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Best places to travel in 2023: National Geographic unveils list of top 25 destinations for next year

From craft breweries in South Korea to turtle nesting grounds in Trinidad and Tobago, the list highlights adventures near and far.

Need inspiration for your next travel destination? National Geographic has you covered.

Its "Best of the World 2023" list, unveiled Wednesday, highlights 25 must-see destinations near and far, from craft breweries in Busan, South Korea, to the world's densest leatherback turtle nesting ground in Trinidad and Tobago.

Created in close collaboration with NatGeo's team of travel experts and international editors, "Best of the World" takes a "deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers," Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel.

"We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru)," Alipio said in a statement.

National Geographic groups the list into five categories: Family , educational journeys for all generations; Adventure , exciting activities in breathtaking places; Culture , explorations of history and heritage; Nature , escapes to wild, beautiful places; and the newly-added Community , healing journeys, community conservation, giving back, sustainable places and more.

Among domestic destinations, Utah is highlighted for its rugged landscape and Milwaukee is featured for its revitalized warehouse district, the Historic Third Ward.

Those jonesing for international adventure should consider The Greek island of Karpathos, a growing center of ecotourism, or Egypt, with its well preserved 4,300-year-old tomb of Khuwy.

National Geographic's "Best of the World 2023" list

• Appian Way, Italy
• Busan, South Korea
• Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China
• Charleston, South Carolina

• Scottish Highlands
• Big Bend National Park, Texas

• New Zealand
• Choquequirao, Peru
• Austrian Alps
• Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico

• Dodecanese Islands, Greece
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Alberta, Canada

• Trinidad and Tobago
• San Francisco, California
• Manchester, UK
• Switzerland

Find out more about the "Best of the World 2023" list online at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of National Geographic Partners and this ABC station.

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Uncover the world with National Geographic Family Journeys

Round up the family, grab your passports, and embark on an unforgettable adventure with National Geographic Family Journeys! Four new adventures have been added to this collection — and they’re calling your name.

WHAT MAKES FAMILY JOURNEYS UNIQUE?

Thoughtfully crafted itineraries that combine engaging experiences and leisure time designed specifically for families with children ages seven and up

Interactive activities inspired by National Geographic's expertise in photography and storytelling, wildlife, culture, history, and geography

Pre-departure resources and materials from National Geographic to inform and excite every member of the family about their upcoming adventure

Comfortable and convenient accommodations

Two dynamic CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) who are specially trained to engage with young travellers

Kid-friendly meal options throughout the trip

Dedicated customer service consultants, known as Family Trip Specialists, to help families with travel preparation and planning from the moment they book

A group of usually 20 or fewer like-minded family travellers

How will your family see the world?

Every trip features interactive activities inspired by National Geographic's unique legacy and expertise in photography and storytelling, wildlife and conservation, history and culture, and exploration.

1 Photography & Storytelling

Family Journeys illuminate the art of photography and storytelling in the great tradition of National Geographic. Customized National Geographic resources for kids and adults provide inspiration to see the world with new eyes, make real-world connections, and craft compelling travel tales during the trip.

On-Trip Experience:

• Kids and parents alike can enjoy custom resources from National Geographic built around photography and storytelling that will inspire them to chronicle their on-trip adventures and discoveries in new ways.

2 Wildlife & Conservation

National Geographic is committed to conservation and strives toward a planet in balance. On many Family Journeys, on-trip wildlife and conservation experiences will provide information and inspiration for travelers to remain engaged in wildlife conservation efforts long after returning home.

On-Trip Experience Examples:

• A thrilling safari ride in Kruger National Park on Southern Africa Family Journey
• Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, which collaborates with National Geographic for wildlife initiatives on Alaska Family Journey

3 History & Culture

National Geographic celebrates the history and diversity of human life on Earth. Family Journeys reveal the richness of local cultures in its many forms, whether through language and music, art and architecture, cuisine, clothing, and more.

• Young travellers can try their hand at inventing a machine using tips from Leonardo da Vinci on France Family Journey
• Discover Roman gladiatorial history and authentic artifacts including shields, swords, and armor on Italy Family Journey

4 Exploration

National Geographic has a legendary legacy of exploration. Family Journeys seek to cultivate tomorrow’s explorers—people who are infinitely curious about our planet, committed to understanding it, and passionate about helping make it better

• Each Family Journeys itinerary features activities and experiences that inspire hands-on discovery, and a fun and interactive exploration-themed challenge for the whole family!

Frequently Asked Questions

National Geographic Family Journeys welcomes families travelling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your family must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

All Family Journeys groups must include at least one traveller under the age of 18. If your children are 18 or older, we invite you to explore our extensive collection of National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures trips for adults.

Child rates apply to guests between the ages of 7 and 12. These rates can be found on our website in the Price Options section of the trip overview page. The discount is applied at the time of online booking or on the phone with a Family Trip Specialist.

While the minimum age on all Family Journeys is 7 years old, these trips have been designed to appeal to families of all ages (over 7). Please contact a Family Trip Specialist if you have questions about age recommendations for specific trips.

Please refer to each itinerary page for the inclusions for that particular trip. Included in your Family Journey are accommodations, arrival transfer, transportation for scheduled activities, breakfast daily, some lunches and dinners, snacks, water, and scheduled activities, as well as the services of two CEOs (Chief Experience Officers). Airfare to and from destination, travel insurance, gratuities, and any optional excursions or meals not listed on the itinerary are not included.

Yes, all National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures departures are guaranteed to run—even with just 2 travellers! Once you book, you’re going.

No, once you have put down your Lifetime Deposit™ per person, your price is guaranteed.

We believe that smaller groups allow for more spontaneity and bonding. That’s why Family Journeys have no more than 20 guests on each departure. You’ll get to know families from all over the world, connect, and have fun while enjoying the benefits of small group travel.

We welcome parents and kids, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, grandparents and grandkids, and everyone in between. As long as your group includes a traveller between the ages of 7 and 17, you can book a Family Journey.

Each group is led by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who are specially trained to engage with young travelers.

Safe drinking water will be provided on each trip. In certain destinations where is advised to not use tap water for teeth-brushing, your CEOs will be sure to let you know.

Every Family Journeys CEO is trained in First Aid and CPR. We also have on-the-ground teams in each destination who can assist with any issues that may arise while you and your family are traveling.

In addition to the extensive training all our CEOs receive, Family Journeys CEOs have additional children-specific training and support from National Geographic. These dynamic individuals have been selected for their enthusiasm, passion, and desire to show families the world.

Each hotel has been selected to reflect the character of the destination and to be suitable for families. You can expect at least two beds in each room, with options for triple and quad rooms based on availability. We’ve selected hotels with family-friendly amenities like swimming pools wherever possible. Ask your Family Travel Specialist for more details.

All rooms are based on double occupancy. However, we know families come in all shapes and sizes, so other rooming configurations may be available upon request.

We’ve taken great care to ensure that there are meal options for everyone, including opportunities to try the local cuisine as well as familiar favorites for kids.

Yes. Some countries offer more variety than others, but there are options everywhere. It’s best to let your Family Trip Specialist know in advance so they can let your Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) know.

Each itinerary includes suggested amounts to budget for independent meals. On the full trip details page you can see pricing for optional activities, or you can check with your Family Trip Specialist directly.

Please inform your Family Trip Specialist as soon as possible of any allergies any member of your family has. They will let our CEOs on the ground know, and the CEOs will assist your family member in destination.

If you are travelling internationally, a passport is required for each person travelling. Visas are required for certain destinations. Check out the itinerary page or ask your Family Travel Specialist for more details. Please note: there are certain destinations that require notarized documents for children travelling with/without parents internationally.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for every traveller.

Vaccination requirements depends on the destination you’re travelling to. Please consult with your family physician or ask your Family Trip Specialist or Travel Agent for more information.

You can find the packing list within the full tour details, on the third tab of the itinerary page.

Although some scheduled free time is included on all Family Journeys, most days are planned with activities for everyone in the family. Please refer to the individual trip itinerary page for more details.

While our CEOs love interacting with kids, they are not responsible for childcare during the trip.

While we encourage everyone to take part in the included activities, we recognize that sometimes you—or your kids—need a break! Your CEOs can provide alternatives and help you meet back up with the group later.

Drive times for each day are listed in the full itinerary. We have designed these trips to incorporate shorter drive times wherever possible with frequent stops.

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G Adventures New National Geographic Family Journeys

July 21, 2023

G Adventures is launching two new National Geographic Family Journeys trips in Italy and Tanzania, both of which are now available for booking. The introduction of the trips comes as demand for family travel exceeds 2022, making the style of travel even more popular to book than it was pre-pandemic.

In Tanzania, along with enjoying a safari, families will visit the village of Mto wa Mbu, where they’ll visit a community tourism project and be shown the techniques used to create art from banana leaves, and be able create some banana art of their own.

In Italy, they will learn how to make their own Venetian masks, cook pasta in Florence and attend a gladiator ‘training’ session in Rome.

The new trips launch as the small group operator and community tourism pioneer reveals that bookings for the National Geographic Family Journeys travel style have more than doubled in 2023 when compared to the same booking window in 2022 (Jan.1 to June 30).

David Green, managing director for Canada, says the 106% increase in bookings year-on-year is solid evidence family travel is back, and people are looking to explore the world with their loved ones again.

Said Green: “We’re seeing strong interest in Asia and Central America in particular, so families are looking to head further afield and check off some of those long-awaited bucket list trips. We’re also witnessing a large number of multi-generational bookings – grandparents travelling together with parents and children – so people are really wanting to share experiences as families.”

The two new National Geographic Family Journeys trips in Italy and Tanzania join the current collection of 10 trips, bringing the total to 12. Other destinations include France, Iceland, Morocco, Japan and Peru.

Go to www.gadventures.com for more.

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National Geographic Reveals 25 Amazing Places To Travel

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National Geographic has unveiled its annual list of the 25 inspiring destinations for 2023. Nat Geo’s “Best of the World,” is themed around five categories: Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature, and new this year, Community.

“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. 

“With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support — not damage — the destination’s environment and community. We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

Here is National Geographic’s “ Best of the World ” list for 2023.

These five destinations were chosen because Nat Geo says they allow you to immerse yourself in history and heritage.

• Appian Way, Italy: Rome’s “Gateway to the East” is known as Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” It was selected for its ability to take you on a trip through history. 
• Busan, South Korea: As the nation’s second largest city, it’s known for its beaches, mountains, and temples.
• Charleston, South Carolina : With its cobblestone streets and Low Country Cuisine, this city allows you to explore culture and history.
• Egypt: Home to King Tut’s new home at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes, this country that links northeast Africa to the Middle East dates back to the time of the pharaohs.
• Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China: This is one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art of the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, made up of 2,300 caves, almost 110,000 Buddhist stone statues, and more.

Described by Nat Geo as “wildly underrated,” these five destinations will spark a new appreciation for our planet.

• Scottish Highlands : This mountain region in northwest Scotland has incredible scenery and is praised for its movement to restore the original landscape.
• Botswana : Located in Southern Africa, this landlocked country is home to several notable animal species like giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas and is selected for its programs to rehabilitate the species that are endangered.
• Slovenia : This central European country is known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes and was selected for this category for being a longtime leader in sustainable tourism.
• Big Bend National Park : This park located in southern Texas was chosen because of its surprising landscape.
• Azores : This is an island region in Portugal known for nature and sustainability, which is why it was selected.

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These five destinations are chosen by Nat Geo because they’re for those looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure.

• New Zealand : If you’re looking for a post-pandemic adrenaline rush, you’ll be interested in this country known for adventure; after all, it did invent bungee jumping.
• Choquequirao, Peru : This Incan site in southern Peru may not be well-known, but it will remind you of the architecture of Machu Picchu.
• Utah : This landlocked state out west may be known for skiing, but was chosen for this category for the adrenaline rush you can get from the less visited parts.
• Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico : Known as the “Galápagos of Mexico,” was selected because it holds one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world and is an iconic dive destination.
• Austria : Located in the southern part of Central Europe, it’s known for castles and palaces, but is becoming more popular for cross-country hikes to sample local culture.

Chosen for being forward-thinking, these five destinations were selected by Nat Geo because they offer opportunities for meaningful travel.

• Dodecanese Islands, Greece: This is a group of 15 large and 150 small Greek Islands, chosen for this category because there are women-led ventures and sustainable tourism.
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin : This Great Lakes city is known for its celebration of breweries but was selected because it is becoming known for how it celebrates its culture.
• Alberta, Canada : This is home to Banff National Park and iconic Lake Louise. The traditional countryside and contemporary perspectives come together here.
• Laos : Located in southeast Asia, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries come together here. Chosen for this category because of a new high-speed train that makes lesser-known regions more accessible to tourists and locals.
• Ghana: This country in West Africa is becoming known for its fashion-forward capital, Accra.

Chosen to “inspire the whole family in 2023,” these five destinations are family trips that Nat Geo says will help educate and illuminate.

• Trinidad and Tobago: As the southernmost island country in the Caribbean, it’s known for beaches and nature. Because of that, it was chosen for its work saving turtles at one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world.
• San Francisco, California : You’re probably thinking of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and steep streets, but it was chosen for other activities like Presidio Tunnel campfires and hiking the Crosstown Trail.
• Colombia : Disney’s Encanto brought this country to a whole new audience. Enjoy the story while also birdwatching in this “avian paradise” of South America.
• Manchester, England: With a rich industrial heritage, this city mixes history with sports as it’s home to Manchester United.
• Switzerland : Take a train ride through this country famous for the Alps and chocolate. Take in hiking and skiing as you visit its quaint towns.

To read other articles about where to travel, check out: 

• 12 Under-The-Radar Tour Destinations For 2023, According To Experts
• 17 Most Popular Tour Destinations To Visit In 2023, According To Experts
• 4 Places You Should Travel As Soon As You Retire

Allison spent almost 20 years of her career as a TV news anchor. She’s covered everything from political conventions to Super Bowl LV to hurricanes and, most recently, the pandemic. She is a two-time Emmy award-winning journalist. She's been recognized for her work nationally and regionally by organizations including the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.

Nat Geo Expeditions

National Geographic Expeditions Announces New 2023 Departure Dates to Breathtaking Destinations

by Krissy Nocerino , Public Relations Manager, Disney Cruise Line

Start your planning now! National Geographic Expeditions just announced new 2023 departure dates for their Signature Land, Private Expedition and River Cruise itineraries, including a reimagined trip to Costa Rica. These incredible offerings will take travelers to stunning locales around the world along with knowledgeable National Geographic Experts or guides who will share their experiences.

Here’s a look at the breathtaking destinations you can discover with National Geographic Expeditions in 2023.

Costa Rica: Wildlife and Conservation

National Geographic Expeditions’ enhanced eight-night, nine-day expedition to Costa Rica includes seven departure dates through May. Costa Rica: Wildlife and Conservation leads travelers through the country’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. During this trip, explorers will visit wetlands and tropical rainforests where they may see sloths, monkeys, birds, frogs and more in their natural habitat; visit a family-run coffee, cacao and sugarcane plantation; join researchers at the Monteverde Institute to participate in cloud forest conservation projects; and journey to the Leatherback Turtle Trust to learn about monitoring turtles. Travelers will also stay in four different accommodations, each of which are chosen for their exceptional quality, location and character. National Geographic Expert, Vanessa Bezy, a National Geographic Society grantee, marine biologist and wildlife conservationist, will also join select departures to share her passion for conservation.

European River Cruises

National Geographic River Cruises take travelers to grand cities, forgotten villages and the endless countryside all while exploring some of Europe’s most historic waterways aboard world-class ships with AmaWaterways, a premier luxury river cruise line. Plus, each departure is accompanied by a National Geographic Expert—such as a historian, author or archaeologist—who gives presentations on board the ship and accompanies travelers on daily included excursions, and a National Geographic Photographer who offers professional tips on technique and artistry to help voyagers capture incredible moments.

Signature Land Trips and Private Expeditions

Offering premium, fully planned itineraries, National Geographic Expeditions’ curated Signature Land trips boast a small group of 16-25 travelers and combine the best of exploration with an in-depth review of the history, culture, heritage and natural wildlife of a destination. National Geographic Expeditions’ 2023 Signature Land dates feature top itineraries including Patagonia, Egypt, India and Borneo.

Additionally, National Geographic Private Expeditions feature unique itineraries designed to bring you and the traveling companions you choose to extraordinary places all over the world. Simply select an itinerary curated by National Geographic that captures your imagination and pick your travel dates—our team at National Geographic Expeditions will take care of the rest!

Bookings for 2023 Signature Land, Private Expedition and River Cruise itineraries open to the public on Jan. 13, 2022.

For a limited time, save $750 on all 2023 river cruise itineraries when you book your space early. Simply use code EBDRC23 when you make your reservation. Additional details can be found here .

Want to learn more about itineraries, online reservations and early booking criteria? Visit www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/ . Those who are eligible for early booking can also call 888-966-8687 directly to book an expedition.

Photos are courtesy of ©Getty and ©Shutterstock.

Topics: Nat Geo Expeditions

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The best travel destinations around the world for 2023, according to National Geographic

Got the travel itch? National Geographic has suggested 25 top destinations throughout the world for those looking to explore in 2023.

The recommendations, released Oct. 26, range from traditional U.S. destinations such as San Francisco and global travel hot spots including Egypt to ecotourism locations and lesser-known sites such as Choquequirao, Peru, the sister city to historic Machu Picchu.

“With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support – not damage – the destination’s environment and community," said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel, in a statement announcing the destinations .

"We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded," she said.

What US sites made National Geographic's Best of the World 2023 list?

San Francisco made the list as a top family destination. (National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler's editorial teams broke down their recommendations into five categories – family, adventure, culture, nature, and community – with five destinations in each category.)

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Utah was listed as a site notable for adventure; Charleston, South Carolina, was chosen for its cultural efforts. Big Bend National Park in Texas earned its spot for natural scenery; and Milwaukee was included as one of five places with extraordinary conservation, sustainability and ecotourism initiatives.

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Switzerland, Colombia among recommended family trips

Switzerland, with a public transport network that includes a cookie train and a chocolate train, is among National Geographic's five best destinations to "educate and illuminate" travelers .

Colombia was chosen for its rich biodiversity, which lends itself to birdwatching and wildlife watching. The Manchester Museum helped the English city, home of the Manchester United Football Club, make the list. Turtles abound in Trinidad and Tobago – making the Caribbean nation a mecca for turtle tourism.

Among the highlights that landed  San Francisco  a spot: a new Crosstown Trail, created by volunteers, covering 17 miles of the city. 

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For adventure, Austria, New Zealand and Peru are places to go

For those seeking "adrenaline-soaked adventures in 2023 and beyond," the magazine suggested the remote Inca ruins of Choquequirao in southern Peru.

Peruvian officials are spending $260 million to build a cable car making it easier to access the ruins. But tourists who want to see them now can make the journey over 18 miles of walking paths.

Other sites for "your next big adventure" on the list included the western states of Austria, which have created the Bergsteigerdörfer, a network of mountaineering villages where travelers get a more authentic Alpine experience.

Closer to home, Utah has five national parks and eight national monuments making it "an adventurer's dream destination," National Geographic said.  

Mexico's Revillagigedo National Park – nicknamed "the Galapagos of Mexico," National Geographic says – is a haven for divers. 

Skiing, hiking and bicycling make New Zealand's South Island a year-round adventure destination. 

For culture, look to Egypt, Italy, and South Carolina

Italy is always a desired destination for tourists seeking to christen themselves in culture – some go for the food alone. One of the recent developments cited by National Geographic to make it a 2023 travel consideration: Italian officials are restoring the Appian Way, which runs 360 miles from Rome to southern Italy. 

Egypt, too, remains an exotic place to travel; a timely consideration: the upcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses King Tut's tomb.

"It's going to become a destination museum and will change the way people visit Egypt," said Fredrik Hiebert, the National Geographic Society's archaeologist-in-residence, in the article.

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Other cultural hotspots designated by National Geographic : South Korea's second-largest city, Busan, which has an annual film festival and a burgeoning craft beer and artisan coffee scene; and the Henan Province of central China, where the Longmen Grottoes house scores of Buddhist sculptures – the largest is more than 56 feet high – dating back to the 5th century. 

A cultural highlight helping earn Charleston, South Carolina  a spot on the list: the International African American Museum , opening in January. The museum is located near the city's harbor, which served as a slave trading port.

Connect with nature in Big Bend, Botswana and Scotland

Big Bend National Park in west Texas provides visitors with epic vistas, plus "more cactus species than any other national park," as well as birds and other wildlife, said the magazine in including the park among its "under-the-radar treasures."

"Big Bend National Park brings to life the frontier legend of Texas – but the landscape will also surprise you," the magazine said. 

"We Texans knew it, but it seems the rest of the world is tuning in," noted the Austin American-Statesman on the park's designation.

There's also various cultures found in the 118-mile park, which sits just north of the Texas-Mexico border and south of towns such as Marfa and Alpine.

Other "wild escapes for nature lovers" National Geographic recommended included Botswana, where overtourism is being replaced with voluntourism. The southern African country is home to many game reserves and national parks. Slovenia, known for its eco-friendly tours, has a new Green Gourmet Route, an 11-day bicycling trail for foodies, the magazine said.

In the Scottish highlands, travelers can see how the country's northwest region is "rewilding" its landscapes with more trees and reintroduced wildlife. And the Azores – nine islands off the coast of Portugal – are "an oasis for 28 whale and dolphin species … (that) takes sustainable tourism seriously," Nat Geo said. 

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Milwaukee and Greece among smart tourist spots

Milwaukee was included in the list's community category , for less-visited destinations "that stand out for community-led conservation efforts; groundbreaking work in ecotourism, sustainability, and inclusive travel; and meaningful ways for travelers to give back."

The article calls Milwaukee "a Great Lakes city to watch," wrote the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel , noting that Nat Geo complimented how it "combines a blue-collar, back-thumping energy with a close-knit creative community."

Destinations highlighted include the Harley-Davidson Museum, the Riverwalk, the Deer District (and the 2021 World Champion Milwaukee Bucks), neighborhoods like Bronzeville and the Historic Third Ward, the Public Market, the Art Museum and, of course, breweries.

The magazine's other less-visited destinations included Greece's Dodecanese islands where locals aim to involve locals in traditional trades such as fishing and winemaking that also serve as sustainable tourist diversions.

A new travel highlight for Laos? A recently-launched bullet train that connects 260 miles of the Southeast Asian country for domestic and international tourists.

Tourists continue to heed the call of Ghanaian president Nana Akufo-Addo, who before the COVID-19 shutdown urged travelers to visit the West African country to connect with their African roots. And in Alberta, Canada, Indigenous tourism is a growing pursuit with parks such as Elk Island National Park offering guided hikes and Cree crafting workshops.

“From craft breweries and Asia’s top film festival in Busan, South Korea, to women-led Indigenous tourism in Alberta, Canada, and the densest leatherback turtle nesting ground in the world in Trinidad and Tobago, this year’s list reminds us that there is still so much out there to explore and experience.” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s editor-in-chief. 

Follow Mike Snider on Twitter:  @mikesnider .

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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