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Top 10 Day Trips From Manchester

Ever find yourself aching for a change of scenery from Manchester’s seemingly never-ending concrete? Well, I’ve got you covered. These day trips from Manchester are just a short distance away from the city, but you’ll feel half a world away!

Manchester’s surroundings are a gold mine of rugged countryside, historic towns, world-class cities, and even the seaside!

And it’s no problem if you don’t have a car. The majority of the day trips from Manchester on this list are accessible by train or bus, so you don’t even need to stress about getting behind the wheel.

Let’s get started.

Liverpool

The Many Sights of Liverpool

At just a 45-minute train ride away from Manchester, Liverpool is the obvious choice for one of the best day trips from Manchester.

There’s so much to see and do here that you won’t know where to start! Obviously, Liverpool is the home of the Beatles, so exploring Liverpool’s Beatles sights on a Beatles tour is an unmissable experience.

For first-timers and casual fans, hop aboard the bright yellow and blue Magical Mystery Tour bus for an unforgettable 2-hour Beatles crash course! You’ll get to check out all of the top sights like Penny Lane, John Lennon’s House and Strawberry Fields.

Another great thing to do in Liverpool is to wander around the Albert Dock, where the old warehouses now burst with a tonne of fascinating museums, bars and restaurants. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

Wandering further along the water, you’ll come across the Museum of Liverpool, which documents the city’s past from its origins to the present day (including all the music and football trivia you could ask for). What’s more, it’s free!

Round off your day trip to Liverpool with a night out on Mathew Street. It’s the liveliest part of the city, where you can dance the night away to live music every night of the week.

London

London Skyline

Yes, you read that right. London is a day trip from Manchester. Who would’ve thought, right? With just a two-hour train journey, you can be in the beating heart of the capital. It’s true that things in London cost more than in Manchester, but if you’re only in the city for a day it won’t be a huge problem.

Standing regally at the city’s core is Buckingham Palace, the royal residence of the monarch. If you time it right, you can even catch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. A short walk away, you’ll find the sprawling expanse of the Royal Parks – including St. James’s and Hyde Park. They’re some of the most stunning places in the city!

No visit to London is complete without capturing that postcard-perfect shot of Tower Bridge. With its iconic blue and white facade, this iconic landmark is a must-see whilst you’re in London, and you won’t be able to resist popping into the nearby Tower of London to get a taste of the oldest building in the city.

For foodies, Borough Market is pure heaven. You’ll find everything here – from fresh produce to home-baked goods, mouth-watering street food, and some of the best coffee ever!

Art enthusiasts can take a detour to the Tate Modern. This former power station, now a world-class art museum, houses masterpieces by artists like Picasso, Hockney, and Warhol. And the best part? Entry to the permanent collections is free!

Chester

The Mediaeval town of Chester, England

Just an hour away by train from Manchester, the ancient city of Chester will transport you back in time. Its beautifully preserved Roman walls circle the city, and the best way to kick off your day trip from Manchester is by walking along it, checking out the sheer beauty of the city and making you feel as though you’re retracing the steps of Roman centurions.

An iconic feature of Chester, The Rows, are a must-visit. These unique mediaeval two-tiered galleries are not just architectural wonders, but they also house quirky boutiques and cafes. This is the most fun and unique place to shop in the city.

On the hunt for designer deals? One of the top reasons people visit Chester on day trips from Manchester is for Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet. It’s easy to get to from the city centre, too – just a short, direct bus. This shopping centre boasts a whole host of luxury brands at discounted prices. It’s every bargain hunter’s dream.

If it’s a sunny day, there’s no lovelier way to pass an afternoon in Chester than on a sightseeing boat tour of the River Dee. You’ll drift past some of the city’s most historic landmarks, as well as its most beautiful spots.

Blackpool

Blackpool Tower and the coast

Just a stone’s throw away from Manchester, Blackpool is jam-packed full of quintessential British seaside charm. It’s fun, it’s tacky, it’s cheap, and it’s by the sea. What more could you want? In a mere 75-minute train ride, you’ll be at the seaside – a far cry from Manchester!

The majestic Blackpool Tower is an icon on the Lancashire skyline and an absolutely beloved symbol of Blackpool’s history. You’re able to visit the top and stand on a glass platform (if you’re brave!) for a panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s a must-do whilst you’re in Blackpool.

For adrenaline junkies, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the best theme parks near Manchester and promises a day of heart-pounding excitement. The star attraction, the Big One rollercoaster, towers 235 feet over the park and offers a thrill ride that’ll have you gripping the edges of your seat.

Stroll down to Blackpool’s iconic piers for a solid dose of history and entertainment. These structures harmoniously blend old-world charm with modern-day attractions. From vintage carousels to modern rides, and plenty of old and new arcade games, there’s fun to be had by everyone here.

But what’s a visit to the seaside without ice cream? Head over to Notarianni’s for some of the best ice cream in Blackpool. This traditional ice cream shop has been passed down through the family, so you’re guaranteed fabulous ice cream made with the family recipe.

York

York Minster from the Lendal Bridge

York, a city that feels like time forgot, is just a two-hour direct train ride from Manchester, making it perfect for a day trip. Stepping off the train, you’ll instantly be transported to a place where the mediaeval and the modern coexist harmoniously.

The imposing York Minster, with its intricate Gothic architecture, dominates the city’s skyline. You’ll want to step inside to witness the sunlight as it streams through the stunning stained-glass windows.

For a deep dive into the city’s Viking past, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a treasure trove – and well worth the fairly hefty price tag. Interactive displays and immersive experiences transport you to a time when Norse settlers walked these very streets.

Speaking of streets, no visit to York is complete without wandering through The Shambles. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings and cobbled pathways, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped onto the set of a Harry Potter film. It’s even rumoured that this street was the influence behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

Wind down your historical day out with a leisurely stroll along the River Ouse, watching rowers race one another along the water. It’s one of the most peaceful places in York, and on a sunny day, there’s no better place to be.

Leeds

Leeds Market

A swift hour-long train journey from Manchester will bring you to Leeds, a city not too dissimilar from Manchester but that still offers a whole lot of fun.

Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the top places to devour epic food in the city and stands as a testament to the city’s history. Pushing your way through its busy aisles, the chatter of traders and the aroma of fresh produce will take you back in time. This is far more exciting than modern-day grocery shops!

The city’s Victorian grandeur is evident in every brick and beam, but it’s arguably most apparent at its many shopping arcades. Just look up and let the intricate facades and ornate detailing and you’ll feel like a very sophisticated shopper indeed.

For art aficionados, Leeds has plenty of galleries, but the best is Leeds Art Gallery, where you’ll find all sorts of art, from huge paintings completed hundreds of years ago to modern sculptures completed just a few months ago.

If you’re a student, or fancy heading to Leeds on day trips from Manchester to party, you really can’t miss the Otley Run. This epic pub crawl is a rite of passage for students in Leeds, and a whole load of fun to participate in, or just to spectate. Costumes are pretty common, so it’s entertaining to just sit back and watch the craziness unfold.

Hebden Bridge

Just a 45-minute train hop from Manchester, Hebden Bridge is the perfect escape from the city if you’re looking for countryside and hiking. This quaint town, nestled within the Calder Valley, is a bohemian wonderland where everybody is welcome to be themselves and express their creativity.

Begin your day out in Hebden Bridge by exploring its many independent shops, each brimming with arty finds, from handcrafted jewellery to one-of-a-kind antiques.

For those with a penchant for nature, the town is crisscrossed with scenic trails. An easy walk is to simply follow the path of the Rochdale Canal, watching narrowboats drift lazily by. For a more invigorating hike, trek up to Heptonstall. This picturesque village, perched above Hebden Bridge, is where famous author Sylvia Plath is buried, and it’s really old-fashioned.

For a more traditional hike, the walk to Hardcastle Crags is another must-do. It’s one of the best walks near Manchester! Visiting Hebden Bridge on a day trip from Manchester is the perfect escape from city living.

Edale

Edale Church

Just an hour away from Manchester by train lies Edale, a gem in the heart of the Peak District. This is another one of the many brilliant day trips from Manchester by train for hikers. As the gateway to the famed Pennine Way, this tranquil village serves as the perfect starting point for all sorts of adventures on foot.

Hikers flock to Edale for its unparalleled trails that weave through valleys and ascend rugged peaks. And when every step you take is accompanied by the soundtrack of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves, you’ll understand why so many hikers head here on days out from Manchester.

If you’re up for a challenge, the Kinder Scout trail is perfect for you. As you make your way up this iconic peak, the terrain will vary, keeping even the most seasoned hikers on their toes. The climb is worth every bead of sweat, though. Standing at the top of Kinder Scout, the world stretches out beneath you in a panorama of rolling green and endless sky. This is worth leaving the city for!

But Edale is not just for the ambitious and energetic among us. Gentle walks alongside babbling brooks or through flower-laden meadows are also on offer, and you won’t have to look far to find them.

Lake District – Day Trips from Manchester for Nature Lovers

The Lake District

Venture a little beyond Manchester’s borders, and you’ll be greeted by the wonderful Lake District. With a journey to Oxenholme taking just over an hour, followed by a quick hop to Windermere on a local service, the Lakes are surprisingly accessible by train.

This huge national park boasts shimmering lakes, rugged fells, and picturesque towns, each with its own charm. And while public transport will get you far enough for a day trip from Manchester, to truly uncover the beauty of the Lakes, it really is best if you have a car.

Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, is the obvious starting point for your Lake District adventure. Hiring a rowboat here is the best way to fall in love with the lake and get away from the crowds during summer.

If you’re a book lover, you’re going to love the town of Grasmere. Here, you’ll get to wander in the footsteps of Wordsworth, checking out the same landscapes that inspired his verses.

Got your hiking boots ready? Then tackle the Helvellyn via Striding Edge Ridge hike, an 8-mile circular route offering some of the best views the Lakes has to offer.

Conwy

Conwy Castle

If you’re willing to venture slightly further afield, heading to Conwy in Wales is well worth the effort. Plus, with the direct train from Manchester taking just 2 hours, it’s really not all that much hassle.

Dominating the town’s skyline is Conwy Castle. With its imposing towers and battlements, this UNESCO World Heritage Site shows off centuries of Welsh history and is absolutely brilliant to visit.

Adding to Conwy’s mediaeval charm is its well-preserved town wall. A stroll along these ancient fortifications is the best way to get a birds-eye view of the city and soak it all in.

Fancy checking out some quirky sights? Conwy won’t disappoint. The smallest house in Britain is a fun and kitschy find, with its bright red facade making it the perfect photo opportunity.

May 4, 2025

The Best Long Distance Hikes in Ireland

Off the Beaten Path

Are you planning a trip to Ireland in the near future? If so, you should consider adding one of the many long-distance hikes in Ireland to your bucket list.

The best time to go hiking in Ireland is between May and October, as temperatures are slightly warmer, and you can enjoy pleasant weather during your hike. However, it’s important that you pack the right gear, should random rainfall occur.

Many of the long-distance backpacking trails in Ireland will allow you to enjoy Ireland off the beaten path. During a hike, you may come across quaint villages which are definitely not on the average tourist’s radar.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Ireland, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in Ireland, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

There is a wide range of long-distance hikes in Ireland, where you can either camp along the way or find accommodation in the middle of your chosen route. As there are so many long-distance hiking trails to select from in Ireland, we have narrowed down some of the best treks available to explore.

1. Kerry Way (214 km)

Torc Waterfall which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park.

Torc Waterfall in the Killarney National Park

Kerry Way is one of the longest signposted hiking trails in Ireland which begins and ends in Killarney, a popular coastal town in the Republic of Ireland. Killarney is known for its brightly coloured 19th-century architecture, including St Mary’s Cathedral.

This hiking trail is a circular route that typically takes around 7 to 10 days to complete. Despite the length of the hike, it is a fairly easy route that is accessible to all levels. Although the terrain does differ, with everything from sturdy tarmac roads to boggy national parkland and farm areas.

Along the way, you will discover interesting castle ruins and ancient Celtic monuments, as well as stunning mountain landscapes. At the start of the hike, you can also enjoy the beautiful Torc Waterfall, which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park.

2. The Wicklow Way (128 km)

Wicklow Mountains National Park along the Wicklow Way - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

The J. B. Malone memorial above Lough Tay in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

The Wicklow Way is one of the most challenging backpacking trails in Ireland. The trail takes around 7 days in total, starting in the Dublin suburb of Rathfarnham and crossing 26 peaks throughout Dublin and the Wicklow mountains. The hiking trail ends in the small village of Clonegal in County Carlow.

The most popular route along the Wicklow Way is the north to south route, however, you can also take the south to the north route if you wish to start on low terrain and work your way up.

Whatever route you take, you will be able to enjoy a wide range of sights including Marlay Park, Fairy Castle, the Powerscourt waterfall, the peaks of Djouce, and more.

3. The Irish segment of the E8 Long Distance Trail (650 km)

Walk the start of the E8 Long-Distance Trail - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

Walk the westernmost portion of the E8 Long-Distance Trail in Ireland

The E8 trail was established as Europe’s first long-distance hike, and it starts in Ireland in Cork’s Dursey Island – the westernmost tip of Europe. The whole trail stretches to Istanbul, Turkey, although the Irish section begins at Dursey Island and ends in Dublin City.

Part of the route overlaps with some of the best long-distance hikes in Ireland including the Wicklow Way, the Kerry Way, the South Leinster Way, and the Blackwater Way.

The Irish segment of the E8 trail goes from coast to coast and allows you to see all of rural Ireland including the bogs, mountains, windy country roads, old castles, and even ancient burial sites.

4. Dingle Way (183 km)

Cliffs along the Dingle Way towards Slea Head

Ireland’s Dingle Way is a circular backpacking trail that covers the Dingle Peninsula and takes around 6 to 8 days to complete. This is an easy to moderate walk with well-maintained terrain throughout.

The Dingle Way starts and ends in Tralee, in the South-west county of Kerry. Tralee is known for its yearly Rose of Tralee International Festival, which is held every August. This is a contest that celebrates Irish women all over the world.

The Dingle Way offers stunning views of beautiful beaches, lively towns, and mountains. When you get to the foot of Mount Bradon, the difficulty of the trail increases, however, it’s nothing the average hiker can’t handle.

5. The Beara Way (206 km)

Beara Peninsula countryside on the Beara Way

The Beara Way is a circular long-distance hike in Ireland that begins and ends in Glengarriff, a tiny village in the Beara Peninsula of County Cork. It takes about 8 to 12 days to complete the entire backpacking trail, however, you can start the hike at various points.

Most of the backpacking trail is dry, there are parts of the walk that are boggy, so it’s advised that you bring waterproof shoes. There are also various steep climbs and rough terrain, so it’s important you stay focused while you walk.

During the walk, you will come across spectacular Atlantic views, as well as plenty of wild mountainous land. You will also have the pleasure of visiting Bere Island during the trail, where you will find historic military buildings, plenty of heritage, and even the opportunity to go whale watching.

The collection of long-distance hikes in Ireland does not stop here, as there are plenty more backpacking trails and sights to explore on The Emerald Isle.

For more facts on travel in Ireland, take a look at our Backpacking Ireland guide, which uncovers everything you need to know about Ireland including where to stay. It also discusses things to do while you are there, as well as Republic of Ireland visa requirements and work permit information.

May 2, 2025

5 Days in Malta – A Guide to See it All

Perfect Itineraries

Malta is an oft-overlooked vacation destination in Europe. But if you can find an affordable flight, it usually offers warmer weather than the rest of the continent and can make for a perfect 5-day trip.

Read on to see our recommended things to see during 5 days in Malta. In order to see it all, we’d really recommend staying 2 days near Valetta, and 3 days on the island of Gozo, which we found to be even more charming than the larger island. We hope you have a great time!

Arriving in Malta

Malta is small, and the airport is very close to everywhere you might need to go. We landed in the evening and decided to take a cab to our hotel, the Grand Excelsior, just outside the city walls of Valetta. Cabs are generally reliable in Malta, it should be a flat rate to get from the airport to anywhere near Valetta.

Valetta

The colorful balconies of Malta

We spent the first 2 days near Valetta, and we found 2 days to be plenty of time. Honestly, Valetta is so small that you can’t go wrong. Take some time to just wander around the streets. You’ll find it easy to get your bearings and there’s no way you can get lost. We loved wandering around and admiring the different colors of the gallarija – the distinctive Maltese balconies that you’ll see all over the island. Here are some other things you can do in Valetta.

Upper and Lower Barakka Gardens

The Upper Barakka Gardens in Valetta

Well-maintained park giving you a great view over the harbors.

Valetta Harbor Tour

Malta’s historical significance primarily comes from the fact that it can be used as one huge harbor in the middle of the Mediterranean. There are tons of other cities that have popped up around Valetta which each have their own character. Taking a harbor tour will give you the best view of Valetta from the water, and is the best way to take in the cities around the huge harbor. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate with us and our tour was cancelled and refunded, so we’ll just have to go back one day!

Skip it! Hop-on, Hop-off bus

We decided to do this, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Outside of Valetta, the highlight of Malta is the walled city of Mdina, so you would be better off either taking a bus or car directly there. The rest of the stops on the hop-on, hop-off bus seemed like tourist traps to me.

Plus, nearly everyone got off at Mdina to spend a few hours, which means everyone wanted to re-board from Mdina all at once at the end of the day. We ended up waiting HOURS to get back on the hop-on hop-off bus, since there were just too many people. You would probably be better served getting a tour that takes you directly to the highlights. I found one on Get Your Guide that takes you to Mdina, Rabat, and the San Anton Gardens.

Mdina

Discover the enchanting courtyards in the city of Mdina

If you are smart enough to avoid the hop-on, hop-off bus tour, Mdina itself is well-worth a visit when you’re in Malta for 5 days. It’s the original capital of the island, and sits atop a hill giving it stunning views across the island of Malta and over the sea. Our favorite part of Mdina was just wandering the maze of alleyways, discovering charming courtyards. Plan to have lunch there and pop into the Mdina Cathedral with its brightly colored floor tiles.

Gozo

We ended up splitting our trip between staying near Valetta, and staying in Xlendi on the island of Gozo. There is a passenger and car ferry that runs regularly between Malta and Gozo which departs at Ċirkewwa. I personally preferred our time on Gozo better. We had a rental car, which made it easy to explore Gozo in 2-3 days. If you don’t have a rental car, you can book a jeep day tour that will take you to all the highlights on Gozo.

Gozo is a little less crowded and a little more untouched than Malta. It’s easy to get around Gozo as well since it’s so small. You can do Gozo as a day trip from Malta, but we liked staying overnight on the island to really soak in the atmosphere. Here’s what we did:

Xlendi Tower

We were lucky enough to be staying in Xlendi, making this an easy walk. But even if you are staying elsewhere on Gozo, I’d recommend visiting the tower. Not only will you see a great view of the coast, but there are ancient salt pans, where inhabitants of the island harvested sea salt. From Xlendi Tower, you can walk along the coast where you’ll see even more amazing views.

Ggantija

Ggantija Temples near Xaghra on the island of Gozo

The Neolithic Temple is well-worth a visit. It’s a little hard to find, google maps will lead you astray – just follow the signs posted around town. It’s 3600-year old temple that is even older than the pyramids! The incredible thing is that it’s made up of massive limestone pieces that were somehow transported from the coast. Even today, archaeologists aren’t sure about how the ancient people accomplished this amazing feat.

Victoria on Gozo

Malta is known for having a strong Easter tradition, and we were lucky enough to be in Malta for Holy Week. Throughout the week, there are processions, prayers, art exhibits, and more. We ended up going to Victoria for the Easter Sunday parade. The streets leading up to the cathedral were filled with people and the locals paraded around a statue of Jesus, along with traditional music. It was very cool to feel a part of the tradition!

Ramla Beach

Ramla Beach is a large stretch of sand flanked by cliffs. We hung out on the beach for a while, be sure to bring food with you since the restaurants are not the greatest. Before we went to the sand, we took a small detour and hung out at the abandoned Ulysees Lodge in the hills above Ramla Beach. It’s an old hotel and villa that has since been abandoned, but still has a stunning view over the coastline. Just enter at your own risk since the building is not maintained.

Fungus Rock and Dwejra Bay

We spent an afternoon exploring and hiking around Fungus Rock, and took a dip in the waters in the Dwejra Bay. Highly recommended as a half-day trip!

Food in Malta

During our 5 days in Malta, we ate like kings. We found some delicious food in Valetta. Our favorites were Aaron’s Kitchen, where we tried some traditional Maltese dishes. Be sure to show up before the dinner rush, or call for a reservation since they tend to fill up. Another great restaurant was the Old Bakery’s Pizza. It’s a smaller hole-in-the-wall gem that is near the restaurant and bar scene in Valetta.

In Gozo, we basically hopped around different seafood restaurants, and we were never disappointed. In most restaurants, you can pick out the fish you want from their catch of the day. It’s usually prepared with boiled vegetables and fries. We always left stuffed and satisfied!

5 Days in Malta – our Takeaway

For us, 5 days in Malta was more than enough time to do all of the things we wanted to do in both Malta and Gozo. The benefit of being such a tiny country, is that it’s very easy to navigate and get your bearings! If you’re brainstorming your next vacation destination, I’d definitely recommend adding Malta to your list!

April 20, 2025

Hidden Gems in Munich Off the Beaten Path

Off the Beaten Path

When planning a trip to Munich, there are the obvious famous spots, like the Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall, Marienplatz, or the vast English Garden. But if you’re looking for something more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems in Munich!

I have lived in Munich for four years, and have grown to love it. The city checks a lot of boxes: lots of nature, charming neighborhoods, and a great selection of cultural events year-round. Discover what makes Munich so great with this list of my favorite places in Munich off the beaten path.

The Seehaus Biergarten

The Seehaus Biergarten, my favorite Biergarten hidden gem in Munich!

Munich is well known for its Biergarten culture, and you’ll find them scattered throughout the city. But my favorite Biergarten is in the middle of the English Garden next to the Seehaus. From the Biergarten tables, you have a beautiful view over a small lake and into the dense green that makes the English Garden an oasis in the middle of the city.

Not only is the scenery unbeatable, but they serve a variety of classic Biergarten food, including Hax’n and Steckerlfisch. And of course, you can pick up a fresh beer right from the tap. Or, if you’ve had your fill of beer, they have an area where you can enjoy cocktails and wine under the Linden trees.

Gärtnerplatz

Hang out at Gärtnerplatz while exploring Munich off the beaten path in the alternative Glockenbachviertel

Nestled between the Viktualienmarkt and the Isar River is the neighborhood known as Glockenbachviertel. While Munich has a reputation for being conservative, Glockenbach is a welcoming and lively neighborhood full of hidden gems in Munich.

Here you can find swanky cocktail bars, grungy dive bars, and hip boutiques. The center of Glockenbachviertel is the circular Gärtnerplatz – grab a drink at a nearby kiosk and hang out with the locals.

Gans Woanders

Even from the funky exterior, it’s clear that Gans Woanders is one of the best hidden gems in Munich. Its name is a play on words from the phrase ‘Ganz woanders’ (somewhere else) but with a twist of using the German word ‘Gans’ which means goose.

A whimsical building houses a unique space that serves as a café during the day and a bar at night. It’s a great place if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Munich and are looking for something different from the typical beer halls and Bavarian food.

Rosengarten

$Just a small fraction of the many roses you'll see at the stunning Rose Garden$

Just a small fraction of the many roses you’ll see at the stunning Rose Garden

I lived in this city for 3 years before discovering the beautiful rose garden. In fact, my first visit there prompted me to write this article about the best hidden gems in Munich!

Located near the Isar river, this manicured garden offers a great place to take a stroll and relax. There are plenty of lounge chairs and hundreds of blooming plants. After enjoying the Rosengarten, you can walk along the banks of the Isar river, where the locals love to take a dip in summer.

Neues Schloss Schleissheim

Venture to the north of Munich to explore Neues Schloss Schleissheim

Inspired by Versailles, and serving as a summer residence to the Wittelsbacher royals, the Neues Schloss Schleissheim castle is well worth a visit! It’s a little outside the center of Munich, well off the beaten path. The castle features Baroque architecture at its finest and is surrounded by spectacular gardens. I’m surprised this place isn’t more famous – it took 3 years of living here before I even heard about it!

View of the Glockenspiel from Galeria Kaufhof

While the Marienplatz Glockenspiel is arguably the #1 tourist attraction of Munich, there is a viewpoint over the famous square that is a true hidden gem. The café in Galeria Kaufhof overlooks the square and gives you a perfect view of the famous Glockenspiel.

Grab a front-row seat to Munich’s most famous attraction without dealing with the crowds. Side note – if you happen to be in Munich during a heatwave, the Galeria Kaufhof is one of the few places in the city that has coveted air conditioning!

Alte Utting

The Alte Utting boat sits atop a bridge and functions as a restaurant and bar

A scene that looks like it belongs in the more edgy Berlin, Alte Utting is one of the best hidden gems in Munich and my favorite place to take out-of-town guests. It’s an old ship that has been elevated onto an old set of railway tracks, a cool place to grab a drink with friends.

The Lost Weekend

The Lost Weekend is a café and event space in the middle of the student district. It serves great coffee and snacks, and will occasionally have a book reading or poetry slam. Check the schedule of events to see if something sparks your interest.

The Jaded Monkey

With a prominent beer culture, it’s no wonder that great cocktail bars in Munich are few and far between. But there are some great hidden gems, like the Jaded Monkey. Serving up inventive cocktails in a swanky setting reminiscent of a New York bar, you’ll love getting a little more off the beaten path while visiting Munich.

Café im Vorhoelzer Forum

Café im Vorhoelzer Forum – Munich’s best rooftop hang out

As a university town, Munich is full of great restaurants and bars that cater to the student crowd. This rooftop bar is a true hidden gem in Munich because it’s hard to find!

Located atop one of the University buildings, you’ll need to find your way to a back elevator. Once you emerge on the top floor, you’ll find one of the best views in Munich. On a clear day, you’ll even catch a view of the Alps!

Note: Café in Vorhoelzer Forum closed during the pandemic and re-opening is TBD. In the meantime, you can still access the rooftop and BYOB to enjoy a drink with one of the best views in Munich.

Pin Hidden Gems in Munich, Germany

April 19, 2025

Where to Explore on the South Coast of England this Summer

Travel Advice

For those planning a summer break, the south coast of England holds an appeal that’s almost unique. You’ll get all the affordability and convenience that comes with a domestic holiday, but – if you time it right, and you get a little lucky – you’ll enjoy the warm weather, too. Even a few days of sun can make a UK beach break feel like a Mediterranean escape.

From traditional seaside towns to cultural hotspots and natural wonders, the south coast offers a diverse mix of attractions. Whether you’re after historical landmarks, charming coastal walks, or just a quiet spot to relax, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s take a look at a few of the best destinations to explore.

Discover the Charm of Brighton

Brighton is a city unlike any other in the UK. Home to the iconic Palace Pier and the exotic Royal Pavilion, it provides plenty of cultural and historical interest for sightseers. The Royal Pavilion, with its Indo-Saracenic architecture, feels like a palace plucked from a fairy tale. Step inside to admire lavish interiors and stories from the days when it served as a royal seaside retreat.

Beyond the landmarks, there’s a rich retail scene to explore, particularly in the Lanes. This maze of narrow alleyways is filled with quirky shops, antique stores, and artisan cafés. Whether you’re after vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, or unusual souvenirs, you’re likely to find something to treasure.

At the end of a busy day, settle down at one of Brighton’s many beachfront bars or restaurants. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene, and inclusive atmosphere – making it a welcoming choice for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.

Explore the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth

The appeal of Portsmouth is more firmly entrenched in its naval history. Here, you’ll find the HMS Victory, aboard which Admiral Nelson stood during the Battle of Trafalgar. Take a tour around the ship’s interior and you’ll gain insight into the cramped and dangerous conditions sailors once endured. The ship has been meticulously preserved, down to the cannons and original timbers.

Just a short walk away is the Mary Rose Museum. This incredible exhibit tells the story of Henry VIII’s flagship, which tragically sank in 1545. Raised from the seabed in the 1980s, the remains of the ship – along with thousands of recovered artefacts – now give visitors a vivid window into Tudor life.

If you want a view from above, the Spinnaker Tower offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of the harbour and coastline. At 170 metres tall, it’s an excellent spot to get your bearings and admire the city from a whole new perspective.

Relax on the Beaches of Bournemouth

Explore the long sandy beaches of Bournemouth on the South Coast of England

Like Brighton, Bournemouth boasts its share of iconic Victorian architecture and manicured gardens, perfect for a slow-paced afternoon stroll. But the town’s real draw is its golden beaches, which stretch for seven miles along the Jurassic Coast.

Whether you want to sunbathe, try your hand at paddleboarding, or simply tuck into a seaside picnic, Bournemouth delivers. There are plenty of family-friendly activities too – think beach volleyball, mini-golf, and arcades that still hold nostalgic charm.

For those seeking a little more adventure, the nearby cliffs and coastal walks offer beautiful scenery and great spots for photography. The town is also a hub for wellness tourism, with many spas and retreats nearby if relaxation is your goal.

Visit the Isle of Wight

A short ferry ride from the mainland, the Isle of Wight is a peaceful retreat packed with variety. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the island’s rugged coastline, chalky cliffs, and scenic bike trails. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate Osborne House, once Queen Victoria’s private summer residence. Tour the ornate state rooms, wander the gardens, or take a walk down to the private beach she once enjoyed with her family.

The island also plays host to the iconic Isle of Wight Festival each summer, drawing music fans from across the country. Outside of festival season, you’ll find plenty of charm in small towns like Shanklin, Ventnor, and Cowes, each with its own local flavour.

Cottages and holiday parks make the Isle of Wight an accessible and family-friendly option, with plenty of activities to keep children entertained, from fossil hunting to mini golf and adventure parks.

Experience the Revival of Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea has recently enjoyed a boost in popularity, thanks in part to glowing endorsements from several high-profile figures. Once seen as a nostalgic throwback, it’s now attracting a new wave of visitors looking for a classic seaside escape with a modern twist.

The town’s star attraction is the Three Shells Beach – a small, family-friendly stretch of sand with calm waters and easy access to local amenities. Nearby Thorpe Bay offers a more tranquil vibe, ideal for relaxing walks or quiet reading sessions.

Southend is also home to the world’s longest pleasure pier – over a mile long – complete with a heritage railway to ferry visitors to the end and back. For those into sailing and sea views, the Thames Estuary Yacht Club adds a more refined layer to the traditional seaside experience.

Bonus Stop: Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast

If time allows, make your way further west to Weymouth, a picturesque coastal town that offers a gateway to the stunning Jurassic Coast. The beaches here are wide, clean, and great for families. But it’s the nearby natural formations – like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove – that really steal the show.

This stretch of coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and makes for some of the best coastal hiking in the country. Ideal for photographers, walkers, or anyone wanting to reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a full summer holiday, the south coast of England offers something to match every pace, budget, and interest. From historic ports and seaside towns to remote islands and fossil-strewn cliffs, it’s a region full of memories waiting to be made.

April 17, 2025