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Best Senior Travel Deals

The best senior travel deals include free vacations for senior citizens and discounts on off-season travel, senior friendly tours, last minute travel, AARP travel, ocean and river cruise lines, airlines, train travel, National and State parks, Disney World, volunteer trips and many more.

These deals are available to those who take advantage of the senior age requirements of many companies who offer them. 

There are numerous age-related discounts available for seniors.

How to Find the Best Senior Travel Deals

• Check with the hotels, resorts or other accommodations for their off-season rates which can be a substantial savings.
• Contact the owner of a Airbnb or Vrbo accommodation directly and ask for the best available rate or ask if they would except an offer for a lower rental fee. 
• The best time to book a flight is 4 months to 3 weeks before your departure date. Also, you should check different departure days of the week if you can be flexible as a retiree. Most airline companies have discounted senior fares.
• Always check for senior citizen discounts or AARP discounts (if you are a member) with cruises, train travel, airlines, bus travel, hotels and motels, restaurants, parks and campgrounds. 

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Off Season Travel Deals

Off season travel discounts are among the best senior discounts.

Taking advantage of your time flexibility can give older travelers great savings on rental accommodations.

Many tourist locations have off-season rates. You will have a better chance of avoiding the crowds of the main season and often get better service at hotels and restaurants.

Your trip will include a less crowded visit to a beach, a museum, a golf course and basically your entire itinerary.

If you visit Costa Rica, you will benefit from low season rates during May or November. We found that the sunny skies will be complemented by 10% to 40% lower rates.

Here is an example of a beautiful sunny 82° day on North Beach in Ogunquit, Maine in September. When the "Summer Crowds" have gone!

Visit Ogunquit, Maine for Seniors here .

Group and club travel.

Another alternative for some of the best senior discount is to take advantage of the group rates available to members of travel groups for seniors   and travel clubs for seniors . 

Solo travelers, traveling in a group receive socialization as well as discounts. Group travel hosts have senior vacation packages and vacations for seniors on a budget.

The groups can be free but the clubs charge a small fee for membership. 

Receiving the club's discounts can more than make up for the cost of membership.

Home and Abroad Tours

Many companies offer Tours customized for seniors.

Since these companies can generally get the best flight deals as well as a number of other discounts, these tours can be a bargain. There is a huge variety of senior tours.

Walking International Adventures has walking tours suitable for seniors.

Adventures Abroad even has custom a custom walking tour for grandparents and grandchildren.

Last-minute Travel Deals

Some of the best senior travel deals can be obtained by traveling last minute.

Check Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline and Hotwire for super discounted last minute deals.

The best way to find a deeply discounted rate on major cruise lines is to book last minute unsold cabins.

Note that you will usually need to travel within 2 weeks. As seniors with flexibility for scheduling, this can really save us some money.

Airline Discounts

Many airlines offer discounts to seniors on some select flights. 

Delta Airlines

American Airlines

Southwest Airlines

United Airlines

US Air  

British Airways doesn't offer a direct senior citizen discount but AARP members can save when booking through AARP.

Low cost airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier and Virgin airlines do not age related discounts but offer various discounted specials on their websites.

It is worth checking airlines around the world for senior discounts if your travel includes those destinations.

Please understand that these airline deals are not always available on-line. They do not always apply to every flight destination. Always call the airline directly if interested in receiving this type of discount.

Booking flights on Monday through Wednesday will save on airfare.

6 Airline Travel Tips to Save Money

• Book Winter flights in the Summer. (Just as Winter coats go on sale in the Summer, so do Airline flights.
• Book One-way flights rather than Roud-trip flights. (You can save $100 - $200)
• Use your Points or Miles. (Make sure you're getting the best; you should get at least 2 cents per point)
• Check fares for nearby airports from your destination.
• Travel on the actual holiday themselves (Could be 30% - 40$ cheaper)
• Travel Internationally on Thanksgiving (It's  the best week of the year for overseas travel; everyone usually travels locally for the holiday)

Cruise Line Discounts for Seniors

Celebrity Cruise Line -over age 55 on select itineraries

Carnival Cruises  - over age 55 on select itineraries

AARP on select cruises-members over 50 years of age 

Cruise Direct is an online search engine for cruises that allows customers to compare prices and see the trip options.

Disney Cruises has special offers on specific sailings listed on their website.

Please note that some cruise lines offer a free upgrade on select cruises for senior travelers.

Holland America does not offer senior discounts but it is worth checking the website for special deals

River Cruise Promotions

Many have special promotions on their websites but do not have specific discounts for senior citizens.

American Cruise Lines has special promotions listed on their website.

Viking River Cruises has special promotions on their website 

Train Travel Discounts

Amtrak offers a 10% discount on rail fares to travelers over age 65 in the United States.

For those traveling across the border to or from Canada, Amtrak offers a 10% discount to those over age 60.

Using rail travel to get to your destination of choice is a relaxing way to travel and something to consider are Amtrak's vacation packages including weekend trips.

Bus Travel Discounts

Trailways   offers a 10% discount to seniors age 65 and over. There is also a half-fare promotion on select routes for seniors and those with a disabilities. 

House exchanges

Why not list your house with a house exchange?

A house or home exchange is a mutual exchange of homes for a set period of time between two home owners.

Both parties can enjoy totally free vacation accommodations rather than staying in expensive hotels.

Choose a reputable company for the safety of your property. You shouldn’t have any problems because they have regulations. The benefit of free rent is huge.

Home Base Holidays

Home Exchange 50 Plus

Home Exchange

Stay at a Hostel

You can save a lot of money by staying at a Hostel.

An older friend recently returned from Italy. She stayed at a Hostel located in a beautiful location and it was quiet in regard to the guests.

However, young people who enjoy a party often frequent Hostels. So, if you like quiet, be aware when inquiring about a Hostel.

Website: https://www.kayak.com/hostels

National Parks and Campgrounds

One of the best deals is the Lifetime Senior Pass for United States citizens.

It will provide you with free entry into all National Parks in North America for the rest of your life.

If you are on a fixed budget you can obtain a Yearly Senior Pass for entry into all of the National Parks for $20 for one year.

Besides giving entrance to the National Parks, your camping fee is reduced by 50%.

AARP members receive a 10% discount at some campgrounds.

Disneyland & Disney World

Disneyland and Disney World do not have discount tickets for seniors. However, you can buy them from a ticket broker because these brokers often have the lowest prices on legitimate Disneyland & Disney World tickets.

Some senior citizen organizations can occasionally offer special discounts.

AARP Discounts

The AARP membership gives a variety of discounts on just about everything travel related.  Membership provides savings on rentals, air fair, cruises, tours, and vacation packages You need to join for an annual membership.

For convenience, AARP provides senior members with an AARP card to present to hotels, airlines, cruises, car rentals, bus lines, campgrounds and many more to receive discounts.

Volunteer Trips

Many older adults have time on our hands and wish to put those hands to good use. If so, think about a volunteer trip that might offer free housing and food in exchange for your help.

Volunteer opportunities make for some of the best senior travel deals. They may take you to far away locations. You might put the skills of your lifetime to use by tutoring, working on computers, environmental work and much more.

You can find volunteer opportunities that involve travel with a Volunteer Opportunity Service.

Global Vision International has volunteer opportunities for seniors over 50. This is an Award Winning Company that focuses on conservation and community development programs.

Working Vacations

Jobs abound for older adults in just about every state and country.

There are plenty of positions on cruise ships for older adults to work part-time and enjoy the cruise on their spare time.

If you are no longer bound by a career, family or other responsibilities, you can work in the chosen location for your travels.

This is a chance to use the skills and knowledge you have already achieved or explore new jobs to expand your knowledge and skills.

Often, this lets you work near other seniors or people of a variety of ages. 

Hotel Deals/Discounts

Large chain hotels give a range of 10% to 15% price reduction at select dates for seniors. The age requirement ranges from 50 to 65.

Hotel Rewards Programs

A great way to save on hotels, motels and suites is to join the Choice Privileges Reward Program .

We joined a few years ago and have saved quite a bit on our many stays.

The Choice Hotels chain has various well-known brands to choose from when booking a stay. Their hotels vary from economy grade to luxury. They are found in thousands of locations throughout the world.

So you won’t be hard pressed to find one no matter where you’re headed on your next venture!

The program awards you points for each Choice hotel or suite booked.

After you’ve earned enough points, they can be redeemed when booking a hotel or suite as a discount on the cost.

Sign-up here .

Choice Hotels Brands

Upscale 

Extended Stay

Restaurants

Large chain restaurants offer a variety of discounts ranging from 5% to 25%.

Again the age requirement varies. Sometimes they give a drink or a coffee. 

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Travel Discounts for Seniors

Take advantage of the perks offered to people 50 and older as you make plans for retirement travel.

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Some cruise lines will offer deals when you call and ask. Other discounts might be available on the website as you book a trip.

Whether you’re visiting family or taking a vacation, there are many travel deals available for senior citizens . Some travel discounts for seniors can be found online, while others are available when you call or join an organization. Be ready to read the fine print and ask for details to make sure you are eligible for discounts. You will often be required to show proof of age, such as an ID or membership card.

Some of the senior travel discounts to consider include:

• Hotel senior discounts.
• Flight senior discounts.
• Train senior discounts.
• Car rental senior discounts.
• Cruise senior discounts.
• Admission senior discounts.
• AAA senior discounts versus AARP senior discounts.

Hotel Senior Discounts

Many chains and local hotels will grant older guests a discount. Ask when making a reservation or look as you book online. Here are a few hotel senior discounts to help you get started:

• Aqua-Aston Hospitality: Travelers age 50 or older can save up to 15% off the best available rate.
• Best Western: Guests who are 55 and older could get discounted room rates and free breakfast at participating locations.
• Cambria Suites: Offers up to 10% off to AARP members.
• Choice Hotel: Grants AARP cardholders and those 60 and older a 10% discount on advance reservations.
• IHG: Gives deals and discounts to guests who are 62 and older at participating locations.
• Marriott: Offers a senior discount rate to those age 62 and older.
• Red Roof: Gives a 10% discount to seniors 59 and older based on availability.
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: Grants guests who are at least 60 years old a senior rate at participating locations.

Flight Senior Discounts

In addition to airline miles you might accumulate through a credit card , look for senior deals when booking a flight. Some airlines change their policies occasionally, so it’s best to ask if you don’t see a discount offered online. Here are a few airline senior discounts to consider:

• Air France: Offers a senior pass to customers who are at least 65 years old. The pass costs 49 euros a year and includes benefits such as flexible tickets and discounts on flights.
• British Airways: AARP members can receive between $65 and $200 off round-trip flights.
• Delta: Provides a senior discount in certain markets. Call to ask about availability.
• JetBlue: Discounts of 5% for retired military and veterans are available for those enrolled in Veterans Advantage.
• ParkRideFly: Gives AARP members a 12% savings when booking airport parking.
• United Airlines: Offers a discounted price to passengers who are 65 and older for selected destinations.

Train Senior Discounts

If you want to see the U.S. or Europe by rail, there are special offers available to seniors. Look for online details or call ahead and ask. You could save between 10% and 30% on your next trip. Try these train senior discounts:

• Amtrak: 10% off most rail fares for travelers age 65 and older.
• Eurail Passes: 10% off for Europe train travel if you are 60 and older and purchase a Senior Pass.
• Grand Canyon Railway: Offers a 15% discount on train tickets to those who are 62 and older.
• Senior Rail Card: One-third off of UK rail travel for ticket purchasers who are 60 or older.
• Vacations by Rail: Gives a 5% discount and other benefits to AARP members.

Car Rental Senior Discounts

Many car rental locations will grant seniors a discount. When you rent a car, ask about deals based on age. Here are a few car rental senior discounts to try:

• Avis: AARP Members can save up to 30% off Avis base rates.
• Auto Europe: Gives a 5% senior discount to those who book online.
• Budget: Up to 30% off at participating locations, plus other benefits and offers for AARP members.
• Sixt: Provides a 5% discount for seniors who are 50 and older.
• Thrifty: Offers 5% off time and mileage charges to those age 50 and older.
• Hertz: Savings of up to 20% off base rates for travelers 50 and over at participating locations.
• ZipCar: Offers $20 off annual membership and a $40 driving credit to AARP members.

Cruise Senior Discounts

Some cruise lines will offer deals when you call and ask. Other discounts might be available on the website as you book a trip. Check out these cruise senior discounts:

• Carnival: Offers cruises for seniors age 55 and older at lowered rates, although exact prices depend on sailing dates and destinations.
• Collette Cruise Tours: AARP members can save up to $100 per person on select trips.
• Grand European Travel: AARP members can save up to $100 per person on certain guided tours.
• Royal Caribbean: Special prices are available on select cruises for guests aged 55 and older.

Admission Senior Discounts

When booking tickets for a concert, searching for a movie or getting ready to tour a museum or park, find out about senior deals. Many locations will grant a discount if you meet their age requirements and can show proof of age. You might find senior discounts for admissions at the following places:

• AMC Theatres provides a discount to ticket purchasers who are 60 and older at participating locations.
• America the Beautiful Senior Pass: $20 for an annual senior pass or $80 for a lifetime pass, which can be used at national parks and federal recreational lands.
• Art Institute of Chicago: Seniors age 65 and older receive a $8 discount.
• Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City: $8 off ticket prices for seniors.
• Regal Theatres provides discounts to moviegoers who are 60 or older for certain performances.
• The National Baseball Hall of Fame: $6 discount on admission for seniors who are 65 and older.
• Ticketmaster: AARP members receive discounts on selected events.

AAA Senior Discounts Versus AARP Discounts

The American Automobile Association, commonly called AAA, charges an annual membership fee. In exchange, members receive roadside assistance and additional benefits. The classic membership costs $64.99 a year and provides standard towing, identity theft monitoring, emergency fuel delivery and discounts at over 100,000 locations, including hotels and restaurants. Members can expect to receive a discount for certain electronic products such as HP and Dell. They can get shopping discounts at retailers like Gopuff and 1-800-Flowers. There are also promotions available at LensCrafters and restaurants, including Hard Rock Café and Landry’s.

An AARP membership costs $12 for the first year with automatic renewal. For subsequent years, you’ll pay $16 annually. Members receive benefits related to products and services including insurance, health care, entertainment, travel, restaurants, groceries, and technology and wireless services. Retirees can connect with AARP communities in person and online. There are additional opportunities through AARP including help with job searches and volunteer positions.

When choosing between AAA and AARP, consider your location and lifestyle. There could be certain benefits with one organization that align with your preferences and budget . After joining one, remember to ask when booking if there are discounts available for your membership.

How to Retire at 55 on $1 Million

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Guide: Travel and Discounts Guide for Seniors

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Senior Discounts To Help You Plan Your Trip

Flight discounts for seniors, hotel discounts for seniors, cruise discounts and information for seniors, travel blogs for seniors, group tours for seniors, trips for seniors off the beaten path, travel insurance for seniors, more travel help for seniors, travel apps for seniors.

If you’re retired, you probably have more time to spend with family and friends or visit the places you’ve always wanted to see.

But sometimes, retirement can present seniors with budgetary constraints like fixed incomes or dwindling savings. In looking for ways to make traveling in your retirement affordable, any discounts and savings will go a long way!

But what is a “senior?”

The answer depends on who you ask. While some companies specify anyone over 50 is a senior, others say you must be 62, and still others require you to be 65. This is why it is important to check the details on any discount, program, or offer to make sure you qualify.

Below we’ve put together a guide that provides an overview of some of the best savings opportunities for seniors, as well as some tips on travel insurance.

As a senior, you are eligible for a variety of travel discounts when you start to plan your trip. By taking advantage of these savings, you may be able to afford to travel more often! Here are a few resources you can use to obtain many of the best bargains available today:

• AARP : The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a large nonprofit group focused on advocacy and support for people aged 50 and over. By visiting the website, you can join AARP for approximately $16 per year. You can then take advantage of the many travel benefits offered by this organization . Visitors can read more about this on the AARP’s Travel Benefits page, which includes advice on travel deals, travel insurance, and vacation packages.
• AARP Travel Center by Expedia : In addition to providing information on its own site, AARP has also partnered with the online travel platform Expedia . As a result, these 2 organizations can provide you a comprehensive travel search experience. The Travel Center allows users to search for flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and other activities that are eligible for AARP discounts.
• Priceline Senior Deals : The travel platform Priceline also offers a senior search function for tracking down special deals. Visitors should take a look at the Senior Getaways calendar , which displays the dates when senior discounts are available.
• Avis , Hertz , and Alamo : Up to 25% off for AARP members.
• Budget : Up to 20% off for AARP members, 10% off for non-AARP members.
• Dollar : Those over 50 can get 10% off.
• Enterprise : AARP members get 5% off.
• National : Up to 30% discount for AARP members.
• Amtrak : Passengers aged 62+ can get a 15% discount on most fares.
• Greyhound : If you are over 52, you can get a 5% discount on tickets.

Although senior discounts on flights were common in the past, many airlines have stopped offering these special rates. If you can’t find a discount on the flight you want, you could try to concentrate on deals for other parts of your trip, such as meals or lodging. Here are a couple airlines that may occasionally have senior rates:

• United – Senior Travelers : This United page explains how travelers 65+ can occasionally access flight discounts. It also discusses how to make flying more convenient and comfortable, which is especially useful if you or your travel companions happen to have disabilities or mobility issues.
• Southwest – Seniors : According to Southwest, the airline has senior fares for both domestic and international flights. They apply to people aged 65+ and require age verification through a government-issued ID. The Southwest Seniors page provides further information on how to access these special fares.
• Delta : Offers senior discounts in specific areas, but only if you call here to find them.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to check out these great credit cards for seniors and retirees .

Unlike the dwindling flight discounts, hotel discounts for seniors are still going strong. If you are planning to stay in a hotel soon, be sure to look into these savings:

• Choice Hotel Senior Rates : On this page, you can find information on the discounted hotel rates available to people 60 older. By using this discount, you are also eligible for other Choice Hotel programs, such as Choice Privilege and Choice Airline Rewards .
• Marriott Senior Discount : A senior discount is available at over 4,000 Marriott hotels . This page shows you how to book cheaper rates if you are at least 62 years old. Rooms booked at the senior rate are also eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points, so you may want to check out that program too.
• Best Western Senior Hotel Discounts : You can take advantage of the special rate offered by Best Western, which applies to those who are 55 and older. Certain Best Western hotels may provide extra perks like a complimentary room upgrade, continental breakfast, early check-in, or late check-out, so be sure to ask about that when you book your room.
• Golden Tulip : On this website, you can search for senior deals valid at a variety of Golden Tulip hotels around the world. Senior deals are available to travelers at least 62 years old.

Cruises are usually all-inclusive, which makes it relaxing and easy to travel to those faraway places you’ve always wanted to see. Cruise travel is available to everyone – even those with reduced mobility, thanks to planned itineraries, wheelchair-accessible common areas, and activities you can enjoy at your own pace.

For today’s active seniors, there are also plenty of chances to participate in many cultural and leisure activities. Here are some cruise resources you can explore:

• Best Price Cruises – Senior Discounts : Best Price Cruises is a travel platform dedicated exclusively to cruises. You can search for cruises by destination, cruise line, ship, trip length, and departure date. The site has filters for all kinds of travel rates, including senior rates.
• Vacations To Go – Senior Discounts : Vacations To Go is a cruise agency catering to all ages, but it also has a special page for travelers 55 and older. You can also choose preferred regions and specific cruise lines to see the senior discounts available.
• Carnival Cruise Deals for Seniors : By going directly to the website of Carnival Cruise Lines, you can search discounted cruise fares for travelers at least 55 years old. There is a wide selection of search filters, including destination port, arrival port, length of cruise, type of cruise, and ship.
• Grand Circle Cruise Line : If you are a cruise enthusiast who wants a different kind of cruise experience, Grand Circle Cruise Line offers trips that are more specialized than those offered by the larger cruise lines. On the company’s website, you can discover small ship cruises and river cruises that take between 25 and 100 passengers. This reduced size suits seniors who want a quieter cruise experience.

Hot Tip:  If you’ve booked that exciting adventure on the open seas but you’re wondering how to pack, check out this ultimate guide with a  printable cruise packing list !

If you are a senior who loves to travel, you’re not alone! There are a number of blog writers who are sharing their travel experiences and tips, including the following:

• Life Part 2 : Senior blogger Jonathan Look gives readers a glimpse into his life of travel with this blog. Jonathan sold all of his belongings so he could set off to experience the voyages and adventures he had always dreamed about. His blog isn’t exclusively about budget travel, but he does address the subject quite often. In fact, there is an entire section called “What Does It Cost to Live for a Month in,” where senior travelers on a budget can gauge the affordability of their desired destinations across the world.
• The Travelling Boomer : Paul Marshman is a semi-retired news reporter and editor who wants to visit every country in the world in his lifetime. Paul’s eye for interesting stories has led him to create a travel blog that is both exciting and informative. On his blog, he shows off his journalistic side by featuring a lot of practical tips and reports. In his cruising section, he discusses cruise deals, popular cruises, and alternative cruises from the perspective of an active baby boomer who is passionate about travel.
• Adventures of Empty Nesters : Suzanne Stavert started this blog to “bring together a global community of people who don’t plan to spend this valuable time sitting on the couch.” Each year, she and her husband Craig plan their travel adventures based on the destinations they haven’t seen yet. This can include staying in luxury hotels and eating at famous chef-inspired eateries in both the U.S. and abroad.
• Hole in the Donut Cultural Travel : Having traveled to over 75 different countries, Barbara Weibel is an excellent example of a senior traveler who loves to go off the beaten path. After stagnating in unfulfilling jobs, Barbara now uses perpetual travel as a way to immerse herself in different cultures and grow as a person. Her destinations have included Nepal, Zambia, Peru, and many other faraway countries. If you relish unique cultural experiences, you’ll be inspired by Barbara’s blog.

Group tours can offer you the opportunity to discover new things while still having the comfort of a planned itinerary with other travelers. The following tour companies focus specifically on the senior market:

• Seniortours : On the Seniortours website, you can discover a large number of group tours for older travelers all over the world. You can also review numerous descriptions of tours that go through the mountains, sunny shores, wine country, scenic southwest, and more. The website also provides travel news and tips for seniors.
• Grand European Travel : This tour company offers discounts for AARP members, so participating seniors can visit the website to find out what the latest deals are. Despite the name, Grand European Travel also organizes tours in the U.S. and Asia. You can learn more about their tours on the company’s website, where there is also a variety of travel advice.
• Adventures Abroad – Senior Tour s : Adventures Abroad offers travel tours made up of small groups of seniors covering 120 different countries. On the website, you can view 350 itineraries that feature culture, hiking, and everything in between. To make it easier to choose an itinerary suited to your abilities and desires, Adventures Abroad rates each itinerary by the level of physical activity.

For adventurous types, the following tour companies provide trips that are exotic, educational, philanthropic, and highly cultural:

• Transitions Abroad – Senior Tours and Travel Programs : Transitions Abroad offers you the opportunity to enjoy exotic vacations and help others as well. Volunteer vacations can last anywhere from 1 week to 3 months. Volunteers are given a choice of 9 different countries from the continents of North America, South America , Africa, and Asia. The Transitions Abroad website also includes stories written by seniors about their volunteer experiences.
• ElderTreks : As the name suggests, this tour company specializes in exotic tours for seniors. The website gives you a lot to consider with fascinating reports of treks in Iceland, Cuba, and India , just to name a few. The site also highlights discounted and last minute tours for quick trip planning too.
• Road Scholar : Road Scholar used to be called Elderhostel, and these tours still cater primarily to older travelers. The company offers learning tours in exotic places led by experienced instructors. If you are a lifelong learner, you can visit the website and browse through a range of educational and inspirational travel experiences.

Obtaining reasonably priced travel insurance can become an issue as you get older. Here are some options if you want to acquire coverage:

• Policybazaar – Senior Citizen Travel Insurance : This website allows you to search for travel insurance that suits your specific needs. It also provides information on what travel insurance coverage for seniors usually includes. Since senior travel insurance may have different terms compared to standard travel insurance, the website gives guidance on which policy terms seniors should pay particular attention to.
• Allianz Travel Insurance for Seniors : Allianz is a trusted worldwide insurer that also happens to provide coverage for senior travelers. This page is dedicated to senior travel insurance. In addition to providing insurance quotes for seniors, it also lists the reasons why seniors may want to obtain trip coverage.

Hot Tip:  If you want to consider more options, check out our piece on the Best Travel Insurance Companies For All Travelers . 

Here are a few miscellaneous programs you may not know about:

• ParkRideFlyUSA : You can get a 10% discount on airport parking when you use your AARP card.
• America the Beautiful Senior Pass : If you are a U.S. citizen who is 62 or older, you can purchase this pass at any national park site for $10. The pass can get you into over 2,000 national parks at no cost for your lifetime. There is an extra $10 charge for processing through the mail or online. Some sites also offer a 50% discount on things like swimming, camping, special interpretive services, and boat launching.
• Flying Companions : Provides travel companions to accompany seniors who don’t want to travel alone, have flying fears, or deal with physical challenges. They pick you up at your home or meet you at your place of departure, providing assistance for everything from checking in to baggage claims and more.

Everyone loves apps these days, and seniors are no exception! Both the Android and iOS systems offer a number of easy-to-use apps for travelers. Here are the most helpful ones for tech-savvy seniors:

• XE Currency : Easily convert more than 180 currencies using updated exchange rate calculations. This app works without Wi-Fi, so you can use it even without an internet connection. You can even create a live list to keep track of spending in your own currency.
• Google Translate : Offers translations of 90 languages, as well as language packs you can download to use offline. It also includes Word Lens, a tool that allows you translate a foreign word in seconds just by pointing your phone at it. Available for Windows, Android , and iOS .
• FourSquare : Available for Windows, Android, and iOS, this city guide helps you find places to visit, eat, drink, and shop by providing more than 60 million local recommendations and reviews from the experts. It also helps keep track of places you’ve visited and places you want to go for your next trip.
• LiveTrekker : You can create your own digital diary using this app by pinning videos, audio clips, photographs, and more to your map wherever you are. Track all your trips using the integrated GPS, which also measures altitude and speed.

As you can see, there are a number of discounts, programs, apps, and sources of information for seniors who travel. Because discount programs change often and new ones are being added all the time, always ask about them when booking or calling for more information.

It can’t hurt to ask, and you may be pleasantly surprised! By saving a little here and a lot there, you may be able to afford to travel much more than you ever imagined.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies offer a senior discount.

There are quite a lot of travel companies that provide discounts for seniors, including car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and National. Airlines like United, Delta, and Southwest.

Plus, seniors can take advantage of companies that offer discounts across a wide variety of travel bookings like AARP, Expedia, and Priceline.

What airlines offer senior discounts?

U.S. airlines that offer senior discounts are American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Airlines.

What hotels offer senior discounts?

Some hotel groups that offer a senior discount are Choice, Wyndham, Marriott, IHG, and Best Western.

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Travel Discounts That People 55 and Up Should Be Using

By Caitlin Manner

There aren’t many perks to getting older that make up for the creaky knees and unruly middle sections, so you should try to take advantage of whatever you can find. Once you’re over a certain age you have a ton of options for saving money on various travel amenities, so read on for more details.

Discounts on Hotels

Many options for overnight lodging offer older guests a discount on their stay. Some make the discount available when booking online, and others require you to ask when making the reservation over the phone (or even upon check-in at the registration desk). Here are just a few of the deals that are out there, verified in a helpful article from U.S. News and World Report :

• Best Western : Guests who are 55 and older can get discounted room rates and free breakfast at participating locations.
• Cambria Suites : Offers up to 10% off for AARP members (sign up for AARP membership here ).
• Choice Hotel : AARP cardholders (or guests over 60) get a 10% discount on advance reservations.
• Marriott : Offers a senior discount rate to those over 62.
• Red Roof : Gives a 10% discount to seniors 59 and older, based on availability.
• Wyndham Hotels and Resorts : Participating locations grant a senior rate to guests over 60.

Discounts on Air Travel

Airlines are pros at changing policies behind closed doors, so the caveat for this category is to make it a habit to just ask what discounts are available to you if you don’t see any online. That said, here are a few we confirmed at press time:

• Air France : Offers a senior pass to customers who are at least 65 years old. The pass costs €49 a year and includes benefits like flexible tickets and discounts on flights.
• British Airways : AARP members can receive between $65 and $200 off round-trip flights (sign up for AARP membership here ).
• Delta: This one requires a phone call (1-800-221-1212), but certain markets offer a senior discount.
• JetBlue : Retired military and veterans can receive 5% discounts if they’re enrolled in JetBlue’s Veterans Advantage program.
• United Airlines : Discounts offered to passengers 65 and older for selected destinations.
• ParkRideFly : AARP members receive a 12% savings when booking airport parking.

Discounts on Train Travel

If you’re not in a hurry to get to your destination, trains are a romantic way to travel. Sure, you’re still stuck in a tube with strangers, but at least you don’t need to go through TSA, and the food and beverage selections are way better.

• Amtrak : Most travelers 65 and older can get 10% off fares.
• Eurail passes : If you are 60 and older and purchase a senior pass, you can get up to 10% off European train travel.
• Grand Canyon Railway : Offers a 15% discount on train tickets to those 62 and older
• Senior Rail Card : The United Kingdom offers one-third off rail travel for ticket purchasers who are 60 or older.
• Vacations by Rail : Gives a 5% discount and other benefits to AARP members.

Discounts on Car Rentals

Some of the rental car discounts are better than others, but when you’re traveling long enough to require your own car, even tiny savings add up.

• Avis : AARP members can save up to 30% off base rates.
• Auto Europe : Offers a 5% senior discount to those who book online.
• Budget : AARP members get up to 30% off (at participating locations) plus other benefits and offers (sign up for AARP membership here ).
• Thrifty : Offers 5% off time and mileage charges for people 50 and up.
• Hertz : Travelers 50 and over can save up to 20% off base rates at participating locations.
• ZipCar : Offers $20 off annual membership and a $40 driving credit to AARP members.

Discounts on Cruises

Cruise lines will often offer different deals and discounts based on the time of year and the destination ( check out this 55Plus Life article for more tips), so it’s always a good idea to call and ask when you’re booking. Here are just some of the discounts some cruise lines offer to seniors:

• Carnival : Offers cruises for seniors age 55 and older at lowered rates depending on sailing dates and destinations.
• Collette Cruise Tours : AARP members can save up to $100 per person on select trips.
• Grand European Travel : AARP members can save up to $100 per person on certain guided tours.
• Royal Caribbean : Special prices are available on select cruises for guests age 55 and older.

Hopefully, you can take advantage of some of these discounts on travel soon. Just remember: It never hurts to ask. Bon voyage!

Top image by Proxima Studio, via Canva.com

More on travel:

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The Best Senior Travel Discounts, and Where to Find Them

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

He is the author of "Online Travel" (2000) and "Business Travel: When It's Your Money" (2004), the first step-by-step guide specifically written for small business and self-employed professional travelers. He was also the co-author of the annual "Best Travel Deals" series from Consumers Union.

Perkins' advice for business travelers is featured on MyBusinessTravel.com , a website devoted to helping small business and self-employed professional travelers find the best value for their travel dollars.

Perkins was founding editor of Consumer Reports Travel Letter, one of the country's most influential travel publications, from which he retired in 1998. He has also written for Business Traveller magazine (London).

Perkins' travel expertise has led to frequent television appearances, including ABC's "Good Morning America" and "This Week with David Brinkley," "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather," CNN, and numerous local TV and radio stations.

Before editing Consumer Reports Travel Letter, Perkins spent 25 years in travel research and consulting with assignments ranging from national tourism development strategies to the design of computer-based tourism models.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Perkins lives in Ashland, Oregon with his wife.

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Getting old has few benefits, but the occasional senior travel discount is one of them. Senior travelers can enjoy a wide range of discounts, but both availability and value vary substantially among different travel sectors and in different parts of the globe.

Typically, senior status starts at age 65 in the U.S. and at 60 in the rest of the world. Here’s where to look for a senior travel discount, and what you’ll get.

Airline Senior Travel Discount

Only two large airlines offer discounts to senior travelers: Southwest and British Airways.

Southwest offers senior fares on most flights for those 65 and over—but some senior fares can still be much higher than the cheapest ones available to travelers of any age. On a sample Sacramento to Chicago flight two months in advance, for example, the cheapest ticket available to travelers of any age is $169, compared with the $287 senior travel discount fare. But, for flights just two days in advance, the senior fare is still $287, while other travelers’ cheapest option is $348. Southwest’s senior travel discount is a good deal for airfare booked closer to departure.

British Airways offers round-trip senior travel discounts of $65 in economy and premium economy and $200 in business class to AARP members who book through the AARP website. Both are available to anyone age 50 or over. The $60 discount on an economy ticket is fairly attractive, but it’s worth noting that British Airways is known to have an inferior business class compared to its major competitors.

Rail Senior Travel Discount

Amtrak offers 10 percent discounts to senior travelers for coach travel on most trains, but the discount does not apply to sleeper travel, business class, or most trips on Acela. Seniors get bigger discounts on some flash sales, and routinely get 50 percent discounts for Downeaster trains between Boston and Portland, Maine.

VIA Rail Canada offers 10 percent senior discounts to travelers 60 and over on most trains, including sleeper service. Often, however, the cheapest any-age ticket is less expensive than the lowest discounted senior fare.

In Europe, only Belgium and Portugal seem to offer senior travel discounts to those 60 or over on individual tickets for some trains. A senior travel discount is also available on first-class British and French rail passes, but any-age passes in second class are cheaper. Rail systems in Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain sell annual railcards that offer discounts of 15 percent to 50 percent on individual tickets to seniors age 60 or over. Rail pass prices can vary greatly, but the Italian card is free to seniors age 75 or over. You typically can’t buy European rail cards online in advance, so plan to buy on arrival.

Public Transit Senior Travel Discount

Many transit systems in U.S. cities offer senior travel discounts to people age 65 and over, but the amount will vary. You can find lots of options for about 50 percent off, and rides are free for seniors in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Regional suburban rail systems in several cities also offer senior deals. In recent years, however, big destinations including Boston, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington no longer accept a Medicare card as I.D. for eligibility and instead require that seniors apply in person at a local transit office for senior I.D. issued by the transit system. Check with the city transit system’s website for details.

The U.S. seems to be unique in offering widespread senior transit deals: Only a few Canadian cities do, and there are very few in European or Asian hubs. Australian senior discounts are limited to local residents.

Hotel Senior Travel Discount

Large U.S. hotel chains and independent hotels alike typically offer a small senior travel discount of about 10 percent. Qualifying minimum ages range from 50 years (for AARP members and sometimes others) to 65. To take advantage of senior travel discounts, most chains now require that you book directly rather than through an online travel agency.

Other Senior Travel Discount Opportunities

Cruise lines and tour operators don’t routinely offer senior discounts, though some have deals with AARP that can include dollars off or extras tacked on. The Avis family (Avis, Budget, Payless, and Zipcar) offers AARP members discounts of 10 to 25 percent off rental rates. Greyhound buses offer a modest senior discount of five percent.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Best Times to Book for Cruise Savings, by Destination
• 7 Safety Tips for Senior Travelers
• 6 Saving Secrets for Senior Travel

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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12 days from 2748.

In 12 incredible days you’ll discover some of Morocco’s best sights on a Premium...

Premium Egypt in Depth

15 days from 5644.

Travel down the Nile from Cairo to Aswan, exploring Luxor, Alexandria and more along...

Premium Costa Rica

9 days from 3566.

Explore Costa Rica’s natural and cultural wonders on a nine-day Premium adventure...

Premium Turkey in Depth

15 days from 4743.

This 15-day Premium tour takes you into the ancient heart of Turkey. Begin and end in...

Premium Java and Bali

11 days from 3694.

Discover Java's heritage and Bali’s traditions on an exclusive Premium small group trip...

Premium Nepal

9 days from 2657.

Take a Premium adventure that encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by...

Premium New Zealand South Island

10 days from 5066.

Explore New Zealand’s South Island on a 10-day small group tour which includes Franz...

Premium Vietnam & Cambodia

13 days from 4190.

Be immersed in the rich historic and cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on this...

Premium Thailand and Vietnam

19 days from 5436.

Take a Premium trip exploring Thailand and Vietnam’s highlights, including Bangkok,...

Premium Egypt & Jordan in Depth

22 days from 8471.

Discover the contrasts of modern and ancient Egypt and Jordan on this in-depth Premium...

Premium Iceland

9 days from 6804.

Discover Iceland’s geological wonders and welcoming people on an all-encompassing...

Premium Argentina & Brazil

7 days from 3834.

Soak up Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, two of South America's liveliest cities, and...

Premium India in Depth

14 days from 3789.

Take in north India’s fabled cities and encounter the exotic wildlife of Ranthambhore...

Premium Nepal & Bhutan

17 days from 7965.

Embark on a 17-day Premium adventure through the mysterious mountain kingdoms of Bhutan...

Premium India

10 days from 3420.

Take a 10-day India Premium adventure with Intrepid through the country’s north,...

Premium Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

15 days from 5090.

Experience varied landscapes, customs and people as you journey from Baku to Yerevan...

Premium Cambodia

6 days from 1647.

Uncover the mysteries of incredible Angkor Wat on a Premium tour of Cambodia. Travel...

Premium Highlights of Japan

9 days from 4504.

Take a Premium trip through the highlights of Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura,...

Premium Northern Thailand

12 days from 3328.

Discover a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, history, and hospitable...

Premium Southern Africa

8 days from 6125.

Embark on an eight-day Premium adventure from Johannesburg to Chobe National Park, via...

Premium China

12 days from 4170.

Take a small group Premium adventure that weaves together some of China’s most famous...

Premium Sri Lanka

9 days from 2421.

Discover the best of a Sri Lanka on a 9-day Premium small group tour that includes...

Premium Patagonia

9 days from 6953.

Discover Patagonia on a 9-day Premium journey that takes in Santiago, Torres del Paine...

Premium Spain in Depth

20 days from 10776.

Premium Bhutan

9 days from 4811.

Experience a Premium adventure through the mysterious mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Take...

Premium Mexico City to Oaxaca

8 days from 2831.

Discover the dazzling diversity of Mexico as you embark on a Premium adventure with a...

Premium New Zealand North Island

8 days from 4064.

Uncover the natural wonders of New Zealand’s North Island on an eight-day Premium...

Premium Cuba

9 days from 2943.

Escape to Cuba on a Premium adventure and explore the old-world charm of Havana,...

Premium Highlights of South America

24 days from 13793.

Embark on a 24-day Premium journey from the Amazon to the Andes and discover South...

Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights

8 days from 2848.

Discover Maya ruins, colourful cultures, indigenous communities and colonial towns on...

Premium Southern Africa in Depth

14 days from 9771.

This 14-day Premium journey through southern Africa reveals the best wildlife and...

Premium New Zealand Encompassed

17 days from 9612.

Discover the best of New Zealand on a 17-day Premium adventure, taking in the most...

Premium Morocco Highlights with Essaouira

11 days from 2480, 18 days from 9612, premium morocco explorer with essaouira, 15 days from 3348.

A 15-day Premium journey through Morocco’s best sights, taking in Casablanca, Fes,...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Premium India & Nepal

18 days from 6048.

Take a 18-day Premium adventure with Intrepid through India's Golden Triangle, Varanasi...

Our Comfort tours

Morocco uncovered, 13 days from 1637.

Uncover the heart of Morocco on a journey from Casablanca to Marrakech, through Roman...

Egypt Experience

12 days from 2597.

From Cairo, Alexandria and Aswan to the Valley of the Kings at Luxor, see the pharaohs,...

9 Days From 2075

We are thrilled to offer a legal trip for US citizens that supports the Cuban people....

Classic Galapagos: Central Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

10 days from 6404.

Travel to the Galapagos Islands and sail around the central eastern islands, witnessing...

Classic Borneo

10 days from 2282.

Journey through Borneo on a wild 10-day adventure from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan,...

Classic Morocco

8 days from 1188.

See the wonders of Morocco, including Ait Benhaddou, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains,...

Jordan Discovery

8 days from 1740.

Experience the best of Jordan on this 8-day adventure. From Amman, 4WD through Wadi Rum...

Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

14 days from 9990.

Set sail for the trip of a lifetime – a 14-day journey on board the Ocean Endeavour,...

Explore Egypt & Jordan

19 days from 4420.

This 19-day tour explores the best of Egypt and Jordan in Comfort, from Cairo to...

Classic Vietnam

15 days from 2376.

Uncover the proud, spirited heart of Vietnam on this classic 15-day adventure. Tour...

Italy Experience

10 days from 3896.

Travel to Italy on a journey from the canals of Venice to the cobblestone streets of...

Treasures of Vietnam

8 days from 1467.

Discover the spirit of Vietnam on a small group tour from south to north, visiting Ho...

Turkey Encompassed

15 days from 3056.

Travel through Turkey and see Istanbul's Blue Mosque, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, the...

Cambodia & Vietnam Discovery

13 days from 2912.

Uncover the dramatic histories of these two beautiful countries on a trip through the...

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

6 days from 2732.

Take a discovery tour of Wyoming’s highlights, with plenty of wildlife-spotting and...

Rajasthan Experience

15 days from 2331.

See the best of Rajasthan on this 15-day tour. Behold the delights of Agra, Jaipur,...

Classic Cambodia

6 days from 1139.

Unearth the essence of Cambodia on a leisurely journey that spends time seeing the...

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

11 days from 7400.

Experience the magic of the Antarctic Peninsula and its islands aboard the Ocean...

Classic Japan

11 days from 5328.

Journey from Kyoto to Tokyo with Intrepid and explore temples, post towns and lush...

Western Balkans Uncovered

12 days from 2818.

Combine the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of North...

Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans

7 days from 2589.

Walk in famous footsteps on a 7-day musical journey from Nashville to Memphis and New...

Classic Egypt

8 days from 2104.

Travel Egypt on this adventure that visits Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. See pyramids, visit...

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

5 days from 2080.

Set off on a five-day circuit from Reykjavik, visit thundering waterfalls, steamy...

Classic Nepal

11 days from 2070.

Journey around Nepal from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Bandipur, meet the creatures of...

Morocco Family Holiday Comfort

10 days from 1170.

Take your family on a Moroccan adventure through Casablanca, Fes, Midelt, Merzouga, Ait...

Majestic Peru

15 days from 3915.

Tour through Lima, Puno, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes and...

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

14 days from 9480.

Experience the rare opportunity to explore both the eastern and western sides of the...

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4544.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Hiking in Sedona and the Grand Canyon

4 days from 2620.

Discover the very best of Northern Arizona on this 4-day hiking adventure through...

South Dakota to Yellowstone Parks Explorer

6 days from 2525.

Explore South Dakota and Yellowstone National Park, Badlands National Park, Little...

Best of Mexico

15 days from 4152.

Experience the best of Mexico on a 15-day adventure from Mexico City to Playa del...

Best of the Top End & Kakadu

4 days from 1568.

Visit the natural wonders of Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park,...

Classic Egypt & Jordan

15 days from 4221.

Tick the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Nile, the Dead Sea and The Treasury in Petra...

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island

5 days from 1420.

See the best of Perth, including the Margaret River region and its wineries, Fremantle...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 4106.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Highlights of Thailand

10 days from 1980.

Experience Thailand’s greatest hits on a 10-day comfort adventure through Bangkok,...

Best of Costa Rica

10 days from 2389.

Take a Costa Rican adventure starting in San Jose, visiting Copey, Manuel Antonio...

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam

20 days from 3789.

Get to know Vietnam and Cambodia, each with their own uniquely enchanting culture and...

Best of South Australia & Red Centre

9 days from 3236.

See the best of South Australia and Red Centre on this comfortable journey through...

Classic Sri Lanka

8 days from 1411.

Explore wonders of nature and humanity – often both at once – on this 8-day adventure...

Best of Alaska

10 days from 4667.

Explore the rugged landscape of icy Alaska. From Anchorage, circle the Kenai Peninsula...

Classic Barcelona to Madrid

7 days from 2444.

Travel south along the coast of Spain, leaving Barcelona, travelling through Valencia...

Best of Argentina & Brazil

7 days from 2805.

Experience the best of everything Argentina and Brazil have to offer on this fantastic,...

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Sail the aquamarine waters of the Galapagos’s central southern islands taking in...

Classic Madrid to Lisbon

9 days from 3247.

Take a trip through Portugal, starting in Spain’s capital, Madrid and heading through...

Croatian Coastal Cruising: Dubrovnik to Split (Aurora)

8 days from 2750.

Join a small ship cruising adventure to Croatia. Voyage along the Dalmatian coast,...

Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree

5 days from 1696.

From Cairns, take a trip to explore Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, the Great...

Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)

10 days from 6244.

Spend 10 unforgettable days on board the Grand Daphne, discovering the central islands...

Best of Northern Territory

8 days from 3604.

Tour through the Australia’s Red Centre and Top End, visiting Uluru, Kings Canyon,...

Explore China

12 days from 3029.

Spend 12 days exploring northern China from Shanghai to Beijing, including Luoyang, the...

Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon

4 days from 1658.

Discover Australia’s Red Centre on an adventure to the spectacular sights of Tjoritja ...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8390.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans

14 days from 5147.

Explore the deep South on your way to New Orleans on a twelve-day small group tour...

Classic Canadian Rockies

7 days from 3056.

See all the highlights from the Canadian Rockies, including Lake Louise, Spirit Island,...

Best of Australia

12 days from 5032.

Experience the full range of Australia’s natural wonder, with visits to the Blue...

Best of South Australia

5 days from 1512.

Explore the famous wine region of South Australia including Barossa Valley and Clare...

Best of Tasmania's Tarkine & Cradle Mountain

6 days from 1784.

Discover the best of Australia’s Tasmania with a visit to the Tarkine rainforest and...

Croatian Coastal Cruising - Split to Dubrovnik (Aurora)

Take a small-ship cruising adventure in Croatia from Split to Dubrovnik. Voyage along...

Egypt Family Holiday Comfort

8 days from 2320.

Step back in time on an 8-day family Egyptian adventure through Cairo, Aswan and Luxor....

Our Original tours 

Vietnam express southbound, 10 days from 1156.

Take a tour of Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with stops to cruise the Mekong...

Sydney to Cairns Adventure

14 days from 3664.

See the natural wonders of Queensland and New South Wales on an adventure through the...

Classic Costa Rica

15 days from 2129.

Travel to Costa Rica and discover a tropical playground of immense natural beauty....

Beautiful Bali

9 days from 981.

Travel to Bali and experience this oasis off the coast of Indonesia. Bali's Ubud, Mt...

Best of Sri Lanka

15 days from 2291.

Discover the must-sees, must-eats, and must-meets of gorgeous Sri Lanka on this 15-day...

Inca Trail Express

7 days from 1377.

Travel to Peru to discover Peru's ancient civilisation. Trek or train to Machu Picchu,...

Vietnam Express Northbound

Travel through Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Visit the Mekong Delta, cruise...

Rome to Amalfi

8 days from 2338.

Travel to Italy on a tour from Rome to Amalfi and explore the best of the region....

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

18 days from 2160.

Travel into the heart and soul of South East Asia on this tour of Vietnam and Cambodia....

Iceland Discovery

8 days from 3243.

See Iceland on this eight-day tour that travels to Reykjavik, the Golden Circle,...

Best of Morocco

15 days from 1165.

Discover the best of Morocco on an action-packed trip exploring Marrakech, Fes, the...

Athens to Santorini

8 days from 2660.

Travel from ancient Athens to the spectacular island of Santorini on this wonderful...

Sacred Land of the Incas

15 days from 3159.

Visit the Sacred Land of the Inca and delight in Peru's culture with two weeks through...

Everest Base Camp Trek

15 days from 1512.

Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this tour. Fly into Lukla and...

Egypt Adventure

8 days from 1128.

Visit Egypt and adventure along the River Nile through the land of the pharaohs, from...

Explore Jordan

8 days from 1304.

Travel to Jordan and tour Amman, Madaba and the inspiring desert landscape of Wadi Rum....

Classic Rajasthan

15 days from 1499.

Travel to India and visit the Rajasthan region. Tour from Delhi to Pushkar through...

Guatemala to Belize

10 days from 1445.

Wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, float along the waters of the Rio Dulce, and...

India's Golden Triangle

8 days from 842.

Take an action-packed eight-day tour through the essential sights and bites of India’s...

South Korea Highlights

9 days from 3020.

Take a dive into all that South Korea has to offer, from Seoul to Sokcho, Andong and...

Best of Italy

14 days from 4125.

Immerse yourself in classic culture, history and incredible sights on this Best of...

Cambodian Traveller

9 days from 1008.

Travel from Vietnam to Thailand on a South East Asian adventure that explores Cambodia...

North Morocco Adventure

8 days from 829.

This tour of North Morocco from Casablanca to Marrakech will capture your heart....

Inca Trail Express from Lima

8 days from 1535.

Travel to Peru and retrace the steps of the Inca. Follow traditions from Lima to Cusco,...

Classic Hikes of Patagonia

15 days from 7565.

Embark on all the classic hikes of Patagonia – including the Torres del Paine base hike...

Thailand & Laos Adventure

13 days from 1940.

Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane on a tour through Thailand and Laos. Visit Thailand's...

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

13 days from 4811.

Discover Japanese culture on this 13-day tour. Travel with a local from Tokyo to Kyoto...

Croatia Sailing Adventure: Dubrovnik to Split

8 days from 1407.

Explore Croatia's beautiful Adriatic coast on this aquatic adventure from Dubrovnik to...

Cycle Vietnam

15 days from 2403.

Jump in the saddle for a two-wheeled adventure tour of Vietnam. Take in cultural...

Morocco Encompassed

17 days from 1615.

Explore Morocco on this in-depth tour with Intrepid. Spend 17 days exploring Marrakech,...

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

12 days from 2529.

Travel from the heights of the Andes to the exotic Amazon rainforest on this best of...

South Korea Real Food Adventure

8 days from 2869.

Slurp, crunch and spoon your way into the heart of South Korean cuisine, snacking at...

Turkey Highlights

8 days from 1602.

See the highlights of Turkey on this eight-day adventure. Start in Istanbul and visit...

Costa Rica Experience

9 days from 1436.

Encounter the natural beauty of Costa Rica, from La Fortuna’s volcano and Monteverde’s...

South Morocco Discovery

10 days from 842.

Discover Morocco's southern highlights on this well paced adventure including Marrakech...

Best of Galapagos

10 days from 3686.

Discover amazing wildlife and natural beauty in the Galapagos Islands.

China Highlights

8 days from 1416.

Take a trip through epic China and see the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall,...

Central Asia: Five Stans Express

24 days from 5774.

Join a 24-day adventure through Central Asia from Ashgabat, to Tashkent, to Bishkek and...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 3542.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Discover Egypt & Jordan

15 days from 2696.

Take an adventure holiday through Egypt and Jordan. Visit Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza,...

Explore Colombia

10 days from 2200.

Travel to Colombia on a ten-day Intrepid. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Cartagena...

The Maritimes: Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick

6 days from 2246.

Experience the seaside charm of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick on this 6-day...

Sabah Adventure

11 days from 2227.

This Sabah Adventure tour through the Borneo wilderness will truly capture your...

Balkan Adventure

15 days from 2567.

Travel across historic Eastern Europe from Hungary to Croatia. Visit cultural sights...

Western USA National Parks Loop

5 days from 1751.

Set off on a five-day adventure through some of the USA’s most epic scenery, including...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2518.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on this upgraded adventure...

Scenic Vietnam

15 days from 1496.

Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on this Vietnam adventure. Trek in the quiet...

Best of Turkey

15 days from 2381.

From Istanbul to Ephesus, Pamukkale to the coast, and Cappadocia to the Anatolian...

Best of Spain

15 days from 3695.

Kick off a colourful Best of Spain tour in Madrid and visit some of Spain's highlights....

Madagascar Adventure

14 days from 3247.

Embark on a wildlife and jungle-filled adventure through Madagascar visiting...

Central Asia Explorer

17 days from 3362.

Soak up Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on this 17-day tour that begins in Bishkek and visits...

Walk the Camino de Santiago

7 days from 1360.

Over seven days, join a local leader and small group of likeminded travellers to walk...

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

10 days from 2054.

See the best of the Cyclades on this 10-day Greece sailing adventure. From Athens to...

Land of Belize

8 days from 1739.

Dive into Belize’s natural and cultural wonders on this slow-paced adventure through...

Classic Peru

9 days from 2244.

Visit South America and travel to Peru. Visit Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca, tour the...

Annapurna Circuit Trek

15 days from 1440.

Go trekking in Nepal on an adventure that takes you around the Annapurna Circuit. From...

Portuguese Camino

10 days from 2271.

Be challenged and be fulfilled on this coastal Camino, starting in Porto and walking...

Montenegro Sailing Adventure from Dubrovnik

8 days from 1858.

Sail into the sublime waters of Montenegro, departing from Dubrovnik and exploring...

Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest

8 days from 2214.

Experience the festive markets of Central Europe. Go Christmas crazy in the market...

Our Basix tours 

Hiking in the canadian rockies, 8 days from 2196.

Hike the Canadian Rockies, exploring Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Emerald Glacier...

Maya Encounter

17 days from 1577.

Find authentic adventure on this experience through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala....

Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

4 days from 900.

Discover the history, culture and incredible landscapes of Australia’s Red Centre on a...

Okavango Experience

10 days from 1647.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3249.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Canadian Rockies

15 days from 2759.

Discover the Canadian Rockies on this 15-day adventure tour with Intrepid that hits...

Uluru & Kings Canyon Express

Mexico unplugged, 15 days from 1641.

The incredible cultures and colours of Mexico await on this 15-day adventure through...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4064.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Explore Egypt

15 days from 1404.

Explore Egypt with a trip to Cairo, the Nile, Aswan, Luxor and Alexandria. Pyramids,...

Highlights of Italy

8 days from 1671.

See the best of Italy – Venice, La Spezia, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome – in eight...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2750.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1437.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

Central American Journey

17 days from 1634.

Travel from Guatemala to Costa Rica, through gorgeous Monteverde, La Fortuna, Leon,...

Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

22 days from 2640.

Explore Jordan and Egypt with a trip to Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Cairo, the Nile, Aswan,...

Indian Getaway

11 days from 595.

Get the most out of 11 days in India on this trip exploring the best of Delhi, Varanasi...

Iceland Express

5 days from 1258.

Tour green Iceland on a five-day trip visiting Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, Vik,...

Japan Express

9 days from 1828.

See Japan in nine days on a trip visiting Tokyo, Nikko and Kyoto. Say konnichiwa to...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Explorer

4 days from 912.

Tour the best bits of Australia’s Top End, exploring Kakadu National Park, Litchfield...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2495.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

Patagonia: Torres del Paine Classic W Trek

6 days from 2568.

Hike the W Trek in Chilean Patagonia and discover the wild beauty of Torres del Paine...

Costa Rica & Panama Discovery

12 days from 1212.

Hit San Jose, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo, Bocas del Toro, Boquete and Panama City on this...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3596.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 2138.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1611.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

North China Getaway

12 days from 1101.

Discover China’s northern hotspots with Intrepid on a 12-day trip to Beijing, the Great...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 6710.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Essential South Korea

9 days from 1530.

Take a journey through South Korea, starting in Seoul and heading to Jeonju, Wanju,...

Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil

10 days from 2259.

Travel from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro on a ten-day trip, including Iguazu Falls...

North India Revealed

22 days from 1013.

See the essentials of India’s north on a 22-day trip through Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur,...

One Week In Costa Rica

8 days from 684.

Head to the Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica with a fun-filled adventure to San Jose,...

Turkey Explored

18 days from 1896.

Go deeper than Derinkuyu on an 18-day Turkey trip beginning and ending in Istanbul,...

Jordan & Egypt Express

9 days from 1316.

Follow in the footsteps of prophets on an adventure tour through Jordan and Egypt....

Simply Sri Lanka

8 days from 653.

Discover idyllic Sri Lanka from Negombo to Colombo on this eight-day Lonely Planet...

Best of Brazil

Experience Brazil’s coast on an eight-day adventure. From Rio to Ilha Grande, see jaw...

Galapagos Discovery

See the Galapagos Islands on an eight-day adventure including Isla Isabela, Isla Santa...

Kruger, Coast & Cape

22 days from 2660.

Embark on a 22 day Southern African odyssey through wildlife-rich game parks, idyllic...

Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route

8 days from 3209.

Conquer Mt Kilimanjaro on the picturesque Marangu Route, hiking with porters on an...

Mount Toubkal Trek

7 days from 548.

Trek through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains exploring Aroumd and Imlil and then climb...

Tanzania Family Safari

8 days from 2160.

Experience the people, culture and wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania on a small group...

Mount Toubkal Winter Trek

7 days from 760.

Set off on a seven-day adventure through the Atlas Mountains, joining an expert guide...

Central American Adventure

33 days from 3022.

Tour jungle ruins and Caribbean coastline on a 33-day adventure to Mexico, Belize,...

Galapagos Experience

7 days from 1405.

As far as face-to-face wildlife encounters go, the Galapagos wildlife experience rivals...

Essential Italy

10 days from 2011.

Visit Venice, Verona, Parma, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence and Rome with like-minded 18...

Kilimanjaro: Machame Route

9 days from 3983.

Travel to Tanzania on a nine-day trip taking in Kilimanjaro along the Machame Route....

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2768.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Turkey Uncovered

14 days from 1403.

Discover the best of Turkey on a 14-day trip exploring Istanbul, Gallipoli, Fethiye,...

Amazing Central America

28 days from 2674.

Spend 28 days visiting Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and...

Peru Essentials

21 days from 2597.

See Peru in-depth on a trip from Lima to La Paz. Trek the Inca Trail and marvel at...

Cambodia Adventure

12 days from 888.

Hit Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City then take a trip through Cambodia, visiting Angkor Wat...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

4 days from 1024.

Set out on a camping safari through captivating Kakadu National Park. Experience the...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1648.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 3983.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Vietnam Discovery

15 days from 976.

Discover Vietnam’s east coast on this 15-day tour, uncovering the hidden delights of...

Vanuatu Expedition

8 days from 2488.

Embark on an expedition to the beautiful islands of Vanuatu where you can trek to the...

Delhi to Goa

15 days from 940.

Discover India in all its glory on this 15-day spice-filled adventure from Delhi...

Mount Toubkal Long Weekend Trek

5 days from 476.

Challenge yourself to this ambitious hiking trip and climb to the summit of Mount...

Central America Encompassed

31 days from 3124.

Take an epic adventure to Central America through Mexico’s hotspots like Chichen Itza,...

Wild Western USA

11 days from 2329.

Travel from LA via Joshua Tree, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Yosemite, Sierra Nevada to...

South India Revealed

16 days from 1062.

See the landscapes of South India on a 16-day adventure from Varkala to Goa via Kerala...

Recent tour reviews

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip as a senior.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 policy

Who are Intrepid travelers?

Intrepid adventures are for travelers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or are aged 18 or 70, there is an Intrepid adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Intrepid adventure has a physical and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you. No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Even on our camping adventures no previous experience is required; our tents are easy to set up, even for first-time campers. 

Are there age restrictions on your trips?

For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children can join us on our Family trips and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over. 

How many people will be on my trip?

Good things come in small packages, which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people, though our group sizes are on average 10 people. Our Overland trips are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travelers. Group sizes are displayed on each trip’s overview page on our website. 

I’m traveling alone – is that OK?

This is the beauty of the Intrepid style of travel: many of our travelers join because they are traveling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.

Learn more about solo travel

I have a disability – can I join an Intrepid trip?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognizing that on many trips you will be required to carry your own bags and use public transport. 

Where we can we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travelers – such as booking ground floor accommodation, or having our leaders communicate important directions in writing as well as verbally. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs. If joining a group trip is not practical we may be able to provide you with a private departure. Please contact our sales team for further information on any of our itineraries. 

Learn more about accessible travel with Intrepid

Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips if you’re traveling internationally. Minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number – it’s really important there are no barriers to getting emergency assistance for you. 

Will I have my own room?

It's your call. Rooming on our trips is organized on a twin-share basis, but most of our trips also have the option to pay an extra fee for your own room. Just let us know at the time of booking and we'll arrange it for you. 

For twin-share rooms, we pair up solo travelers with another traveler of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what's indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. 

On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis. In those instances it will clearly be stated in your Essential Trip Information. 

How does group time work?

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). Depending on how you're feeling, you may want to have some downtime, ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you. 

What makes a small group tour better than a coach tour?

The main difference between a small group tour and a coach tour is the size of the group; our tours have 10 travelers each (on average) while coaches can hold up to 60 people. This means that you'll never have to vie for your leader's attention on a small group tour because you'll automatically have it.

Learn more about the differences between a small group tour and a coach tour

Read more about traveling with Intrepid

Senior Discounts and Savings

Your Guide to Finding the Best Deals and Senior Discounts in 2024

SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines

Relish your golden years with savings! Many businesses offer exclusive discounts to customers over a specific age. You may be surprised that some senior discounts are offered long before you turn 65, as not all companies classify senior citizens similarly. Ready to start saving on your favorite leisure activities, restaurants, grocery stores, and more? Our research team has compiled over 100 senior discounts to cash in on.

Table of Contents

Retail senior discounts.

• Grocery Senior Discounts

Restaurant Senior Discounts

Leisure activity senior discounts, cruises senior discounts, hotel and rental car senior discounts, air, bus, and rail senior discounts, internet service and communications senior discounts.

• Major Life Expenses Senior Discounts

FYI: Want to know what’s even better than a discount? Scoring your favorite goods and services for free! Our guide to 13 things free for seniors covers all the freebies you didn’t even know about.

What Are Senior Discounts?

Senior discounts are a fantastic way to maintain your budget and enjoy the benefits of being an older adult. Keep in mind that there is no legal requirement to offer discounts to seniors, so it pays to ask before you buy. If you can think of it, there just might be a discount for it!

Many of the discounts below require an AARP membership. Not an AARP member? You’re missing out on big savings. Check out our AARP membership guide to learn how to get started.

Get discounts nationwide with an AARP membership. Sign up for only $12 per year for a limited time.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Receive a Senior Discount?

While 65 is the age to officially claim Medicare , many senior perks and discounts start much earlier! If you enroll in an AARP or Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) membership on your 50th birthday, you’ll have a head start cashing in on senior discounts. For all other discounts, the minimum age requirements vary based on the company or location and can range from 50 to 65 years of age.

Popular Types of Senior Discounts

From retail and grocery to insurance and health care, there are all types of senior discounts to claim. Maximize your savings and make the most out of your purchases (large or small) by cashing in on the following discounts. You can also watch the video below with SeniorLiving.org Editor-in-Chief, Jeff Hoyt, to learn more about the best senior discounts.

Kick your retail savings up a notch! While not all retail stores provide a dedicated senior discount, many offer impressive savings with a store rewards card or other perks.

Did You Know? Savings.com is a terrific resource for snagging thousands of coupons and promo codes. Sign up for free and save money when you shop at your favorite online stores. From food and restaurant coupons to clothing and health and medicine coupons (and everything in between), Savings.com has savvy shoppers covered!

Grocery Store Senior Discounts

Food nourishes our bodies and is a critical part of our overall health . Shopping at your local supermarket doesn’t have to break the bank; there are quite a few ways to save. Free rewards cards, coupon clipping, buying in season, senior-specific discounts, or senior discount days will help with your grocery shopping costs. These major retailers offer discounts.

Did You Know? Don’t be shy! Before you hit the aisles, stop by the customer service desk to ask if they offer a senior discount or exclusive price reduction. Don’t forget your ID for proof of age.

One of the easiest places to get a senior discount is at your favorite restaurant, coffee shop, or diner. Be sure to ask if there’s a senior menu or early dinner discount. Many chain restaurants are owned independently. Therefore, discounts or promotions will vary by location.

The great news is even if a restaurant doesn’t offer a senior discount, there’s still savings to be had! For example, Chili’s , Red Lobster , Tim Hortons , and Panera Bread offer free membership rewards programs to all customers, so you can earn free food and discounted meals.

* You may need to call a location in your area to inquire about discounts, as they are only available at select locations.

During your golden years of retirement , relaxation comes in many forms! Whether you catch the latest flick on the silver screen, get lost in an audiobook, or explore the great outdoors, a senior discount is most likely available. Check out these wallet-friendly fun activities.

Did You Know? Museums, zoos, parks, and historical locales are all top spots to snag senior discounts.

We all need a vacation (even if you’re living in your dream beachfront retirement community ), and cruising is a fantastic way to see the world. Cruises are incredibly inclusive, offering accessible cruising for guests with disabilities , medical conditions , or special needs.

Planning a getaway? Take advantage of special hotel and car rental rates. If you don’t find the senior (or AARP) rate on the hotel or rental car website, contact customer service before booking. AARP offers discounts for over 50 hotels and resorts. Below is a sample of discounts starting at age 50 and up.

Hop on the bus, Gus! Most public transportation (local and regional), including bus, subway, train, and ferry services offer a senior fare. Not all airlines offer senior-reduced fares or promote them online, so make a call to customer service before locking in your flight plans. No matter the type of transportation you plan to use, ask for a senior discount!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to make the most of your flight by signing up for airline miles or using a travel credit card to earn points.

Save big on flights and hotels with an AARP membership. Sign up for only $12 per year.

Many internet providers recognize that seniors are one of the fastest-growing segments of new internet users . Check out our guide to the best internet service for seniors to learn which companies lead the pack on pricing and discounts. There are also affordable internet plans for those on fixed or low incomes .

There are quite a few cell phone plans with incentives and discounts for older adults. Compare these cellular plans to see which best meets your budget and lifestyle needs.

• AT&T: AT&T senior plans start at $60 per month (single line only) or $80 per month for two lines ($40 per line). AT&T’s 55+ plan is restricted to Florida residents only.
• Consumer Cellular: Consumer Cellular’s Unlimited Talk with Text and Data plan starts at $20 per month for 1 GB of data. Consumer Cellular also offers discounts to AARP members, including a five percent discount on monthly service and usage charges and 30 percent on accessories. Lastly, Consumer Cellular offers some great Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals .
• Lively: Lively’s phone plans has some of the best no-contract prices for older adults. They also arguably have the best senior-friendly phones on the market. AARP members can now save $60 per year on select plans.
• Verizon: The Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan offers unlimited calls, texts, and data for $60 a month (single line only) or $80 per month for two lines ($40 per line). The Verizon 55+ plan is only available to senior residents in Florida.
• T-Mobile: Adults ages 55 and over have three Unlimited 55+ plans to choose from with unlimited talk, text, and smartphone data: the Essentials (starting at $27.50 per line), the Magenta (starting at $35 per line), and the Magenta MAX (starting at $45 per line). T-Mobile’s 55+ plans are available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Senior Discounts for Major Life Expenses

Our discount list wouldn’t be complete without diving deeper into the benefits of AARP, the leading senior savings program. From vehicle and property insurance to hearing, optical, and pharmacy savings, AARP’s membership helps save on major expenses .

AARP Health and Wellness Senior Discounts

• CareLinx In-Home Care
• Health savings account offered by Optum Bank
• Hearing care program provided by HearUSA
• HearUSA Hearing Shop
• Kroger Co. Pharmacy
• LensCrafters
• MyVision Care provided through EyeMed
• Prescription discounts provided by OptumRx
• Short-term care insurance from Medico
• Target Optical
• Vision discounts provided by EyeMed
• Walgreens Pharmacy
• Walmart Pharmacy

AARP Vehicle and Property Insurance Senior Discounts

• Auto insurance program from The Hartford
• Homeowners insurance program from The Hartford

Other Health-Related Discounts

Taking care of your health doesn’t have to break the bank. In addition to the AARP discounts listed above, check out the resources below for more ways to save on health-related expenses.

• Low-Cost Dental Care Options for Seniors
• A Guide to Free and Discounted Hearing Aids
• Affordable Medical Alert Systems for Older Adults
• Paying for Assisted Living With No Money

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Best Senior Travel Discounts in 2022

The CDC is currently cautioning against travel , local and international, as well as outings to places such as amusement parks, theaters, and other areas with large crowds. Some venues have temporarily closed while others are operating with restrictions. 

Eventually, travel restrictions will ease up and you’ll be free to head to exotic locations and trendy venues. You can start planning now with this list of the best senior travel and entertainment discounts for 2022.

Further discounts can be found through organizations like AARP and AMAC . Compare memberships of each to find what might suit you best.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts give  seniors  over 55 a 15 percent discount at participating locations. They also have  veterans  and  AARP member  discounts. If you stay at  Best Western Plus ,  Best Western Premier ,  SureStay Collection ,  SureStay Hotel ,  SureStay Plus Hotel ,  VIB Hotel , or  Glo Resorts and Hotel  locations, you can save between 5 and 15 percent if you are an AARP member.

Choice Hotel s, including  Ascend Hotel Collection ,  Cambria Suites ,  Clarion Hotels ,  Comfort Suites ,  Comfort Inns ,  Econo Lodge ,  Quality Inns ,  MainStay Suites ,  Rodeway Inn ,  Sleep Inn , and  Suburban Extended Stay Hotel s give AARP members up to 10% off at participating hotels when you book online.

Days Inn , part of Wyndham Hotels, has senior, veteran, and AARP member discounts.  Seniors  must be over 60. A valid I.D. is needed, and you need to request the senior rate when reserving your room.  

Hilton Hotels & Resorts  provides AARP members a 10 percent discount at  Conrad Hotels & Resorts ,  Curio Collection ,  DoubleTree ,  Embassy Suites ,  Hampton ,  Home2 Suites ,  Homewood Suites ,  Hilton Garden Inn ,  Hilton Grand Vacations ,  Tru , and  Waldorf Astoria  hotels. Participating hotels that are part of the Hilton Portfolio also offer a  military family rate  for veterans. 

Extra Holidays  gives 20 percent off resort stays at participating establishments in the U.S., including Hawaii and the Virgin Islands, Canada, Fiji, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. 

Hampton Inn & Suites offers a 10 percent discount off the Best Available Rate for individuals  over 65  when you book online. A valid I.D. is required at check-in. 

Marriott Hotels , including Courtyard Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, JW Marriott, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, EDITION, Sheraton, Marriott Vacation Club, Delta Hotels, Le MERIDIEN, Westin, Renaissance Hotels, Gaylord Hotels, Four Points, Residence Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Protea Hotels, A.C. Hotels, Aloft Hotels, Moxy Hotels, Marriott Executive Apartments, TownePlace Suites, element, Homes & Villas by Marriott International, Autograph Collection Hotels, Design Hotels, and Tribute Portfolio, have a senior discount for those over 62 when you book online. 

Motel 6 has  veterans  and  AARP member  discounts. Both discounts are 10 percent. When booking online, select “Military” from the check-out page to get the discount. A valid AARP membership I.D. number is required at check in to qualify.  AMAC members  can receive a 10 percent discount with code CPYHDR7E.

Radisson Hotels  offers AARP members a 10 percent discount at  Country Inn & Suites ,  Park Inns ,  Radisson Blu ,  Park Plaza , and  Radisson RED  hotels. 

Red Lion Hotels  offer a 10 percent veteran and senior 55+ discount. Hotels in this chain include Hotel R.L., Red Lion Inn & Suites, Signature Inn, GuestHouse, Knights Inn, Americas Best Value Inn, and Canadas Best Value Inn.

Red Roof Inn has a 20 percent discount for  AMAC members  with code VP 602805. 

Studio 6 Hotel  provides a 10 percent discount for AARP members. 

TripBeat, Endless Vacation , gives AARP members up to 25 percent off stays at more than 2,400 rental properties worldwide. 

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts  gives AARP members a 10 percent discount at  AmericInn ,   Baymont ,  Dazzler ,  Dolce ,  Esplendor Boutique Hotels ,  Hawthorn Suites ,  Howard Johnson ,  La Quinta ,  Microtel ,  Ramada ,  Super 8 ,  Trademark Collection ,  Travelodge ,  TRYP ,  Wingate ,  Wyndham Garden , and  Wyndham Grand  hotels. Most of these hotels also have a  senior discount  for those over 60 and a veteran discount.  AMAC members  receive a 20 percent discount at most locations. 

Car Rentals

Avis  gives AARP members up to 30 percent off base rates, a free upgrade, and an additional driver for no extra cost. Avis gives  AMAC  members an SUV rental for $25 per day or $209 per week at participating locations. 

Budget Rent-A-Car  provides a 30 percent discount for AARP members, an additional driver at no extra cost, and a free upgrade. Budget provides AMAC members a 25 percent discount on base rates with promo code (BCD) D633300.

Payless Car Rental  offers AARP members a 5 percent discount on daily, weekly, weekend, and monthly base rates. You can also get a free upgrade. 

Zipcar Car Sharing  provides a 43 percent discount for AARP members on an annual membership and $40 in free driving credit. 

Some airlines require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. Some countries require a period of quarantine upon arrival. Contact the airline for more details when planning your trip. 

British Airways  gives AARP members $65 off economy and premium economy, or $200 off business class fares when you buy round-trip transatlantic tickets online to specific destinations. 

Delta  offers a senior discount in specific markets, but it is not available through Delta.com. You can call reservations to ask if the senior fare is available for your destination. 

United Airlines  offers senior fares to some destinations for those over 65. 

Vacations By Rail  gives AARP members a 5 percent discount on rail vacations around the world. 

Amtrak  has a 10 percent discount for those over 65 on most trains. Seniors over 60 can get a 10 percent discount on cross-border routes. 

For those looking for a unique way to discover the natural beauty and breathtaking scenery of Canada, traveling from Vancouver to Banff by train is an experience that any adventurer is sure to remember. You simply can’t get the same views and experience when traveling by air or car.

Greyhound has a  veteran discount . You can save 10 percent on your ticket when you buy it at the station. If you have the Veterans Advantage card, you can use the discount when booking online.

Peter Pan  has both a senior and veteran discount. Riders over 62 and retired military members can receive a 15 percent discount with a valid I.D. 

Some cruise tours have been suspended. Others require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding and a period of quarantine upon arrival. Contact the cruise line for more information. 

Carnival Cruises  offers senior fares for those over 55 on select cruises. 

Collette Cruise Tours  provides AARP members $50 off per person on all cruise tours.  AMAC  members save between $50 and $100 per person. The promo code AMACSAVINGS may save you up to $500. 

Celebrity Cruises  offers a military discount for veterans on select 4-night or longer trips with a valid I.D.  

Royal Caribbean  has reduced prices on select cruises for seniors over 55 and honorably discharged veterans. 

Destinations

America the Beautiful Senior Pass  is good at national parks and federal recreational lands throughout the U.S. A lifetime pass is $80, and an annual pass is $20. You must be over 62 and provide proof of age and residency or citizenship. The pass may also give you a 50 percent discount on specific amenities. 

Collette  gives AARP members up to $100 off per person on seven-day or more extended tours. 

Collette Spotlights  provides a $50 discount for AARP members on single-city tours.

Explorations by Collette  will give AARP members $50 to $100 off per person on guided tours. 

Grand European Travel  offers AARP members $100 off per person on hundreds of guided vacations and river cruises. 

Senior Travel Discounts Summary

Although 2021 probably isn’t going to be a tremendous year for travel, it’s good to know that seniors can take advantage of travel discounts now and in the future!

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How to find senior airfare discounts

How and where senior travelers can save

While senior airfare discounts are not as common as they used to be, some airlines still offer them. The most common is for 10 percent off of the full fare price of a flight, with the age eligibility ranging from 50-65. A note of caution, however: While 10 percent off may sound great at first, the savings may be skewed by ever-rising flight prices. Still, it’s worthwhile to start by checking for the senior price.

Here are the airlines we’ve found that are still offering senior fares:

• Air France : Senior fares are reserved for passengers 60 years of age or older, but only within France . Proof of age must be shown, and these tickets may be changed at no charge or refunded in certain conditions. The airline can be reached at 1-800-237-2747.
• American Airlines : Senior citizen fares are offered for some domestic flights for seniors age 65 or older. Travelers should call American Airlines at 1-800-433-7300.
• British Airways : British Airways partners with the AARP, offering up to $400 off certain flights for AARP members through Oct. 31, 2015.
• Delta : Delta offers senior discounts on certain itineraries, but they aren’t available online, so travelers should call 1-800-221-1212 to check eligibility.
• United Airlines : United offers senior citizen discounts in certain markets. Contact United’s reservations department at 1-800-241-6522 to find out if a senior discount is applicable for a particular flight.

Many of the airlines’ regular discount fares are cheaper than senior fares. If you’re not able to find a senior discount, there are still ways to find low-cost airfare:

• Sign up for airline and travel newsletters and deal alerts.
• Be flexible with your dates. For example, the savings can often be significant if you’re willing to depart on a Tuesday morning rather than a Friday evening.
• Be aware of fees. Airlines now tend to charge fees for things like checked baggage, food and more, so think ahead by packing only a carry-on, dodging change fees and bringing your own snacks on board.
• One last thing to remember: While senior travel fares may sometimes cost more than the airline’s online-only specials, there can be advantages to booking these discounted tickets. Senior fares may not be as restrictive as other tickets, and can sometimes be used to snag  last-minute travel deals .   They are often refundable, too, if you have to cancel your flight.
• Always check the details and restrictions when buying a flight; if you can’t find the fine print on the website, call the airline.

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Biggest List of Senior Discounts (May 2024)

Senior Discounts: What You Should Know

• As of 2024, many businesses have done away with their senior discounts, but the following companies still slash prices for older adults, as well as veterans, and low-income individuals.
• For many companies on this list, the specific senior discounts vary by location, so be sure to check with your local stores to confirm discount availability.
• Some stores, like Kohl’s , offer senior discounts on particular days of the week.

FYI: Did you know that many wireless providers have special discounts for seniors? To find cell phone plans from $15 per month, check out our rundown of the best senior cell phone plans .

Most Popular Senior Discounts

Sign up for an AARP membership for only $12 per year to start saving on travel, food, entertainment and more!

Our Favorite Senior Discounts of 2024

Senior Discounts for Restaurants

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to save on food, check out our rundown of the best meal delivery for seniors.

Senior Discounts for Grocery Stores

Senior Discounts for Retail Stores

Senior discounts for prescriptions.

FYI: To save additional money on prescription medications, check out our rundown of this year’s best prescription discount cards .

Travel Discounts for Seniors

Senior Discounts on Airline Tickets

Senior discounts on car rentals, senior discounts on hotels.

Did You Know: As you can see, an AARP membership comes with some great benefits. To learn more, read our guide: Is AARP Worth It ?

Other Travel Discounts for Seniors

Save hundreds of dollars on travel with a $12 per year AARP membership.

Senior Discounts on Medical Alert Systems

FYI: Most medical alert providers offer discounts on various devices. Read our guides to the best medical alert system and affordable medical alerts to learn more.

Senior Discounts on Cell Phone Plans

Chris clark.

For over a decade, Chris has been writing about senior discounts and deals. He finds the hunt for discounts rewarding because it allows him to take care of older adults by offering them senior-specific pricing. As the son of two social workers, Chris has spent his whole life advocating for the betterment of others. When he isn’t researching senior discounts, Chris enjoys fishing, spending time with his sons, and rooting for his favorite team, the Portland Trail Blazers. Learn more about Chris here

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The Train Hacker

Saving You Money on Train Travel

Cheap & FREE UK Train Tickets for Over 50s & Senior Adults

By Chris P King

Seniors and adults over 50 can get cheap and FREE rail tickets for journeys across the UK in 2023.

The deals are harder to find, so we’ve worked hard to give you a comprehensive guide to the best senior rail discounts.

Making the most of Railcard offers, train company discounts, and regional and local concessionary fares can save you £££s.

Cheap & FREE UK Train Tickets for Over 50s & Senior Adults – Quick Links

Senior railcard – 1/3 off train travel in britain for over 60s, other railcard discounts – two together, family & friends & network railcards, 60+ london oyster photocard – free rail travel in london, scotrail club 50 – 20% discount on off-peak and advance tickets.

• C2C – Senior Rover Travel from Only £7

UK Regional, Urban and Local FREE Senior Rail Travel & Discounts

Cheap rail tickets for over 50s and senior adults in britain – recommendations.

A few Railcard options are available to those over the 50s – travel in pairs Two Together Railcard, travel with grandchildren Family & Friends Railcard, for flexibility to travel on your own get a Senior Railcard – Image credit: Street Photography Addict

Senior Railcards are available for anyone over 60.

And you can get money off the card before travelling in 2023.

• SAVE £20 three-year Senior Railcard
• 10% OFF one-year Senior Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Senior Railcard discounts

* Senior Railcard discounts are not available on peak time services Monday to Friday wholly within the London & South East Network Railcard area .

Other railcard options for seniors may work out cheaper, depending on your circumstances.

Two Together Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

• 10% OFF one-year Two Together Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Two Together Railcard discounts

Family & Friends Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

• SAVE £20 three-year Family & Friends Railcard
• 10% OFF one-year Family & Friends Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Family & Friends Railcard discounts

* Family & Friends Railcard discounts are unavailable during peak services within the London & South East Network Railcard area on Monday to Friday morning.

Network Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

Adults get 1/3 OFF and children 60% OFF all services after 10.00 in the London & South East Network Railcard area.

SAVE money with Network Railcard discounts

‘Picture yourself in a boat on a river…’ And why not enjoy a day out in Richmond travelling there for FREE with your 60+ London Oyster Photocard – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

You must be over 60 to be eligible.

What’s the 60+ London Oyster Photocard Deal?

The 60+ London Oyster Photocard costs £20 and gives FREE travel on:

• London Overground
• TfL (Transport for London) Rail
• some National Rail services

Over 60-year-olds living in a London borough. Anyone eligible for a Freedom Pass can’t get this offer.

You can use the 60+ London Oyster Photocard anytime on London Overground and TfL Rail services. Anytime or after 09.30 on some National Rail services.

As well as all London Overground and TfL Rail services, you can use the 60+ London Oyster Photocard on some National Rail services on the:

• Chiltern Railway
• Great Northern
• London Midland
• Greater Anglia
• Southeastern

No further railcard or promotional discounts are available with the 60+ London Oyster Photocard.

Where can I buy 60+ London Oyster Photocard?

Buy 60+ London Oyster Photocards from:

• Online, Post Office & Post

Get a 60+ London Oyster Photocard and SAVE on London rail travel

Scotrail Club 50 membership gets discounts on travel throughout Scotland; why not visit Glasgow? – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

Scotrail Club 50 is a great way to get savings on train journeys in Scotland for those who aren’t yet eligible for a Senior Railcard .

What’s the Scotrail Club 50 deal?

Scotrail Club 50 members enjoy:

• 20% OFF selected Off-Peak and Advance fares when bought via the ScotRail website
• 10% OFF selected Off-Peak and Advance fares when purchased at a train station or over the phone
• FREE hot drink when travelling with a Club 50 ticket on a route with catering facilities
• occasional special offers and promotions that save you money

Scotrail Club 50 is open to anyone aged 50 or over.

All Single and Return tickets. Anytime at weekends. Off-peak services Monday to Friday. Restrictions on train services arriving into Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen before 09.30.

Scotrail Club 50 is available on services across the Scotrail and TransPennine Express networks.

No further railcard or promotional discounts are available with the Scotrail Club 50.

How can I buy Scotrail Club 50 tickets?

To get discounted Scotrail Club 50 tickets, you must be a Club 50 member . This only costs £15; you’ll need a photo and email address.

Scotrail Club 50 ticket discounts

Discounts for Scotrail Club 50 members, depending on where you buy your tickets:

• Online – 20% discount
• Ticket offices and telephone – 10% discount

Get Scotrail Club 50 membership and save on train tickets in Scotland

Enjoy unlimited one-day travel and visit places like Southend with a c2c Senior Rover ticket – Image credit: Bernie Lampert

c2c – Senior Rover Travel from Only £7

The Senior Rover ticket is an excellent deal for those over 65s to explore Southend, London, The Thames Estuary and everywhere on the c2c network .

What’s the c2c Senior Rover deal?

The c2c Senior Rover allows senior travellers unlimited travel across the c2c network. It costs just £7, or £10, including London destinations.

c2c Senior Rover tickets are available to anyone aged 65 years and over.

All travel from Mondays to Fridays after 09.30, excluding trains within London Travelcard (Zones 1 to 6) from 16:00 to 18:59.

c2c Senior Rover discounts are available at all stations on the c2c rail network. London rail travel on other networks isn’t included, and you can’t use it on London Underground.

You can’t combine the c2c Senior Rover offer with any railcards.

Where can I buy c2c Senior Rover tickets?

You can only buy c2c Senior Rover tickets from ticket offices and bring your passport or driving licence for ID.

Find out more about c2c Senior Rover tickets

There are even more rail discounts for older adults at the regional and urban levels. And in many cases, rail travel is FREE for senior travellers.

England – FREE and discounted senior rail travel

• Scotland – discounted senior rail travel
• Wales – discounted senior rail travel
• Northern Ireland – discounted senior rail travel

Take advantage of UK regional, urban and local FREE and discounted rail travel schemes – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

Most people know that seniors in England get FREE bus travel but can also get selected FREE and discounted rail travel.

English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS)

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) covers senior travel discounts in England. ENCTS passes – commonly known as senior bus passes – are issued locally but give cardholders FREE bus travel throughout England.

The ENCTS bus pass also allows FREE and discounted rail travel in some regional and local areas.

Recent age change in England for senior travel concessions

You must now be 66 to get your ENCTS to pass in England. Find out if you’re eligible for FREE bus and train travel .

London – Freedom Pass

The Older Persons Freedom Pass allows FREE travel on most London rail services between 09:30 and 04:30 the following morning. Eligibility is based on age and if you’re a resident of Greater London.

Get FREE senior rail travel with London Freedom Pass

Greater Manchester – £10 per year

Senior travellers who qualify for a state pension get annual off-peak rail travel in Greater Manchester for £10 per year. It includes all trains in Greater Manchester after 09:30 Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Greater Manchester.

Get senior rail travel for £10 per year in Greater Manchester

Merseyside – Over 60s Travel Pass

People aged 60 and over get FREE rail travel in Merseyside after 09:30 Monday to Friday and anytime on weekends and public holidays. The first pass costs £10, but after that, they’re FREE. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Merseyside.

Get FREE senior rail travel in Merseyside

South Yorkshire – Senior Travel Pass

Senior travellers aged 66 years and over get 50% OFF rail fares within South Yorkshire between 09:30 and 23:00 Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in South Yorkshire.

Get 50% OFF senior rail travel in South Yorkshire

Tyne and Wear – Senior Travel Pass

English National Concessionary Travel Pass (CT Pass) holders in Tyne and Wear combined with a Metro Gold Card (£12 per year if you live in Tyne and Wear) get FREE Northern Rail journeys between Newcastle and Sunderland. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Tyne & Wear.

Find out about reduced senior rail tickets in Tyne & Wear

West Midlands – Older Person’s Travel Pass

Senior citizens eligible for FREE bus travel in England get FREE rail travel in the West Midlands inner Blue Zone from 09:30 to 11:59. Eligibility is based on age and residency in the West Midlands.

Get FREE senior train travel in West Midlands

West Yorkshire – Senior Pass

Older people get 50% OFF off-peak rail fares within West Yorkshire Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in West Yorkshire.

Get 50% OFF rail travel in West Yorkshire

English Local Councils – Senior Rail Travel Discounts

Living outside England’s largest urban areas may still benefit from discounted rail fares for older people.

Find your local council’s website and see if they offer rail deals for seniors.

Scotland – Discounted Senior Rail Travel

Senior adults in Scotland are eligible for FREE bus travel and reduced rail fares throughout Scotland.

National Entitlement Card (NEC)

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) allows older people in Scotland to get travel discounts. Although you get your NEC locally, they let anyone living in Scotland access all discounted travel schemes throughout Scotland.

To get an NEC card, you must be 60 years old and resident in Scotland.

Get a Scottish 60+ National Entitlement Card (NEC)

Rail Discounts in Edinburgh and Glasgow for the Over 60s

Scotland’s largest cities offer the following rail travel discounts:

• Glasgow – discounted rail travel on journeys within Strathclyde and Glasgow Subway
• Edinburgh – FREE tram journeys in Edinburgh

Rail Discounts Around Scotland

Reduced train fares for 60+ NEC holders are also available in other parts of Scotland. Find out from your local authority or Transport for Scotland .

Wales – Discounted Senior Rail Travel

You can get FREE bus travel if you live in Wales and are 60 or over. But some don’t realise that FREE rail travel is available in areas where bus travel is limited.

Welsh Concessionary Travel Pass

The Welsh Government Concessionary Travel Scheme covers travel discounts for older people in Wales. It offers FREE bus travel throughout Wales to residents aged 60+. Also, depending on the route, you get FREE and discounted rail travel.

Find out more about discounted senior rail travel in Wales

Northern Ireland – Discounted Rail Travel

SmartPasses cover travel discounts for senior citizens in Northern Ireland. These allow FREE bus and rail travel within Northern Ireland and throughout Ireland.

60+ Smartpass

If you’re between 60 and 64 and a permanent Northern Ireland resident, you can get a 60 Plus SmartPass. It entitles you to FREE bus and rail travel throughout Northern Ireland.

Senior (65+0 SmartPass

If you’re over 65 and a permanent Northern Ireland resident, you can get a Senior SmartPass. It entitles you to FREE bus and most rail travel throughout the whole of Ireland.

Find out about how to apply for SmartPasses

Senior rail travellers in the UK have plenty of options to get cheap train tickets, while others will be delighted to get them for FREE – Image credit: Nicolas Alejandro

If you’ve reached 50, you can benefit from cheaper rail tickets in Scotland. To make the most of the deals, you’ll need to weigh the costs of train tickets plus Club 50 or Senior Railcard membership.

You can still get deals in other parts of Britain if you’re 55 and over. Most run through the latter half of autumn and during the winter months.

It only takes travelling a few times a year for a Senior Railcard to save you money. These are available only for those over 60s.

Another option if you regularly travel with a partner or friend is to buy a Two Together Railcard , where you both save. A Family & Friends Railcard offers excellent savings if you like to take the grandchildren on trips out.

And don’t also forget to take advantage of regional and local council deals. London, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland residents can start benefiting from FREE or discounted rail travel when they’re 60. People throughout the rest of England have to wait until they’re 66, but there are still deals for those that look.

Image credits: Street Photography Addict , Bernie Lampert, Nicolas Alejandro

• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for exotic trips
• Best for annual plans

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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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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Put-in tours

Original tour agency in moscow and st petersburg..

Onboard a Soviet van!

Welcome to Russia!

We are Sergey and Simon, a Russian and a Frenchman, both  passionate about Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and classic cars. Together, we have created Put-in tours. Our goal is to help you experience Russian culture off the beaten path. Join us onboard our classic Soviet van and let’s get rolling!

In Moscow we offer you a city tour to discover most of the city in an original way as well as a night tour to admire the lights. Our pubcrawl is ideal to explore Moscow’s night-life and have fun. If you are craving to discover Russian culture, come impress your senses during our monastery diner or join our 100% Russian Banya Excursion . The latest will also bring you to Sergiyev Posad and it’s famous monastery!

For the most extreme travellers, our shooting tour will deliver your daily dose of adrenaline whereas our tank excursion will let you ride a real tank and shoot a bazooka.

We also offer help to receive your visa , safe and multilingual airport transfers , as well as organisation services for team-building events or bachelor parties .

All our excursions (but the monastery diner) happen onboard our Soviet military vans and can be covered by our  professionnal photographer or videographer.

In Saint Petersburg

We welcome you in Saint Petersburg onboard our Soviet van to discover the imperial city with our city tour and night tour .

Continue your discovery in style! The adrenaline lovers will like our shooting tour  which brings 3 Russian weapons to the tip of your trigger finger.

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At Put-in tours, we put you in our classic Soviet vans to go explore Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Russian culture off the beaten path. Discover our Moscow city guided tour, visit Moscow by night, join our banya & Sergiyev Posad excursion, visit and dine in one of Moscow's oldest monastery or even Luzhniki stadium, before you party on our famous pubcrawl! Original and atypical tours : Shoot AK47 and a bazooka after riding on a tank with our tank & bazooka excursion ! Extreme tours: Fly a fighter jet in Moscow onboard a L-29 or L-39 aircraft!

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Districts [ edit ]

Central Moscow districts [ edit ]

Outlying districts [ edit ], understand [ edit ].

Moscow is the financial and political centre of Russia and the countries formerly comprising the Soviet Union. It has a population of around 13 million and an area of 2,511 square kilometres (970 sq mi) after an expansion in 2012. One-tenth of all Russian citizens live in the Moscow metropolitan area. Moscow is the second most populous city in Europe, after Istanbul , and has the most populous metropolitan area in Europe, with some 21 million residents. Moscow is in the UTC+3 time zone; there is no daylight saving time.

Many years since the break up of the Soviet Union, the economy has improved, and the modern era has brought upon a wide variety of construction projects, modern architecture and newer transport systems replacing the derelict ones during Soviet times.

Geography [ edit ]

Moscow is a large metropolis on the Moskva River, which bends its way through the city. The historical center is on the northern bank of the river. The other major waterway is the Yauza River, which flows into the Moskva east of the Kremlin.

Much of Moscow's geography is defined by the 3 'Ring Roads' that circle the city at various distances from the centre, roughly following the outline of the walls that used to surround Moscow. With Red Square and the Kremlin forming the very centre, the innermost ring road is the Boulevard Ring ( Bulvarnoye Koltso ), built in the 1820s where the 16th century walls used to be. It runs from the Christ the Savior Cathedral in south-west central Moscow, to the mouth of the Yauza in south-east central Moscow.

The next ring road, the Garden Ring ( Sadovoe Koltso ), derives its name from the fact that landowners near the road in Tsarist times were obligated to maintain gardens to make the road attractive. In Soviet times, the road was widened, and there are now no gardens there.

The Third Ring Road, completed in 2004, is not much use for tourists but is a heavily used motorway which absorbs a bit of Moscow's traffic. It roughly follows the outline of Kamer-Kollezhsky val , the customs boundary of Moscow in the 18th – early 20th century. The outer edge of Moscow is largely defined by the Moscow Ring Road (widely known by its abbreviation: MKAD-Moskovskaya kolcevaya avto doroga), a motorway which is 108 km (67 mi) long and encircles the entire city (similar to London's M25 and Paris' Périphérique ).

Climate [ edit ]

The climate of Moscow features warm summers and long, cold winters.

Get in [ edit ]

See Russia#Get in for visa requirements to Russia.

By train [ edit ]

Moscow is a railway hub, with connections to all parts of Russia and far into Europe and Asia. Due to its hub status, Moscow's train stations are often crowded; trains are the usual form of intercity transport for most Russians. The stations have a reputation for being unsafe but paradoxically the threat of terrorism has improved things: security gates, policing and surveillance deter the casual thugs and villains. Guard your valuables and yourself as you would in any big city.

All long-distance trains are operated by Russian Railways and its subsidiaries, except for a few international trains with other operators. Tickets can be bought at stations or online . For domestic trains, you can show the ticket officer your online boarding pass; however, international trains require a printed ticket. There are usually ticket counters with English-speaking personnel - they may be marked as such, or the clerk may direct you to another counter if they can't cope with your English. See Russia#By train 2 for more details on travelling in Russia by train.

From Europe [ edit ]

All trains from Europe halted since 2020

Train stations in Moscow [ edit ]

Moscow has 10 train stations, 9 of which are near metro stations close to the center of Moscow. Be sure to note the station from which your train is departing, which will be indicated on the ticket, or online . Three stations ( Leningradsky , Yaroslavsky , and Kazansky ) are on one huge square, informally known as the "Three Stations' Square". A running joke among Moscow taxi drivers since the Soviet times is to be able to pick up a fare from one of them to the other, taking the unwary tourist on an elaborate ride in circles. Be prepared for enormous queues trying to enter or exit the Metro at peak times, as people are getting off or on the commuter trains.

By car [ edit ]

Many entry points to Moscow over the Ring Road and into the city feature rotating roadblocks, where teams of traffic police may stop a vehicle, especially if it is not featuring Moscow plates. You may be stopped and questioned but you'll be allowed to proceed if you have all the proper documents.

Foreign cars, especially expensive cars, might attract unwelcome attention, and there is cumbersome paperwork involved to enter Russia by car.

By boat [ edit ]

There is no scheduled passenger service to Moscow by boat; however, cruise ships do provide service to the Northern River Terminal, on the Moscow Canal near the Khimki Reservoir. The pier is not convenient to the city and it can take over 2 hours to reach the city centre by car.

A system of navigable channels and locks connects the Moskva River with the Volga River, which is further connected to the Baltic Sea , White Sea, the Azov, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea. In the Soviet times this allowed the official propaganda to refer to Moscow as "a port on the five seas".

By bicycle [ edit ]

Moscow is the easternmost destination of the EuroVelo cycling routes . Eurovelo Route 2 , the Capitals Route, is a 5,500 km (3,400 mi) route starting in Galway , Ireland , passing through Dublin , London , Berlin , Warsaw and Minsk before terminating in Moscow.

By metro [ edit ]

The Metro is open from 05:30-01:00. Station entrances are closed at 01:00, and at this time the last trains depart from all of the termini stations. After 01:00, many locals will enter the train station using the exits, which are still open. Service on the ring line runs until 01:30, although entrances are closed at 01:00. The down escalators are also shut off at 01:00.

There is signage in the Metro stations in English and the Latin alphabet, but these signs are not everywhere. Each train carriage has a map in Latin script and there is one near the entrance to each station. Note the direction of the train before you alight. It is worth printing a map of the metro system in both Cyrillic and Latin letters to take with you.

All trains in the system have free WiFi onboard, but you will need to have a Russian phone number to get the authorization code to access the WiFi. Some of the older train cars are not climate controlled.

2 or 3 stations may be connected as transfer points but will each have a different name. There are 2 stations called Smolenskaya and 2 stations called Arbatskaya , but the station pairs are not connected to each other despite having the same name. Some of the stations are very deep underground, and transfer times between certain metro lines can take a lot of time. In the city centre, it can save time to go directly to the above-ground entrance of the line you want to take rather than to enter at a connecting station and transfer underground. On the escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left except for peak hours, when standing on the left side is also allowed.

Some of the train stations include beautiful architecture and it is worth taking a guided tour of the metro system. The most interesting stations in terms of decor are Komsomolskaya (ring line), Novoslobodskaya (ring line), Kievskaya (ring line), Kropotkinskaya (Line #1 - red), Kievskaya (Line #3 - dark blue), Arbatskaya (Line #3 - dark blue), Ploschad' Revolyutsii (Line #3 - dark blue), Mayakovskaya (Line #2 - dark green). Also look at the architecture of the ground entrance building of Arbatskaya (Line #4 - light blue) and Krasnye Vorota (Line #1 - red). History buffs may appreciate that Metro Line #1 (red) has the oldest stations, opened in 1935.

The Vorobyovy Gory Metro Station on Line #1 (red) is unique in that it is on a bridge crossing the Moscow River. This bridge also carries auto traffic road on another level. There is a beautiful view through the transparent sides of the station. A great observing point around Moscow is located nearby on Vorobyovy hills, next to the main building of Lomonosov Moscow State University.

There are a couple of unique trains operating through the system and you will be lucky if you get to ride them. Aquarelle (Watercolor) is a train that includes an art gallery. The train operates daily on Line #3 (dark blue). The Sokolniki Retro Train is a train modeled after the original 1930s trains and it occasionally is placed into service, usually around a major anniversary of the metro system.

The metro is relatively safe, although pickpockets are a problem, as they are in any environment where a lot of people are pressed together. Opportunistic petty crime, such as snatching someone's mobile phone and jumping out just as the doors are closing, is also commonplace. Take the usual precautions at night when gangs of inebriated teenagers may look for an excuse to beat someone up. There is no train guard or conductor, so the first car near the driver may be the safest. Every car is equipped with an intercom to the driver's cabin; they are beige boxes with a grill and a black button near doors, and mostly work, unless visibly vandalized.

By tram [ edit ]

There are several tram routes, although trams are not common in the city centre.

By monorail [ edit ]

Moscow Monorail is a 4.7 km (2.9 mi) monorail line with 6 stations. It is slower, less frequent, and has shorter operating hours when compared with the metro (every 30 min, 08:00-20:00). However, the view is picturesque. It is useful to get to the Ostankino Tower, or to get to the VDNKh exhibition centre from Metro Line #9 (silver). Interchanges between Moscow Metro and Monorail is free, no additional fee will be charged.

By hop-on-hop-off bus [ edit ]

The hop-on-hop-off bus is a convenient way for tourists to see the major sights quickly and efficiently. The buses feature English-speaking guides to answer any questions. A 1 day pass costs $24 for adults and $15 for children.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

Moscow has many attractions, but many of them are not friendly to a non-Russian-speaker. English-language newspapers like The Moscow Times , Element [dead link] , Moscow News and others can help to navigate towards English-language friendly attractions and services.

Circuses [ edit ]

Theatres [ edit ].

• Bolshoi Theatre , one of the oldest and best known ballet and opera companies in the world.

Learn [ edit ]

Moscow remains the educational center of Russia and the former USSR. There are 222 institutes of higher education, including 60 state universities & 90 colleges. Some of these offer a wide-spectrum of programs, but most are centered around a specific field. This is a hold-over from the days of the USSR, when Sovietwide there were only a handful of wide-spectrum "universities" and a large number of narrow-specialization "institutes" (mostly in Moscow & St.Petersburg). Moscow offers some of the best business/management, science, & arts schools in the world. Moscow is also a popular destination for foreign students to learn Russian.

Work [ edit ]

You will need a work visa which is not an easy process. The visa needs to be arranged well in advance of traveling. It is possible to work in Moscow, you just need to find a good company to support you. The main obstacle for many foreigners will be a mandatory Russian language exam required to obtain a work permit.

Shopping malls [ edit ]

Large shopping malls are common near metro stations.

Tipping [ edit ]

For information on tipping in restaurants, see Russia#Eat .

Ethnic food [ edit ]

Authentic ethnic food from countries of the nearby Caucasus ( Azerbaijan , Georgia , Armenia ) is common in Moscow. Japanese food, including sushi, rolls, tempura, and steakhouses are very popular in Moscow. Other Asian cuisines including Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese are becoming increasingly more common.

Budget [ edit ]

Street food [ edit ].

Free-standing kiosks serving sausages, meat pies, or kebobs are plentiful, although the origins of the meat served is questionable and the food has been known to occasionally make people sick.

Muscovites are also fond of their ice cream, consumed in any weather, even in the dead of winter, cheap and usually of superior quality; kiosks can be found all over the center and near all Metro stations.

Foodcourts 2.0 [ edit ]

This term is used in articles by local food critics: since 2016, several special food courts were opened with independent and small food chains, for those people who get bored of McDonald's-like food. They offer a wider choice of cuisines.

Clubs [ edit ]

Nightlife in Moscow is bustling, intense and exciting. It starts quite late; it's common for the headliners to start at 02:00-02:00. Most noticeable are areas near Solyanka street and Krasniy Oktyabr' place. At summer time a lot of clubs opening open-air terraces called "verandas". Most of clubs in Moscow are very picky of who they let in, so make sure you have a positive attitude and dress up if you are going to a fancy club.

Gazgolder [dead link] (not far from Kremlin) is among the best.

Cafes [ edit ]

Moscow has several café chains with great coffee including Coffeemania and Coffee Bean [dead link] . Moscow also has a good selection of tea saloons. High-quality infusion teas such as Newby, are widely available in cafes, both in packets and loose.

Asking to add boiling water to the tea you ordered earlier is a practice that some cafes don't welcome, but normally it's acceptable.

Sleep [ edit ]

Stay safe [ edit ].

Moscow enjoys a relatively low crime rate.

Drunk people are the most likely sources of problems. In the past years, lots of policemen were corrupt, and it was best to avoid them. Nowadays Moscow has a Tourist Police force, whose officers are able to speak foreign languages and help tourists. Police officers are equipped with body-cameras.

It is preferable to avoid some parts of the outer districts of Moscow, especially in the south. Some of those areas are notorious for gopniks (drunkards notorious for muggings and starting fights with strangers, and will do so seemingly unprovoked), who normally hang out in sparse residential areas and in industrial zones. The same problems can be witnessed in the surrounding regions and in other Russian cities as well.

While traveling in Moscow, as in the rest of Russia, you should always have your passport with you. If you look non-white, your papers may get checked more often than otherwise. The police may demand to see your papers to check if you have been registered within 7 business days of your arrival into Moscow. Always remember that if you stay in a hotel then you are automatically registered and will be handed a confirmation paper at a time of check-in, so don't worry in this case. The police are usually looking for migrants from Central Asia and unless you fit this profile, you are unlikely to be questioned.

Women should take caution walking alone late at night since they may receive unwanted attention from drunk men. Women should also stay clear of large companies of men in front of bars, restaurants, etc. It is best to walk with a friend if possible.

Streets can become very slippery in winter. Wear shoes or, even better, boots with decent grip to prevent twisted ankles. Ice patches can be hard to spot. A waterproof raincoat is also sensible.

Traffic is poorly handled, and vehicle accident rates are very high.

If you need help with translation, ask students or pupils: younger people are more likely to be able to help you than the older generations.

Connect [ edit ]

For information on using telephones and buying SIM cards in Russia, see Russia#Connect .

Mobile Internet is quite affordable in Russia, but you have to buy Russian SIM-card first.

Wireless Internet [ edit ]

Moscow Metro has Wi-Fi in all trains. It is ad-supported.

Mosgortrans has Wi-Fi spots on every bus, trolleybus and tram. Also sometimes you can find Wi-Fi spot on a public transport stop.

Beeline Wi-Fi [dead link] operates the largest network of both paid and free Wi-Fi access points. If there is a charge, you can pay online via credit card.

There is a large network of free Wi-Fi hotspots in the city centre; check your device in the middle of a busy area and you may find one.

Many cafes and restaurants offer Wi-Fi - ask for password. Most bookstores offer free Wi-Fi, including "Dom Knigi" on New Arbat Street or "Respublika" bookstore on Tverskaya near Mayakovskaya Metro Station.

Some establishments that offer free Wi-Fi may require you to verify an authorization code sent to a Russian phone number before gaining access, but for the most part, foreign numbers also work as of 2016.

Cope [ edit ]

Embassies [ edit ].

Moscow is one of the global diplomatic capitals, competing with Berlin , Brussels , Beijing , Paris , London , Tokyo and Washington D.C. . Most of the world's countries have their embassies in the city.

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2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

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