costco travel yosemite

Help Center
1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

Packages
Hotels
Cruises
Rental Cars

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

North America Vacations

Stay Close to Home or Get Out and Explore

Weekend getaways, staycations or long road trips

Explore beautiful North America, whether you're checking off national parks from your list or exploring concrete jungles. Choose from vacation packages, cruises, hotel-only bookings or you can build your own package to fit your traveling needs.

Featured Deals

Palm springs: hotel paseo, autograph collection by marriott package.

Mandatory Daily Resort Fee Included

Greater Los Angeles: The Shay Culver City by Hyatt Package

Complimentary Valet Parking Waived Mandatory Daily Resort Fee

New Orleans: Sheraton New Orleans Hotel Package

$30 Food and Beverage Credit

New Orleans: Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton Package

Admission to National WWII Museum for Two

Miami: Kimpton EPIC Miami Package

Complimentary 2 p.m. Late Checkout Daily Resort Fee Included Private Transfers

Miami: Kimpton Surfcomber Miami South Beach Package

Costco Member Savings Complimentary 2 p.m. Late Checkout Private Transfers

Sedona: Residence Inn by Marriott Sedona Package

New to Costco Travel Daily Buffet Breakfast Complimentary Daily Self-Parking

Phoenix: Hotel Adeline, Scottsdale, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel Package

Costco Member Savings Vibrant Boutique Hotel Stay 3 / Pay 2

Austin: Fairmont Austin Package

Daily $25 Resort Credit Costco Member Savings

Las Vegas: Fontainebleau Las Vegas Package

$100 Food and Beverage Credit Opened December 2023 New to Costco Travel

Las Vegas: Bellagio Las Vegas Package

Costco Member Savings World-Class Restaurants Iconic Fountain Performances

New York City: INNSIDE New York NoMad Package

Complimentary Bicycle Rentals 10% Discount on Food and Beverage Welcome Amenity

Pacific Coastal Cruise

Princess Cruises | Grand Princess® Digital Costco Shop Card, Vancouver to Los Angeles

4 Nights from $228*

Princess Cruises | Caribbean Princess® Digital Costco Shop Card, Los Angeles to Vancouver

5 Nights from $241*

West Coast Getaway with San Diego Cruise

Princess Cruises | Ruby Princess® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip San Francisco

5 Nights from $448*

Joshua Tree National Park Area

Salt lake city, utah, yosemite national park area, build your own package, myrtle beach, south carolina, south lake tahoe, california, denver, colorado.

*Unless otherwise stated, prices are per person based on double occupancy.

Think Costco Travel First

Exclusively for Costco members
We are Costco and we know travel
The value you want with the quality you expect
No surprises when you're ready to pay
Additional advantages of membership

Learn more about the Costco Travel difference.

Executive Members earn an annual 2% reward
3% cash back rewards on Costco Travel with the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Click here to maximize your rewards.

Explore More Travel

Kenya luxury safaris.

Discover Magnificent Wildlife in Breathtaking Kenya on a Small Group Safari

Discover Maui and Hawaii Island

Family-Friendly Condominiums

Digital Costco Shop Card with Every Package

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Use Your Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi to Earn 3% Cash Back on Eligible Travel Purchases

Travel Items on Costco.com

Shop featured deals, ipad & tablets.

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Park History
Giant Sequoias
Rock Formations & Cliffs
Accessibility Information
Bear Information
Cellular Service & Internet Access
Food Storage Facilities
Health & Safety
Getting Here
Cornell Lab Bird Tracking
Leave No Trace
Yosemite Lodging Experience
History & Architecture

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Housekeeping camp, white wolf lodge, glacier point ski hut.

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
High Sierra Camp Lottery
High Sierra Camp Lottery FAQs
Trip Preparation

RV & Campgrounds

Yosemite Dining Experience
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
Curry Village Dining
Yosemite Village

High Sierra Camps

Food and Wine Events
Experience Yosemite National Park
*NEW* Sample Itineraries
Backpacking
Cross-Country Skiing
Guided Bus & Tram Tours
Horseback & Mule Riding
Ice Skating
Naturalist Walks & Programs
Photography
Rock Climbing
Shopping & Supplies
Shop Online
Snowshoeing
Food & Wine Events
Holiday Events
Upcoming Events
Yosemite Winter Experience
Curry Village Ice Skating Rink
Badger Pass Ski Area Webcam
Winter Travel Conditions
Backcountry Ski Tours
Cross-Country Ski Trip to Glacier Point
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Season Passes & Discounts
Ski School & Lessons
Snow Tubing
Travel Trade Group Tours
Reunions & Socials
Request Information
Photos & Videos
Email Sign Up
Retrieve Reservations

The Perfect Way to Experience Yosemite

There’s no greater convenience than staying right in Yosemite National Park—waking up with all the Park’s natural wonders right at your doorstep. With a range of accommodations—from elegant hotels with exceptional service to simple canvas tent cabins—you’ll find the perfect place to settle in, surrounded by some of the most majestic natural wonders on earth. Compare driving distances and more here .

The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee shines as Yosemite National Park’s distinctive upscale hotel—built in the 1920's with stunning views, exceptional architecture and unsurpassed service.

Perfect for families and large groups, and ideally situated near Yosemite Falls—close to all of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks. Be in the center of it all.

Wawona Hotel

Authentic Victorian architecture with charming verandas and lush surroundings—convenient to golf , tennis , horseback riding and fishing .

Curry Village

The famed canvas tent cabins have been welcoming travelers to Yosemite since 1899, with spectacular views of Glacier Point and Half Dome.

Overlooking Yosemite Falls and Half Dome, Housekeeping Camp features three-sided concrete structures with a canvas roofs and privacy curtains.

Set in a wildflower field and surrounded by pine trees, the lodge is 30 miles from Yosemite Valley and features canvas tent cabins and a rustic central lodge.

Tuolumne Meadows

Sixty miles from Yosemite Valley, the tent cabins are a summer highlight—perched in a flower-filled meadow and convenient to spectacular hiking and backpacking trails.

The series of five camps are spaced 6 to 10 miles apart along a loop trail—perfect for keeping your backpack light, and enjoying the tent cabins and meals at each camp.

Choose from 13 campgrounds throughout Yosemite, which include traditional tent campsites, RV sites, and wilderness camping.

The rustic lodge attracts cross-country skiers, serving up hearty meals and offering comfortable bunk accommodations—a wonderful reward after the 10.5-mile ski trip.

Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

The Perfect Yosemite Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 days (2024 Update)

Please note: This post contains affiliate links.

Yosemite Itinerary Yosemite Falls from Cooks Meadow

Wondering how to plan a day trip to Yosemite National Park? Seeking a Yosemite 2 day itinerary? Planning for a long weekend and need a Yosemite 3 day itinerary? No matter how many days you plan to spend in Yosemite, I’ve got you covered!

Having visited four different times in spring and winter for three days each during the past few years, I’ve compiled the perfect Yosemite itinerary to help you maximize your time, see and photograph the highlights, hike and avoid the crowds.

If your schedule allows, I highly recommend spending two to three days in Yosemite , allowing you to admire the park’s beauty from a variety of angles and viewpoints. To help you plan, I’ve included when to visit Yosemite, where to stay when visiting Yosemite, tips on the best places to eat and towns to explore near Yosemite.

California Gold Rush Towns - Jamestown Emporium

TOP TIP : If you have time, enter via one entrance and exit via another gate to take advantage of all the pullouts, vantage points and fascinating California gold rush towns near Yosemite National Park.

My favorite gold country towns include Oakhurst, Murphys , and Mariposa. With five entrances to Yosemite, you have lots of options, including wine tasting along the Madera wine trail outside Wawona (Yosemite’s south gate).

Given that Yosemite Valley is 2.5 to 6 hours from most major cities and attractions, it’s best to stay in Yosemite National Park or in one of the nearby towns ( Oakhurst , Mariposa or Groveland) to maximize your time. Also, after the long hiking days, I found myself too tired to drive back to San Francisco.

Want to extend your California road trip? Definitely consider visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks as part of a broader Majestic Mountain Loop journey through the Sierra Nevadas.

Yosemite National Park Entrances

Yosemite Itinerary El Capitan and Half Dome

Hetch Hetchy – Highway 120
Big Oak Flat – Highway 120 – Coming from San Francisco? You’ll probably come in this gate. This route passes through Groveland and Sonora is nearby.
Arch Rock – Highway 140 – This is the other popular entrance if you are traveling from San Francisco to Yosemite. You’ll pass through Mariposa .
Wawona – Highway 41 – If you are traveling from Los Angeles, Death Valley or Fresno, you’ll pass through Oakhurst .
Tioga Pass – Highway 120 – If you are coming from Bodie ghost town, Mammoth Lakes or Mono Lake, you’ll enter through this gate. Due to snow, this eastern entrance is typically only open from June-early November.

How far is the drive to Yosemite Valley ?

Things to do in Murphys CA-Murphys Hotel

Murphys : ~90 miles/2.5 hours. My favorite gold rush town !
Fresno : ~100 miles/2.5 hours
Kings Canyon : ~150 miles/3.5 hours
Sequoia National Park : ~170 miles/3.75 hours
San Francisco : ~200 miles/4.5 hours
Los Angeles : ~ 300 miles/6 hours
Death Valley : ~ 400 miles/7.5 hours. Venture here before or after and use my Death Valley hiking guide and Death Valley road trip guide
Joshua Tree National Park : ~ 420 miles/7.5 hours

Yosemite National Park Entry Tips

If you are entering Yosemite National Park at 9 or 10am , especially on the weekends or from June-September, be prepared to wait in line at the Visitors Gate for 2-3 hours!

From April 13-June 30, 2024 , you will need a reservation to enter on weekends and holidays (May 27 & June 19), if you are entering between 5AM-4PM .

From July 1- August 16, 2024 , a reservation is required every day of the week, if entering the park between 5AM-4PM .

From August 17-October 27, 2024 , you will need a reservation to enter on weekends and holidays (September 7 & October 14), if you are entering between 5AM-4PM .

Be aware, even if you are just driving through the park and not visiting or staying, a reservation will be required as noted above.

The reservation cost is $2 per car.

TOP TIP : If you are an early bird, arrive before 5AM and you will sail through the gates and spend your first few hours of the day soaking in the solitude and views without throngs of people.

Most reservations were released on Recreation.gov on January 5, 2024 . However, there are still some dates and times available. If you weren’t able to secure one of those, additional reservation slots will be released 7 days before arrival date. (i.e For April 28, slots will be released April 21).

TOP TIP : Be sure you have a recreation.gov account set up, are signed in and click on your desired date promptly at 8AM PT as the reservations sell out within a minute or two.

When you secure a reservation, it will give you three days of consecutive access. You will need to show photo ID at the gate that matches the name of the reservation and that person must be in the entering car.

Also, be prepared to pay $35 at the gate for the National Park pass. Cash and credit card are accepted. If you plan to visit more than two United States National Parks in the next twelve months, it’s worth investing in the America the Beautiful Pass for $80. Buy from REI or at the gate.

TOP TIP : Since they sometimes sell out of annual passes at the gates, it’s best to purchase in advance.

When to Visit Yosemite – Planning the Perfect Yosemite Itinerary

Wondering when is the best time to go to Yosemite?

Yosemite’s landscape changes dramatically throughout the year. To simplify your Yosemite itinerary planning, I’ve included unique things to do in Yosemite during different seasons.

Personally, my favorite time to visit Yosemite is the spring when you can immerse in the breathtaking sights and sounds of powerful waterfalls cascading over the granite rocks.

FUN FACT : Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America (2450 ft/747 m) and the fifth highest in the world .

If you are a waterfall lover like I am, many of Yosemite’s waterfalls only trickle by August and don’t reappear again until late winter or early spring when snow begins to melt.

SPRING IN YOSEMITE

Yosemite Itinerary-Upper Yosemite Falls Rainbow

Spring is prime time for gushing waterfalls , wildflowers (dogwoods and redbud bloom in April), and hiking . Moderate temperatures (33-73F/0-22C) and fewer people make for a pleasant hiking experience.

TOP TIP : In April, May and June, you can witness lunar rainbows (aka moonbows) on Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls during full moons. Check Brian Hawkins’ predictions for the best dates and timing.

This is also a great time of year to capture reflections at Mirror Lake. See more about Mirror Lake below.

SUMMER IN YOSEMITE

Summer is the busiest, buggiest and hottest time to visit Yosemite National Park. If you can avoid visiting during this time, I would. Lodging and parking are harder to find and you’ll contend with more crowds on the trails. During the summer, an early start is key to avoid hiking in the oppressive mid-day heat. More about the hikes below.

TOP TIP : Summer is the most popular time to hike Half Dome as the cables are typically only up from late May to mid-October .

If you want to secure a permit to hike Half Dome in 2024, the preseason lottery took place in March 2024. However, day passes will be available two days in advance of the desired date and you can try for those via the Yosemite Half Dome reservation site from May 22 – October 13, 2024. (Note these are estimated dates that are subject to change based on snow conditions).

TOP TIP : These passes will be available to reserve starting from 12AM to 4PM Pacific time, but they will go quickly, so be signed into your recreation.gov site and be ready to select your date right at 12AM.

350 permits are issued per day (225 for day hikers, 75 for backpackers, 50 via lottery two days in advance).

FALL IN YOSEMITE

Fall brings beautiful colors reflected in the Merced River. The combination of fewer crowds and cooler temperatures makes this my second favorite time of year to visit the park.

FUN FACT : If there is water trickling in Horsetail Fall, you can get Firefall in October! However, this is rare.

WINTER IN YOSEMITE

Seeking snow covered scenes, snowshoeing or skiing? Plan a Yosemite wintertime visit. This is a good time of year to capture fog caressing the treetops from Tunnel View.

TOP TIP: To find out road conditions and chain restrictions, call 209-372-0200 (press 1, then 1). If there is snow and/or ice, chains are often required (even if you are driving an AWD or 4WD), so this is an important consideration.

If it is snowing, entering via the Arch Rock gate on El Portal Road (highway 140) is your best bet as it’s the lowest elevation road .

Horsetail Fall – Firefall Event

Yosemite Itinerary Horsetail Fall Firefall

For two weeks in February, if conditions are right, Horsetail Fall, which trickles down the side of El Capitan, lights up and looks like lava at sunset (and for the 15 minutes before) and is known as “ Firefall .” For this to happen, three things must happen:

Sufficient snowpack to melt and cause Horsetail Fall to flow.
A clear night. If there are clouds on the horizon, the sunset rays won’t hit Horsetail Fall and light it up.
Wind to blow the mist and add a more dreamy quality to the scene.

Top Tips for Shooting Firefall

Visit on a weekday as crowds are bonkers on the weekends. Some people arrive as early as 12PM to claim a spot. Bring a chair, blankets, a book, food and a headlamp.
Position yourself east of the El Capitan Picnic Area.
Shoot a 70-200mm lens on a tripod.

Aaron Meyers Photography has predictions to help you plan for a future Yosemite Firefall trip.

The Perfect Yosemite Itinerary (for 1, 2 or 3 days)

I’ve included a 3-day Yosemite itinerary that you can mix and match to fit your needs and interests, calling out highlights and photography tips to make the most of your time in this gorgeous United States National Park.

Yosemite Itinerary: Day 1 – Explore Yosemite Valley

#1 sunrise at tunnel view.

This is one of the most popular places to stop on any Yosemite itinerary for good reason. You can marvel at El Capitan, Half Dome, the Three Graces and Bridalveil Fall as the sun rises.

FUN FACT : This is where Ansel Adams captured some of his most iconic Yosemite National Park images.

Seeking Tunnel View with moody fog and clouds? These ethereal conditions tend to be most common with spring or winter storms.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : Wait for the sun to crest above the valley to get a sunburst at sunrise. To maximize the effect, stop down your aperture to F16 or F22.

A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) or a mid – range telephoto (24-70mm) works best for capturing all four icons in one frame.

Located 8 miles (15 minutes) from Yosemite Valley, 40 miles (1 hour 10 minutes) from Oakhurst , and 40 miles (1 hour) from Mariposa , sunrise is ideal if you are staying in the park. If you miss sunrise, come for sunset, which is just as pretty!

#2 Golden Hour at Artist Point or Inspiration Point = a short hike

Want a quick hike after sunrise without crowds? Cross over from the Tunnel View parking lot and hike up to Artist Point (2.3 miles round trip/741 feet elevation gain) or Inspiration Point (2.6 miles round trip/1043 elevation gain). They both offer a similar view to Tunnel View without the crowds.

TOP TIP : While I considered hiking up to Artist and Inspiration Point for sunrise, I’m glad I didn’t as I found the trail a bit confusing. Make sure to download All Trails . Use this to navigate and stay on the trail as I accidentally got off trail a couple of times.

#3 Bridalveil Fall

As you drive along Southside Drive, make a quick stop at Bridalveil Fall. Water flow is typically strongest in April, May and June .

As of April 2024, the walkway for Bridalveil Fall is finally re-opened after being closed for five years for restoration. Once again, you are able to appreciate its beauty from a closer vantage point.

FUN FACT : Bridalveil falls 620 ft (189 m) into Yosemite Valley.

#4 Cathedral Beach

Yosemite Itinerary El Capitan Reflection

For an El Capitan reflection shot , pull into Cathedral Beach and walk down to the water’s edge. Just after sunrise, the combination of calm waters and first light on El Capitan leads to the ideal conditions for a reflection photograph.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : For scale, you can include someone in a bright jacket in the shot.

Look closely and you’ll likely see climbers on El Capitan .

#5 Sentinel Beach

Since the Three Brothers are particularly photogenic in fall and winter surrounded by rust colored foliage or capped in snow, this is another great option for a serene reflection image.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : Use a tripod and opt for a 10-30 second exposure to smooth the water. Depending on the time you arrive here, you might need a 6 or 10 stop neutral density filter for a long exposure image.

#6 Swinging Bridge

Yosemite-Itinerary -Upper-Yosemite-Falls-Reflection

Continue on to the Swinging Bridge parking lot for an early morning view of Yosemite Falls reflected in the Merced River. April, May and June have the strongest water flow.

This bridge gets really busy later in the day so early morning is best if you are seeking solitude.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : For a long exposure shot, use your tripod and a 6 or 10 stop neutral density filter to smooth the water.

#7 Yosemite Chapel

Dating from 1879 , the Yosemite chapel is the oldest building in Yosemite Valley.

If you are interested in attending services, check the schedule here .

TOP TIP : Mix up your perspective and you can get Half Dome towering above the Chapel or view Yosemite Falls across the valley floor.

The chapel is also beautiful during a full moon. I’m hoping to capture it enveloped in a snowstorm during a winter visit.

#8 Upper Yosemite Falls Rainbow

When Yosemite Falls is cascading from February to June, you can see rainbows in the Upper Yosemite Falls mist in the early morning (730-930AM).

TOP TIP : Just after you cross over Sentinel Bridge, pull into the parking lot to your left and find a good vantage point where you can see the rainbow.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : Use a polarizer to saturate the rainbow colors and make it pop.

#9 Choose a Hike

Depending on your fitness level , desire to climb stairs and what you hope to see, I’ve provided two options for hiking during a day trip to Yosemite.

For any Yosemite hikes, I recommend carrying the the following to be prepared for the changing weather, temperatures and landscapes in the Sierra Nevada.

Hiking boots – I swear by my Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX and am on my second pair
Hiking poles – Black Diamond is my favorite brand
At least 100 ounces of water in a Nalgene , Hydroflask or Camelbak . You are at altitude and will dehydrate faster as a result
Food and snacks in reusable silicone Stasher bags . The sandwich and snack sizes are my favorite
Fleece – my North Face fleece is still going strong after 15 years
Waterproof jacket – I love my Marmot Precip for hiking as it stuffs easily into my backpack
Sun protection for the relentless sun at altitude – a wide-brimmed hat with a neck strap and sunscreen are key

Hiking Option 1: Mirror Lake Trail Yosemite

Mirror Lake Trail Reflections Water flowing under bridge and talus field beneath Half Dome

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 5 miles (8km) to make the full loop around the lake

Elevation Gain: 300 ft (91 m)

Estimated time to complete the hike : 2-3 hours

Parking : Park at Curry Village or take the shuttle to stop #17

From February to June, you can capture beautiful reflections as you hike around the Mirror Lake loop trail. By late summer, the water recedes or disappears, so the hike is far less compelling then.

Trail highlights include :

Seeing Half Dome and other park features reflected in the water – best March-June
Admiring Half Dome from its base
Water rushing underneath a picturesque bridge halfway through the hike

Read more about this hike and others in my best Yosemite hikes post.

Hiking Option 2: Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance: 6 miles (9.6km). Be aware that winter routes may add 2 additional round-trip miles to your journey for the day

Elevation Gain: 2162 ft (659 m)

Estimated time to complete the hike : 4-6 hours

Parking : Park at the parking lot near Happy Isles or take the shuttle to stop #16

This is the most popular hike in the park for good reason as you get to see not one, but two waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls . You will also see Liberty Cap from Nevada Falls. The Mist Trail is typically open April/May to November/December. This is a top Yosemite attraction on every Yosemite itinerary.

TOP TIP : This trail gets SUPER busy so an EARLY start is key to minimize the number of people on the trail and to hike in cooler temperatures. The parking lot was quite full when we arrived at 8AM in April.

For more details and pictures about this hike, check out my best Yosemite hikes post.

#10 Grab Dinner

Degnan’s, the Ahwahnee Hotel, Ahwahnee Bar or the Basecamp Eatery at the Yosemite Valley Lodge all offer myriad options.

See more information on what these Yosemite dining establishments offer below.

#11 Enjoy Sunset

Watch the alpenglow on Half Dome from the Sentinel Bridge or head to Tunnel View for a sunset view over the valley.

#12 Look for Climbers on El Capitan

Yosemite Itinerary Rock Climbers on El Capitan

If you have the energy, drive over and park at one of the pullouts to see climbers on El Capitan. If night has fallen, look for headlamps blinking on the wall.

TOP TIP : Watch Free Solo before you head to Yosemite National to immerse yourself in Alex Honnold’s ascent of El Capitan with NO ropes . Be prepared for cliff hanging scenes (literally).

Yosemite Itinerary – Day 2 – Marvel at More of Yosemite’s Waterfalls

With a weekend trip to Yosemite, you can gape at more of Yosemite’s waterfalls and undertake another demanding hike with jaw-dropping views.

#1 Grab breakfast at Degnan’s

With all the calories you’ll burn hiking in Yosemite today, you’ll want to refuel with a breakfast sandwich at Degnan’s.

TOP TIP : If you are vegetarian, get the Deg muffin with egg, cheddar cheese and Morningstar veggie sausage. It’s filling and delicious!

#2 Walk to Lower Yosemite Falls

If you are staying at Yosemite Valley Lodge, it’s a short .3-mile walk to the Lower Yosemite Falls trailhead. This 1-mile (1.6km) loop is a flat and easy trail with only 50 feet (15m) elevation gain.

Yosemite Itinerary Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls

TOP TIP: As you are walking up the pathway, make sure to capture an image of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls framed by the trees .

While the entire loop trail will only take you 30 minutes, I guarantee you’ll be enamored with the water flow and want to spend more time basking in the sight and sound.

Yosemite Itinerary Lower Yosemite Falls Rainbow

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP : Bring a tripod, polarizer and 6 or 10 stop filter to capture silky smooth water and the rainbow at the waterfall base. For the best view, position yourself on the footbridge to capture water flowing over the rocks below.

#3 Choose a Hike

Depending on how tired you are from your first day of Yosemite adventures, I’ve provided you three hiking options for Day 2 of your Yosemite itinerary.

Hiking Option 1: Cook’s Meadow Loop

Distance : 1-mile (1.6 km) round-trip

Elevation Gain: None

Estimated time to complete the hike : 30 minutes

Parking : Park at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Yosemite Village or the lot near Sentinel Bridge

This flat walk is a peaceful way to start the day before everyone descends upon the valley. While wandering around this loop you can appreciate the beauty of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point from below.

If you missed Yosemite Chapel, Sentinel Bridge or the rainbow in Upper Yosemite Falls’ mist from Day 1 of the Yosemite itinerary, you can see them this morning.

Hiking Option 2: Upper Yosemite Falls Hike

Yosemite Itinerary Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

After spending time at Lower Yosemite Falls, you can now hike up to Upper Yosemite Falls or partway there for impressive views of Upper, Middle and Lower Yosemite Falls as well as Half Dome.

Difficulty: Moderate – Strenuous

Distance : 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip to Columbia Rock or 7.2 miles round trip (11.6km) to the top of Yosemite Falls

Elevation Gain: 1000 ft (328 m) to Columbia Rock or 2700 ft (823m) to the top of Yosemite Falls

Estimated time to complete the hike : 2-3 hours round trip for Columbia Rock or 6-8 hours round trip to the top of Yosemite Falls

Parking : Park in the Yosemite Falls area just beyond the Camp 4 entrance or take the shuttle to stop #7

Given the elevation and distance, get an EARLY start for this hike as you don’t want to do this in the heat of the day.

Yosemite Itinerary Upper Middle and Lower Yosemite Falls

You will gain 1000 feet (328 meters) in the first mile and get to Columbia Rock, which is a FANTASTIC view of Half Dome. Many choose to turn back after this viewpoint.

If you are considering this hike, find more tips and images of this hike in my favorite Yosemite hikes post.

Hiking Option 3: Four Mile Trail Yosemite

Difficulty: Strenuous

Distance : 9.6 mile (15.5 km) round trip

Elevation Gain: 3200 ft (975 m)

Estimated time to complete the hike : 6-8 hours round trip

Parking : Park at Four Mile Trailhead (it’s often full by 9AM so arrive early)

This trail is a bit of a misnomer as it’s 4.8 miles one-way .

Given slippery sand on the rocks, hiking shoes and hiking poles are helpful and a minimum of 100 oz of water. This hike can be VERY buggy in the summer, so bring lots of bug spray if you opt for hiking 4 Mile Trail in the summer.

Yosemite Itinerary Upper Yosemite Falls from Four Mile Trail

If you are game for this butt-kicking hike, you’ll be rewarded with views of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Valley, El Capitan and Half Dome.

More details and recommendations for this hike can be found in my Yosemite hikes post.

#4 Ansel Adams Gallery

If you admire Ansel Adams work like I do, you’ll definitely want to stop at his gallery in Yosemite village. It’s easy to lose yourself perusing photographs, books and postcards for 30 minutes. The gallery is open 9 AM – 5 PM each day.

Yosemite Itinerary Half Dome with Alpenglow

Tunnel View, Sentinel Bridge, Cook’s Meadow or anywhere with a view of Half Dome is a great option for witnessing the alpenglow on Half Dome during the second day of your Yosemite National Park itinerary.

Yosemite Itinerary – Day 3 – Wawona South Gate Explorations

If you are spending 3 days in Yosemite, use your final day to explore the Yosemite History Center and the giant Sequoias at the Mariposa Grove in Wawona at the South Gate.

#1 Sunrise at Valley View

Located 4.7 miles from Yosemite Valley Lodge, head along Northside Drive to the Valley View pull out on the left. If you pass Pohono Bridge, you’ve gone too far.

This vantage point allows you to capture Cathedral Rocks and Bridalveil Fall reflected in the Merced River.

#2 Tunnel View

Tunnel View is a wonderful place to stop again and bid farewell to Yosemite Valley on your way towards the south gate in Wawona on the third day of your Yosemite trip.

Given how picturesque this view is and since you’ll be heading past it early before the crowds arrive, you can stop and see if there is atmosphere with clouds or fog this morning.

#3 Yosemite History Center

Stopping at the Yosemite History Center for 30-60 minutes is worthwhile to see structures dating from the 1890s . Highlights include: a covered bridge, cavalry office, tiny jail, various sized log cabins, wagons and more. We loved how the light filtered through the trees here and spent an hour exploring the grounds with no one else around.

#4 Mariposa Grove – Giant Sequoia Trees

Standing beneath massive Sequoia trees that rival the Statue of Liberty will leave you speechless.

If you happen to visit when snow still carpets the landscape, the contrast of the bark against the snow is even more awe-inspiring. Yaktrax or snowshoes may be prudent if there is snow or ice.

Be aware if you visit between December 1- March 15, the shuttle does NOT run from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center, so you must hike 2 miles each way to the Mariposa Grove trailhead.

TOP TIP : If you visit when the shuttle isn’t running, I recommend hiking up to the Mariposa Grove via the Washburn Trail (with a 500 feet elevation gain) and returning via the road.

From Mid May – November 30 , the shuttle typically runs 8AM-5PM.

When visiting, I recommend you explore the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail

Distance : 2 miles (3.2 km) round-trip

Elevation Gain: 353 ft (107 m)

Estimated time to complete the hike : 1-2 hours round-trip

Parking : Park at Mariposa Grove Welcome Center

Hike highlights include:

California Tree Tunnel – carved in 1895 to allow cars to pass through
Grizzly Giant – towers 209 ft (64 m), has a diameter of 28 ft (8.5 m), and circumference of 96 ft (29 m)
Bachelor & 3 Graces – an impressive grouping of four giant Sequoias

#5 Explore Oakhurst’s attractions

Things to Do in Oakhurst California Yosemite Axe Throwing

Oakhurst is a place you’ll thank me later for encouraging you to stop. Round out your Yosemite trip planning, by finding all the fun things to do in Oakhurst, California , including axe-throwing, wine tasting, delectable dining, hiking, kayaking, fried pickles and Reese’s Pieces shakes.

#6 Wine Taste along the Madera Wine Trail

Continuing 40 miles past Oakhurst, you can discover wine tasting along the Madera wine trail . Food pairings, Bordeaux varietals, ports and sparkling wines will delight your palate.

#7 Dinner at Season’s Bistro or South Gate Brewing Company

After spending 3 days in Yosemite, I HIGHLY encourage you to indulge in the extensive menu at Aroma Tavern & Buffalo Bar in Fish Camp for dinner from 5-9pm Thursday to Sunday . Or, devour fried pickles, award-winning beers and burgers at South Gate Brewing Company from 11AM-8PM everyday .

If you are taking an extended trip to the Sierra Nevada, it’s worth adding time to your Yosemite itinerary to immerse in Mariposa , other gold rush towns near Yosemite , and Murphys . Murphys is my other favorite former gold rush town.

Where to Stay when Visiting Yosemite National Park

Best places to stay in yosemite, curry village.

Canvas tents and cabins are available at Curry Village. They are also close to the Mist Trail hike. Since the tents have shared bathroom, no refrigerator and no heat, I prefer Yosemite Valley Lodge.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge is the closest lodging to Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, Cook’s Meadow, and Sentinel Bridge. Given its cost and proximity to many of the best things to do in Yosemite, I recommend staying here. Rooms have a mini fridge, allowing you to bring your own food for hikes and explorations.

Ahwahnee Hotel

The Ahwahnee is definitely a splurge since it costs $ 600+ per night with taxes. Some of the hotel rooms have shared balconies allowing you to ogle the phenomenal views. For more privacy, they also have cabins in varying sizes. Make sure to stop by and wander inside to admire the architecture and peek into the historic dining room.

TOP TIP : In November and December, they often offer a few different events, including the Bracebridge performance, the Vintner dinner (a 5 course meal paired with wines) and the Chef’s Holiday dinner.

FUN FACT : The Ahwahnee is a National Historic Landmark and opened in 1927. The hotel has hosted Queen Elizabeth, President Obama and Judy Garland.

Best Places to Stay Near Yosemite

Where to Stay in Oakhurst California Queens Inn Cabin Interior and Exterior

Groveland Hotel – Groveland (off of Highway 120 on the way to Big Oak Flat entrance)
All Seasons Groveland Inn – Groveland (off of Highway 120 on the way to Big Oak Flat entrance)
Yosemite View Inn – El Portal (off of Highway 140 on the way to Arch Rock entrance)
Rustic Bug – Mariposa (off of Highway 140 on the way to Arch Rock entrance)
Narrow Gauge Inn – Fish Camp (off of highway 41 entrance-Wawona)
Queens Inn – Oakhurst (off of Highway 41 entrance – Wawona )

Where to Eat in Yosemite National Park

Base Camp Eatery at Yosemite Valley Lodge (open 730-10AM, 11AM-3PM, 4-8PM)

A popular and tasty place, it gets quite busy. For breakfast, they offer: pancakes and breakfast burritos. Lunch and dinner options include: poke bowls, crispy chicken sandwiches black bean burgers, chicken fingers, and Mediterranean wraps with couscous.

Village Store (open 8AM-9PM)

Stop here for postcards, gifts and snacks.

Yosemite Village Store Treats Shaka Mango Hibiscus Tea Huckleberry Licorice Chili Mango Slices

TOP TIP: Do yourself a favor and try the highly addictive (and spicy) chili mango slices , Shaka mango hibiscus juice, huckleberry lollipops, huckleberry licorice or huckleberry dark chocolate and sea salt bar . You’ll thank me later!

Degnan’s Deli (open 7-11AM & 11:30AM-6PM)

Start your day with the Deg muffin with egg, cheddar cheese, and sausage, bacon, ham or veggie sausage. The Morningstar veggie sausage is on point. If you are famished, get the Sunrise roll , which includes two eggs, two sausage patties and cheddar. It’s MASSIVE and large enough for two people to split.

TOP TIP : If they have Nutella croissants, make sure to get one as I’m still dreaming about it!

Ahwahnee Restaurant (open 7-10AM, 1130AM-2PM, 530-830PM)

If you are looking for a splurge and prefer a sit down option, the Ahwahnee’s buffets are well known. Dinner requires more formal dress.

TOP TIP: Don’t miss their boysenberry pie .

Ahwahnee Bar (open 2-9PM)

The Ahwahnee Bar is perfect if are seeking something more casual with creative drinks . Their roasted vegetable quinoa bowl , Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese or winter salad with kale, butternut squash and maple Dijon will hit the spot after a long hike. Top off your meal with a ginger margarita.

I hope my one, two and three day Yosemite itinerary ideas will help you plan an epic Yosemite trip. I’d love to hear which of the tips in my Yosemite travel guide you found most helpful and which experiences in Yosemite were your favorites. Happy travels to Yosemite! If you want to explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park during part of a larger California road trip, use my Majestic Mountain Loop itinerary to plan!

Epic 7 Travel is a for-profit blog. The post contains Affiliate links for which I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only feature products that I own or would recommend regardless of an affiliate relationship. Read more in our Terms of Use . Thank you for your support of Epic 7 Travel!

Pin and read later

Marielena Smith

Marielena founded Epic 7 Travel to inspire you to Live the Unforgettable by sharing stories and photography from around the world. She aims to transport you to extraordinary places on, above and beneath all 7 continents and drive you to start your own adventures.

If you are looking for more inspiration to Live the Unforgettable , join the Epic 7 Travel Community

Reader Interactions

March 24, 2022 at 7:22 pm

Thanks for another “bookmarkable” post to fuel another future roadtrip! I haven’t been to Yosemite in *so* many years but clearly I so need to go back. And now I’ll even know where to go to score some amazing and well-deserved meals after all that hiking!

April 12, 2022 at 8:45 am

Glad I could help you plan another roadtrip. Another visit is definitely in order as there are so many wonderful areas in the park to discover. I’m all about rewarding the delicious meals after strenuous hikes. I’m excited to return next month for lunar rainbows (moonbows) and some new hikes!

March 25, 2022 at 5:58 pm

This is awesome – so much valuable information! You’ve just planned my trip to Yosemite! Thanks! Beautiful photos too

April 12, 2022 at 8:46 am

I’m delighted I could assist with planning your trip to Yosemite. It’s a special place with so many places to discover throughout the park. I feel incredibly fortunate to live relatively close so that I can continue to explore and share new areas to inspire people for their next visits!

June 9, 2022 at 1:39 pm

SO incredibly helpful!! This saved me hours and hours of research — and my son will love the photography tips! THANK YOU!

June 10, 2022 at 9:49 am

Hooray! Like you, I do tons of research before visiting a place, so it’s always rewarding for me when I can create a resource that saves others time in planning their trips. Since I’ve visited the park four times in the past year, I’m always finding new gems that I enjoy sharing. Have a wonderful time. It’s a beautiful park that I appreciate even more each time I visit

Connect With Me

Press & Media

Join the Epic 7 Travel Community for exclusive trip planning inspiration, including my FREE Travel Essentials Checklist

By signing up, you are giving me your consent to email you occasional updates, images, and stories from Epic 7 Travel. View our Privacy Policy and Terms .

If you are looking for more inspiration to Live the Unforgettable, join the Epic 7 Travel Community

You have subscribed! Check your inbox to confirm your subscription.

Get Ready for Your Own Epic Adventure!

Access travel tips to make your next trip a success

Learn photography skills to document your adventure

Get inspired to plan the trip of a lifetime

Don't miss out!

You have successfully subscribed, content protected.

The content of this website cannot be copied!

U.S. National Parks Tours

An Insider's Journey into Yosemite

Trip Highlights

A Richer Encounter with Yosemite

Stay in Coveted Park Lodgings

Sunrise Canoeing in the Eastern Sierra

Photo Departure

How You See Yosemite Makes a Big Difference

Don't Go It on Your Own—Let Us Take the Hassle Out! When you travel independently, you spend a lot of time researching, planning, asking questions, competing for reservations, or driving around trying to figure out where to go and what to do. As a result, you lose precious time and miss the special spots known only to locals. We’ve taken out the legwork and guesswork: because we’ve already researched everything, and we coordinate essential reservations far in advance, you'll experience much more than most people can accomplish on their own.
Travel in a Very Small Group Now more than ever, you’ll find advantages in our intimate group size. While we cap our groups at 14, we further divide them into two smaller groups of no more than seven guests per vehicle, each with its own Expedition Leader. You won’t find a better guide-to-guest ratio!
Immerse Yourself in a Full Week of Exploration Most visitors to Yosemite pass through for a night or two. In contrast, our adventure gives you a deep dive into the park—we include a whole host of features that showcase Yosemite’s diversity and grandeur, because we know you don’t want to miss a single highlight.
Meet Local Experts While our Nat Hab Expedition Leader is an expert in his or her own right, you'll also gain in-depth knowledge from special visits we have arranged with local experts, including a fire ecologist, a speaker from the Yosemite Conservancy, and significant Yosemite climbers.
Spend Three Nights Inside the Park at The Ahwahnee The Ahwahnee Hotel is one of those iconic national park lodges where everyone covets a stay but few are lucky enough to land one. With us, you’ll get three nights in this matchless spot! Located on the valley floor in view of landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, The Ahwahnee is an exemplar of national park rustic style, as grand now as when it opened in 1927. Staying inside the park means we have access to highlights in the early morning and late into the evening, allowing us to enjoy special sights after crowds have left.
Travel Tioga Road Over Two Days Famous Tioga Road, one of the highest drives in California, offers access to Yosemite's high alpine terrain, including Tuolumne Meadows. Our itinerary travels both east and west on this classic route, giving us varied vantage points and time to stop at more of the highlights along the way than a typical one-way, one-day traverse.
Visit the Eastern Sierra & Stay at Mono Lake Most Yosemite trips don’t include a visit to the east side of the range. But we take you all the way to Mono Lake, and we spend the night so you can enjoy the lake at its most magical hours, sunset and sunrise, when the light is optimal for photography.
Private Canoe Trip on Mono Lake Mono Lake is an alkaline environment with no natural outlet, fostering the formation of whimsical limestone pinnacles called tufa. On a private morning canoeing excursion when temperatures are cooler, observe these fascinating phenomena up close as you enjoy the early morning quiet amid the abundant birdlife.
Expert Naturalist Guides Add Immeasurably to Your Experience Our Expedition Leaders are professional naturalists who know the Sierras like few others. With in-depth knowledge of Yosemite, they know where and when to be to maximize your experience of nature over crowds. They also have their own "secret" spots to share, which are off the most heavily touristed tracks. And they are intimately familiar with Yosemite's geology, flora, wildlife and history, enriching your experience in myriad ways. We can't emphasize enough how much difference their expertise makes to your overall experience. See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Yosemite Adventure With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, stating clearly that we will meet the lofty expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. We think this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise .
Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

Read what travelers are saying about An Insider's Journey into Yosemite:

Availability & Book Now

Download Trip Details

Ask a Question

Customize Your African Safari

Let our in-house safari experts create your perfect African adventure. Whether you'd like to travel as a private group on this safari or you'd like to create an itinerary all your own, simply fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 800-543-8917 .

Customize Your Trip

Let our in-house trip experts create your perfect adventure. Whether you'd like to travel as a private group on our ${tripName} or you'd like to create an itinerary all your own, simply fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 800-543-8917.

Discover the World's Best

Nature Travel Experiences

Get our downloadable trip details in PDF format, a handy resource for your travel planning. Inside, you'll find all the info from our website—highlights of the trip, itinerary, accommodations, and full details on dates, prices and logistics—plus a few extras!

Thank you for your request! Click here to see your trip details PDF now. You’ll also receive it by email momentarily.

Fill out our form to receive additional information about our ${tripName}, or give us a call at 800-543-8917 .

We’ll be in touch soon with more details.

Request Your 2023 Catalog

Together, Natural Habitat Adventures and World Wildlife Fund have teamed up to arrange nearly a hundred nature travel experiences around the planet, while helping to protect the magnificent places we visit and their wild inhabitants.

Get Weekly Updatess

Our weekly eNewsletter highlights new adventures, exclusive offers, webinars, nature news, travel ideas, photography tips and more. Sign up today!

Look for a special welcome message in your inbox, arriving shortly! Be sure to add [email protected] to your email contacts so you don’t miss out on future emails.

Send Us a Message

Have a question or comment? Use the form to the right to get in touch with us.

We’ll be in touch soon with a response.

Refer a Friend

Earn rewards for referring your friends! We'd like to thank our loyal travelers for spreading the word. Share your friend's address so we can send a catalog, and if your friend takes a trip as a first-time Nat Hab traveler, you'll receive a $250 Nat Hab credit you can use toward a future trip or the purchase of Nat Hab gear. To refer a friend, just complete the form below or call us at 800-543-8917. It's that easy! See rules and fine print here.

We've received your friend's information.

View Our 2023 Digital Catalog

View Our 2024/2025

Digital Catalog

Thanks for requesting access to our digital catalog. Click here to view it now. You’ll also receive it by email momentarily.

Polar Bear Tours

African Safaris

Galapagos Tours

Alaska Adventures

Canada & the North

Europe Adventures

Mexico & Central America Tours

South America Adventures

Asia & Pacific Adventures

Antarctica & Arctic Journeys

Adventure Cruises

Photography Expeditions

Women's Adventures

Family Adventures

New Adventures

Questions? Call 800-543-8917

Have a question or comment? Click any of the buttons below to get in touch with us. Hours Mountain Time

8 am to 5 pm, Monday - Friday
8 am to 3 pm on Saturday
Closed on Sunday

Everything you need to know about Costco Travel — and why I love it for saving money

Costco isn't just the place where you can buy toilet paper in bulk, inexpensive gas, cheap hot dogs and gift cards. You can also book great trips via the company's online travel agency, Costco Travel.

I know, I know: At TPG, we're often staunchly against booking travel through third-party sites , as there can be tradeoffs versus booking directly. But in recent years, I've become a big fan of the travel deals I can find via Costco Travel.

When planning our annual beach trip back in 2022, my best friend found a few options for Mexican all-inclusive resorts on Costco Travel and shared the links with me. I promptly told her we'd probably be better off booking directly and brushed off the idea of booking through Costco — neither of us even had a membership at the time.

However, comparing the prices and benefits at a few of the resorts proved my initial reaction wrong.

I actually got a Costco membership to book the deal since the cost of the membership was less than what we'd save by booking through Costco. We saved around $300 on a three-night stay at TRS Coral near Cancun (one of TPG's best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun ), not including the free hydrotherapy spa circuit and the $241 Digital Costco Shop Card included in the package.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Madison Blancaflor (@madison_ave18)

Our stay was fantastic, and I officially became a Costco Travel convert.

If you're curious about how to use Costco Travel to find deals, here's everything you need to know about Costco Travel — and why I love it for saving money on travel.

What is Costco Travel?

All Costco members have access to the Costco Travel booking platform, where you can find and book a wide range of travel — from vacation packages to hotels, cruises and rental cars. You can even book theme park vacation packages to Disney and Universal or specialty vacations such as an African safari.

Related: Costco cruise deals: How to save money booking travel at a warehouse club

Once you log in to Costco Travel, you can search for specific dates or destinations or browse through available deals and featured destinations. I personally love perusing the limited-time deals when I know I want to plan a getaway but don't have a specific destination in mind.

Trips booked through Costco Travel are often discounted and/or include perks and benefits you may not get by booking directly or through other booking portals. Usually, a trip booked through Costco Travel will also include a Digital Costco Shop Card (essentially a type of Costco gift card) of varying value.

What travel can you book through Costco Travel?

You can book hotels, cruises, rental cars and vacation packages through Costco Travel. Vacation packages range from hotel-only offers to all-encompassing packages that include airfare, hotel stays and rental cars. You can even build your own package.

However, one thing to note is that you can't book stand-alone flights via Costco Travel. There is an option to book flights through some vacation packages, but if you're only looking for airfare, you'll want to head to Google Flights to check out your options and book.

You can book Costco Travel offers both online and by phone.

Do you have to be a Costco member to use Costco Travel?

Yes. Costco Travel is an exclusive service for Costco members.

There are two personal membership levels: Gold Star and Executive. Gold Star costs $60 per year, while an Executive membership costs $120. The basic membership will give you access to all of Costco's services, including Costco Travel, while the Executive membership also comes with a 2% reward on all Costco (and Costco Travel) purchases.

I've found that the Costco Travel deals alone are worth paying the $60 Gold Star annual membership fee, even though I don't regularly use Costco for my grocery store runs.

Check sites like Groupon for discount Costco memberships, as you can sometimes save on that rate — or get an included gift card that helps offset the cost.

Is Costo Travel worth it?

Costco Travel has its pros and cons, but there are definitely times when it's worth it.

For example, let's look at a five-night stay in Maui in early April. At the time of writing, Costco is currently offering a hotel and rental car package for Hotel Wailea, a Relais & Chateaux affiliated property and one of TPG's favorite Maui hotels .

Here's one cost comparison breakdown of Costco Travel's deal versus booking directly:

Even without including the additional benefits, you're already saving more than $400 via the Costco deal. Add in the value you get from the card, daily breakfast and resort credit (which is more than $1,000 in value if you maximize all benefits), and you're looking at $1,442.45 in savings by booking through Costco Travel versus directly.

And since Hotel Wailea isn't a member of any major hotel loyalty program, booking through Costco Travel wouldn't mean missing out on elite night credits or other loyalty program benefits.

Here's another example — this time for a Universal Orlando theme park trip from June 4-6 for one adult and two children from Houston. The total cost when booking each part (hotel, tickets and airfare) individually came to $2,701.35, while booking it as a package via Costco saved just over $300.

That's a fair amount of savings you could use for some frozen butterbeer or even a new wand inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

When is Costco Travel not worth it?

Not every offer on Costco is worth booking.

For one, you won't necessarily find the same availability on Costco Travel. For example, flights booked through Costco may have some seats blocked off, and certain dates for hotel stays may be unavailable. Additionally, not all rental car companies are bookable through Costco Travel (such as Hertz*, which is my preferred rental car company due to the perks I get through my Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ).

Plus, some hotel stays have a minimum stay requirement. If you're on the hunt for a long weekend getaway, you may not be able to take advantage of some Costco Travel deals.

Even when you do find availability, you should always price-check what you can find by booking directly or through your credit card travel portal and hotel programs.

After booking our fantastic stay at TRS Coral just north of Cancun through Costco, I looked at booking through Costco again in 2023 when planning our annual beach vacation.

While Costco had a deal available for the same resort, we happened to be booking when the resort chain was having a Mother's Day sale for anyone booking directly. We were able to try out a new TRS resort closer to Playa Del Carmen, TRS Yucatan; we saved more than $100 on an even nicer suite than Costco Travel offered by booking directly (even when considering the Digital Shop Card we would have gotten by booking with Costco).

Something else to consider when booking hotels through Costco Travel is loyalty program rewards and elite status. There are a lot of hotels available to book through Costco Travel that are part of major loyalty programs, from Hyatt Honors to Marriott Bonvoy to IHG One Rewards and more. But booking through Costco Travel — just like booking through most other third-party services such as Expedia — means you likely won't earn loyalty rewards, elite night credits or have any elite night benefits honored.

You'll also have to use Costco customer service if you run into any issues rather than going directly to the brand. This is especially important when considering booking a vacation package that includes flights, given the higher potential for delays or cancellations.

Why I love Costco Travel

I am typically a staunch proponent of booking directly, but Costco Travel is an exception. I've found that the benefits I can get by booking some trips via Costco outweigh the cons (some of which include having to go through Costco for any customer service help or occasionally losing out on elite night credits).

Digital Costco Shop Cards

My favorite thing about booking trips through Costco Travel is the Digital Costco Shop Card I get after booking. The card's value varies from trip to trip (generally depending on how expensive the package you book), but you can get hundreds of dollars back to use at Costco.

The Digital Costco Shop Cards can be used for Costco warehouse purchases (a game changer with grocery prices so high due to inflation), but you can also use them toward future Costco Travel bookings. And remember — Costco doesn't just carry bulk grocery items. You could use a Digital Costco Shop Card to buy a new flat-screen TV for movie nights and game days, a new outdoor patio setup ahead of summer or even Costco Pharmacy prescriptions.

I admittedly don't use Costco for groceries often (buying in bulk doesn't make a lot of sense for someone who lives alone), but I have used shop cards to help pay for Christmas presents and future Costco Travel trips. I've actually been looking into using my most recent Digital Costco Shop Card on a new pair of AirPods and a new TV mount for my living room.

Deals on non-points hotel stays and all-inclusive resorts

When I'm looking at booking a hotel stay at a brand like Hyatt or Marriott, I generally choose to book directly in order to earn elite night credits and points. However, when looking at properties not part of a major loyalty program, Costco Travel is often a go-to anytime I can find a deal.

Costco Travel has a nice deals section, and I usually look there first if I'm not sold on a specific destination for a getaway. While deals found on Costco generally have a narrow booking window, I've found that many offer a lot of flexibility for the actual trip dates.

A few examples of limited-time deals for January include Hotel Wailea from the example earlier in this guide, all-inclusive resorts in Mexico's Riviera Maya, and Disney and Universal theme park packages.

Simplifying group vacations

I'm often the travel planner in my friend group (which makes sense, considering what I do for a living), but not everyone is an avid points and miles user like myself. For group trips where we're splitting the cost of hotel rooms among multiple people, it often doesn't make sense to use points and miles to book.

Costco Travel vacation packages offer a way for all of us to save money, and it makes narrowing down potential destinations and hotels easier. Rather than everyone having to spend hours researching ideas and prices from across the internet — which might be my idea of a fun Wednesday night but isn't for some of my friends — I typically just send them to Costco Travel to see if any of the featured deals catch their eye.

Having reservation information for multiple aspects of a trip, such as a hotel and rental car package, makes sharing and saving the itineraries a breeze.

Bottom line

Whether or not you currently have a Costco membership, you shouldn't dismiss Costco Travel as just another online travel agency.

If you know where to look and are willing to price-check the deals you find, you can save a lot of money with Costco Travel deals. I've personally had a lot of success booking friends getaways to popular destinations like Mexico through Costco. Using the service has helped me save on other expenses with the Digital Costco Shop Card I've gotten with my bookings.

For me, the $60 annual membership fee to Costco has been more than worth it to utilize Costco Travel.

*Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through Dec. 31, 2024. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

Yosemite's High Sierra Camps set to reopen after 5-year closure

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, Calif. (KFSN) -- Are you looking for your next camping adventure?

After a five-year closure, Yosemite's popular High Sierra Camps will re-open this summer.

The area was last open to tourists in 2019.

Weather forced park rangers to shut down the five different camps then, and they remained closed in 2020 due to the pandemic.

The guided loop trips and seasonal camps include a canvas tent cabin and meals.

For more information and to make reservations, check out the Yosemite National Park website .

Yosemite National Park

Free entry to national parks Saturday for National Park Week

National Park, Forest, & Wildlife staff training in Oakhurst this week

Yosemite National Park partially reopens following winter storm

Yosemite National Park to fully close amid blizzard warning

93 arrested at USC following pro-Palestinian protest: police

Woman accused of deadly northwest Fresno shooting pleads not guilty

Gov. Newsom wants to let Arizona doctors provide abortions in CA

Man killed after crashing into semi-truck in Kings County, CHP says

1 found dead following house fire in Visalia, officials say

Fresno Grizzlies faced with discrimination lawsuit over Ladies Night

Selma Unified employee accused of sexual abuse pleads not guilty

The 110th annual Clovis Rodeo officially kicks off

Help Center
1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

Packages
Hotels
Cruises
Rental Cars

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

Adults-Only Resort

Dominican republic, punta cana, sanctuary cap cana package.

Unlimited Meals, Snacks and Spirits
Digital Costco Shop Card

SoCal in Style

Orange county, paséa hotel & spa package.

Four Nights for the Price of Three
Resort Credit

Luxury on The Strip

The cosmopolitan of las vegas package.

$75 Food and Beverage Credit
Invited Guest Check-In

Riverfront Escape

Hilton new orleans riverside package.

Waived Daily Resort Fee

Near Chelsea

Innside new york nomad package.

Complimentary Bicycle Rentals
Welcome Amenity

Sophistication Meets Relaxation

San antonio, la cantera resort & spa package.

Customize your experience with a Costco Travel vacation package.

With some of the world's most popular destinations available, a quality vacation is at your fingertips. Maximize your Costco membership and enjoy the value.

Browse by Vacation Destination

Popular Interests

All-inclusive resorts & cruises.

Meals, Beverages and More Included

North America Vacations

Stay Close to Home or Get Out and Explore

Romance & Honeymoon

Getaways for Two

Condo Resorts

Spacious Accommodations

Adult Escapes

Adult-Only Getaways

Family-Friendly Fun

Vacations for All Ages

The Costco Traveler Blog

Exciting theme park experiences in 2024, culinary & culture deep dives in fiji, dominican republic on a budget: 5 things to do for free, explore more travel, there's still time to book summer travel.

Mexico, Europe, the Caribbean and More

Included Extras or Digital Costco Shop Card

Hidden Gems

Discover What Lies Beyond the Ordinary

Off-the-Beaten Path Vacation Packages and Cruises

Save on Rental Cars

Exclusive Costco Member Pricing

No Cancellation Fees

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Help Centre
1-855-863-0357

Start Searching

Packages
All-Inclusive
Cruises
Rental Cars
Hotels

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Vacation Packages
Hotel + Flight
Hotel + Flight + Car
Hotel + Car
Hotel Only

Alaska Cruise Tours:

Save on Your Next Hotel Stay

Hotels for Any Occasion
Upfront Costco Pricing that Includes Taxes
Search Quality Brands Worldwide
Executive Members Earn a 2% Reward

Looking for a place to stay? Costco Travel has you covered!

With upfront pricing that includes taxes, we have the brands you trust at the Costco value you expect.

Featured Canada Hotels

Calgary: fairmont palliser, edmonton: fairmont hotel macdonald, winnipeg: fairmont winnipeg, featured u.s. hotels, washington d.c.: fairmont washington d.c., featured cities, calgary, alberta, edmonton, alberta, ottawa, ontario, winnipeg, manitoba, national parks, yosemite national park area, zion national park area, indiana dunes national park area, joshua tree national park area, hotel brands, fairmont hotels and resorts, hyatt hotels and resorts, swissôtel hotels and resorts, hotel deals for any occasion:.

Family visits
Weekend getaways
Youth sports and more

Hotel Frequently Asked Questions

Executive Members

Maximize Your Rewards with Both Cards

Click here for details.

Explore More Travel

Rental cars.

Compare Up to Four Brands

Shop all Coupons and Discounts

No Cancellation Fees

There's Still Time To Book Summer Travel

Included Extra or Digital Costco Shop Card

Choose from Popular Destinations

Limited-Time Deals

Book Before They're Gone

These Deals Won't Last!

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry

Yosemite National Park

A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:

April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19).
July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.
August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14).

Driving through the park will also require a reservation if entering between 5 am and 4 pm. If you are planning to visit after peak hours, please do not arrive before 4 pm; vehicles blocking roads will be cited.

Notifications and Alerts

Yosemite National Park requires reservations to enter the park on some days in 2024.  Reservations will be available beginning at 8 am Pacific Time on January 5th, 2024.

Reservation period: A vehicle reservation will be required for entry during the following days in 2024:

April 13 – June 30: Weekends only, including holidays.

July 1 – August 16: Daily

August 17 – October 27: Weekend only, including Monday holidays.

For detailed information please visit www.nps.gov/yose

If you are experiencing an error when entering an international phone number while creating your account Create the account using the number 919 999-9999, and after the account is created, go to your profile and update the number to the correct international number. If you continue to experience issues, please let us know at [email protected]. Thank you

Need to Know

Visitors are allowed up to 2 private vehicle or 2 motorcycle reservations per account every three days. Reservations are valid for three consecutive days. You are not required to obtain a reservation every day you visit. Reservation holder must be in the vehicle or on the motorcycle at the time of entry and prepared to show photo ID.

Please have a printed or digital copy of your reservation available to be scanned at the park entrance station upon arrival.

An entrance fee is required to enter the park. Pass holders must provide their Interagency Annual or Lifetime pass for validation or will be required to pay the entrance fee. Be prepared to show photo ID.

Recreation.gov does not accept payment from foreign bank accounts or travelers’ checks.

Day users should leave food in their car with doors closed and food out of sight when hiking or away from vehicle. Not in pickup bed or strapped to outside of vehicle.

Garbage receptacles are located in every parking lot in Yosemite Valley.

For additional park information or current road conditions, call (209) 372-0200 or visit www.nps.gov/yose

Booking Windows

Primary Booking Window:

Horsetail Falls Ticketed Entry reservations will release on December 1st beginning at 8am PST (11am EST).
The initial primary release will open all dates for all February 2024 arrival dates.
Peak Hour Plus Reservations for April through October 2024 will release January 5th beginning at 8am PST (11am EST)
The initial primary release will open all April-October 2024 dates for peak hour reservations

Secondary Booking Window:

On a rolling basis additional Horsetail Falls Ticketed Entry reservations will be made available two days in advance at 8am PST (11am EST).
Horsetail Falls Ticketed Entry example:
February 8th at 8am PST, tickets for February 10th will be released
February 15th at 8am PST, tickets for February 17th will be released
Beginning April 6th each day an additional Peak Hour Plus reservations will be made available seven days in advance at 8am PST (11am EST).
Peak Hour Plus 2024 example:
April 6th at 8am PST, tickets for April 13th will be released
June 24th at 8am PST, tickets for July 1st will be released

Changes and Cancellations

If you need to modify your reservation to another day you must complete the modification at least 24 hours prior to the reservation date.
The $2 reservation fee is non-refundable under all circumstances. Please cancel your reservation if you do not plan on using it.

Contact Information

Mailing address.

9003 Village Dr P.O. BOX 577 Yosemite National Park CA 95389

Phone Number

209-372-0200

Available Tickets

Peak Hour Plus Reservations- Full Day
Peak Hour Plus Reservations -Half Day

Photo Gallery

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. We provide tools and tips to discover new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, and reservations. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Recreation.gov!

Get to Know Us

Rules & Reservation Policies
Accessibility
Media Center

Plan with Us

Find Trip Inspiration
Build a Trip
Enter a Lottery
Checkout our Mobile App
Get Involved
Use Our Data
Add Your Facility

Let Us Help You

Help Center
Submit Feedback
Responsible Disclosure

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.

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.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

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.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

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.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

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.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

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.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

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.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

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.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

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.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

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.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

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.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

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!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

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…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview
Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

IMAGES

Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park

COMMENTS

Yosemite National Park
Costco Travel offers hotel options in areas near Yosemite National Park. Maximize Your Rewards Executive Member Benefit Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases. Receive an extra 3% cash back reward on Costco Travel purchases when you use your Costco Anywhere Visa® Card By Citi ...
Discover National Parks
Discover National Parks. Create Your Next Adventure at a U.S. National Park. Click for National Parks. Enjoy the experience of the great outdoors at a U.S. National Park. Take advantage of Costco member savings when planning your next U.S. National Park vacation, whether you are looking for a hotel only or a package deal.
Yosemite National Park
Costco Travel offers hotel options in areas near Yosemite National Park. Maximize Your Rewards Executive Member Benefit Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases. Accommodation Areas Near Yosemite National Park: Mariposa, CA ...
Home
New to Costco Travel Beachfront, All-Inclusive Resort Family-Friendly, Digital Costco Shop Card Orlando, Florida. ... Yosemite National Park Area. Create Your Next Adventure Chicago, Illinois. Award-Winning Culinary Scene. Featured Cruises. Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao Cruise.
Hotels
Costco Travel has hotels with room-only discounts at top hotel brands, available to Costco members. Looking for your Digital Costco Shop Card? ... Yosemite National Park Area Indiana Dunes National Park Area Joshua Tree National Park Area. Hotel Brands Fairmont Hotels and Resorts Hyatt Hotels and Resorts ...
Home
Costco Travel offers everyday savings on top-quality, brand-name vacations, hotels, cruises, rental cars, exclusively for Costco members.
Yosemite National Park
The Grand Valley Since 1864. Yosemite Lodging Experience. An icon of America's majestic natural beauty, California's Yosemite National Park welcomes millions of visitors each year—drawn to its dramatic waterfalls, giant sequoias, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring cliffs, like Half Dome and El Capitan. Whether you're looking for the ...
Here's How to Travel to Yosemite National Park by Bus and Train
April 20, 2024. After stopping in Mariposa for breakfast, writer Carmen Kohlruss gets checked back onto a YARTS public transit bus before traveling into Yosemite National Park via the Highway 140 route. Photos by Craig Kohlruss. Yosemite National Park's most famous sights—and the majority of its millions of annual visitors—congregate in a ...
North America Vacations
$100 Food and Beverage Credit Opened December 2023 New to Costco Travel. Las Vegas: Bellagio Las Vegas Package. Costco Member Savings World-Class Restaurants Iconic Fountain Performances. New York City: INNSIDE New York NoMad Package ... Yosemite National Park Area. Build Your Own Package Myrtle Beach, South Carolina South Lake Tahoe ...
Lodging Specials & Packages
Winter Travel Conditions. Badger Pass Ski Area. Backcountry Ski Tours. Cross-Country Skiing. Cross-Country Ski Trip to Glacier Point. Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding. Season Passes & Discounts. Ski School & Lessons. Snow Tubing. Snowshoeing. ... Yosemite National Park Yosemite, CA 95389.
Yosemite Lodging Experience
Glacier Point Ski Hut. The rustic lodge attracts cross-country skiers, serving up hearty meals and offering comfortable bunk accommodations—a wonderful reward after the 10.5-mile ski trip. Learn More. Lodging at Yosemite National Park, CA offers guests a wide variety of accommodation options.
The Perfect Yosemite Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 days
Distance : 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip to Columbia Rock or 7.2 miles round trip (11.6km) to the top of Yosemite Falls. Elevation Gain: 1000 ft (328 m) to Columbia Rock or 2700 ft (823m) to the top of Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Nature Tour
8 Days / Jul-Sep. 14. $7495. Carbon Data. Yosemite's granite cathedrals, roaring waterfalls and ancient sequoia groves inspired early conservationists to protect its wonders for all time. In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Land Grant, the first national act to conserve an American landscape for public enjoyment.
Everything you need to know about Costco Travel
There are two personal membership levels: Gold Star and Executive. Gold Star costs $60 per year, while an Executive membership costs $120. The basic membership will give you access to all of Costco's services, including Costco Travel, while the Executive membership also comes with a 2% reward on all Costco (and Costco Travel) purchases.
Napa Valley and Sonoma Vacation Packages
Adventure out of the city and explore Napa Valley and Sonoma. More than just two wine regions, the valleys of Napa and Sonoma boast over 30 diverse growing regions, yielding some of the country's - and the world's - most celebrated wines. In the Napa Valley, wind your way up the Silverado Trail for wine tasting, treat yourself to a boutique ...
Home
TICO licensee #50021135. 415 West Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, Ontario K2E 1C5
Yosemite's High Sierra Camps set to reopen after 5-year closure
After a five-year closure, Yosemite's popular High Sierra Camps will re-open this summer. The area was last open to tourists in 2019. Weather forced park rangers to shut down the five different ...
Vacation Packages
Costco Travel Vacations, Travel, All-Inclusive Vacations, All Inclusive Resorts and Vacation Packages. Looking for your Digital Costco Shop Card? Please visit this link for more information. X. Skip to main content. Login Costco.com Membership Help Center 1-866-921-7925. United States ...
Book your hotel with Costco Travel
Costco Travel has you covered! With upfront pricing that includes taxes, we have the brands you trust at the Costco value you expect. Featured Canada Hotels Calgary: Fairmont Palliser ... Yosemite National Park Area Zion National Park Area Indiana Dunes National Park Area Joshua Tree National Park Area. Hotel Brands ...
Yosemite National Park Vacation Ideas
2.20.2. Plan your Yosemite National Park vacation, cruise or road trip. Trip Canvas gives you access to discounts, travel agency services and expertise from AAA Travel.
Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry
Yosemite National Park requires reservations to enter the park on some days in 2024. Reservations will be available beginning at 8 am Pacific Time on January 5th, 2024. Reservation period: A vehicle reservation will be required for entry during the following days in 2024: April 13 - June 30: Weekends only, including holidays.
MOSCOW CITY CENTRE TOUR. PART 1 /// RUSSIA TRAVEL VIDEO ...
There are lots to see in the city centre of Moscow, so we decided to start our series of Russia travel videos by showing you around the most historical part ...
Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow
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.
Walking Tour: Central Moscow from the Arbat to the Kremlin
This tour of Moscow's center takes you from one of Moscow's oldest streets to its newest park through both real and fictional history, hitting the Kremlin, some illustrious shopping centers, architectural curiosities, and some of the city's finest snacks. Start on the Arbat, Moscow's mile-long pedestrianized shopping and eating artery ...
Moscow City Guide, Travel Guide
Check out Moscow if you haven't. Huge buildings, huge spaces, best looking girls and a lot of stuff to see, places to go.