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

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

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

Key Things to Know

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

Statue of Liberty in front of the New York City skyline

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One day in New York itinerary

9/11 memorial (and museum).

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

Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan.

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

The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States. In fact, it’s one of the most moving and beautiful memorials that I have ever had the privilege of seeing. The 9/11 Memorial typically is open to the public all day every day.

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

9/11 Memorial pool in New York City showing names engraved in bronze with buildings and trees in the background.

Statue of Liberty

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

In my opinion, your New York City itinerary must include the Statue of Liberty, my absolute favorite place in the city.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lunch options: where to eat

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

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

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

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

Empire State Building

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

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

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

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

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

New York City skyline with the Empire State Building.

Times Square

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

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

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

tall building in New York City with a sculpture in front

Rockefeller Center

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

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

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

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

Grab your Top of the Rock ticket here.

Central Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interactive map

Click on the yellow pins on the map below to see more information about each stop on your itinerary. To see this map in your Google account just tap on the little star next to the map name.

Ways to modify this itinerary

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

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

View of Washington Square arch from below.

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

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

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

New York 1-day tours

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

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

Where to stay

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

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

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

How to get around

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

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

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

The bottom line

There are so many amazing things you could fill your day with in NYC that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best. From historical monuments to stunning views from the best observatories in the world, you almost can’t go wrong with how you spend your day here.

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One Day in Las Vegas Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Las Vegas, Nevada

Known for crazy partying, gambling, and endless nights out, the city of Las Vegas is one of America’s favorite destinations for bachelor parties, bridal showers and spur-of-the-moment weddings. Whether you are looking to mimic the guys from The Hangover or you just want to see what the fuss is all about, you can be sure you’ll say the famous sentence at least once: “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”! But a city like this can get a bit overwhelming if you don’t have your visit planned out, so to spend your one day in Las Vegas in the best possible way, you will need a good itinerary. And here it is! Read on, and as Elvis would say – Viva Las Vegas!

Plan your trip

1. WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAS VEGAS? 2. A FEW FACTS ABOUT LAS VEGAS 3. ONE DAY IN LAS VEGAS ITINERARY 3.1. Start Your Trip at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum 3.2. Follow It up by Visiting the Neon Museum 3.3. Explore Fremont Street 3.4. Visit the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum 3.5. Take in the Sights Along the Las Vegas Strip 3.6. Grab a Bite to Eat 3.7. Tour the City’s Theme Hotels on the Strip 3.8. Treat Yourself to a Gondola Ride 3.9. Climb the Stratosphere Tower 4. VEGAS FREE SHOW 4.1. Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory 4.2. Check out the Free Mermaid Show at the Silverton Hotel and Casino 5. ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS 5.1. For a Regular Night Out, Consider One of These Clubs 5.2. Consider these Las Vegas Adults Only Shows 6. WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS? 7. DAY TRIPS FROM LAS VEGAS 8. EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING LAS VEGAS

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAS VEGAS?

With its endless hotels, restaurants, and bars, the Entertainment Capital of the World welcomes visitors year-round. However, Las Vegas is located in the heart of Nevada’s Mojave Desert. The scorching heat during the summer months will make you wish for a nuclear winter. Instead, you will want to visit during the months that bring the most moderate weather.

If you have a choice, the best time to visit Las Vegas would be the period between March and May or September and November . That way, you will also get better deals and avoid the crowds associated with the rush around New Year’s Eve. If you don’t mind that, then the holidays are arguably the best time to visit Las Vegas, with Christmas trees on display inside every hotel property.

If you fancy yourself a clash with the best poker players in the world, book yourself a place in the World Series of Poker , a tournament that’s been going on since the 1970s and where anyone can participate. San Genarro Feast is definitely something to look out for in March, and Viva Las Vegas is a music festival that takes place one month later. These just some of the events you can visit because, hey – this is Vegas, and there’s something going on literally every day!

A FEW FACTS ABOUT LAS VEGAS

Administratively speaking, Las Vegas is the county seat of Clark County, and it’s also the most populous city in the state of Nevada.
The city’s nicknames include: Disneyland for Adults, City of Lights, The Lady, Sin City, etc. One thing is for sure, Las Vegas has no shortage of pseudonyms.
Although the city is primarily famous for its nightlife and gambling , many people visit Las Vegas for its shopping, fine dining, and entertainment .
Out of the twenty largest hotels in the United Sates, seventeen are located in Las Vegas.
Vegas is also one of the cities with the most weddings , with 315 couples tying the knot each day.
There are 15 thousand miles of neon tubing illuminating the streets of Las Vegas each night.
41 million visitors a year that spend at least one night in Vegas. Impressive, isn’t it?

ONE DAY IN LAS VEGAS ITINERARY

This is Vegas, baby, and there is plenty to see and enjoy! However, you might be surprised to know that there is more to this city than just casinos and games. There are a few very interesting spots to visit during your one day in Las Vegas, so check out these top sights and things to do on while you’re in town.

Start Your Trip at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum

While Las Vegas at night is what most people have in mind when it comes to visiting Vegas, there are several things that are worth seeing during the day, as well. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum , for example, is a modern museum that uses dioramas, classes, and interactive displays to bring history to life. A great place to start your day! With recreations and replicas authorized by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, the museum allows its visitors to explore a realistic entrance to the tomb of Tutankhamun and see how state of the art technology can be used to scan mummies and create medical imaging.

Among other artifacts, visitors can admire replicas of King Tut’s outer sarcophagus, the Golden Shrine, chariots, and the Golden Throne . In a city that is primarily focused on entertainment for adults, visiting this museum is certainly one of the best things to do in Vegas with kids.

Move on to the Neon Museum

Just five minutes down Las Vegas Boulevard is the rather unique Neon Museum . With exhibits that include vintage Vegas neon signs all the way back from the 1930s , you can roam the sprawling outdoor exhibition and event area and experience this unique piece of Las Vegas frozen in time. Although the museum is more impressive during the nighttime, it is less crowded during the day. And you will probably want to spend your one night in Vegas partying and having the time of your life anyway.

Explore Fremont Street

Continuing down the Boulevard, you can go for a 15-minute walk until you reach Fremont Street , or you can take the bus 113 from Cashman to Carson (every 15 minutes). Attractions include the Downtown Container Park , an unusual shopping center made from actual shipping containers – with a large courtyard, a children’s playground, and numerous galleries.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you can visit the nearby SlotZilla Zip Line , a popular thrill attraction with two levels that is definitely worth a try. Later, explore the rest of Fremont street – a pedestrian-only area filled with street performers, music and video shows.

Visit the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum

In case you are spending your one day in Las Vegas with children, after Fremont Street, you can hop aboard the SDX (Strip and Downtown Express) northbound at Casino Center @ Carson and get off at Symphony Park. The DISCOVERY Children’s Museum , just across the park, is filled with interactive displays to stimulate learning about science, art, food, music, and so much more.

Highlights include a model helicopter with a flight simulator, as well as small stores, banks, and hospitals where children can play and learn about a number of exciting professions. Needless to say, spending a couple of hours at the museum is among the best things to do in Vegas with kids, so make sure to take advantage of its valuable learning resources .

Take in the Sights Along the Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip, known simply as The Strip , is the central section of Las Vegas Boulevard and a must during your one day in the city. Lined with performance venues, luxury hotels, entertainment hubs, and fine dining haunts, the Strip is best experienced on foot, with most visitors choosing to actually stay on the Strip and go for long walks to get a feel for the true spirit of Las Vegas.

Among the wide variety of attractions, don’t miss the High Roller observation wheel and the beautiful towering Fountains of Bellagio . At the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, check out the iconic neon sign from the 1950s, “ Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada ”. You may also want to visit Madame Tussauds Las Vegas with its selection of life-size wax figures of famous icons, or make the time to see the extensive collection of more than 250 artifacts recovered from the Titanic at the Luxor Hotel and Casino. It also has a large section of the ship’s original hull in addition to meticulous replicas its Grand Staircase and several cabins!

Grab a Bite to Eat

For lunch, you should try some of Las Vegas’ high-end burgers, a mixture of high-end luxury and simple thrills that is so typically Vegas. Try Hard Rock Café near MGM Grand or Gordon Ramsay Burger , across the street from The Chelsea.

A must-visit for fans of the famous chef, the Gordon Ramsay Burger is stylish and colorful, yet less snobbish and exclusive than you might expect. No reservations are needed, and you can ask for a table and go for a walk while you wait. The staff will text you as soon as your table is ready. The burgers are delicious, and you can even order a fully personalized burger.

Tour the City’s Theme Hotels on the Strip

After lunch, you can continue your one day in Las Vegas by taking the bus up or down the boulevard and checking out all of the major hotels along the Strip. The properties and attractions listed here are merely a suggestion, so feel free to stop and admire any of the other sights and places you may come across.

Among Vegas’ famous theme hotels , though, you will love the medieval-style Excalibur Hotel and Casino with actual turrets, as well as the Luxor Hotel & Casino , shaped like a pyramid, with the sphynx in front of the hotel being one of the most recognizable landmarks in Las Vegas. New York-New York is also quite interesting, and Paris is another city-oriented hotel. In short, there is plenty to see.

Treat Yourself to a Gondola Ride

While sightseeing is perfectly fine, The Venetian , located on the Strip near Madame Tussauds, features a particularly impressive attraction that you do not want to miss. Apart from being one of the finest resorts in Las Vegas, The Venetian also has a themed shopping mall inside resembling the city of Venice, with replicas of its famous bridges (e.g. the Rialto Bridge) amid actual canals and gondoliers.

The outdoor gondola rides are a really exciting and fun way to experience the complex and the shopping arcade inside – a real extravagant treat with Italian music in the background to set the mood.

Climb the Stratosphere Tower

As you make your way around Las Vegas, you will undoubtedly notice The Stratosphere Tower rising over the city’s skyline. The Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower calls the structure “the tallest freestanding observation tower” in the country.

On the rooftop, 1,149 feet above the city , you can enjoy several heart-stopping thrill rides such as Insanity, Big Shot, SkyJump, and others. If that sound like too much for you, you can just go to one of the observation decks (outdoor or indoor) and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

If you time it right, you can get there at sunset and watch as the city lights slowly drown out the last remaining red-tinged rays of sunlight over Las Vegas at night.

The view from the top of the Stratosphere tower

VISIT THE BEST VEGAS FREE SHOWS

No matter the reason of your visit, one thing is for sure: you already know that Vegas is anything but cheap. The city that was designed to make visitors spend, spend and spend some more offers a lot in terms of entertainment, but the glamorous lights and spectacular shows are there to lure people in and always offer them more to see, try, taste, and experience. That said, here are several interesting (and free) Vegas daytime activities that you will absolutely love.

Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory

While technically in Henderson (18 minutes from the city center by car or 50 minutes with public transport), the Ethel M Chocolate Factory is one of the free Vegas attractions that is definitely worth a visit.

The factory, which produces gourmet premium chocolate and. is open to the public, with self-guided tours available for all visitors. There is also an outlet on site with different types of chocolate and a large four-acre botanical garden with hundreds upon hundreds of species of cacti.

If you are a chocolate enthusiast, watching the delicious sweets being made is one Vegas free show you don’t want to miss. While there are free samples as well, you will have to pay for the full gourmet tasting experience. And, naturally, you will be seriously tempted to buy tons of chocolate after the tour.

Check out the Free Mermaid Show at the Silverton Hotel and Casino

Seeing the Free Mermaid Show at the Silverton Hotel and Casino is definitely among the best things to do in Vegas with kids. Although not exactly on the Strip, this Vegas free show is only five miles away, and it is absolutely worth checking out.

After performing breathtaking tricks, the mermaids will pose for photos and interact with children. Accompanying the mermaids, there is also a stingray feeding show every day at 1:30 and 4:30 PM, which is both free and actually quite educational.

All the other things you can see on the Las Vegas Strip are free to check out and explore, unless you are looking for a special experience like the aforementioned gondola ride.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS

While there’s never a shortage of things to do in Las Vegas at night, you certainly don’t want to spend your one night in Vegas wandering around aimlessly, wondering what to do. So here are some suggestions to get you right on track.

For a Regular Night Out, Consider One of These Clubs

The good thing about nightclubs in Las Vegas is that all of the good ones are mostly located on the Las Vegas Strip, so getting from one to the other is usually easy and convenient. That said, on your one night in Vegas you still probably won’t be able to visit them all, so pick a few that suit your style and taste in music the most.

If you like Asian-inspired décor and EDM, then the Tao Nightclub at The Venetian is the right choice for you. Pair that with the excellent spicy tuna from the nearby Tao Restaurant and you have yourself an excellent night out.

Omnia at Caesars Palace features great DJs, a chandelier that looks like a spaceship, and a beautiful outdoor patio where you can take a short breather and enjoy great views of Las Vegas at night. If you are looking for something a bit more refined, or if you just want to try some perfect handcrafted cocktails, then you should check out Hyde Bellagio at Bellagio , a charming club with Italian-inspired décor.

For a chance to see (and hear) some of the world’s most famous DJs, you should definitely go to Hakkasan at MGM Grand , frequented by big names such as Calvin Harris and Tiesto.

Consider these Las Vegas Adults Only Shows

If you want to make your one night in Vegas really special, you may want to check out some of these classic Las Vegas adult shows. After all, they don’t call it Sin City for nothing! For some sexy rock ‘n’ roll adult fun in Vegas, check out X Rocks at Bally’s Hotel and Casino .

Beautiful girls clad in leather, high heels and studded lingerie perform for 75 minutes with some of the greatest rock hits playing in the background. The show is a bit on the light side, with stand-up comedy acts during the intermission.

X-Burlesque at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino features a classic “Las Vegas adults only” show, with feather boas and a series of routines reminiscent of the can-can and the French cabaret. Lastly, there is the ‘Zombie Burlesque’ at Planet Hollywood’s V Theater with sexy zombies doing classic burlesque, in addition to a number of comedy and variety acts.

Just remember, although a bit of adult fun is to be expected and a great way to wrap up your one day in Vegas, don’t overdo it and turn the experience from a night you’ll never forget into the one night you’d do anything to forget .

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS?

Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas

2600 W Harmon Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89158

This exclusive resort on the Las Vegas Strip is among the most popular and highest rated properties in Las Vegas. With a full-service spa, a magnificent rooftop pool , a boutique grocery store, and a contemporary lounge serving a great selection of cocktails, the Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas truly has it all. In addition, all of the most popular shopping, dining, and casino venues in Las Vegas are mere minutes away. If you are spending only 24 hours in Vegas, this hotel will make you want to extend your stay.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Signature at MGM Grand

145 East Harmon Avenue, Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas

The Signature at MGM Grand is absolutely everything you’d expect from a Las Vegas hotel and more. Located on The Strip, it features an outdoor pool and a spa bath, among other things, plus you can enjoy a wonderful view from your room. The rooms themselves are quite comfortable and beautiful, plus the hotel is fairly calm and quite, which allows for plenty of quality rest. In short, a great place to stay when in Vegas!

Club Wyndham Grand Desert

265 East Harmon Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89103

A wonderful hotel that offers excellent value, Club Wyndham Grand Desert will not disappoint. It has an excellent location close to The Strip, offers shuttle rides to various popular venues, and has not one, not two, but three outdoor pools! Oh, and there’s a souvenir shop too for some last-minute shopping. The units are more apartments than single rooms, with kitchenettes and all, so there will be plenty of space and comfort for some quality R&R.

Hampton Inn & Suites Las Vegas South

3245 Saint Rose Parkway, Henderson, Las Vegas

Located in Henderson, only a 15-minute drive from the Strip, the Hampton Inn & Suites Las Vegas South offers its guests free Wi-Fi, a daily hot breakfast buffet, an on-site hot tub , and a heated outside pool open 24 hours. With access to the hotel’s fitness center and business center, as well as the free shuttle service , there is no reason not to choose the Hampton Inn & Suites Las Vegas South if you’re looking to spend a day in Las Vegas sightseeing, enjoying great food, and partying.

DAY TRIPS FROM LAS VEGAS

There’s no doubt that Las Vegas is an absolutely magical place, but if you have more than just one day here, you may want to get away on a day trip, just to clear your head a little. And there are some truly spectacular destinations nearby, places which in and of themselves can be every bit exciting as all those neon lights and glamour of majestic buildings on The Strip.

Grand Canyon 4-in-1 Helicopter Tour

If you are planning on going from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon, you might as well do in in style. On this 6.5-hour tour, enjoy scenic views on an exciting flight from Las Vegas, with several stops to take in the scenery from iconic viewpoints on the ground. The helicopter will bring you down to the canyon floor , where you can go on a picturesque boat ride down the Colorado River . To make things as convenient as possible, the tour includes lunch at Guano Point and pick-up and drop-off by limousine from any hotel in Las Vegas.

Grand Canyon West Rim and Hoover Dam Tour

If you’d rather go from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon the old-fashioned way, however, then your best bet it to go for a relaxing day trip in an air-conditioned bus with a scenic ride through the gorgeous Nevada desert , a Joshua tree forest, and impressive dry riverbeds. The tour includes a stop at the colossal Hoover Dam for some amazing photos, hiking opportunities both at Eagle Point and Guano Point, and a fun wild west show at Hualapai Ranch .

Los Angeles and Hollywood Day Trip from Las Vegas

For something a little bit different, get a taste of South California and the City of Angels on a tour that includes legendary attractions in Hollywood and iconic LA locations such as Beverly Hills and the Santa Monica Pier . After a light breakfast and a ride through the beautiful Mojave Desert landscapes, enjoy day in La-La Land, go for a walk down Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Walk of Fame and take photos of the legendary Hollywood sign.

Emerald Cave

You could say that the Emerald Cave is the exact opposite of Las Vegas – small, quiet and relaxing, it is the perfect getaway from the busy city. You can go for a swim, go kayaking, and get know the great Colorado River firsthand. It really is an ideal way to recharge your batteries a bit after a crazy night out. The nature is incredibly soothing, and you can take a whole bunch of people with you and make a day out of it. Definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a day trip from Vegas.

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING LAS VEGAS

-On your one night out in Vegas, it’s OK if you have a few drinks, just make sure not to carry any open containers and drink in public spaces , especially not close to schools, places of worship, and hospitals. Doing so is against the law and could get you in trouble.

-Some casinos will offer free cocktails in an effort to keep you gaming. If you plan on playing slots or table games, you don’t have to buy a drink right away. Wait a little until a waitress approaches you and offers you a drink. You could save quite a bit of money that way.

-For dinner, the busiest time in Vegas is between 6 and 8 PM . If you don’t want to wait in line, plan your dinner either before or after that time.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Las Vegas Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

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

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

One Day in Philadelphia

One day in Philadelphia is just enough to see some of the highlights and to get a taste of what this city has to offer. There is so much to see here that it’s hard to narrow it down for a quick visit, so we’ve opted to focus on the things that truly set Philadelphia apart from other destinations.

In this itinerary, we suggest beginning the day with some of the city’s top historic sites . Then, in the afternoon, decide if you want to stick with the historic attractions or explore some of the other places to see. No matter what, you’re in for a unique experience.

Highlights include… Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are must-sees for history lovers. Spruce Street Harbor Park provides a lively riverside experience, and Magic Gardens is a creative environment unlike anywhere else. Bok Bar offers the best skyline view in the city along with good food and drinks.

Breakfast at the Bourse Food Hall

People sitting at tables in a large room.

The Bourse is a unique space in the heart of Old City, the most historic part of town. This 125-year-old building was once home to the first commodities exchange market in the US, and it now houses an artisanal food hall featuring local businesses. It’s a great place to start out your day in Philadelphia.

For a hearty breakfast at The Bourse, head to Grubhouse . The food is excellent, and service is efficient and friendly. There are dozens of options to fuel up for your day ranging from chicken and waffles to bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches. Our top choices are the blueberry pancakes and the sausage and pepper breakfast bowl.

Alternative : If you’re staying outside of Old City, head to Reading Terminal Market . Highlights of the remarkable market like the Dutch Eating Place –which serves Pennsylvania Dutch specialties–and Kismet Bialys are excellent options for breakfast. We also love Old City Coffee and Beiler’s Donuts , which are among the best in the city .

Visit the Liberty Bell

Large, cracked bell displayed in front of a window in a museum.

Just across the street from The Bourse in Independence Mall is the Liberty Bell. Originally known as the State House Bell, it rang in Independence Hall (then the Pennsylvania State House) beginning in the 1750s.

The Liberty Bell is free to visit. Its museum features exhibits that cover a range of topics including the making of the bell, its famous crack, and how it became one of the country’s most prominent symbols of freedom used by abolitionists and Civil Rights pioneers.

If the line is long, you can see the Bell from the outside through the glass wall on the building’s south side. It’s viewable 24 hours a day and is lit up at night.

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is a can’t miss part of any Philadelphia itinerary. It looks much like it did in 1776 when the founding fathers walked through its corridors. A free 20-minute tour takes you through a brief history of the building and the momentous events that happened inside its walls.

You’ll see George Washington’s original chair in the Assembly Room and the inkstand used to sign the Declaration of Independence in the West Wing. There is also an original draft of the Constitution on display. If you want even more history, visit Congress Hall next door (still within the secure zone). It was the meeting place of the House of Representative and the US Senate in the decade that Philadelphia was the US capital. It is also where George Washington and—eight years later—John Adams were sworn in as president, completing the nation’s first peaceful transfer of power.

Tickets are just $1 online and can be reserved here (tickets aren’t necessary in January and February outside of holiday weekends). Make sure to leave time to go through the security screening before your tour.

If your timing is flexible, see our thoughts on the best time to visit Philadelphia .

Carpenters’ Hall

Brick building with white trim and windows and a cobblestone walkway.

Carpenters’ Hall is another one of the top free places to visit in Philadelphia . It was here in 1774 that colonial delegates to the First Continental Congress voted to take a stand against the King of England. The delegates’ chairs and the original banner from the 1788 Constitutional parade are displayed in the hall , and you’ll frequently find other rotating historical exhibits. The museum is small, but it’s worth a quick visit.

In December 2022, Carpenters’ Hall was damaged by fire, but it has since been renovated and is back open to the public.

Museum of the American Revolution

Large white fabric tent on a stage with the backdrop of a field.

If your interest in Revolutionary War history runs deep, the Museum of the American Revolution is only two blocks away. Its collection includes thousands of artifacts, artworks, weapons, and more in exhibits that take you on a chronological journey from the origins of the conflict in the 1760s through the final years of the war. The star of the show is the museum’s most magnificent artifact—George Washington’s original headquarters tent—that is displayed in a dedicated theater.

The exhibits are designed to make the stories engaging for visitors of all ages and to examine points of view that have often been overlooked. We were surprised to find the perspectives of women and Native and Black Americans included, since these groups are often left out of much of the discussion about independence and the American Revolution.

A thorough visit to the museum takes around 3 hours. However, you can hit the highlights as quickly as you’d like if you want to see the museum without having it dominate your whole day.

Lunch at Spruce Street Harbor Park

Chairs, tables, and people on colorful floating platforms.

One of our favorite things to do is to visit the city’s waterfront park , which is also a great lunch destination if you’re visiting on a weekend. Spruce Street Harbor Park is the place go to when the weather is nice from May through October. It offers great views and lots of places to lounge, including hammocks that hang over the Delaware River. A selection of vendors offers Philadelphia food classics like crabfries from Chickie’s and Pete’s, tacos, or water ice.

Alternatives : If the park is closed or you would simply like a different environment, head to Talula’s Daily . This cafe-market combination has a little bit of everything to please different palates. If you’re craving a cheesesteak, Campo’s is a 5-minute walk. This Philadelphia institution has served diners since 1947, and its cheesesteaks are a solid choice.

Magic Gardens

Walls and walkway covered entirely in brightly colored mosaics.

Visiting Magic Gardens is one of the most unique things to do in Philadelphia in a day. The museum is a massive creation composed of tile and found objects such as glass bottles and bicycle wheels. Seeing the space is like walking through a giant mosaic.

Located on South Street, this one-of-a-kind experience is the creation of artist Isaiah Zagar. As you explore the painted corners and pottery-laden walls, you get the distinct feeling that the space is like the artist’s mind came to life. With indoor and outdoor components and spanning half a city block, there is a lot to see here.

Alternative s: If you’d rather continue to explore the city’s history, stay in Old City and visit Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church . Thanks to its seasonal decorations and brightly painted doors, Elfreth’s Alley is one of the most photographed places in the city. It also happens to be the oldest residential street in the US. Visit the museum that occupies 124-126, which tells the history of the street and the tradesmen who lived here when it was built.

Rows of old tombstones in Christ Church burial ground surrounded by trees.

Nearby is Christ Church and Christ Church Burial ground. The church itself welcomed presidents and other notable figures beginning in 1695. A couple of blocks away at Fifth and Arch, the burial ground is the final resting place of many Revolutionary War figures and early leaders, including Benjamin Franklin.

It’s $5 to walk around the burial ground, but if you just want to see Franklin’s grave, it is visible through a cut-out in the northwest part of the wall. It is almost always covered with pennies–a reference to Franklin’s “a penny saved is a penny earned.”

With more time, see what to do in a weekend in Philadelphia .

The Italian Market

People eating at outdoor tables in front of a mural labeled "Di Bruno Bros, The House of Cheese."

Philadelphia’s Italian Market is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in the country. The area was originally settled primarily by Italians beginning in the 1880s, and the market developed to serve the community.

The market spans about 10 city blocks along Ninth Street. It is filled with restaurants and vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and specialty items. One of the top purveyors of Italian products in the city, Di Bruno Bros. has a small location, a bottle shop, and ample outdoor seating. You’ll also find the famous cheesesteak spots Pat’s and Geno’s here along with restaurants like Casa Mexico , which is a must-visit if you like Mexican food (try their award-winning lamb barbacoa, if it’s available).

Browse the shops, grab a snack, watch a bocce game at Bardascino Park, and appreciate the heritage of the neighborhood. If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, grab a coffee or gelato at Anthony’s or head to Rim Cafe for cannoli and some of the best hot chocolate in the city .

Dinner at Zahav

Pits bread, hummus, and small bowls of other food on a table

Z ahav is not just one of the best restaurants in the city, it has been widely recognized as one of the best restaurants in the US over and over again. That means that if you want to partake of the delicious Israeli specialties here, you really have to plan ahead. But it’s worth the time. The hummus is amazing and the lamb shoulder with pomegranate molasses is life changing.

Alternatives : Amada serves some of the best tapas and pintxos this side of the Atlantic. There are more than 40 options for small bites and dishes of various sizes. From tortilla Española to lamb alblondigas, the selection is excellent. We particularly love the gambas al ajillo,

The critically acclaimed Vedge is another of our favorite spots. Everything they serve is vegan and absurdly delicious, so don’t be put off by the lack of meat. We love the rutabaga fondue, the grilled avocado, and anything mushroom. And everything else, too.

Nightcap at Bok Bar

Orange and pink sunset over a city skyline.

For one of the best views in the city and a welcoming atmosphere, you can’t beat Bok Bar . Formerly Bok Vocational High School, this unusual space has many of the details you would expect from a former school, which makes it fun to explore. It’s a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the sunset or a skyline view at night. It’s open from mid-April through late October.

Alternative : For a completely different environment, check out Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company . This speakeasy offers a cozy space that’s perfect for relaxed conversation plus some of the best cocktails around. Andra Hem is another fabulous option in the Rittenhouse neighborhood. Reservations are recommended for both, but especially for Andra Hem.

If you book through the affiliate links below, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Where to Stay Marriott Old City – This 4-star hotel noted for its comfortable beds and helpful staff is close to the sites in Old City. Kimpton Hotel Monaco – Known for its views of Independence Mall, this modern hotel offers a rooftop lounge and top-notch service. Loews Philadelphia – Centrally located, the Loews has modern rooms and an indoor pool.

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About the author, laura longwell, 4 thoughts on “one day in philadelphia”.

What happened to the African American Museum? Its apart of the Philadelphia experience. Amazing

It is a great museum. We’re fortunate to have many places worth visiting.

Looking for easy access for husband and his Walker? Many of this where on my list but walking maybe an issue. Thanks

I would suggest focusing on a few sites that are close together depending on how easy it is for him to get around. For instance, the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are across the street from each other. Another option might be a hop-on hop-off tour, which would drop you right by the major sites.

One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC

How to explore the nation's capital in one day

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

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

Arrive Early

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

Begin Your One Day Tour on Capitol Hill

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

Go to the Smithsonian

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

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

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

Take a Peek at the White House

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

Visit the National Memorials

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

Dinner in Georgetown

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

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BEST of Milan in One Day (Most Complete Itinerary & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 26, 2024

BEST of Milan in One Day (Most Complete Itinerary & Map)

Are you thinking of visiting Milan for a day and wondering if it’s worth it and what to see and do in Milan in one day ? This guide and suggested 1-day itinerary will help you make the absolute most of your short visit to the city. Find out!

We have been to Italy so many times and visited so many amazing Italian cities . Yet somehow it took me years to finally get to Milan, and it surprised me beyond expectations! Milan is full of some amazing treasures, but you have to make some effort to escape the main tourist routes in order to truly appreciate it…

I have to admit that it wasn’t love at first sight, but if you take the time to look deeper, you will discover that Milan has so much more to offer than it looks on the surface!

Just like many first-time visitors, we only had one day in Milan. But because we visited the city by invitation of in LOMBARDIA regional tourism board and went with amazing local guides, we discovered so much more than just the ‘must-see’ places.

So in this post, I share the best tips and experience-based suggestions on what to see and do in Milan in one day , including all the top sights and tourist attractions, but also a few hidden gems and local areas that will make your visit so much more special. Find out!

Top-3 Milan experiences to book in advance:

Duomo Cathedral + Rooftops (must-do).
Da Vinci’s The Last Supper (highly recommended).
Lake Como Day Trip (if you have an extra day outside the city).

Yes, there are many amazing museums in Milan, nice parks to visit, and lots of stores where you can admire all the latest fashion trends… But unless you have more than one day in Milan, you will probably not want to waste half of your time queuing at a museum or shopping at some of the world’s most expensive boutiques…

So this is my no-nonsense guide to the best things you can see and do in Milan in one day. It’s definitely not a complete guide to Milan – there is no way to see it all in such a short time. However, if it’s your first trip and you want to see the best of Milan in a day , then look no further.

This is the most complete guide that will bring you to some of the nicest places in Milan, not just the main landmarks, but also some modern and trendy areas, as well as some quirky hidden gems. Keep in mind that if you want to do everything from this itinerary in one day, it will be a long busy day, but it’s definitely doable.

Good to know: At the bottom of the post, you can find an overview of this 1-day itinerary , a map featuring all the places mentioned here, as well as the suggested walking route . We also share some practical tips to help you make the best out of your day in Milan.

TIP: If you are visiting Milan for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 3 hours.

What to do in Milan for a day - itinerary, walking map and practical tips

Based on our experience, here’s what I recommend to see and do in Milan in one day:

Piazza del Duomo & Duomo Terraces

No trip to Milan would be complete without seeing the Cathedral, Duomo di Milano , an impressive gothic masterpiece that took several centuries to complete. To many, seeing the Duomo is the main and only reason to visit Milan.

As you will see in this post, there is so much more to Milan than just its famous cathedral. But yes, it’s the main landmark of the city. So no matter how much (or little) time you have in Milan, Piazza del Duomo is one place you don’t want to miss.

If you are visiting in high season, it will likely be very busy inside the cathedral. Its exterior is just as impressive as the interior, so if you have just one day in Milan, in the past I would have told you to skip it. However, now that they introduced ticketed entry, you can book timed slots for a visit. So if you plan well, you can see both – the interior of the Duomo as well as its rooftops.

No matter which option you choose – the Cathedral and/or the terraces , then be sure to get your tickets in advance . Alternatively, you can also opt for this highly-rated tour that includes skip-the-line tickets . Yes, it costs a bit more, but if you want to get the most out of your day in Milan, then it’s definitely worth it.

Must-see! Whether you visit the cathedral itself or not, make sure not to miss Duomo’s Terraces . With its 135 towers and spires and over 2000 decorative marble statues, the rooftops of Duomo are a sight to behold.

The views from the top are amazing! Not only do you have Piazza del Duomo and the whole of Milan under your feet, but you can even see the mountains in the distance. But the most impressive sight is the close-up of the towers of the Cathedral that you can explore via a system of interconnecting stairways on the roof.

Duomo rooftop terraces are must see in Milan

There are two ways to get to the rooftops of Duomo – by staircase or by elevator. You can get the tickets for either of the two options here . The price difference isn’t big and the elevator will save you some time and energy. We took the elevator.

TIP: Beat the crowds and visit Piazza del Duomo first thing in the morning . It’s also the only time to get some pictures of the Cathedral without the crowds. The terraces are open from 9 AM every day. In November, we could just go in without any queue. However, it is much busier in the high season, so make sure to book your tickets in advance and arrive really early .

I recommend coming no later than 7.30-8 AM. That way, you also have some time to walk around the Duomo Square as well as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II before the groups flood the place.

Insider tip: One of the nicest views of the Duomo can be found on the 7th floor of La Rinascente shopping center. There are several restaurants and cafes here, and you can enjoy a meal or a quick coffee with Duomo rooftops as the most magnificent backdrop.

Duomo di Milano - Milan Cathedral is not to be missed when visiting Milan in Italy

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , Italy’s oldest and probably the most exquisite shopping mall, is a major landmark you have to tick off your list when visiting Milan. The impressive 19th-century glass-topped gallery has always been a place to see and to be seen, the meeting point for the Milanese bourgeoisie.

Inside you’ll find several cafes and restaurants, some as old as the gallery itself. As you drink your morning coffee at Biffi or Savini, try to let it sink in that these restaurants have been here since 1867 – more than 150 years. Who knows, maybe you’re sitting at the same table as Verdi, Puccini, Charlie Chaplin or Frank Sinatra…

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a busy shopping arcade where you’ll also find some of the most expensive fashion boutiques of the world. Brands like Louis Vuitton or Prada have their flagship stores here, all with the same elegant black billboards and golden letters – obligatory uniform standard for any business in this gallery.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the main landmarks of Milan Italy

However, unless you just won the lottery, I’d leave the pleasures of shopping for another time. Also, you don’t want to waste too much time if you have just a day in Milan. Instead, admire the beautiful building, stunning detailed mosaics on the floors, and maybe have some tea or coffee – just to be able to see one of the historic restaurants.

TIP: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is just next to the Duomo and doesn’t require more than 5-10 minutes of your time. So if you can try to visit the gallery before you head to the Duomo and the Terraces.

In the morning you can have the whole gallery to yourself, whereas during the day you’ll have to squeeze your way between the tour guides with their umbrellas, inevitable selfie sticks, and impatient locals trying to make their way through the crowds…

Insider tip: Since recently, it’s also possible to visit the rooftops of Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle. However, based on the reviews, I think it’s ok to skip it if you only have one day in Milan.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the best things to see in Milan

La Scala Opera

As you walk from Piazza del Duomo all the way to the northern end of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, you’ll arrive at the smaller town square, Piazza della Scala . This square with the statue of Leonardo da Vinci in the middle is a bit underwhelming, especially compared to the beautiful places you just came from. The main reason to be here is Teatro all Scala.

Dating back to 1778, Teatro alla Scala , aka the ‘Temple of Opera’, is one of the most famous theatres in the world. It may not look like much on the outside, but its interior is very impressive; its history – even more. Some of the most famous operas and composers are linked to La Scala, including Gioachino Rossini and Giuseppe Verdi to name just a few.

I’m not really sure what to recommend to you in terms of visiting La Scala, especially if you only have a day in Milan. There were rehearsals on the day when we visited, so we could only see a part of the theatre, watch the stage from a small balcony through a glass window, and visit the tiny La Scala museum.

Due to rehearsals, no pictures were allowed inside the theatre. It was interesting and another box ticked, but at the same time, it was a bit disappointing not to be able to visit the theatre properly and see it in all its glory.

Inside La Scala opera theatre and museum in Milan

There are official guided tours of the theatre and the museum on some afternoons. By that time, there are no rehearsals and you can actually admire the theatre. So if La Scala is on your bucket list, you may have to plan your day in Milan differently and make sure it works for your itinerary (more information and tickets here ). In that case, make sure to book in advance as La Scala is one of the most popular places to visit in Milan.

It is also possible to visit La Scala with an organized tour with a local guide: at 1 pm or at 2.30 pm . There are also tours that visit several landmarks in Milan including the theater, e.g. this tour visits the Duomo and La Scala .

Insider tip: If you have just one day and don’t want to adjust your whole Milan itinerary just to be able to see La Scala, you can also try to get tickets for the opera itself (you can find the opera calendar here ). Seeing an opera at La Scala must be one of the most amazing experiences you can have in Milan!

La Scala Opera theatre interior - Milan Italy

Brera & Braidense National Library

One of the nicest neighborhoods in central Milan, Brera used to be an artsy, bohemian district. Nowadays it’s a more upscale part of town with a good mix of history, modern design, fashion, countless shopping, and dining options.

With lively cafes and restaurants, Brera comes to life in the evening. But if you want to see and do everything I recommend in this one day Milan itinerary, you’ll likely find yourself in Brera around noon.

With a variety of restaurants, you will have no difficulties finding a good place for lunch in Brera. Alternatively, wait just a bit longer – I have a really nice recommendation for lunch a bit further down the road.

Charming Brera district is one of the nicest areas of central Milan

Not to be missed is the Brera Academy which shares the same building with Pinacoteca di Brera, Milan’s largest museum of art, astronomical observatory, and Braidense National Library .

Insider tip: If you have just one day in Milan, you won’t have much time for the museum, observatory, or the adjacent botanical gardens, however a visit to Braidense library doesn’t require more than a few minutes, so don’t miss it. This 18th-century library is one of the most beautiful libraries in Italy, a real hidden gem in Milan.

The library is open daily except on Sundays (more info here ) and the entrance is free. Keep in mind that as a visitor you can only see the main room and you are not allowed to take close-up pictures of the books.

Braidense National Library is a real hidden gem of Milan

After visiting the library, stroll the streets of Brera in the direction of Sempione Park, your next destination not to be missed in Milan. On the way, pass Piazza Carmine with the 15th century Santa Maria del Carmine Church.

Sforzesco Castle & Sempione Park

Castello Sforzesco is a huge castle built on the remains of a 14th-century fortification. To tell you the truth, I never even heard of this castle before my visit to Milan, yet it’s a very impressive citadel, and definitely worth a visit.

Sforzesco castle now houses several art museums and another beautiful library. However, you would need at least half a day to visit even a small part of it. If you want to visit inside, you can find more information and book your ticket here .

Even if you only have one day in Milan, you can stroll through the grounds of the castle, admire the beautiful fountain, Fontana di Piazza Castello , and maybe even venture to the adjacent Sempione park.

One of the main landmarks of the park is Arco della Pace, Arch of Peace. It looks very much like Arc de Triomphe in Paris. So if you have the time, you can walk to it. Alternatively, take your time to explore the grounds of the castle a bit more.

Hidden gem in Sforzesco Castle in Milan Italy

Insider tip: Have lunch with a view at Triennale Design Cafe . It’s located on the top floor of the modern Italian design museum La Triennale di Milano .

You won’t find many tourists here, the food is really good, and the views are well worth a short walk from Castello Sforzesco.

Triennale Design Cafe in Milan offers lunch with the view

The Last Supper or…

At this point, you have seen the main highlights of the old city, so it’s time to decide where you want to spend the remaining half a day in Milan!

If you rather stick to the traditional landmarks of Milan, you could now head to Cenacolo Vinciano, where you can see one of the most famous paintings in the world, The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci . However, don’t expect to just arrive there and see the painting – the tickets are sold out months and months in advance. You can check availability for your travel dates here .

Alternatively, book one of the guided tours that include skip-the-line tickets for Leonardo’s The Last Supper . The organizing companies pre-book tickets in advance and therefore have much more availability even on short notice.

TIP: Take a look if there is any availability for this great and highly-rated 3-hr Milan walking tour with a local . It includes the Duomo Rooftop visit and the Last Supper tickets. If you have just one day in Milan, this tour is a great way to get to learn more about the city with a local guide.

We love tours with TakeWalks and try to do at least one in every city we visit. They are always amazing and always offer something unique. The only problem is that their Last Supper tour only runs a few times a week, so it might not always fit into your itinerary… In that case, see if you can do one of their tours in other cities in Italy – highly recommended!

Afterwards, you can continue with the last step of my suggested Milan one day itinerary and visit Milan Canals (see below). If you still rather stick to the old town, you can visit one more museum (pick one from all the places mentioned above) or visit a really special church.

In that case, I recommend San Bernardino alle Ossa , best known for its bone chapel. In fact, if you want to visit this chapel, you should probably go there right after you visit the Duomo – it’s in the same area and will save you quite some walking.

Leonardo da Vinci painting The Last Supper is nice to see if you have more time in Milan

… or Porta Nuova District

If you want to get to know different facets of Milan, I recommend that you spend the afternoon far from the main tourist areas. I loved seeing this other side of Milan! It was such an eye-opening experience that made me realize how little I knew of this fascinating city and how diverse it actually is. There is so much more to Milan than the Duomo and the old town. Read on!

Porta Nuova district is a brand new upcoming area in Milan. If you feel fit enough you can get there on foot, walking via Sempione Park (1,5-2km, 20-30min walk from Sforzesco Castle). Alternatively, take a metro to Garibaldi FS station.

If you walk, you’ll pass Porta Garibaldi and walk Corso Como – a nice fashionable area with shops, bars, and restaurants. 10 Corso Como Café is apparently one of the most sought-after restaurants in Milan, but based on the reviews and the prices I’m not sure I’d recommend eating there.

Maybe just stop for a drink or a quick look inside. It’s a really nice place, one of those tiny hidden gems of Milan that you would just pass without noticing, so take a look inside the hidden passage leading towards the restaurant.

Just a few blocks further you’ll come to Piazza Gae Aulenti . It’s a new modern area surrounded by glass skyscrapers and some stunning samples of modern architecture.

It’s really hard to believe that this is the same Milan you visited just an hour ago! It feels as if you’re in some huge city in Asia or in the Middle East…

In fact, Milan Unicredit Tower was designed by César Pelli, the same architect who built the famous Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and many other famous skyscrapers all over the world.

UniCredit tower in Porta Nuova district in Milan Italy

Take a walk through this new modern district of Milan. There are so many fine pieces of modern architecture!

One of the new landmarks of Milan, Stefano Boeri’s Bosco Verticale , won several awards including the International Highrise Award (2014) and the Best Tall Building Worldwide (2015). The so-called Vertical Forest is a very innovative type of sustainable residential buildings that will impress even if you know nothing about modern architecture.

The whole Porta Nuova district is really unique and well worth seeing, even if you only have one day in Milan. This is a very different part of the city than the old center. But it gives you a much better image of what Milan is truly about.

City Life Area

Another brand new place to be in Milan is the City Life residential area. With a new shopping center, cinema, restaurants, kids’ playgrounds, and lots of residential buildings this is probably more a place for the locals or those who are staying in Milan for a few days.

We managed to squeeze a short visit here during our day in Milan, but if you are running out of time, you can probably skip this area. On the other hand, it’s here that you find local modern Milan at its best…

The main highlight for me was the colorful modern sculpture by Pascale Marthine Tayou. It’s called Coloris and is located just near the Tre Torri area. If you like modern art and unusual places, then you may want to check it out.

To get here, you have to take a metro to Tre Torri station.

Trendy hair salon il Barbiere in City Life Milano

Navigli – Canals of Milan

Did you know that Milan has canals?! I had no idea!

The Navigli neighborhood, famous for the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese canals is one of the areas you really have to see in Milan, even if visiting for just a day. It has such a nice vibe and is probably my favorite of all the places that we visited in Milan.

We kept the best for last and visited Milan Canals in the evening. With picturesque canals surrounded by colorful buildings, lots of restaurants and bars, as well as small boutiques and art stores, Navigli is bound to become one of the main attractions in Milan. The whole area has a very cozy local feel and it’s a great lively place to be no matter the season.

Stroll along the canals, explore them by boat, get a drink at one of the many outdoor terraces, or have dinner at one of the local restaurants… Dinner suggestion – try risotto alla Milanese con midollo – a traditional local dish in Lombardy region.

Navigli is a wonderful place to end your day in Milan and fall in love with the city. It will leave you wondering why you came to Milan for just one day and planning another trip very soon…

One day in Milan – itinerary

Here is my suggested one day Milan itinerary in a nutshell . The times are just for your reference, based on our experience. We visited in November so it was much less busy than in summer. On the other hand, the days are much longer in summer, so long waiting times are offset by more daylight hours, allowing you to see and do just as much.

Here’s our suggested Milan one day itinerary:

7 am. Start with a cup of coffee and a croissant at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery or one of the local cafes in central Milan.
From there it’s just a short walk to Plazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – explore both before the crowds come in.
9 am. Visit Duomo Terraces and potentially also the Cathedral itself (get the tickets for the terraces or for the Cathedral + terraces in advance and note that in high season you may need to stand in line well before it opens).
Time for another coffee – try one of the historic cafés in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
10.30 am. A quick visit to La Scala .
Brera & Braidense National Library .
Stroll through the grounds of Sforzesco castle .
12.30 pm. Lunch at Triennale Design Cafe (alternatively have lunch in Brera before heading to Sforzesco castle).
2 pm. Head to Porta Nuova district OR go and see Leonardo’s The Last Supper ( pre-booking is mandatory!). We took a metro to Porta Nuova, but the walk isn’t far either.
City Life area (not a must if you are short on time).
4-5 pm. Navigli – Canals of Milan. You’ll need to take a metro to get here. This is a nice area to have dinner as well.

Below, you can find a map of this 1-day Milan itinerary and practical tips for your visit. Read on!

Walking map

The old city center of Milan is not very big, so you can see and do quite a lot in one day. On the other hand, some great neighborhoods are a bit further away, off the beaten tourist tracks.

The good news is that Milan’s public transport network is cheap, easy, and efficient, so it makes it possible to venture out a bit outside the main tourist areas and see different facets of the city, even if you only have one day in Milan.

To help you plan your day in Milan, I created this map with a suggested walking route to give you a better idea of where all these places are located and how to best plan your time.

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

Where to stay

If you can, stay close to the city center , but more importantly close to a metro station. I recommend staying for at least 2 nights, so you have one full day to see the best of Milan.

Keep in mind that accommodation in Milan is very expensive (and not just by Italy’s standards). So the sooner you book, the more choice you have, and the better the price you pay.

Here are some of the most popular hotels in the city center for all budgets:

€€€€€+ NH Collection Milano President
€€€€€ Room Mate Giulia
€€€€ The Corner Duomo
€€€ Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo
€€ WorldHotel Casati 18
€ Hotel Nettuno

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and accommodations in Milan. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

Practical tips for visiting Milan

Use public transport . The 24-hour ticket cost us just a few euros and made it possible to explore so many different areas of Milan in a day.
If you are arriving in Milan by plane, you should know that the airports are located quite far from the city center. Here you can book airport transfers from Malpensa airport , and here – Linate airport transfers .
Milan is one of the busiest tourist destinations in Italy, so try to book all your tours and tickets in advance . It will save you lots of time and frustration. We personally use and recommend the Get Your Guide website for ticket/tour bookings because they have the best customer service and the most flexible cancelation policy.
Pack comfortable walking shoes – you will be walking a lot.
If you can, visit Milan in the lower season . It was lovely and not busy at all when we visited in November – perfect for sightseeing. Here you can find more information on what it’s like to visit Italy in November .
Don’t just go to Milan for a day and leave without exploring the nearby lakes – you’d be missing so much. Lake Como is less than an hour by train and is a perfect day trip from Milan . Don’t miss Bellagio , Varenna , and Como town ! Also Lake Garda is less than 2hrs away from Milan. The lakes are well worth it to be included in any Italian itinerary; also charming and quiet if traveling off-season.

READ ALSO: Lake Como Travel Tips & Useful Info & Best Things to Do in Lake Como

One day in Milan is just enough to scratch the surface and get a taste of the city. I am confident that this suggested itinerary will help you get a good idea of what Milan is all about and will make you want to come back for a longer stay next time. We’re definitely going back for more!

As I’m updating this article, I have to add that we did in fact return to Milan to explore it further. Below, you can find our guide to all the top spots in the city. Check it out!

The perfect 1-day field trip in Washington, DC, for travelers of all ages

Washington, D.C., offers visitors world-renowned museums and iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol and the monuments along the National Mall. The city isn't only about history, however. There's a booming food and entertainment scene, too.

Many Americans first come to the nation's capital on a school trip. But if you've never been to Washington , it can be hard to prioritize the highlights, or enjoy some sights and experiences that veer off from more well-trod itineraries.

For those who might not be familiar with the city, my colleague, Emily Thompson, and I traveled there together in an attempt to craft the perfect one-day field trip to Washington. Of course, your perfect day may differ from ours, but here are our must-visit destinations for anyone looking to explore the District, along with some ways to maximize points and miles along the way.

National Zoo

Hours : 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost : Free, but entry passes are required for all guests.
Getting there : Three blocks from Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan Metro station or a 15-minute Uber from downtown. If you drive yourself, the National Zoo charges $30 for parking, so we recommend taking advantage of the plentiful street parking nearby.
Time required : One hour (8 a.m. to 9 a.m.).

Start your day bright and early so you can arrive at 8 a.m. for the opening of the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. You'll likely see the 2,000-plus animals being more active in the morning than in the afternoon.

Emily and I arrived via the Connecticut Avenue entrance and walked down the Asia Trail, where we passed by the clouded leopard, sloth bear and red panda exhibits.

But the real highlight of the zoo was seeing Xiao Qi Ji, the 2-year-old giant panda. His name means "Little Miracle," a reference to the fact that his 22-year-old mom became the oldest giant panda to give birth in the U.S.

Many kids were fascinated by Kamala (meaning "lotus"), the 48-year-old Sri Lanka-born Asian elephant, while we were there. She arrived with Swarna (meaning "gold") and her second calf, Maharani (meaning "princess"), from the Calgary Zoo about 10 years ago.

After an hour or so at the zoo, you'll have hopefully worked up an appetite.

Related: It's Panda-monium at the Smithsonian National Zoo in honor of popular panda family

Weekend brunch in Georgetown at Farmers Fishers Bakers

Weekend and holiday-weekday brunch buffet hours : 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost : $32.50 per person. Children 6 and under are free and children ages 7 to 12 are $15.
Getting there : A 15-minute ride-hailing service ride, or a 45-minute downhill walk from the zoo.
Pay with : One of the best cards for dining , like the American Express® Gold Card .
Time required : 1 hour and 15 minutes for Georgetown Waterfront (9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.).

Weekend brunch is a big deal in D.C. and Washingtonians fiercely debate about the best brunch spot, but I'm a big fan of Farmers Fishers Bakers.

Serving what it calls "a festival of food," Farmers Fishers Bakers offers an elaborate brunch spread with fresh, sustainable ingredients from local farms and producers.

The buffet includes options like the famous bananas Foster French toast, butterscotch bread pudding, a live omelet station, molasses-glazed ham, freshly cut roast beef, spicy fried chicken, seafood jambalaya, apricot-glazed salmon, chips and guacamole and much, much more.

There are also cold options like bruleed grapefruit, housemade granola and coconut chia bowls.

The dining room is lively and boisterous, and we estimate the restaurant serves around 500 hungry brunchers on peak weekends. Consequently, the buffet line can get a bit long. Ask your server for the bakers pizza, farmhouse sushi and cinnamon rolls — these dishes are brought to your table upon request.

Our tip: Before you leave, grab some Instagram-worthy pics at the Georgetown Waterfront.

Related: Off the beaten path in DC: From a historic garden to a travel-inspired restaurant

National Mall (Smithsonian museums)

Hours : Most Smithsonian museums are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 or 5:30 p.m.
Cost : Free, but some require timed-entry tickets, like the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture . You'll also need a timed-entry ticket for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum .
Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from Georgetown.
Time required : Two hours (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

From the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol, the National Mall was designed in the 18th century by French American urban planner Pierre L'Enfant. He envisioned a dramatic grand promenade similar to the Tuileries Garden in Paris.

In addition to the stunning views of the Capitol and Washington Monument, the National Mall offers ample gardens and is fringed by several Smithsonian museums. Here's an overview of the museums you can access from the National Mall:

National Museum of African American History and Culture.
National Museum of American History.
National Museum of Natural History.
National Gallery of Art.
National Museum of the American Indian.
National Air and Space Museum (open but currently undergoing significant renovations).
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (stop at the Sculpture Garden if you're craving a cup of coffee).
Smithsonian Institution Building (more commonly known as the Smithsonian Castle).
Freer Gallery of Art.
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.
National Museum of African Art.

The Holocaust Museum and International Spy Museum are a block south of the National Mall. The Spy Museum has an entry fee of $18.95 to $29.95 per person.

Plan to use the restrooms inside the museums, and skip the food trucks and underwhelming museum cafeterias since there are plenty of great restaurants to enjoy in Washington.

Since time is limited (and you need a couple of days to see all these museums), we recommend selecting one or two museums that interest you the most. As an aviation enthusiast, I needed to keep my eyes on the time at the Air and Space Museum so I didn't miss out on our other stops.

Related: The best times to visit Washington, DC

Afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City

Weekend afternoon tea hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays. Reservations are required.
Cost : $68 per person. Children 12 and under are $45 for the Teddy Bear afternoon tea.
Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from downtown.
Pay with : Since this doesn't code as dining but rather as a Marriott hotel purchase, use a Marriott cobranded card , like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card , or a card that earns well on general travel purchases , like the Chase Sapphire Reserve .
Time required : One hour (2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.).

Since you've been on the go for a couple of hours at the National Mall, a posh afternoon tea across the river in Virginia is the perfect way to recharge for the afternoon and evening activities ahead.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City offers one of the most decadent afternoon teas in the area. Though expensive, it's a surprisingly good value as it's difficult to find similar experiences for under $90 in Washington.

When Emily and I were here, they served a slightly enhanced Cherry Blossom afternoon tea for $75, including a glass of Champagne or a mimosa.

The tea sandwiches and pastries were scrumptious, and the homemade scones served with clotted cream and local jam paired excellently with the sakura cherry rose white tea.

Related: The next time you travel, take your kids to afternoon tea

Arlington National Cemetery

Hours : 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost : Free for all, but you must present an ID.
Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride from Pentagon City.
Time required : One hour (3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m.).

The final resting place of some 400,000 American veterans and statespeople, Arlington National Cemetery is a place to recognize the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.

Stop by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, dedicated to unidentified soldiers who have lost their lives in service to the country. The changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at the tomb, is a solemn and moving event every half-hour from April to September and on the hour from October to March.

Another must-see site at Arlington National Cemetery is the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame. This flame marks the gravesite of President Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The flame symbolizes the president's enduring legacy and is a poignant reminder of his service to the country.

Visitors who prefer a narrated hop-on, hop-off bus tour can reserve a ticket here , though a ticket isn't required to enter the cemetery.

After, take a little break to freshen up at your hotel before the evening activities.

Related: TPG's guide to Washington, DC's Union Station

Night monument tour

Touring hours : 6-7:30 p.m. until 10-11 p.m.
Cost : From $45 per person.
Getting there : 15-minute ride-hailing service ride or Metro ride (get off at the Federal Triangle station).
Time required: Two to three-and-a-half hours in the evening.
Pay with : Book using Viator. Initiate your purchase using your favorite shopping portal to earn extra points. Then, pay with a credit card that earns well on general travel purchases .

If you have a little time before the tour (as we did), stop by the lobby atrium of the Waldorf Astoria for drinks or tapas at The Bazaar by José Andrés.

Then, it'll be time for your monument tour. Every night, D.C.'s monuments come to life with dramatic lighting displays.

When I had family and friends visit me when I was a student at American University, this was my favorite go-to evening excursion. You can opt for an open-air trolly , electric cart or bus , which all offer comparable experiences. The electric cart is a more intimate experience with fewer people, but it doesn't go to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington.

Whichever tour you select, it'll hit the highlights, including the Capitol, White House, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Just book a tour that lets you get out and take photos rather than just a quick drive-by.

Since our visit fell during peak cherry blossom season, petals rained down on us as we passed by MLK's quotes — truly an extraordinary memory of our epic day.

Ben's Chili Bowl

Hours : Monday to Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost : $10 to $20 for a complete meal.
Getting there : 10-minute ride-hailing service ride.
Time required : 30 minutes (10:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.).

Few things are more D.C. than Ben's Chili Bowl.

Founded in 1958 by Ben Ali and his wife Virginia, Ben's Chili Bowl became a popular gathering place for civil rights activists during the 1960s. The U Street Corridor, known as Black Broadway, is rooted in the thriving African American arts and entertainment scene outside Ben's doors.

Ben's has gone hand-in-hand with civil rights in D.C. by donating food and providing shelter to those in need during the 1963 March on Washington and 1968 D.C. riots.

The restaurant is still famous for its half-smoke chili dogs, fries and milkshakes. But more than the food, it's about the establishment's legacy as a gathering place for civil rights activists during the 1960s.

This is a good opportunity to wind down your whirlwind day with some casual, yet filling, comfort food.

Related: Racing to the capital: What's the fastest way to get from New York to Washington, DC?

Bottom line

Feeling a yawn come on?

If you made it this far, you've been out of your hotel room for around 15 hours, as Emily and I were, but with any luck, the rest stops throughout the day have made it more manageable.

Truthfully, there's no way to see everything in one day. After all, if you have the time, I'd reserve an entire day at the National Mall alone, hopping from museum to museum.

But a proper field trip to D.C. goes beyond the museums and monuments, highlighting American culture and D.C.'s vibrant neighborhoods, including Georgetown, the U Street Corridor and Columbia Heights. Hopefully, you'll be eager to plan your next trip to Washington before this one is over.

One Day in a City

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

Welcome to One Day in a City!

Short on time? You can still have an amazing, memorable vacation filled with top sites, good eats, and local culture. We’re here to help with the best 24-hour itineraries for destinations all around the world.

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One Day in Paris: Eiffel Tower with Carousel

The Perfect One Day in Paris Itinerary (How to See Paris in a Day!)

Ah, Paris: the architecture, the food, the art, and the iconic sights are legendary for a reason, and even one day in Paris can be an absolute dream of a quick getaway.

One day in Paris may not be enough to work through a long wish list of what to see in the city (we’re still going strong on ours about 10 visits later), but don’t worry–you can indeed get a fantastic glimpse of Paris in one day.

Planning to spend a day in Paris and want to make sure you have the perfect itinerary?

Here’s how to see the best of the City of Light in a limited time!

I f you’re anything like us, when the sun sets on your day in Paris, you’ll say goodbye already dreaming of your next visit.

Table of Contents

Want to plan a day in Paris the easy way?

The perfect one day in paris itinerary, where to stay with one day in paris, tips for enjoying one day in paris, more than a day in paris, getting around during one day in paris, one day in paris itinerary map.

kate storm and ranger storm standing on the banks of the seine with eiffel tower in the background

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The independent one day Paris itinerary we outlined below will show you many of our favorite places in the City of Light, from Notre Dame to the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower and beyond.

However, if you would rather not worry about navigating through Paris yourself, and your goal is to see absolutely as much as possible of Paris in one day, you can also consider signing up for this extremely well-reviewed tour .

Take Walks, who hosts this popular Paris in a day tour , is one of our favorite companies for small group tours in Europe, and we’ve used them in many cities (including on this Paris food tour ).

While there are trade-offs to booking a full-day tour of Paris–the thrill of meandering aimlessly through the streets of St. Germain and being beholden to no one’s schedule but your own as you munch on a crepe in front of the Eiffel Tower would be hard to give up–there are benefits to a tour, too.

The biggest one is that thanks to a knowledgeable and efficient tour guide, Take Walks’ tour covers an enormous amount of ground–be prepared for sore feet but a very satisfying day if you sign up.

Book your Paris in a day tour today!

cafe in paris france getting ready to open for the day

Start at Notre Dame (though you can no longer go inside).

Located on Île de la Cité (one of the islands in the middle of the Seine, and the place where Paris was founded), there’s no better place to kick off your one day in Paris than at Notre Dame.

Iconic, beautiful, and centrally located, Notre Dame is an excellent starting point for any trip to Paris.

Sadly, after the awful fire at Notre Dame in April 2019 , the cathedral is closed to visitors.

We continue to recommend starting your one day in Paris here for a couple of reasons: Île de la Cité is still an incredibly central spot to start a day in Paris, and Notre Dame, though wounded, is still a beautiful structure.

View of the front of Notre Dame as of September 2019, after the April 2019 fire

As of December 2022, the area in front of and surrounding Notre Dame is closed to the public, and the damage from the fire is obvious from most angles (you can see lots of cranes if you look at the back of the building in particular).

Notre Dame is slated to reopen to visitors in 2024 , so fingers crossed we’ll all get to marvel at the interior of this Gothic beauty again soon!

For now, if you’d like to get the most “normal” view of Notre Dame possible at the moment as you start your one day in Paris, we recommend heading to the corner Rue de la Cite and Quai de Montebello , near the Pont de Coeurs , where you can photograph the tops of the towers and some of the front of the cathedral looking semi-normal.

The front view of the Notre Dame, though not flawless, is worth a look too.

The views of Notre Dame from a Seine river cruise are also lovely, but more on that in a bit.

view of the front of notre dame in 2022 with barrier in front

Stroll over to Shakespeare & Company.

5-minute walk from Notre Dame.

Just a short walk over the Seine from Notre Dame sits Shakespeare & Company, which is easily the most famous English-language bookstore in Paris.

Known as the haunt of Lost Generation writers like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, and later (in its current location), the gathering place of writers like Langston Hughes and Ray Bradbury, Shakespeare & Company has a storied history that includes many famous names, an eccentric owner or two, and even a closure during the Nazi occupation of France.

Today, Shakespeare & Company is stuffed with beautiful books and is worth visiting during even a one day trip to Paris.

Be sure to check out the view of Notre Dame through the second-floor window, say hello to the cat who lives upstairs, and purchase a book (they’ll stamp the title page with their seal at checkout, which makes for a wonderful Paris souvenir ).

Be sure to avoid taking photos inside–they are explicitly forbidden , so stick with admiring the books in real-time instead!

Grab a cup of coffee from a typical Parisian cafe.

Several gorgeous Parisian cafes are located within easy distance of Shakespeare & Company, and after an early start to your day in Paris, enjoying a traditional French breakfast is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city.

A few great options on or near Île de la Cité include Odette for something popular and photogenic, the cafe at Shakespeare & Company for surprisingly delicious and affordable options (their scones, while not typically French, are delightful).

For something iconic, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is an option for the late risers among us (though the cafe is extremely famous and photogenic, it also doesn’t open until noon).

For a less-famous but delightful option that we love, A. Lacroix Patisser offers wonderful drinks and pastries.

We’ve been eating there for years and love its cozy atmosphere and views of Notre Dame!

Kate Storm in a blue & white dress in front of Cafe Odette--consider coffee here during your one day in Paris!

Check out the oldest clock in Paris.

8-minute walk from Shakespeare & Company or Odette.

On the side of the Conciergerie, mere steps from the Seine and affixed to the Tour de l’Horloge, sits the oldest clock in Paris.

Installed in the 14th century, the clock is both functional and absolutely stunning.

It also only takes a quick moment to stop to admire its beauty on the way to Sainte-Chapelle.

Oldest clock in Paris located on the side of the Conciergerie. The clock is blue and gold, and definitely worth slowing down to take a peek at during any Paris itinerary!

Make your way to Sainte-Chapelle.

3-minute walk from Tour de l’Horloge.

Since visiting the interior of Notre Dame is no longer an option, you now have time during your mad dash through Paris in a day to tour the interior of Sainte-Chapelle, which is–in my totally biased opinion–one of the prettiest church interiors in the entire world.

Built in the 13th century to hold precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns that now typically lives at Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle’s magnificent upper chapel is home to soaring 15-meter walls that are made up almost entirely of stained glass.

And, as beautiful as it is, the sheer amount of stained glass becomes even more impressive when you realize that over 70% of it is original!

The lines do get long here, so we recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

Like many attractions around Paris, they’re available with no upcharge at all!

Book tickets to visit Sainte-Chapelle today!

Interior of the stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle when looking up from the altar, one of the prettiest places to photograph in Paris France

Head to the Luxembourg Gardens.

13-minute walk from Shakespeare & Company.

Home to the beautiful Luxembourg Palace, the Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect example of Paris’ iconic gardens.

Flowering and beautiful in the summer, it’s impossible to walk by during almost any kind of halfway-decent weather without seeing plenty of people gathered for a picnic, some gossip, or a quiet afternoon of reading.

Be sure to check the fountains for miniature sailboats in the summer: young Parisian children have a long tradition of playing with them there!

We have visited the Luxembourg Gardens in all seasons, and while each season has its pros and cons, summer is absolute magic.

Kate Storm in the blooming Luxembourgh Gardens in August, one of the best places to take photos in Paris

Make your way to the Louvre through Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

18+ minute-walk from the Luxembourg Gardens to the Louvre.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is widely considered to be one of the most iconically Parisian neighborhoods, and for good reason.

With its lovely buildings, shuttered windows, and wrought-iron balconies, St. Germain feels like quite the Parisian postcard.

It’s also a wonderful place to eat, which means that a stroll through St. Germain as you vaguely make your way toward the Louvre serves 3 purposes: enjoying a beautiful Parisian neighborhood, resting your feet during lunch, and making your way to your next destination!

We enjoyed eating at Eggs & Co. in St. Germain, and, though it isn’t technically lunch, Laduree (makers of some of the best-known French macarons) has a beautiful store here as well.

Technically a few blocks outside of St. Germain but still delicious, we also love our lunches at Le Prince Racine.

The walk from the Luxembourg Gardens to the Louvre is technically under 20 minutes, but depending on how much you want to meander around the neighborhood, it could take quite a bit longer!

Dive into the Louvre.

Giant, overwhelming, and incredibly iconic, no attempt to see Paris in one day could leave out the Louvre .

There’s absolutely no way you could possibly see it all–we’ve been several times for many hours each and still feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface!

W ith only one day in Paris to work with, strategy and prioritization will both be important to making the most of your time in the Louvre.

We recommend spending 2 hours here, more or less, depending on what time it is when you arrive and how quickly you have moved during your day in Paris so far (keep an eye on the time of sunset–you don’t want to miss seeing the Eiffel Tower before dark!).

S tart by heading directly to the piece or collection that is most important to you–maybe that’s the iconic Mona Lisa, maybe it’s the Venus di Milo, maybe it’s the Egyptian artifacts. Who knows!

Alternatively, if you’d like some structure and a timeline to your visit, consider booking a guided tour ( we loved this one , and this popular tour is a more traditional option).

Regardless of whether you choose to take a guided tour of the Louvre or not, like with Notre Dame, we absolutely recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket for the Louvre before arriving .

T he lines can be insane, and even with a skip-the-line ticket, you’ll still have security to worry about!

Book your guided tour or skip-the-line tickets to visit the Louvre today!

Pay a visit to the Palais Garnier.

17-minute walk from the Louvre.

One day in Paris definitely isn’t enough time to visit Versailles–but you can get a small taste of Parisian glitz and glamour at the Palais Garnier (also called the Opera Garnier) all the same!

Paris’ iconic opera house is gilded and stunning–the incredible Grand Foyer might just make you think you’ve stepped into a smaller version of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

While the interior of the theatre itself is a bit standard, the rest of the building, from the Grand Staircase to the Loggia, is truly remarkable.

And while there’s unlikely to be a phantom under the opera house, some of the legends connected to the famous story do hold true, including a deadly accident involving the famous chandelier in 1896 (though in the real story the counterweight, not the chandelier itself, fell to the ground).

Though the lines are not typically as long at the Palais Garnier as opposed to the Louvre and Notre Dame, we still recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets ahead of time at no additional cost to ensure your one day in Paris runs as smoothly as possible .

(The Palais Garnier is also right around the corner from the famous Galeries Lafayette, which boasts a beautiful, free view of Paris from its rooftop–if you have a bit of extra time to work with by this point in your Paris itinerary, consider making taking a quick detour).

Purchase your skip-the-line tickets for the Palais Garnier today!

hall of mirrors in palais garnier, one of the most romantic places in paris france

Head to the Trocadero Gardens and enjoy iconic Eiffel Tower views.

23 minutes from Palais Garnier via metro line 9.

No one day Paris is complete without enjoying an iconic view of the Eiffel Tower!

The Trocadero Gardens offer the best view of the Eiffel Tower in all of Paris–so grab a crepe from one of the nearby vendors (the prices are surprisingly reasonable to be right next to the Eiffel Tower) and get ready to soak in some beautiful views.

If you’d like to wander closer to the Eiffel Tower, feel free to make your way through the Trocadero Gardens, past both the carousels, across the Seine, and to the Eiffel Tower itself.

Sadly, increased security measures have recently been imposed that prohibit anyone from walking directly under the Eiffel Tower without a ticket to the top, but you can still get pretty close!

ranger storm sitting on a ledge overlooking the seine with the eiffel tower in the background during one perfect day in paris france

Wrap up your one day in Paris with a Seine river cruise.

To be perfectly honest, it took us many trips to Paris before we signed up for a Seine river cruise … and after taking one, we can’t believe that we waited so long!

Yes, they’re a bit touristy, but there’s nothing quite like admiring Paris and its many gorgeous monuments from the water.

Add in the possibility of a sunset, and the view is even better.

Many Seine river cruises leave from very close to the base of the Eiffel Tower, too, making taking one an easy addition to this one day Paris itinerary!

Want to splurge a bit for your first night in Paris?

You can even sign up for a full dinner cruise if a standard one-hour cruise doesn’t sound like quite enough time on the Seine.

Book your Seine river cruise today!

travelers admiring views of notre dame from a seine river cruise during a few days in paris france

In a city as large and dense as Paris, deciding where to stay (especially when you only have 24 hours in Paris to work with) can be quite daunting!

Paris is famously divided into 20 arrondissements , or neighborhoods, that are named via a number system that starts with 1 in the center of the city (where you’ll find the Louvre) and circles outward like the shell of a snail.

After roughly 10 trips to Paris, we’ve stayed in many neighborhoods spread across the city, from Montmartre ( we loved this aparthotel ) to the Bastille area (an underappreciated place to stay, and this hotel was wonderful ).

Second Trip to Paris: Books on Banks of the Seine

And, while everyone has their own opinions about where to stay in Paris (there’s no one right answer) we love and highly recommend Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement ) or the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement ) to travelers visiting Paris for the first time and frequently choose to stay there ourselves.

In these areas, you’ll be within walking distance of attractions like Île de la Cité (home of Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle), the Seine, the Luxembourg Garden, the Louvre, and many more.

Here are a few hotels we’ve personally stayed in and loved in the 5th and 6th, arranged more or less from most budget-friendly to most luxurious (though if it’s Parisian charm you’re after, this one is the clear winner).

kate storm in a red dress on rue de l'abreuvoir, one of the best places to visit in montmartre paris

Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain (Centrally Located & Cozy)

We love this cute boutique hotel in Paris, mostly because of its truly unbeatable location less than a 10-minute walk from Notre Dame and therefore an easy walk away from much of the attractions of Île de la Cité (and a metro stop, of course).

Despite the super central location, the streets outside were still quiet at night, a huge benefit, and the views during the day were lovely.

The customer service was excellent, the bed cozy, and the room, while still very small by global standards, was a bit roomy compared to what we’ve gotten used to in Paris.

We’d be happy to stay again!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain!

Photo of a Parisian Street looking out a window at Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain with red flowers in the foreground--this is a great pick if you're looking for somewhere to spend your weekend in Paris!

Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris (Classic Parisian Charm)

Located on a quiet street less than a block from the Seine and Île de la Cité, Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris offers all the advantages of a central location while maintaining its peace and quiet.

… and it does all that while still managing to have one of the most charming interiors we’ve experienced in a Paris hotel!

The ceilings, wallpaper, and overall decor never let you forget that you’re in the City of Light, and we loved every second.

The breakfast is also delicious, served at the table, and includes a generous selection of pastries as well as fruit, cheese, orange juice, coffee, and tea.

Check rates & book your stay at Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris!

interior of paris hotel room in st germain, one of the best places to stay during your first time in paris france

Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris (Modern Amenities + Kitchens on the Seine)

Located right on the Seine in one of the most convenient locations in Paris, the crisp and modern Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris offers ease at every turn.

And, that includes the fact that studios and apartments here include kitchens or kitchenettes!

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from sightseeing in Paris, a chance to enjoy an occasional dinner of cheese and baguette you picked up at the market, and a bit more elbow room than is traditional in the City of Light, this is the place for you.

We loved our stay here–and, thanks to the hotel being pet-friendly, so did Ranger.

Check rates & book your stay at Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris!

Honeymoon in Paris: Flowers near Notre Dame

Don’t let simple mistakes cost you time during your one day in Paris!

T hese Paris travel tips will help you make the most of your limited hours in the city!

Get started early.

We are the absolute opposite of early risers, but with one day in Paris, we would be amiss to suggest anything but an early start.

The earlier you start, the more time you can spend enjoying Parisian cafes, shops, and views, and the most ambitious among us may even want to squeeze in one more attraction or museum along the way.

Here are the best things to do in Paris if you’re looking for even more ideas on what to see in the city!

For those who like to stay out late and want to expand their one day Paris itinerary a bit further, here’s what to do in Paris at night .

Strategize your metro use.

For most of this itinerary for seeing Paris in a day, the best way to enjoy the city is on foot.

You’ll experience the neighborhoods, the sights, the cafes, and so much more on a different level by spending as much time on your feet as you can!

Fo r that reason, we’ve only suggested one metro ride in this guide to spending one day in Paris.

However, if your feet are killing you (even one day in Paris could mean many hours of walking), the weather is terrible, or you’re short on time, you can definitely consider adding more metro rides into this itinerary.

glass covered entrance of abbesses metro stop montmartre

Skip-the-line passes are your best friend.

Without planning in advance, one day in Paris during the popular summer months could easily mean spending your whole day in line!

Skip-the-line passes are absolutely the way to go in Paris–we use them ourselves whenever we visit–and often don’t cost even a penny extra!

Based on the itinerary sketched out here for one day in Paris, we recommend purchasing skip-the-lines passes for Sainte-Chapelle , the Louvre , and the Palais Garnier .

You’ll also want to book your Seine river cruise in advance to make sure you end up with the time slot you want.

Shop skip-the-line tickets for your day in Paris now!

Photo of a piece of the Eiffel Tower sticking out from behind a tree with a sun flare on the left of the screen

Embrace the weather.

Paris is a cloudy, rainy city–there’s just no getting around it.

For that reason, we recommend planning your one day in Paris expecting the weather to include thick clouds with the occasional rain shower.

That leaves you room to be pleasantly surprised with a beautiful day, but lowers the risk of disappointment with a dreary one.

kate storm with a pink umbrella in front of the opera house in paris in the rain

Regardless of what the weather is like when you arrive in Paris, try not to let it get you down–Paris is beautiful in the rain!

If you’re a museum buff who gets caught in the rain and wants to enjoy more art, the Musée de l’Orangerie is small, conveniently located for this itinerary, and one of our favorite museums in the city.

view of one corner of monet water lilies in musee d orangerie during a day in paris itinerary

Dress with Paris in mind.

Deciding what to wear for one day in Paris requires taking a few things into consideration–even for those who aren’t particularly concerned about fashion.

Be sure to wear comfortable clothes (especially shoes!) that are easy to wear for an entire day.

Shoes are by far the most important–if your feet are incredibly pained by noon, your one day in Paris won’t be nearly as fun as it could be.

We’d also recommend wearing something classically fashionable (think dark colors, flattering cuts, and simple lines)–this is Paris, after all, and you’ll want to look good in your photos!

kate storm and ranger storm in front of sacre coeur montmartre paris france

If you’re lucky enough to have more than one day in Paris, you have so much to look forward to!

With a little extra time–say an afternoon or a morning–consider adding on a visit to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysses, or a visit to the Musée d’Orsay .

To enjoy a different side of Paris, consider heading out to the gorgeous and wildly popular neighborhood of Montmartre , which is home to some of the most charming streets in the city (not to mention phenomenal views from the Sacré-Coeur).

If you have a few days in Paris, be sure to check out our detailed 3 day Paris itinerary to help you find the best sights.

Interior of Musee d'Orsay--if you love impressionist art, definitely add this place to your Paris travel budget!

We’ve intentionally structured this one day in Paris guide to include a lot of walking.

W alking directly between every attraction before heading to the Trocadero Gardens (we definitely recommend a metro there) will require about an hour of walking total, but that doesn’t include time spent on your feet in places like the Luxembourg Gardens and the Louvre.

Be prepared for sore feet after your day in Paris!

If you’d like to use the metro several times throughout the day instead of walking, consider purchasing a “carnet” of metro tickets–by buying 10 tickets at once, you save a little money.

Alternatively, if you’d like to avoid as much walking as possible, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour can help.

Paris in One Day: Souvenirs of Eiffel Tower

Coming from Charles de Gaulle Airport

To get into the center of Paris from the Charles de Gaulle airport, take the RER B line into the city.

I f you’re arriving in the morning ready to start your one day in Paris, you won’t even need to make any changes!

The Saint Michel – Notre Dame metro stop is on the same line, so you can jump on the train at the airport and get off right at Notre Dame.

Travel time is about 40 minutes, though I’d recommend allowing an hour for any delays.

One Day in Paris: Restaurant in Il de la Cite

Coming from Orly Airport

Coming from the Orly airport, you’ll follow almost the same directions as arriving from Charles de Gaulle.

T he only difference is that you’ll need to hop onto a train called the “Orlyval” first, which will take you over to pick up the RER B line.

The signs are very clear, so don’t worry–getting into the center of Paris is the goal of just about everyone arriving at the airport, so the directions are designed to be easy to follow.

Travel time is about 40 minutes, just like Charles de Gaulle, and I’d recommend allowing an hour for any delays here, as well.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

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Photo of the Eiffel Tower with Seine River in the foreground. White and pink text reads "How to See Paris in One Day"

About Kate Storm

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

36 thoughts on “The Perfect One Day in Paris Itinerary (How to See Paris in a Day!)”

I’m gonna be in Paris next week! Definitely doing this for one of the days I’m there

Jeremy y Kate Agradezco muchísimo vuestros consejos, es exactamente lo que necesitaba. Pienso que me serán de mucha ayuda. Mil gracias! Tania

Muchas gracias, Tania! Espero que tengas un viaje increíble a París!

I am planning to travel Europe for a month but was so concerned about time and making sure I was able to see the most of each place. This was so incredibly helpful! Thank you!

That’s so great to hear, Anna! Hope you have a fantastic time in both Paris and Europe as a whole!

Thanks for the great guide. Will be using it for my trip next month.

So glad to hear it helped! Hope you have a wonderful day in Paris. 🙂

Thank you!! Perfect itinerary. Got everything mapped and ready to go!!!

Have an amazing time, Debbie! 🙂

I will definitely be using this guide for this weekend – so helpful!! Thank you! We’re going for a weekend but I’m dying to see Versailles on sunday so I’m going to squeeze everything else on Saturday!

So glad we could help, Annie! Enjoy Paris–and Versailles! 😀

hey Kate, writing this after a long time after all the pandemic, but your post was so helpful for us to see Paris in 2 days before covid, we almost tried to go to each and every places as you suggested in the particular order and ended up having the best time in Paris, Thank you so much for your post and helping us out…….

So happy to hear this, thank you so much! Glad we could help! 🙂

Is it a problem having luggage on the metro from the airport to the hotel?

Definitely not! You’ll be in good company. 🙂

I’m a big time traveler and am planning a trip for my sister (I don’t have much time to organize it). Your report was wonderful!! So much better than I could have done. Thanks for making it seem good for everyone.

So glad we could help, Susan! Hope you and your sister have an amazing time in Paris. 🙂

I’m planning a trip for next year, hope we can enjoy most of the places listed. I love all your detail and links for references, save us a lot of time. This is a very useful blog, thanks!!

So happy you found it helpful, Anna! Hope you have a wonderful time in Paris. 🙂

Going to Paris in late July! This is very helpful. Will fly in and out on the same day, with approx 8-9 hours to see the city. Any recommended itinerary or changes based on this info or since the article was written?

It all depends on how fast you sightsee!

If you’re not a big museum person, you could skip the Louvre since you have such limited time and just take a stroll past the exterior.

Paris in a day! is looking possible and achievable now with your wonderful itinerary. It is so helpful for old couple like us. We intend to arrive at 9 am and return to London by 9 pm Euro rail. Can we purchase Hop on & Hop off bus tickets at the station or online? Does the bus stops at all the places you mentioned? We definitely want to visit all the attractions you mentioned in your blog. Do we have time for a river cruise? You saved us lots of planning and thank you.

So glad our itinerary helps! 🙂

You can purchase Hop on/Hop off tickets either online or in person (though I’m not sure exactly what stops you can buy them at in person). We tend to book everything online these days. There are a few different companies running similar tours, but with slightly different schedules/stops/prices, so it’s definitely worth comparing. They’re listed with Get Your Guide, the same company we linked for skip-the-line tickets in this post.

As for a Seine River Cruise, you may have to trim a stop or two to make it work, but there are 1-hour cruises and if you want to do one, there’s no reason you can’t fit it into your schedule!

Thank you for this info i am wanting to do as much as possible in 1 day in Paris. Most things we just want to see and photograph but Eiffel is a to the top place. Moulin Rouge is a stop, would love a show, but not sure about late night. the area up the hill Montmartre looks fascinating to us. see Notre Dame and Shakespeare bookstore. a river cruise would be lovely and to see Arc de Triomphe.. we are staying at DLP.and commuting to city so a long day walking is fine for the next day we come back to exit Paris from CDG to USA.

Hi Marlene,

I think you can easily fit in most of what you want, but definitely be open to cutting a few things based on time!

Mouline Rouge and Montmartre are the furthest away from the center, but if they’re a priority you can make it happen.

The Arc de Triomphe is a bit out of the way from everything else on your list, so I’d ask yourself how badly you want to see it. The view from the top is one of our favorites, but so is the view from the top of Sacre-Coeur in Montmartre.

Without the Arc de Triomphe, you have 3 distinct geographic areas on your list: Il de la Cite and nearby with Notre Dame/Shakespeare and Company, Eiffel Tower + river cruise (many leave from near the tower), and Montmartre + Moulin Rouge.

You’ll absolutely want to use the metro to get between those areas, especially going out to Montmartre and back!

Thank you for this itinerary. We are going to follow it exactly since we are just coming over from London for a day. Do you think we will manage all of these locations okay considering we are traveling alone and don’t speak any French?

Yes, definitely–you don’t need to speak any French to enjoy your day in Paris!

That being said, if you have time to at least learn basic greetings, it will be much appreciated (and may help you feel more at ease).

Thank you. You’re being so helpful I’d like to ask one more… working out our timeline to make the train back to London, I think we will have to choose between going inside the Louvre and doing the River cruise. What would you recommend? Thank you again!!

Personally, I’d definitely do the Louvre!

The river cruise is lovely and worth it if you have time, but the Louvre is one of the best museums in the world. No contest in my opinion. 🙂

Is your itinerary printable?

Sadly we don’t have a printable version yet, though we hope to make some in the future!

It seems that purchasing timed tickets directly from places like Versailles, Louvre, and Eiffel Tower are just as effective and less expensive than skip the line tours. Would you agree?

I think you’re conflating a couple of different things.

In Paris, timed entrance or skip-the-line tickets (separate from tours) can be booked in many places for the same price. Whether you purchase an entrance ticket (not tour) to those attractions through the website or through an authorized reseller like Get Your Guide, the price is the same. We like to use Get Your Guide for ease and also due to their generous cancellation policy, but if you prefer to go direct you of course can. It’s the same price either way.

Skip-the-line tours (not tickets) include a guide, and of course cost more than tickets do. Often, guided tours are able to skip more lines or ensure additional access than independent travelers have, though that varies based on the tour you book. Security lines generally can’t be skipped anywhere, for obvious reasons, though guided tours sometimes have access to dedicated ones for groups that are much shorter. Getting the lowest possible price isn’t the point in the case of a tour!

Thanks for the great suggestions! We just had a fun day visiting several of the places mentioned here. One note: at Sainte-Chapelle the security lines were still pretty long (20-30 mins) even with pre-purchased tickets. No lines with or without tickets at the Opera building though. Thanks!

So glad you guys had a great time!

One day in Toledo, the ultimate itinerary you need for an unforgettable visit

Right after the massive lockdown in Europe in 2020, I got to travel to Toledo for a day. At the time, my brother was studying there so I got to drive with him to pick up some of his stuff. Spending one day in Toledo was the perfect getaway albeit a bit far from Cadiz, where I am from. However, this one-day trip is one of the many things you can do if you are visiting Madrid since it’s only a 30-minute train ride or a 1.5 hour bus ride.

I didn’t do much planning which I regret because I lost some precious time. That’s why after my not-so-perfect day in Toledo, I decided I would put together the itinerary I would have loved to follow. This is what I ideally would have done, had I had a better grasp of things during my visit to Toledo.

Before you visit Toledo…

These are some things to consider before you spend one day in Toledo or in any place for that matter. Just a reminder to do some research before embarking on your adventure.

You will not have time to see everything

That’s a fact. The historic city of Toledo has been declared Unesco heritage and it has innumerable historical sites that exude history… And one day in Toledo is not enough. Think about the places that you absolutely cannot miss and build your itinerary on that.

I have put together a map with a suggested route, main attractions and other places of interest around the area so that you can visualise where everything stands. If there is anything you would like to visit and is not there, just add it to the map.

Research lesser-known things to do

Do some research to learn what other activities that line up with your hobbies you can do. For example, I knew I wanted to go to a lookout to out of the city to take awesome photos, visit the Jewish museum and do a guided city tour because I love learning a little about history. So before I started my day I made sure I had all that arranged and planned.

Think about things that you enjoy when you travel. History? Architecture? Photography? Food? Nature? Adventure sports? There is plenty to do in Toledo but if you do not research it you will miss out.

These are some cool things off the beaten path you can do in Toledo during the day: – City zip line over the river – Self-guided city tour through a city escape – Join a food tour – Nature hike along the Tagus river and up the Valley

You can totally have a fulfilling day in Toledo for free, minus food and beverages, of course. Here are a few choices on how you can spend your money wisely if you decide to do so and how to save a few euros.

Tourist bracelet

You can buy a tourist bracelet for 10 Euros, totally worth it if you are going to visit 4 or more of the monuments. Otherwise, each monument costs 3 euros each. The bracelet is valid for as long as you have it in your wrist so you can use it multiple days and you can totally reenter all the monuments. I think it is also worth it even if you are just staying one day in Toledo, because some spots don’t take very long to visit. Check here what monuments are included in the deal.

Free visits

Some museums, galleries and buildings will be free or at a reduced price on certain days of the week, especially during this “new normality”. Below, you will find more detailed information, but if you want an easy list of free monuments put together by a local tour operator click on this link (sorry, only in Spanish).

Well, they are not exactly free since you are expected to tip the guide. It is still cheaper than your average tour and quite informative. A few companies offer these services and you can make a reservation through here or show up in Plaza Zocodover and ask if you can join them.

Toledo is the perfect day trip if you are travelling to Madrid. There are so many things to do in Toledo that you might miss out on some cool things if you don't plan ahead. With this comprehensive itinerary you will be able to see all the tourist highlights in Toledo. It includes a few budget tips and a free map so that you don't waste any time. #spaintravelguide #traveltips #toledoitinerary

Perfect one day itinerary

Let me be clear before we start, there is no perfect itinerary. This is my version of a perfect day in Toledo here and now. Next year I may feel different about it and you now may feel different, too. Everybody likes different things to do, travels at different paces, have different budgets… There is no one size fits all. (By the way, I hate it when I see that label on clothing. It clearly doesn’t fit people my hight, how absurd!! Just say I didn’t want to bother making smaller sizes…)

Having said that, remember, this is just a guideline so that you don’t feel lost as I did.

Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo

How to get there : It depends on where you are staying
Why you should visit: The jewel of the crown in Toledo
Duration: 15 mins (outside), 1.5 – 2 hours (full visit)
Price: 10.50 Euros / 12.50 including bell tower and tapestry museum
Included in tourist bracelet: no
Discount: Sundays from 14 to 18.30h. free for Toledo locals, 2.50 euros for Spanish citizens and normal price for non-citizens.
Other points of interest in the area: Museum of Manchego cheese, Alcázar and Military Museum
Go to Mass at 9 am to listen to the service in the Hispanic-Mozarabic rite (as opposed to the Roman rite).
If you are interested in the Military Museum it’s better to visit it in the morning since this self walking tour will only lead you further from it.
Pro tip: I have recently read that visits to the Cathedral will soon be free Monday to Friday 8 to 9.30 am. The reason is that Unesco Heritage buildings should be free at least 4 times a month, someone pointed that out and they are studying the case. You can read the news in Spanish here .
Website: https://www.catedralprimada.es/en

Start your day in Toledo with a visit to the Cathedral

Santo Tomé Church

Distance from previous stop: 3 min. walk
How to get there : walk up on Cardenal Cisneros road following Camino el Salvador and Santo Tome road.
Why you should visit: This church from the 1400s holds the most important painting from El Greco, El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz .
Duration: 5 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
Price: 3 euros
Included in tourist bracelet: yes
Discount: free for Toledo locals (so this is probably a no for you)
El Salvador Church on Plaza de El Salvador (3 euros or free entry with tourist bracelet);
the narrowest street in Toledo, Callejón de la Soledad , a bit further up Santo Tomé street.
follow Paseo del Conde towards Mirador de San Cristóbal for a nice view of the most expensive cottages in Toledo, the Cigarrales .
Tip: if you don’t have the tourist bracelet and you are not interested in seeing the most famous painting by El Greco, you can either skip this spot if swap if for El Salvador Church.
Website: http://santotome.org/la-iglesia (Spanish only)

Transito Synagogue and Jewish museum

Distance from previous stop: 4 min. walk
How to get there : walk down the stairs and follow Reyes Católicos road.
Why you should visit:
Duration: 5 mins (outside), 45 mins (full visit)
Discount: 5 Euros including El Greco Museum, free on weekends from Saturdays at 14h and on the following dates: April 8th, May 18th, October 12th and December 6th. All of June and July 2020 is free, too.
Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, free with tourist bracelet
Tip: If you don’t want to pay extra, pick the Synagogue that makes the most sense to you. Both of them are very pretty inside, but the Transit Synagogue has a very interesting museum on Jewish history in Spain. Closed on Mondays.
Website: http://www.culturaydeporte.gob.es/msefardi/en/museo.html

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

Distance from previous stop: 5 min. walk
How to get there: continue on Reyes Católicos road
Why you should visit: It is one of the most beautiful Gothic-style temples in Spain.
Duration: 10 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
Discount: no
Palace of Cava (Dukes of Maqueda)
you can walk through the narrow streets of Jewish Quarters on your way to the Royal School of Noble Girls (included in tourist bracelet)
Tip: closed 14 -15h.
Website: https://toledomonumental.com/san-juan (Spanish only)

San Román Square

How to get there : continue on Reyes Católicos road
Why you should visit: San Román church, Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture and statue of Garcilaso de la Vega
Duration: 15 mins (outside), 30 mins (full visit including Museum)
Price: square stroll is free, Museum inside church 2 euros.
Included in tourist bracelet: no, but nearby attraction does
Discount: n/a
Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture inside San Román Church (cost of 2 euros, free on Wednesday afternoons, Sundays and on May 18th and 31st.)
follow one of the robbed alleys down to Padre Juan de Mariana square to visit the Jesuit Church. It’s free with the tourist bracelet and there is a nice viewpoint of Toledo Old Town from its tower.

A perfect day in Toledo walking along its narrow streets in the old town

San Vicente Square

Distance from previous stop: 2 min. walk
How to get there : follow the narrow street behind Garcilaso’s statue and turn right onto Esteban Illán road.
Why you should visit: San Vicente church is a repurposed church that serves as an exhibition hall in the present. If it is open you can check it out.
Duration: 10 mins (outside look)
Price: free
robbed alley with a gate
Alfileritos road, plenty of tapas bars
Our Sorrowful Mother (aka Our Lady of the Little Pins) shrine, with a very cool legend you can read here
Tip: If interested in the current exhibit at San Vicente, come right after the visit to the Cathedral and continue your self-guided tour counterclockwise. They are only open 10 to 14h.
Website: https://cultura.castillalamancha.es/patrimonio/catalogo-patrimonio-cultural/iglesia-de-san-vicente-de-toledo (Spanish only) Scroll all the way to the bottom and you will find current and future events on the bottom left corner.

Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

Duration: 5 mins. (outside), 15 mins max (full visit)
Gate of Valmadrón (cool photos with Mosque in the background and beautiful viewpoint)
Gate del Sol go there on your way to the next stop
Tip: closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Website: https://toledomonumental.com/cristo-luz

Puerta nueva de Bisagra (Bisagra Gate)

How to get there : go through Valmadrón Gate, and turn right whenever possible, then turn left on Real del Arrabal road and continue straight ahead.
Why you should visit: the biggest entrance gate to the old city of Toledo. Very impressive
Duration: 10 mins
Included in tourist bracelet: n/a
tourist information office nearby
Tip: if you feel like you can walk more, you can walk towards San Martín bridge on Paseo de Recaredo, a very pleasant walk if you are not too tired. Cross the bridge and find the bus stop that takes you to the Valley lookout.

Mirador del Valle

Distance by bus: around 15 minutes
How to get there : bus line L71, bus stop “Alfonso VI (Junto a Fuente)” on Paseo Merchán, near the tourist information office. Click here for timetables .
Why you should visit: greatest view of Toledo Old Town
Duration 15 mins or longer
Price: free/bus ticket 1.40 euros one way
Ermita del Valle (only Spanish)
you can hike up to the lookout if you feel energetic.
For best shots go in the early morning or before sunset
Have a drink at the nearby bar while you wait for the golden hour to take your perfect shot
Bus passes by every hour, for more accurate information, ask the bus driver
Buy a bus card for 5 euros at the bus station (Unauto office) with 7 trips automatically added. One way trip costs 0.64 cents if you do that.
When you get back, remember you can stop at San Martin Bridge, Puerta de la Bisagra and Plaza Zocodover, so that you don’t have to walk that much after such a long day.

San Martín Bridge or Alcázar

Distance from previous stop: 10 to 20 minutes
How to get there : hop on the bus on the same stop it left you at the lookout, stop either at San Martín Bridge stop to cross the bridge or Plaza Zocodover to see the Alcazar lit up at night.
Why you should visit: both are iconic spots in the city
Duration: 10 mins, just enough to cross the bridge or walk around the Alcázar
Discount: Military museum in Alcázar is currently free
Santa Cruz art gallery near Zocodover square
city outdoor escalator near Zocodover square
if you absolutely want to visit the Military Museum, head towards the Alcázar right after your visit to the Cathedral.
You can hop off the bus at the bridge ad then walk towards the Alcázar (30 mins)

Final thoughts

It takes a little over 2 hours to do the walking part of this itinerary excluding lunch stop, bus ride to the lookout and time inside premises. Your time at the lookout would add 1.5 hours to the itinerary, and if you decide to visit all the monuments and museums mentioned it would take between 3 and 4 hours. Altogether, the full itinerary would take over 8 hours to complete , which is a very dense and satisfying visit. In my opinion, this is a perfect itinerary to spend one day in Toledo.

Disclaimers:

This post has been written in July 2020 during what we commonly call ¨the new normality¨during the COVID crisis. Travel experiences during this period of time are very different from normal circumstances therefore:

some businesses, museums and other tourist attractions may not be open when you visit and opening times and rest days may change.
current free activities during the ¨new normality¨ may not be free in the future
Availability to enter certain places may vary depending on demand
websites attached are mostly in Spanish , but I think they are useful for you to check out the pictures and give you an idea of what the place looks like and if you are interested in going inside. Hopefully, google translate will help you out too.
You can check this Castilla La Mancha tourism website for extra info in English, but I have noticed that the prices are outdated.

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37 comments.

You are so right in that you can’t see it all. I had allocated a day but needed a lot more. I wish I had your itinerary as it is a good route to take and the timings are helpful. My favourite parts of Toledo were visiting the Transito Signagogue and some of the museums.

I wish i had done my homework before my trip :). Transito synagogue was one of my favourites too, Spanish Jewish history would be hardly known if it weren’t for places like Toledo or Córdoba.

I spent a short day only in Toledo and didn’t get to see half of the things on your itinerary. It is such a gorgeous city. I hope to go back and spend more time there. The tourist bracelet is such a good idea and well worth the 10 euros.

Had I planned better, i probably would have gone for the tourist bracelet, too.

I’ve wanted to visit Toledo for a while now! I hope to be able to go one day soon!

I hope you can visit soon! It’s a great city!

Toledo sounds so interesting to me. I would love to visit. I especially would love to see the El Greco paintings in the churches and museum. I agree that one day sounds to short on time. Thanks for all the great info!

You’re welcome! I am sure you would like Toledo!

What a gorgeous spot. I’m dying to go to Spain, I cannot wait for the pandemic to be over so I can go.

I know! Hopefully we can all travel soon 🙂

Wow, so many great stuff to do and see! I´ve never been in Toledo and have no idea what to expect! But it looks like a great place to stay for a couple of days and explore! Would love to do so one day!

I didn’t know much about Toledo before. I’ll need to take a drive there some time!

We had a three night stay in Madrid I decided to take a day trip on the train to Toledo. It was a gorgeous sunny day and we had a great day exploring the little couple the back streets. We found a fabulous little place for lunch away from the main tourist squares that served delicious Spanish food. We didn’t go in to any of the buildings because the architecture I’m just wondering around The street was enough for us I loved our day there

Love how organized this article is! I have never been to Spain, but definitely do want to do in the future. Great content! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Sounds like an amazing experience! This is a great location for a day trip and find less touristy things to do. Thanks so much for sharing

I have seen some lovely pictures of Teledo on Instagram and it looks like a gem place to visit. I like how you provided all the information for a day’s visit. I’m interested in the Architecture and like you said, planning ahead will save time on the day.

Toledo is one of my favourite cities in Spain to visit! Great article!

I have never been to Toledo, but I would love to especially after seeing the photo from the Mirador del Valle viewpoint.

Toledo is a really lovely city worth to visit. I have been there twice and every time I love it even more. So characteristic! Really great itinerary!

It looks like a charming place to visit… Love your article and can’t wait to check it out myself 🙂

Loved reading your post! I studied in abroad in Toledo so it takes me back to my semester there. I loved hiking up to the Mirador del Valle. It does offer a great view of the city.

My biggest problem is that I want to see everything. I make an impossible plan but in the end, it never works 🙁 Your plan is amazing! Thank you for sharing!

Toledo look like a great day trip to take! The view of the city is beautiful, you itinierary and all the details are great to plan a trip there! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing!! Toledo looks gorgeous. Spain is next on my list! Saving this post for later :)!!

Toledo looks like such a beautiful city to visit. I’d really love to visit the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, it looks amazing. Thank you for sharing.

The Monastery is beautiful! Hopefully, you can visit some time soon. 🙂

Great post! I love Spanish cities and can’t wait to be back in Spain. Toledo seems so worth it, will check it out next time!

i spent a day in Toledo years ago and didn’t get to half these places lol. There is so much to see there! I’d love to go back for an overnight trip, especially so I could walk around before all the tourist crowds show up.

I would totally recommend an overnight stay and walk on the empty streets of the city.

I lover Spain! I can’t wait to go back and will defiantly be going to Toledo when I Do!

Toledo looks like such a lovely place! I didn’t know much about it before reading your post! I think the tourist bracelet is a brilliant idea! What a great way to make the most of seeing the some of the wonderful attractions! Thanks for the great guide!

Wow! Such a detailed guide. I didn’t know there’s so much to do in Toledo and I hope to be able to check it out soon.

Adding in the walking tour to this itinerary is super helpful. I always like to have a guide to stick to when you only have a day to see it all. Great post and Toledo looks like a beautiful place to visit x

Toledo is one of the few Spanish cities I still haven’t made it to! It looks like there is loads to do – I’ll def plan to spend more than a day. And what a good deal the bracelet is – I don’t think I’ve ever seen one so cheap!

It really is a good deal, and yes, there is plenty to do and see in Toledo.

This post is a timely read as I am going to Spain at the end of May for 3 months and plan to do a day trip to Toledo from Madrid.

I hope the itinerary helps! It’s quite intense but if you are fast paces like me, you will enjoy it!

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Miles Russell, 15, shoots 2-over 74 in PGA TOUR debut at Rocket Mortgage Classic

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Miles Russell set two goals for his PGA TOUR debut at the Rocket Mortgage Classic this week: Have fun and learn something.

Russell was not satisfied with the end result of his first round, a 2-over 74, but he’s well on his way to meeting both goals.

“Today was a great day," Russell said. "I mean, for it to be the first, definitely wasn't quite what I was hoping for, but we live, we learn, we move on. Looking forward to tomorrow and hopefully tomorrow's going to be better.”

The 15-year-old showed glimpses of the promise that has other TOUR pros raving about his potential. Standing just 5-foot-7 and weighing 120 pounds, Russell striped his tee shot 305 yards on his opening hole, the 10th. He stuffed a wedge to 20 inches on the third hole — Russell’s 12th hole of the day — and converted the short putt for his first PGA TOUR birdie.

Miles Russell throws a dart with wedge and taps in birdie at Rocket Mortgage

The round also included plenty of learning opportunities. Russell bogeyed the 10th after his long drive, misfiring with the approach shot. Russell flared a wedge into the left bunker, short-siding himself to the tucked left pin. He played his bunker shot to 18 feet and missed the par putt. Russell made 10 consecutive pars from there, a mix of impressive up-and-downs and narrowly missed birdie putts.

Russell’s biggest blunder came on par-4 sixth, the hardest hole on the course. Russell drove his ball into the trees on the right. He attempted to hit the hero shot, working the ball left-to-right and low under the trees, but could not get it out of the rough. His second attempt landed on the green but ran into the back rough, and Russell failed to get up and down from there, leading to a double-bogey.

It would’ve been understandable for Russell to sulk into the clubhouse from there, but the teenager bounced back with a birdie on the par-5 seventh, nearly hitting the green with his second shot and converting a routine up-and-down for another birdie. Russell almost added another birdie at 17 but missed a 10-foot putt and settled for par. That positive momentum was stifled with a three-putt bogey on the par-3 ninth, Russell’s last hole of the day.

“I learned a lot,” Russell said. “Especially when you don't play your best, but then watch Pierceson (Coody) and Rico (Hoey), I mean, they grind it out and they shot a couple under. It's like that could have very easily been what I did, just didn't quite make enough putts and made a few unforced errors.”

What's in Miles Russell's bag?

He has peers to look to as validation, as well. Russell is the latest in a run of phenoms on the PGA TOUR this year. Kris Kim and Blades Brown , both 16, made the cut at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson and Myrtle Beach Classic, respectively.

Russell isn’t even the only young, talented phenom in the field. Amateurs Jackson Koivun, Luke Clanton and Ben James all received sponsor exemptions into the event. Koivun, the 19-year-old incoming Auburn sophomore and No. 2 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, shot even par. James, No. 3 in the WAGR, shot 2-under. Clanton, who helped Florida State reach the finals of the NCAA Championships and is fourth in the WAGR, shot 3-under.

Additionally, recently-turned-pro Neal Shipley shot 5-under 67. Shipley finished as the low amateur at the Masters and U.S. Open . He carded a top 10 in his professional debut last week on PGA TOUR Americas.

Serving Publix's special flavors, ice-cream truck ends 10-city summer tour in West Palm

With South Florida's hottest season officially underway, nothing quite says summer like the ice cream truck.

A nostalgic symbol of our youth, they're a reminder of carefree days spent outdoors. For many of us, just the sound of an ice cream truck's familiar jingle can transport you to those times when the biggest worry was choosing between a Klondike, Choco Taco, or Bombpop.

If novelty ice cream isn't your thing, however, Publix is delivering a different option.

Every year, Publix releases a new line of limited ice cream flavors just in time to celebrate the official start of summer and national ice cream month in July. The new ice cream options are currently available in stores now through August 30, sold in half-gallon containers.

Pub Sub tip: Little known sub sandwich upgrade at Publix deli counter is worth asking for

For the second year, the grocer also launched a Publix ice cream truck, which hits the streets in June, offering fans a sneak peek of the grocer's latest premium and limited-edition ice cream flavors.

That 10-city tour, will be capped right here in West Palm Beach.

On Sunday, July 7, the ice cream truck will pull into the Brightline Station in downtown and offer its limited-time ice creams alongside several longtime store brand flavors available by the scoop in a cup. At each stop, expect music, outdoor games, and a photo booth.

The Publix ice cream truck's summer road tour kicked-off in Nashville, Tennessee on June 19, and then made stops in Greenville, South Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia before making its way to Florida. It stopped in Jacksonville on June 27, Orlando, Lakeland and Tampa followed on consecutive days.

The tour will end in South Florida, where the truck will make its final two stops Saturday, July 6 and Sunday, July 7, in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.

Whether you want something rich and sweet, or bright and refreshing, Publix's latest line offers a flavor for almost every taste.

Publix's 2024 limited-edition ice cream flavors:

Lemon Berry Bliss (lemon crème flavored ice cream with lemonade flavored flakes and blueberry flavored swirls)

Marry Me Strawberry (strawberry ice cream with ribbons of strawberry sauce and studded with white chocolate flavored strawberry pecan bark)

Chocolate Cookie Quarry (chocolate ice cream with decadent chocolate cookie crumb swirls and chunks of flavored chocolate sandwich cookies)

Cold Brew Cookies & Crème (cold brew coffee ice cream with crème filled chocolate cookie pieces)

Coffee Almond Fudge (coffee ice cream with chocolate coffee ribbons and milk chocolate flavored coated almonds)

Caramel Turtle Cheesecake (cheesecake flavored ice cream swirled with flavored sea salt caramel, milk chocolate caramel turtles, and pecans)

Hula Hula Macadamia (whipped cream flavored ice cream with ribbons of caramel and macadamia brittle)

Buckeyes & Fudge (peanut butter ice cream loaded with chocolate-covered peanut butter buckeye candies and swirls of fudge).

Headed into the weekend, there is one other South Florida stop before the tour closes in West Palm Beach Sunday. That stop is on Las Olas Boulevard on Saturday.

The Publix Ice Cream Truck makes its final South Florida stops the weekend of July 6-7 in West Palm Beach; Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale: Saturday, July 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park at 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd.

West Palm Beach: Sunday, July 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Brightline station at 501 Evernia St., West Palm Beach.

Nicole Danna is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at [email protected]. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today .

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Hinako Shibuno Has Hole-In-One in Second Round of Dow Championship

Lpga professional ann bloomfield leading by example in life and golf.

Hinako Shibuno
Dow Championship
Tournament News

Major champion Hinako Shibuno made the second ace of the day on Friday at the Dow Championship, holing out on the par-3 18th hole during the second round in Midland, Mich.

Grace Kim got the hole-in-one party started in the morning wave, acing the par-3 7th hole from 145 yards with her 7-iron, the first hole-in-one of her life.

Shibuno then followed the Aussie’s lead, making her second career ace on the closing hole of Midland Country Club, a shot that helped her and her teammate Minami Katsu to a 9-under 61 in the four-ball format, propelling them inside the cut line after they opened with a 1-over 71 on Thursday.

“I was just shaking,” said Shibuno. “I had one at BMW in Korea two years ago. (This ace is my) second one on the LPGA.”

We couldn't leave you hanging 😉 So here's Hinako Shibuno's ace from Round ✌️ @wowowgolf | @dowchampionship pic.twitter.com/FxbPk7ivMn — LPGA (@LPGA) June 29, 2024

Shibuno’s partner Katsu was grateful that her teammate managed to hole out on 18 as it shifted the momentum of their round after the pair got off to a quiet start on their first eight holes of the day. “I was really happy about it,” Katsu said. “Until that time, we had a really tough time, and we missed a birdie putt by a little, so it made a change a lot.”

In honor of Shibuno’s ace, CME Group will donate $20,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as part of their season-long CME Group Cares Challenge – Score 1 for St. Jude.

The program is a charitable giving campaign that sees CME Group donate $20,000 for every hole-in-one made on the LPGA Tour each season with a minimum guaranteed donation of $500,000 to St. Jude's, which is leading the way in how the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and life-threatening diseases.

The 2019 AIG Women’s Open champion’s hole-in-one raises the 2024 donation total to $220,000. This is the second consecutive week that a hole-in-one has been made on the LPGA Tour, as Pajaree Anannarukarn holed out on the par-3 13th hole at last week’s KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at Sahalee Country Club.

The Dow Championship is just the second tournament this season at which there have been multiple holes-in-one. Three aces were recorded in April at the JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro by Jeongeun Lee5 (No. 18, R1), Alexa Pano (No. 12, R2) and Auston Kim (No. 18, R2).

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Tour de France 2024 stage-by-stage guide: Route maps and profiles for all 21 days

This year’s tour de france will take the peloton from florence to a time-trial finish in nice via some epic climbs in the pyrenees and the alps, article bookmarked.

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The 2024 Tour de France is a truly unique race beginning in Florence and ending – for the first time in its 121-year history – outside Paris .

This year’s Tour will wrap up without the usual procession to the Champs-Elysees, where security resources will be focused on the Paris Olympics starting five days later. Instead, organisers have opted to end the race with an individual time-trial in Nice, adding the possibility of the yellow jersey changing hands on a dramatic final day.

A map of the 2024 Tour de France route from Florence to Nice

Before that, riders face a typically gruelling challenge, with a hilly start in Italy before crossing to France where a perilous gravel stage awaits in Troyes. Week two leads the peloton south to the Pryenees and the monstrous Col du Tourmalet, before a series of days in the Alps including a particularly brutal stage 19 with a summit finish in Isola.

It all concludes in Nice on Sunday 21 July, where the race winner will be crowned.

Tour de France TV channel, highlights and how to watch every stage online

Stage 1: Florence to Rimini (hilly, 206km) | Saturday 29 June

The opening stage of the 2024 Tour de France will be a beautiful ride, starting with the Grand Depart on the banks of the Arno river in the centre of Florence before heading through Tuscany to the finish line on Italy’s east coast, on the beachfront of Rimini. The route also takes in San Marino, the Tour’s 13th country. But it will be tough on what is the most hilly first stage in the race’s history with 3,600m of climbing to conquer. It could be a day for Tadej Pogacar to immediately make his mark, or for an outstanding classics rider like Mathieu van der Poel to target, while young puncheurs like Ireland’s Ben Healy and Belgium’s Maxim Van Gils could be outside bets.

Stage 1: Romain Bardet shakes off peloton to finally claim yellow jersey

Stage 2: Cesenatico to Bologna, (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 30 June

The second day throws up a more gentle ride, though it still contains six categorised climbs to test the legs. The purest sprinters will get left behind but the small ascents are unlikely to put off the more hardy fast men, like Wout van Aert , who will like the look of the fast finish in Bologna.

Stage 2: Kevin Vauquelin earns debut win as Tadej Pogacar assumes yellow

Stage 3: Plaisance to Turin (flat, 231km) | Monday 1 July

The long third stage will be the first opportunity for a bunch sprint to the finish line. Expect Alpecin-Deceuninck to try and control the final kilometres in an effort to position Jasper Philipsen for the win, but there is a stacked list of sprinters ready to challenge him including Arnaud de Lie, Dylan Groenewegen, Sam Bennett, Wout van Aert and Mark Cavendish, chasing a record 35th stage win to finally eclipse the great Eddy Merckx.

Stage 3: Biniam Girmay makes history as first black African to win a Tour stage

Stage 4: Pinerolo to Valloire (mountainous, 140km) | Tuesday 2 July

A tough fourth stage takes the riders into France via a couple of testing category-two climbs and to the foot of the Col du Galibier – the first hors categorie ascent of the race. The gradient averages only 5.3% but at 23km long, it is a draining slog of a climb to the top and the strongest climbers will come to the fore. Expect some attacks among the big hitters like Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard as we get our first real sense of the battle for overall victory.

Stage 4: Tadej Pogacar makes statement with dominant win to regain yellow

Stage 5: Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas (flat, 177km) | Wednesday 3 July

The second sprint finish of this year’s Tour contains some small hills but nothing that should disrupt the power riders from reaching the finish near the front, where they will expect to battle for victory.

Stage 6: Macon to Dijon (flat, 163km) | Thursday 4 July

An even flatter day looks ripe for a bunch sprint on the streets of Dijon. One small categorised climb early in the stage precedes an intermediate sprint which might be targeted by those hunting the green jersey, and a breakaway will almost certainly then take to the front of the race. But it is likely to be caught by the sprinters’ teams before the finish as the peloton’s power riders fight for the stage win.

Stage 7: Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin, (ITT, 25km) | Friday 5 July

The first individual time-trial of this year’s Tour de France sweeps through thick forest before opening out into the picturesque vineyards of Burgundy. The only climb is the short Cote de Curtil-Vergy (1.6km at 6.1%), followed by a descent into Gevrey-Chambertin, and here Remco Evenepoel – the reigning time-trial world champion – will plan to take some time from his general classification rivals who are less adept against the clock.

Stage 8: Semur-en-Auxois to Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises (flat, 176km) | Saturday 6 July

It may be officially listed as a flat day, but stage eight contains five categorised climbs and plenty more undulation, along with an uphill drag to the finish which should be enough to shake out some of the pure sprinters from contention. This could be a bunch sprint, a day for the breakaway or even a bold solo attack if the situation presents itself for an opportunist near the front of the race.

Stage 9: Troyes to Troyes (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 7 July

The Tour de France takes on the gravel roads of the Champagne region to see out the first week, and the white dusty terrain could take down a few unfortunate victims. The 14 sections of gravel span 32km in all, and they are similar to the roads of the iconic Italian race, Strade-Bianche. The past winners of Strade-Bianche – Tom Pidcock, Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert and Tadej Pogacar – will fancy their chances here.

Rest day: Orleans | Monday 8 July

Stage 10: Orleans to Saint-Amand-Montrond (flat, 187km) | Tuesday 9 July

The Tour heads down to the centre of France, where on paper it is a nice-looking day for the sprinters, but they will need to stay alert to winds which could split the pack along this twisting route south to Saint-Amand-Montrond in the Loire Valley. A short, sharp climb 8km from the finish could be the launchpad for a brave attack, though the muscle men of the peloton will hope to fight it out against each other at the finish in Saint-Amand-Montrond.

Stage 11: Evaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran, (mountainous, 211km) | Wednesday 10 July

Six categorised climbs pepper a hard up-and-down day through the Massif Central. The third-from-last ascent is the toughest, the Puy Mary Pas de Peyrol (5.4km at 8.1%), with a painfully steep final 2km to conquer, and strong climbing legs will be needed to win the stage. A good day for a breakaway to escape and potentially stay away to the end.

Stage 12: Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, (flat, 204km) | Thursday 11 July

The ‘flat’ categorisation disguises the numerous small hills dotted through this picturesque route to Villeneuve which will drain legs if the pace is high. Expect a determined breakaway to make it difficult for those teams hoping to set up a bunch sprint at the finish – twice before, the day has been won by a rider in the breakaway here.

Stage 13: Agen to Pau, (flat, 165km) | Friday 12 July

Pau is a staple of the Tour de France over the years, acting as the gateway to the Pyrenees mountains. The hilly finish to the stage might slow down some of the pure sprinters but they will be determined to reel in a breakaway – especially if they failed to do so a day earlier, and with so much hard climbing to come.

Stage 14: Pau to Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d’Adet, (mountainous, 152km) | Saturday 13 July

The iconic Col du Tourmalet stands in the middle of this mountain stage, with the road peaking at 2,115m above sea level. The 19km climb averages 7.4% gradient and once it’s conquered, two more big climbs await including a summit finish at Pla d’Adet. The GC contenders will surely trade blows on this brutal day.

Stage 15: Loudenvielle to Plateau de Beille (mountainous, 198km) | Sunday 14 July

A nice relaxing weekend in the Pyrenees is rounded off with five climbs over a 200km route, all rated category one or harder. Expect fireworks among the yellow jersey contenders as they race to the finish atop Plateau de Beille.

Rest day: Gruissan | Monday 15 July

Stage 16: Gruissan to Nimes (flat, 189km) | Tuesday 16 July

This is the final chance for the sprinters to bag a stage before the road kicks up into the mountains once more. Those in contention for the win will need to keep their composure as roundabouts punctuate the long final strip into the line in Nimes.

Stage 17: Saint-Paul-Trois-Chateaux to Superdevoluy (mountainous, 178km) | Wednesday 17 July

The peloton reaches the Alps for a day that will be draining as the road tilts from the start. There are bonus seconds to be collected at the top of the category-one Col du Noyer, before a fast descent to a small summit finish which caps a tough second half to this stage.

Stage 18: Gap to Barcelonnette (hilly, 180km) | Thursday 18 July

A breakaway will certainly have a go at escaping up the road to clinch this stage, and they should be able to make it stick. The five official climbs are all category-three ascents which might mean some of the well-rounded sprinters, like Wout van Aert, can clamber over them and be a threat at the finish.

Stage 19: Embrun to Isola 2000 (mountainous, 145km) | Friday 19 July

Perhaps the most eye-catching stage when the 2014 route was unveiled was this one: three monstrous Alpine climbs, back to back, with a summit finish at Isola. The middle climb of the trio is the giant Cime de la Bonette (22.9km at 6.9%), the highest road in France at 2,802m. If the fight for the yellow jersey is still alive at this point in the race, this will be a thrilling stage for the story to unfold.

Stage 20: Nice to Col de la Couillole (mountainous, 133km) | Saturday 20 July

It may be a little shorter at only 133km, but this is another brutally tough mountain stage featuring four climbs and another summit finish, atop the Col de la Couillole, and it is another day when the yellow jersey could be won or lost.

Stage 21: Monaco to Nice (ITT, 34km) | Sunday 21 July

The race will finish without the usual procession through Paris and instead see the riders contest an individual time-trial from Monaco to Nice that could decide the outcome of the Tour. The last time-trial finale saw Greg Lemond pinch the yellow jersey on the Champs-Elysees, beating Laurent Fignon by eight seconds. This route is longer than the stage-seven time-trial, and a little more hilly too, so there is potential for some significant time gaps.

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My First Trip to Norway, With A.I. as a Guide

Can artificial intelligence devise a bucket-list vacation that checks all the boxes: culture, nature, hotels and transportation? Our reporter put three virtual assistants to the test.

A train rolls past a small, quaint red wooden building with a quiet road in front of it. In the distance are trees and snow-capped mountains.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

The assignment was clear: Test how well artificial intelligence could plan a trip to Norway, a place I’d never been. So I did none of my usual obsessive online research and instead asked three A.I. planners to create a four-day itinerary. None of them, alas, mentioned the saunas or the salmon.

Two assistants were, however, eager to learn more about me in order to tailor their initially generic recommendations, which they had spewed out within seconds. Vacay , a personalized travel planning tool, presented me with a list of questions, while Mindtrip , a new A.I. travel assistant, invited me to take a quiz. (ChatGPT, the third assistant, asked nothing.)

Vacay’s and Mindtrip’s questions were similar: Are you traveling solo? What’s your budget? Do you prefer hotels or Airbnbs? Would you rather explore the great outdoors or pursue a cultural experience?

Eventually, my chat sessions yielded what seemed like well-rounded itineraries, starting with one day in Oslo and moving on to the fjord region. Eventually, I locked down a trip that would combine the assistants’ information and go beyond a predictable list of sites.

This time around, my virtual planners were far more sophisticated than the simple ChatGPT interface I used last year on a trip to Milan. Though it offered more detailed suggestions for Norway, I ended up ditching ChatGPT in the travel-planning stage after it repeatedly crashed.

Vacay’s premium service, which starts at $9.99 per month, included in-depth suggestions and booking links, while Mindtrip, which is currently free, provided photos, Google reviews and maps. During the trip itself, each delivered instantaneous information by text and always asked if more specific details were needed. Sadly, only ChatGPT offered a phone app, whose information I found to be outdated (the $20-per-month premium version is more current).

I’m not alone when it comes to turning to A.I. for help: Around 70 percent of Americans are either using or planning to use A.I. for travel planning, according to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of the personal finance app Moneylion, while 71 percent said using A.I. would most likely be easier than planning trips on one’s own.

I decided to find out for myself in Norway.

A whirlwind day in Oslo

After I landed at Oslo Airport, all three assistants directed me to the Flytoget Airport Express Train , which got me to town in 20 minutes. I was delighted to find my hotel adjacent to the central railway station.

Choosing accommodations had not been easy. I was looking for a midrange boutique hotel, and the A.I. assistants generated many options with little overlap. I went with Hotel Amerikalinjen , Vacay’s recommendation, which it described as “a vibrant and unique boutique hotel in the heart of Oslo.” Its location was the main draw, but overall the hotel exceeded my expectations, blending comfort and style with the 20th-century charm of its building, which once housed the headquarters of the Norwegian America Line shipping company.

For the one-day Oslo itinerary, the assistants were in agreement, packing in the city’s top sights, including the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Royal Palace , the Nobel Peace Center, Akershus Fortress and the Munch Museum. I shared my location and asked each assistant to restructure the itineraries to start from my hotel. But when I gave in to my own research instincts and pulled up Google Maps, I saw that the order they suggested didn’t make sense, so I plotted my own path.

By the time I got to Frogner Park at midday, I had already covered half of the sights, and after walking past more than 200 sculptures by the Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, I was happy to sit down and admire his granite monolith of entwined humans.

For lunch, the assistants recommended high-end restaurants in the bustling waterfront neighborhood of Aker Brygge . But I wanted a quick bite in a more relaxed atmosphere, so I ditched A.I. and walked to the end of the promenade, where I stumbled upon the Salmon , a cozy establishment where I started with salmon sashimi that melted in my mouth and finished with a perfectly grilled fillet. How had my assistants not mentioned this place?

Next on my list was the Nobel Peace Center, the Opera House and the Munch Museum. The assistants had not recommended prebooking tickets, but fortunately, I had done so, learning, in the process, that the Peace Center was closed, a crucial bit of information that A.I. did not relay.

It was chilly for mid-June, and as I walked along the harbor promenade toward the Munch Museum, I spotted small floating saunas, which my assistants had not included. I went back to the ChatGPT phone app for recommendations. Even though I was eager to try a floating sauna, where people warmed themselves and then plunged straight into the frigid waters of the Oslofjord, I took ChatGPT’s suggestion and booked the Salt sauna, which is where I headed after spending a few hours at the Munch Museum, with its extensive works by the Norwegian artist and its sweeping views of Oslo’s harbor.

At the Salt cultural complex , a large pyramidal structure on the water, I was relieved that swimsuits were a requirement. In Scandinavia, saunas are usually taken naked , and earlier, I had asked ChatGPT for the etiquette at Salt, but it failed to give me a definitive answer. After sweating it out with around 30 strangers in Salt’s main sauna, I dipped into a cold-water barrel tub and then tried the smaller sauna options, which were hotter and quieter. It was the perfect ending to a long day.

Waterfalls, lush valleys, raging waters

Each of my assistants had different ideas on how to reach the fjord region. ChatGPT suggested taking a seven-hour train ride and then immediately embarking on a two-hour fjord cruise, which sounded exhausting. Mindtrip suggested taking a short flight to Bergen, known as the “gateway to the fjords,” and setting out on a cruise the next day, which was perhaps more efficient, but would also mean missing one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Vacay also recommended a train ride.

After conversing with the assistants, I decided on a shorter train journey (six hours) that would deliver me to Naeroyfjord , a UNESCO World Heritage site with lush valleys and thundering waterfalls. But to figure out the logistics for transport and accommodation, I needed live train timetables, which I found on my own, and information on hotel availability that none of the assistants had.

At this point, I was desperate for human guidance to navigate the region’s expensive and limited accommodations. This is where the pictures and reviews on Mindtrip were useful, helping me to understand that I would be paying premium prices for the spectacular setting of a mediocre hotel.

The train ride from Oslo to Myrdal was breathtaking: rolling hills, mountain villages, fjords, waterfalls. But nothing prepared me for the majestic one-hour Flam railway ride that followed. Vacay had described it as an “engineering marvel” with a breathtakingly steep descent as it passes picturesque villages, dramatic mountains, raging rivers and pounding waterfalls, complete with a dance performance featuring a mythological spirit known as a huldra.

The next morning I boarded a Naeroyfjord cruise, recommended by Vacay, on an electric, 400-person vessel. I was surprised by the serenity of the fjord. Later I learned from a tour guide that I had been lucky to visit when there were no large cruise ships. It was hard to imagine an ocean liner maneuvering through the narrow, windy fjord, but when I asked ChatGPT, it told me 150 to 220 cruise ships squeezed through the fjord each year, a detail that I felt the travel assistants should warn travelers about.

The cruise ended in the village of Gudvangen, where rain made me cancel a hike to a waterfall and instead try my hand at ax-throwing in the Viking Village Njardarheim. The assistants had told me that there were buses that left town every four hours, a time frame that had worked with my original hiking plan, but now I was stuck. Thankfully, I took note of the A.I. disclaimers to check all information and found an alternative shuttle bus.

On my way to Bergen, I decided to stop in the town of Voss, famous for extreme sports like skydiving and spectacular nature. All the A.I.-suggested hotels were booked, but a Google search led me to the lakeside Elva hotel , which had delicious farm-to-table food. I suspect it didn’t make the A.I. shortlist because it was new.

I ended my trip in Bergen, which, despite being Norway’s second-largest city, maintains a small-town charm with its colorful wooden houses and cobblestone streets. With only half a day to explore, I followed Mindtrip’s short itinerary, starting with a hearty lunch of fish and chips at the bustling waterfront fish market and ending with a funicular ride up Mount Floyen for panoramic views of the city and fjords. The A.I. dinner suggestion at the Colonialen was perfect: cozy vibe, live jazz and locally sourced dishes.

The bottom line

None of the A.I. programs were perfect, but they did complement one another, allowing me to streamline my travel decisions.

Overall, Mindtrip — with its polished, dynamic interface that allowed me to cross-check details with maps, links and reviews — was my favorite. While it gave some good recommendations, Mindtrip needed more prompting than Vacay, which offered a wider variety of suggestions in more detail. Unfortunately, Vacay doesn’t save chat history, which I discovered halfway into my planning after closing the website’s tab on my browser.

The biggest drawback was the absence of phone apps for Mindtrip and Vacay, which led me to rely on ChatGPT’s basic A.I. assistant when I needed on-the-spot guidance. Mindtrip, I’ve since learned, is planning to debut an app in September.

Still, there were times when I desperately craved the human touch. Before setting out on a trip, I always contact friends and colleagues for recommendations. This time, as part of the A.I. experiment, I refrained from reaching out to a Norwegian friend until after my trip, only to find out that we had both been in Oslo at the same time.

That’s one element of travel that I doubt A.I. will ever master: serendipity.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled: The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why those who signed up are seeking fraud charges instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’: People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise into “cast members” overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

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Hugh Grant Praises Taylor Swift’s ‘Incredible’ Eras Tour and ‘Excellent if Gigantic Boyfriend’ Travis Kelce: ‘Thanks So Much From One Ageing London Boy’

By Ellise Shafer

Ellise Shafer

Glastonbury Expectations vs. Reality: Underwhelming Headliners, Celebs Galore and Plenty of Hidden Gems 1 day ago
Ian McKellen Drops Out of ‘Player Kings’ National Tour ‘With the Greatest Reluctance’ After Fall 1 day ago
Michael J. Fox Joins Coldplay on Guitar During Glastonbury Headlining Set, Little Simz Makes Appearance to Debut New Song 3 days ago

Hugh Grant took to social media on Sunday to share his experience of attending Taylor Swift ‘s Eras Tour in London, calling the show “incredible.” The actor also implied that he did tequila shots with Swift’s “excellent if gigantic” boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce.

In a post on X , Grant said: “Dear @taylorswift13, You have an incredible show, an amazing and v hospitable team and excellent if gigantic boyfriend (#tequilashots.). Thanks so much from one ageing London boy, wife and thrilled 8 year old #halfgirlhalfbracelet.”

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1 Day in NYC: Must-do's for First-timers + Interactive Map
Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan. In my opinion, your one-day NYC itinerary should absolutely include the 9/11 Memorial. It's one of my favorite free things to do in New York City . The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States.
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In less than 10 minutes, you'll unearth the next stop on your 24-hour Boston trip, Faneuil Hall Marketplace. This 18th-century marketplace & meeting hall is one of Boston's most important historical spots. Fanueil Hall Marketplace wasn't just the site of one of Boston's first public markets.
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1 Day in NYC: Must-do’s for First-timers + Interactive Map

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One day in New York itinerary

Statue of Liberty

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

Lunch options: where to eat

Empire State Building

Times Square

Rockefeller Center

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One Day in Las Vegas Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Las Vegas, Nevada

Plan your trip

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAS VEGAS?

A FEW FACTS ABOUT LAS VEGAS

ONE DAY IN LAS VEGAS ITINERARY

Start Your Trip at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Move on to the Neon Museum

Explore Fremont Street

Visit the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum

Take in the Sights Along the Las Vegas Strip

Grab a Bite to Eat

Tour the City’s Theme Hotels on the Strip

Treat Yourself to a Gondola Ride

Climb the Stratosphere Tower

VISIT THE BEST VEGAS FREE SHOWS

Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Check out the Free Mermaid Show at the Silverton Hotel and Casino

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS

For a Regular Night Out, Consider One of These Clubs

Consider these Las Vegas Adults Only Shows

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS?

Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas

The Signature at MGM Grand

Club Wyndham Grand Desert

Hampton Inn & Suites Las Vegas South

DAY TRIPS FROM LAS VEGAS

Grand Canyon 4-in-1 Helicopter Tour

Grand Canyon West Rim and Hoover Dam Tour

Los Angeles and Hollywood Day Trip from Las Vegas

Emerald Cave

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING LAS VEGAS

PIN FOR LATER!

Make sure you have everything you need

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One Day in Philadelphia

Breakfast at the Bourse Food Hall

Visit the Liberty Bell

Independence Hall

Carpenters’ Hall

Museum of the American Revolution

Lunch at Spruce Street Harbor Park

Magic Gardens

The Italian Market

Dinner at Zahav

Nightcap at Bok Bar

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One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC

Arrive Early

Begin Your One Day Tour on Capitol Hill

Go to the Smithsonian

Take a Peek at the White House

Visit the National Memorials

Dinner in Georgetown

BEST of Milan in One Day (Most Complete Itinerary & Map)

Piazza del Duomo & Duomo Terraces

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

La Scala Opera

Brera & Braidense National Library

Sforzesco Castle & Sempione Park