estimate the restaurant serves around 500 hungry brunchers on peak weekends. Consequently, the buffet line can get a bit long. Ask your server for the bakers pizza, farmhouse sushi and cinnamon rolls — these dishes are brought to your table upon request.

Our tip: Before you leave, grab some Instagram-worthy pics at the Georgetown Waterfront.

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National Mall (Smithsonian museums)

• Hours : Most Smithsonian museums are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 or 5:30 p.m.
• Cost : Free, but some require timed-entry tickets, like the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture . You'll also need a timed-entry ticket for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum .
• Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from Georgetown.
• Time required : Two hours (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

From the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol, the National Mall was designed in the 18th century by French American urban planner Pierre L'Enfant. He envisioned a dramatic grand promenade similar to the Tuileries Garden in Paris.

In addition to the stunning views of the Capitol and Washington Monument, the National Mall offers ample gardens and is fringed by several Smithsonian museums. Here's an overview of the museums you can access from the National Mall:

• National Museum of African American History and Culture.
• National Museum of American History.
• National Museum of Natural History.
• National Gallery of Art.
• National Museum of the American Indian.
• National Air and Space Museum (open but currently undergoing significant renovations).
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (stop at the Sculpture Garden if you're craving a cup of coffee).
• Smithsonian Institution Building (more commonly known as the Smithsonian Castle).
• Freer Gallery of Art.
• Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.
• National Museum of African Art.

The Holocaust Museum and International Spy Museum are a block south of the National Mall. The Spy Museum has an entry fee of $18.95 to $29.95 per person.

Plan to use the restrooms inside the museums, and skip the food trucks and underwhelming museum cafeterias since there are plenty of great restaurants to enjoy in Washington.

Since time is limited (and you need a couple of days to see all these museums), we recommend selecting one or two museums that interest you the most. As an aviation enthusiast, I needed to keep my eyes on the time at the Air and Space Museum so I didn't miss out on our other stops.

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Afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City

• Weekend afternoon tea hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays. Reservations are required.
• Cost : $68 per person. Children 12 and under are $45 for the Teddy Bear afternoon tea.
• Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from downtown.
• Pay with : Since this doesn't code as dining but rather as a Marriott hotel purchase, use a Marriott cobranded card , like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card , or a card that earns well on general travel purchases , like the Chase Sapphire Reserve .
• Time required : One hour (2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.).

Since you've been on the go for a couple of hours at the National Mall, a posh afternoon tea across the river in Virginia is the perfect way to recharge for the afternoon and evening activities ahead.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City offers one of the most decadent afternoon teas in the area. Though expensive, it's a surprisingly good value as it's difficult to find similar experiences for under $90 in Washington.

When Emily and I were here, they served a slightly enhanced Cherry Blossom afternoon tea for $75, including a glass of Champagne or a mimosa.

The tea sandwiches and pastries were scrumptious, and the homemade scones served with clotted cream and local jam paired excellently with the sakura cherry rose white tea.

Related: The next time you travel, take your kids to afternoon tea

Arlington National Cemetery

• Hours : 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost : Free for all, but you must present an ID.
• Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from Pentagon City.
• Time required : One hour (3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m.).

The final resting place of some 400,000 American veterans and statespeople, Arlington National Cemetery is a place to recognize the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.

Stop by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, dedicated to unidentified soldiers who have lost their lives in service to the country. The changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at the tomb, is a solemn and moving event every half-hour from April to September and on the hour from October to March.

Another must-see site at Arlington National Cemetery is the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame. This flame marks the gravesite of President Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The flame symbolizes the president's enduring legacy and is a poignant reminder of his service to the country.

Visitors who prefer a narrated hop-on, hop-off bus tour can reserve a ticket here , though a ticket isn't required to enter the cemetery.

After, take a little break to freshen up at your hotel before the evening activities.

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Night monument tour

• Touring hours : 6-7:30 p.m. until 10-11 p.m.
• Cost : From $45 per person.
• Getting there : 15-minute ride-hailing service ride or Metro ride (get off at the Federal Triangle station).
• Time required: Two to three-and-a-half hours in the evening.
• Pay with : Book using Viator. Initiate your purchase using your favorite shopping portal to earn extra points. Then, pay with a credit card that earns well on general travel purchases .

If you have a little time before the tour (as we did), stop by the lobby atrium of the Waldorf Astoria for drinks or tapas at The Bazaar by José Andrés.

Then, it'll be time for your monument tour. Every night, D.C.'s monuments come to life with dramatic lighting displays.

When I had family and friends visit me when I was a student at American University, this was my favorite go-to evening excursion. You can opt for an open-air trolly , electric cart or bus , which all offer comparable experiences. The electric cart is a more intimate experience with fewer people, but it doesn't go to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington.

Whichever tour you select, it'll hit the highlights, including the Capitol, White House, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Just book a tour that lets you get out and take photos rather than just a quick drive-by.

Since our visit fell during peak cherry blossom season, petals rained down on us as we passed by MLK's quotes — truly an extraordinary memory of our epic day.

Ben's Chili Bowl

• Hours : Monday to Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Cost : $10 to $20 for a complete meal.
• Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride.
• Time required : 30 minutes (10:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.).

Few things are more D.C. than Ben's Chili Bowl.

Founded in 1958 by Ben Ali and his wife Virginia, Ben's Chili Bowl became a popular gathering place for civil rights activists during the 1960s. The U Street Corridor, known as Black Broadway, is rooted in the thriving African American arts and entertainment scene outside Ben's doors.

Ben's has gone hand-in-hand with civil rights in D.C. by donating food and providing shelter to those in need during the 1963 March on Washington and 1968 D.C. riots.

The restaurant is still famous for its half-smoke chili dogs, fries and milkshakes. But more than the food, it's about the establishment's legacy as a gathering place for civil rights activists during the 1960s.

This is a good opportunity to wind down your whirlwind day with some casual, yet filling, comfort food.

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Bottom line

Feeling a yawn come on?

If you made it this far, you've been out of your hotel room for around 15 hours, as Emily and I were, but with any luck, the rest stops throughout the day have made it more manageable.

Truthfully, there's no way to see everything in one day. After all, if you have the time, I'd reserve an entire day at the National Mall alone, hopping from museum to museum.

But a proper field trip to D.C. goes beyond the museums and monuments, highlighting American culture and D.C.'s vibrant neighborhoods, including Georgetown, the U Street Corridor and Columbia Heights. Hopefully, you'll be eager to plan your next trip to Washington before this one is over.

• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers

Want to make the most of your 24 hours in San Francisco?

You’ve landed at the right spot! In this article, I have curated a concentrated itinerary based on my many trips to this Californian city. Just a step down from full-on living there, I dated an SF local long enough to form a solid lay of the Bay Area land. 

While San Francisco itself is not particularly large, the Bay Area is, and the many neighborhoods within SF can prove overwhelming. One day in San Francisco will not be enough time, but you can still see the highlights and get a feel for the city. 

So, let me take you on a city tour covering the famous landmarks you can’t miss, including a sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge and the history of Alcatraz Island. I’ll also include extra recommendations for those with a little more time on their hands, along with travel information to help your trip planning.

Sample One Day in San Francisco Itinerary

So, here’s everything you need for a jam-packed day trip itinerary, all in one scroll.

Travel Tip!  Parking is just abysmal. If you opt for public transportation, be ready for things to take a bit longer, even though they have awesome public transport. 

• Start your day with a  sunrise view at the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit the  Palace of Fine Arts and Crissy Field.
• Walk down  Lombard Street,  the “Crookedest Street in the World.”
• Take in the  view from Coit Tower.
• Head to  Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39  for a (somewhat overpriced) meal looking out onto the water.
• Will take a large chunk of time:  Depart for  Alcatraz Island;  take a guided tour of the former prison and its grounds.

Late Afternoon:

• Arrive back onto the mainland for a  cable car ride to Union Square.
• Gasp for breath on the hills of  Chinatown and eat Dimsum  or do  tacos in the Missions District.
• End the day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar with views of the city skyline, the LGBTQ-friendly Castro neighborhood, or a rave at Bill Graham Civic Center.

Recommended hotel options for the night :

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel at Embarcadero (Union Square)
• Mid-range: Hotel Zephyr (Fisherman’s Wharf)
• Budget:  Cow Hollow Inn and Suites (Marina District)

Yes, it’s a full day. 

Personally, I thought visiting Alcatraz was totally worth it, but if you’d rather stay on the mainland, then you can swap it with Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury Street instead.

Quick Facts to Visiting San Francisco

We’ve all seen pictures of those crazy steep streets in San Francisco. With 43 hills and 220 parks, SF is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, bustling Chinatown, and those cool red cable cars.

Coming from the California Gold Rush and through the memories of the Summer of Love, this city is now a thriving hub for innovation. The city attracts lots of tech bros, hipsters, and a wonderfully diverse international crowd.

What to Do in San Francisco in One Day

Sunrise at the golden gate bridge.

Wake up early, like real early. I mean the ‘get ready to catch the sunrise’ kind of early. You’ll want to watch as this iconic bridge lights up with hues of orange and pink and pray that the fog is at bay. 

Located at the mouth of San Francisco Bay, the bridge is open 24/7, and the most popular spots include Battery Spencer (for a front-and-center view), Crissy Field (if you fancy a morning jog with a view), and Fort Point (for a unique, underneath-the-bridge perspective). 

You can also walk or cycle across the bridge, but it does stretch for a whopping 1.7 miles.

Not everyone may be into waking up for the sunrise, but here are a couple of perks: free parking until 8 am, and if you come later, it can get very crowded.

Pro Tip : The weather here can be quite unpredictable, often chilly and foggy, even in the middle of summer.

The Palace of Fine Arts

After watching the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge, head over to the Palace of Fine Arts. This stunning architecture was built in 1915 and survived two major earthquakes. 

Once you enter its rotunda, be ready to be blown away by the grandeur of its Roman-style dome and intricate sculptural details. 

The nearby residential buildings are some of the most expensive in SF, so take a walk around to see how the other half lives.

Crissy Field

From there, walk along Crissy Field, a former airfield transformed into a park with views of the bridge and the bay. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely morning stroll or a cycle ride along the beach.

Side Trip:  I once went to House of Air, a trampoline park on the west end of Crissy Field. They’ve got different sections, like a room full of trampolines, a trampoline dodgeball area, and parkour obstacles. It was so much fun!

Lombard Street

Next up, drive 10 minutes or walk for 40 minutes to the one and only Lombard Street, known far and wide as the “Crookedest Street in the World.” This quirky street is a part of many classic SF postcards. Its eight sharp turns are set against a steep hillside, flanked by beautiful Victorian mansions and blooming hydrangeas.

Located between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, this block is often swarmed with tourists taking pictures and cars slowly driving down. 

Since 2020 , you need to pay and make reservations to drive down this one-way street. But you can always walk it up for free. Climb up the stairs on either side of the street for an even better vista, especially when it’s clear, and you can see Coit Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid. 

Walk through the North Beach neighborhood to Coit Tower, a 210-foot landmark on Telegraph Hill, to some of the city’s best panoramic views and beyond. Built in 1933 at the bequest of Lillie Hitchcock Coit to beautify the city she loved, the tower is also a tribute to the city’s firefighters.

Inside the tower, admire the beautiful murals painted during the Great Depression, depicting various aspects of life in California during the 1930s. 

To reach the top of the tower, you can either brave the stairs or take a two-minute elevator ride (there is a  small fee  for both options). Once you’re up there, you get 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

Pro Tip : The area around the tower is a residential neighborhood with very limited parking. Also, make sure to spot the  wild parrots of Telegraph Hill , a flock of colorful and noisy birds that have made the area their home!

Afternoon: Alcatraz Island

Fisherman’s wharf and pier 39.

By now, you must be getting hungry. Head to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 for some delicious clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, freshly shucked oysters, or crab from the many seafood vendors.

Walk along the pier to see cute sea lions basking in the sun and enjoy street performers while you work towards Pier 33 to catch your ferry to Alcatraz Island. 

Alcatraz Island

This infamous island was once home to a federal prison and housed notorious inmates like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. The prison has been closed since 1963, and the island is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Note!  Adding this attraction will take a large part of your San Francisco day trip itinerary.

To get to Alcatraz, you’ll need to take a ferry ride from Pier 33. Alcatraz Cruises is the official ferry provider, and it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance  here  because they sell out quickly, especially in the summer. The short journey on the Pacific Ocean passes bay views, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. 

The audio tour of the prison (included with your ferry ticket) is highly recommended. You’ll get a glimpse into the lives of prisoners, and it takes you through the eerie cells and hallways while sharing chilling tales about the prison’s most infamous inmates.

The narration is exceptionally well done, with stories from ex-prisoners and guards but also of the Native American occupation.

Alcatraz Island also has a dark, mysterious beauty outside the prison. You can wander around the prison’s exterior and the island’s gardens.

Planning Tip!  The tour can take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours, not including the 15-20 minute ferry ride. 

Book your Alcatraz tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly. You can check availability  here  and purchase them directly from their website. 

Evening: Chinatown or Mission District

After returning from Alcatraz Island, I’d pick between these two neighborhoods to end your day trip to San Francisco. And I would entirely base this on food preference, Mexican or Chinese fare.

The largest Chinatown outside of Asia, San Francisco, is bursting with color and culture. The entrance at Grant Avenue and Bush Street is marked by the Dragon Gate, an Instagram-worthy spot.

Walking down Grant Avenue, you’ll find endless antique shops, dim sum restaurants, and traditional Chinese pharmacies. Don’t miss Portsmouth Square, where locals practice Tai Chi and play mahjong.

With the steepest streets, you’ll catch the most amazing views of the red cable cars cruising down the hills in Chinatown in this perfectly organized city grid.

Fun fact:  did you know that the fortune cookie was actually invented here, not in China? You can also take a fortune cookie factory tour and see how they are made!

Mission District

A district with a strong Latino influence, Mission District has become one of the trendiest areas in San Francisco. Its streets are lined with colorful murals, taquerias, and trendy cafes.

Valencia Street is packed with boutiques and home decor stores, while 24th Street features many specialty shops for spices, herbs, and sweet treats. Dolores Park is a hub for youth on the rare sunny summer days.

Finally, Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley have some of the best murals in San Francisco. From political statements to abstract pieces, these alleys are constantly changing, so even if you’ve been before, it’s worth stopping by again.

Here, you can find the best burritos in the city at taquerias like La Taqueria or El Farolito. If you’re a fan of baked goods, Tartine Bakery is known for its mouth-watering pastries and fresh sourdough bread.

Safety Tip!  At night, it’s definitely not the safest area.

San Francisco Nightlife

Honestly, this is what I did the most while in this city. There are just so many options, and where you decide to go really depends on the kind of nightlife you’re into. 

As a techno lover, famous DJs always play, from big venues like Bill Graham to more club-like experiences like Halcyon, Temple, and Audio.

You can go club-hopping the eclectic Mission Street for salsa clubs, DJs, and tons of dive bars. The Castro is also full of life at night if you’re looking for a gay-friendly experience.

There are also plenty of rooftop bars with views and an abundance of live music from jazz to hip-hop.

Places to Visit with Extra Time

Other places around san francisco.

• Golden Gate Park:  This sprawling park spans over 1,000 acres and features numerous attractions, including the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, the De Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences. You need a half day just for this park!
• Haight-Ashbury : Known for its link to 1960s counterculture, today this area is filled with boutiques, vintage clothing shops, eclectic eateries, and the constant stench of weed.
• Muir Woods National Monument : Just outside San Francisco, this forest is home to towering, ancient redwood trees.
• Sausalito : This beautiful town across the Golden Gate Bridge is known for its waterfront views, charming boutiques, and gourmet dining.
• The Painted Ladies : A famous row of Victorian houses, a great photo opportunity with the San Francisco skyline in the background.
• The Exploratorium : This hands-on science museum is immersive and fun for all ages. It’s located on Pier 15, just a short walk from the Ferry Building.
• Land’s End:  A scenic hiking trail that takes you along the coast and to some of the best views of Golden Gate Bridge.
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art ( SFMFO ): This museum has diverse collections of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo.
• Twin Peaks : A popular spot for tourists to get panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Oakland!

Day Trips from San Francisco

• Napa Valley and Sonoma:  Less than two hours away, these world-renowned wine regions are a scenic escape from the city. Explore wineries, enjoy tastings, and take in the beautiful countryside.
• Silicon Valley:  Visit the headquarters of some of the biggest names in tech, such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. You can also explore the Computer History Museum and learn about the evolution of technology.
• Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea : Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see some of California’s most beautiful coastal landscapes, including the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.
• Yosemite National Park : Enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of one of California’s most famous landmarks.
• Santa Cruz : A coastal town famous for its beach boardwalk and surf culture. Visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum or take a stroll along Pacific Avenue.
• Sacramento : The capital city of California, it’s packed with historical sites like Old Sacramento, the California State Capitol Museum, and the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park : California’s oldest state park, home to ancient redwoods, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

For first-time visitors to San Francisco, Nob Hill and Union Square are highly recommended for their proximity to major attractions. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Marina District, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Hayes Valley are also considered safe and deliver a mix of shopping, dining, and residential experiences.

Safety Tip!  It’s no secret that San Francisco has a homelessness and increasing crime problem. While the city is still generally safe, I would avoid the Tenderloin district, SoMa (South of Market Street), and parts of Chinatown, especially late at night, due to higher incidences of street crime.

Best Hotels in San Francisco

Is 1 day enough for san francisco.

San Francisco has a lot going on, and it would be tough to fully explore it in a single day. I recommend planning for at least three days. This doesn’t even include the time to see the entirety of the Bay Area.

San Francisco is a city full of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Trying to explore them all with such little time won’t do them justice. If you’re short on time, prioritize the must-see sights and think about hopping on a bus tour or city tour to cover more ground.

Best Time To Visit

San Francisco is famous for its cool, foggy weather and microclimates, but it’s a great place to visit any time of the year. The city has so many microclimates that it can be super foggy here while being completely sunny across the Bay Bridge in nearby Oakland!

That said, most people find the best time to visit is during September and October when temperatures are warmest and there’s less fog. If you are okay with slightly cooler weather, spring (March-May) can be a good time to go to San Francisco without the high tourist crowds. 

Contrary to popular belief, summer (June to August) is not the hottest season. The weather is cool, often draped in fog (known as the famous “Karl the Fog”). This is, however, the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds, especially at popular attractions.

Getting to San Francisco

San Francisco is possibly one of the most accessible cities in America. The city itself has an efficient public transportation system, including the historic cable cars, buses, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) metro system.

The city is served by three major airports. The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the largest and closest to the city, with direct flights from most major cities around the world. Oakland International Airport (OAK) and the San Jose International Airport (SJC) are also viable options and are well-connected with domestic flights.

By Public Transportation

Amtrak runs a network of train routes linking San Francisco with cities nationwide. The California Zephyr route, for instance, has scenic rides between Chicago and San Francisco.

Numerous bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate regular services to and from San Francisco’s main bus terminal, the San Francisco Transbay Terminal.

San Francisco is well-connected by a network of highways for those who prefer to take a road trip. If you’re coming from the south, you’ll most likely take the US-101 N, the beautiful coastal route that starts from Los Angeles. The I-5 S is the most direct route from the north, and the I-80 W is your best option from the east.

The Port of San Francisco welcomes domestic ferries from nearby cities like Oakland and Vallejo and international cruise ships.

Final Thoughts: Day Trip to San Francisco

While San Francisco has its fair share of problems and may not be my top pick to live, I think it’s an iconic city that tourists, both domestic and international, should add to their USA trip plans. This is especially true if you love going out.

If you’re planning other adventures in California, check out our comprehensive guides to other exciting destinations in the state.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

• Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
• One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons

7 Amazing One-Day Road Trips In Maine

Maine is one of the most beautiful states on the East Coast, and these epic road trips will help you see the best of it.

• Maine is an excellent place to take scenic road trips, with many destinations within only a few hours.
• A road trip from Bangor To Moosehead Lake offers plenty of hiking and adventure opportunities.
• Driving from Portland To Salem can be done in a day trip and lets travelers see both Maine and Massachusetts.

If you're looking for a picturesque place to retire , a great hiking destination, or a spot to enjoy delicious food, Maine is an excellent choice. These easy road trips from major Maine hubs will help you see the best of this state (plus neighboring ones).

Hop in the car and set off for an adventure with these seven epic one-day road trips in Maine.

7 Day Trips From Charlotte, North Carolina

7 portland to kennebunkport, kennebunkport is just 28.7 miles away from portland and a fantastic day trip.

If you're looking for a smaller town that totally embodies all that makes Maine unique, check out Kennebunkport . This charming town on the sea has some of the best ocean views that you'll find in the state, plus a lovely sense of hospitality and excellent, straight-from-the-Atlantic seafood.

Check out Dock Square for some great shopping if you want a souvenir from the trip.

• Distance: 28.7 miles
• How Long to Complete: Just over half an hour
• Top Attraction: The spectacularly fresh seafood and great restaurants

6 Bangor To Moosehead Lake

At 105 miles from bangor, moosehead lake is a longer day trip but it's totally worth it.

While you might love Maine for the sea, it's a good idea to check out this state's incredible interior features, too, including Moosehead Lake . With plenty of trails for people of all levels , great water sports, fishing opportunities, ample wildlife, and plenty of places to picnic with the family and enjoy the sunset, this spot is a must-visit for a longer day trip.

• Distance: 105 miles
• How Long to Complete: Two hours and 31 minutes
• Top Attraction: Hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting

Book a special moose safari to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment. It's bound to be the highlight of your day trip vacation.

5 Bangor To Acadia National Park

One of maine's most famous state parks is just 43.4 miles from bangor.

Acadia National Park has some of the most scenic hikes in the Northeastern United States, and it's just one hour away from one of Maine's most famous cities, Bangor, making it the ideal day trip destination.

Plus, once you arrive, you can choose your own adventure with nearly 30 miles of beautiful roads and over 150 trails throughout the park.

• Distance: 43.4 miles
• How Long to Complete: One hour
• Top Attraction: Acadia National Park's many hiking and driving trails

6 Unique Texas Day Trips Less Than Three Hours From Houston

4 bangor to bar harbor, idyllic bar harbor looks like something from out of this world, and it's just 48.2 miles from bangor.

Bar Harbor is a hot spot for yoga aficionados, water sports enthusiasts, and hikers. It's also very close to Acadia National Park, meaning that you could conceivably join these two fantastic day trip destinations together on an easy ride from Bangor.

There's plenty to do in Bar Harbor, including whale watching, hiking, and getting out on the open water. If you want to spend the night, there are tons of excellent hotels right in Bar Harbor itself .

• Distance: 48.2 miles
• How Long to Complete: One hour and three minutes
• Top Attraction: Whale watching, kayaking, hiking

3 Portland To Gloucester

The seafaring town of gloucester is only 112 miles from portland.

Some of the best Maine road trips aren't just confined to the state itself. Head to Gloucester, Massachusetts , and experience this maritime hub, learn the history of the region, and eat some of the best food around. If you're lucky, and you visit between April and October, you might even be able to spot a whale on your day trip.

• Distance: 112 miles
• How Long to Complete: One hour and forty-four minutes
• Top Attraction: Whale watching (depending on the time of year), historical relevance

2 Portland To Boston

Head to one of the premier cities on the east coast in just a little over an hour and a half from portland.

Boston is one of the most exciting cities on the East Coast, with its fair share of tourist traps and amazing local alternatives , and it's less than two hours away from Portland. If you love history and culture and are craving a big-city vibe, Boston is the place to go.

• Top attractions include the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park .

• Distance: 107 miles
• How Long to Complete: One hour and forty-two minutes
• Top Attraction: Freedom Trail, Fenway Park

Boston is a highly historic city with deep ties to the American Revolutionary War, including being the spot of the infamous Boston Tea Party. Make sure that you check out all of its historical sites while you're there.

1 Portland To Salem

The site of the most infamous witch trials in america is just 97.6 miles from portland.

There's certainly no shortage of spooky facts about Salem , and anyone interested in gristly lore and mass hysteria should certainly check it out. Enjoy different walking tours , check out all the museums, or pair your visit with a hop over to Boston for a super fun-filled day trip.

• Distance: 97.6 miles
• How Long to Complete: One and a half hours
• Top Attraction: Walking tours, museums

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460 Years Ago, Shakespeare Was Born Here. Or Somewhere.

Every year, millions flock to Stratford-upon-Avon, England, to visit the house known as Shakespeare’s Birthplace. But was he really born there? A whole industry depends on it.

By Elizabeth Winkler

Sometime in the late 18th century, a sign appeared outside a shambly butcher’s hut in the English town of Stratford-upon-Avon: “The Immortal Shakspeare was born in this house,” it announced, using a then common spelling of his name. Devotees began making pilgrimages — dropping to their knees, weeping, singing odes: “Untouched and sacred be thy shrine, Avonian Willy, bard Divine!”

A tradesman grew rich selling carvings from a local mulberry tree, like pieces of the true cross. Some skeptics suspected that the sign was part of a scheme to bring visitors to Stratford; others wondered if it had been hung by the property’s occupant. A local antiquarian criticized the whole scene as “a design to extort pecuniary gratuities from the credulous and unwary.”

Pilgrims flocked to the house, and it became a site so hallowed that one visitor warned that the veneration of Shakespeare threatened to eclipse that of God:

Yet steals a sigh, as reason weighs/ The fame to Shakespeare given,/ That thousands, worshippers of him,/ Forget to worship Heaven!

About 250 years after its break from the Catholic Church, England had its own Bethlehem and manger.

The problem: No one really knows where Shakespeare was born.

Mock Tudors and magic wands

Stratford-upon-Avon lies two hours northwest of London in the Midlands, more or less the heart of England. Today, it is one of Britain’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing up to three million visitors a year. The Birthplace is its main attraction, followed by the cottage reputed to be the place where Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, grew up.

Stratford exudes Elizabethan kitsch, with souvenir shops and half-timbered buildings. ​​In the 19th century, the Victorians tried to make Stratford look more “authentic,” which has left it teeming with mock Tudors.

It’s a town whose economy and identity revolve around Shakespearean fervor, which peaks every year on April 23, the date celebrated as Shakespeare’s birthday. It is also, conveniently, St. George’s Day , honoring the patron saint of England.

On my first visit in June 2021, I passed the Hathaway Tea Rooms and a cafe called the Food of Love, a cutesy name taken from “Twelfth Night” (“If music be the food of love, play on”). Confusingly, there were also several Harry Potter-themed shops. Stratford and Hogwarts, quills and wands, poems and spells . Then again, maybe the conflation was apt: Wasn’t Shakespeare a sort of boy wizard, magically endowed with inexplicable powers?

On Henley Street, I arrived at the Birthplace, a half-timbered house yellowed with age. Today, it looks like a single detached building, but it was originally a row of tenements. John Shakespeare bought one tenement on the street in 1556, though he also bought property on nearby Greenhill Street, which could just as easily have been the site of his son’s birth. He bought the property thought to be the Birthplace in 1575, 11 years after his son was born.

Those who believe in the Birthplace point to a record from 1552 showing that a John Shakespeare was fined for keeping a dung heap somewhere on Henley Street. It doesn’t specify the location, but that dung heap has fueled a theory that he must have been living there at the time of his son’s birth, perhaps as a renter.

Similarly, the claim for the authenticity of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage rests on a record that a John Hathaway leased the 90-acre farm on which the building stood 13 years before Anne was born in about 1556. The cottage may well be linked to the Hathaways, but there is no proof that Anne actually grew up in it, just as there is none that Shakespeare was born in the house on Henley Street.

Together, these traditions have sustained Stratford’s tourist industry, worth about $315 million in 2019, before the pandemic. But they have not convinced many skeptics over the years.

“Stratford permits — indeed encourages — one of the biggest frauds in England to rage unchecked,” the journalist Bernard Levin railed in The Daily Mail in 1965. “I mean those two monumental frauds, ‘Shakespeare’’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.”

It didn’t help that hucksters have found ways to make the story profitable. In the early 19th century, a tenant of the Birthplace named Mrs. Hornby ran a lucrative hustle showing and selling Shakespeare’s “relics” to gullible visitors. The relics were eventually exposed in an 1848 article in Bentley’s Miscellany , which observed that four different chairs, each purporting to be “Shakespeare’s chair,” had been sold over the years, each made by a well-known local craftsman.

I entered through the Shakespeare Centre, a strange museum that acts as an antechamber to the Birthplace. There were no books owned by Shakespeare or letters in Shakespeare’s hand, because none are known to exist. Instead, a glass case displayed eight Shakespeare busts dating from 1844 to 2000. Another case featured a Shakespeare beer mug (1933), Shakespeare playing cards (1974) and a Shakespeare action figure made in China (2003).

Inside the Birthplace, I went from room to room with the other visitors. Guides regaled us with tales of Shakespeare’s childhood — how he played and ate and dreamed in these rooms. Of course, his childhood is actually a yawning blank: From his baptism in 1564 to his marriage in 1582, there are no records of him. In one room, a table displayed books, quills and ink, indicating a family of learning — but his parents signed documents with a mark, like many illiterate people in Tudor England.

The other visitors murmured to one another in reverent museum whispers and nodded at the guides. I thought of how, in the late 19th century, a Birthplace custodian named Joseph Skipsey resigned his post after a few months, explaining that “not a single one of the many so-called relics on exhibition could be proved to be Shakspere’s” and that “the Birthplace itself is a matter of grave doubt.”

The power of popular faith

Efforts to preserve the property as the official Birthplace began in 1847, when it was put up for sale. In response to fears that P.T. Barnum was going to buy it and make it part of a show, a committee was formed to “save” the house for the nation, and the group began to solicit donations.

Not everyone was convinced. “The extraordinary sensation caused by the purchase of this shabby sausage-shop deserves a prominent place amongst popular delusions,” declared the 1848 Bentley’s Miscellany article . A writer for another British periodical mocked the gullibility of a nation pouring forth funds to buy a “rubbishing mass of lath and plaster in which the Poet was no more born than was the Man in the Moon himself.”

But the belief had already become an article of faith, strengthened by its own repetition. The Birthplace was a better shrine for the very absence of evidence — for the faith it required of its visitors — the publisher Charles Knight wrote at the time. That same year, the committee secured the Birthplace at auction for 3,000 pounds, worth about $323,000 today .

The “shabby sausage-shop” made an uninspiring temple. So the adjoining premises were demolished, walls moved, floorboards replaced, new doorways and staircases created. Its new stewards transformed it into the large, comfortable home of a prosperous Elizabethan family, leaving the cellar as “the only portion which remains as it was,” as the scholar Sidney Lee wrote in 1901. What emerged was less a Tudor dwelling than a Victorian imagination of one.

The committee became the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust , the group that still runs the site, and maintains its authenticity. “We know that, to the best of our current understanding, the building includes the surviving fabric of a property that is traditionally and intimately associated with Shakespeare and his family,” said a spokesman for the trust.

The trust went on to acquire more properties, including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, a thatched farmhouse where visitors are invited to “relive Shakespeare’s love story.”

A temple to baby Shakespeare

“This is the room where we believe William Shakespeare was born in April 1564,” read a sign in the Birthroom. Next to the bed stood a cradle laid out with blankets and a tiny pillow, encouraging visitors to imagine the baby genius mewling by his parents’ side. For the Victorians, the Birthroom offered the mystical possibility of contact with the poet. Visitors recorded melodramatic accounts of what they felt on entering the room: They burst into tears. They fell down. They kissed the floor. Those desiring a more extended communion spent the night.

Others were unimpressed. “If I were to allude to Stratford, it would not be in connection with the fact that Shakespeare came into the world there,” wrote the novelist Henry James after visiting. “It would be rather to speak of a delightful old house near the Avon which struck me as the ideal home for a Shakespearean scholar.”

But the fantasy is resilient. In a 2023 PBS documentary, “ Making Shakespeare: The First Folio ,” the scholar Michael Dobson, director of the Shakespeare Institute, stood in the Birthplace, gushing over “the very room in which Shakespeare was born.”

I shuffled around the cradle with the other visitors, unsure of what to do. Were we supposed to genuflect? Kiss it? After an appropriate amount of staring, we moved on.

To exit, I had to pass through the gift shop, where any lingering sense of piety dissipated in a tidal wave of consumerism. Visitors were loading up on Shakespeare T-shirts, breakfast teas and tea towels. Shakespeare rubber ducks and windup toys. Shakespeare Christmas ornaments, baby onesies, tote bags and luxury chocolates. Belief is good business.

When I returned to Stratford last February, little had changed since my first visit. The Shakespeare Centre was now showing modern artists’ interpretations of the poet, including a Surrealist painting of a masked figure that suggested the mystery surrounding him. The trinket stands were still hawking their modern versions of those 18th-century mulberry tree carvings. Faith in the traditions is bound up with desire — the need to believe.

Where was “the Immortal Shakspeare” really born? Stories are usually more seductive than the truth.

Sheelagh McNeill contributed research.

Elizabeth Winkler is a journalist, a critic and the author of “ Shakespeare Was a Woman and Other Heresies: How Doubting the Bard Became the Biggest Taboo in Literature .”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Frontier offers 1-day sale: Book $43 round-trip flights only on Earth Day

Celebrate Earth Day in the air with a one-day sale from "America's Greenest Airline."

Frontier Airlines announced that it will celebrate what it says is its status as "America's Greenest Airline" with an Earth Day sale. The airline will offer $43 fares on round-trip domestic flights in the US, plus one-way fares to and from Puerto Rico.

The $43 price tag was chosen to celebrate what Frontier says is its 43% higher fuel efficiency compared to other major U.S. carriers, based on 2023 fuel consumption per seat-mile.

“Our constant dedication to enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing our environmental footprint enables us to maintain our position as America’s Greenest Airline,” said Tyri Squyres, vice president of marketing at Frontier Airlines, in a recent news release.

How long does Frontier's $43 deal last?

Fares must be purchased by 11:59 pm Eastern time on April 22. Sale fares are valid for nonstop travel on Tuesday and Wednesday, through Jun. 30, 2024; and Aug. 15, 2024, through Oct. 31, 2024, except on blackout date Sep. 3, 2024.

See more details on the Frontier website, and see below for N.C. flight destinations from Frontier Airlines.

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Frontier flights from CLT - Charlotte Douglas International Airport

From Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Frontier offers flights to the following destinations:

• Orlando, Florida
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• New York City, New York
• Denver, Colorado
• San Juan, Puerto Rica
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Buffalo, New York
• Dallas, Texas
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Trenton, New Jersey
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Houston, Texas
• Chicago, Illinois
• Cincinnati, Ohio

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Frontier flights from RDU - Raleigh-Durham International Airport

From Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Frontier offers flights to the following destinations:

• Miami, Florida
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Tampa, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Detroit, Michigan
• Portland, Maine
• Hartford, Connecticut
• Syracuse, New York
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].