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DESTINATIONS, UNITED STATES, VERMONT ·

2 Days in Woodstock Vermont & Where To Stay

woodstock inn resort
Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont

2 Days in Woodstock, Vermont

We just returned from spending a weekend in Woodstock, and I am excited to share all about it! Are you considering a trip to Vermont? I love exploring the charming towns and cities of New England, and driving through the state of Vermont during autumn seemed like the loveliest idea, so Woodstock was an easy choice for us!

Crossing covered bridges, tasting Vermont’s famous maple syrup, and seeing the magical colors of fall – that’s what Autumn in Vermont is all about! We came back from Vermont in love, so here is what we did, where we stayed, and what you can expect to see if you go!

In my United States Guides you will find more ideas for road trips and getaways in the country.

Woodstock – The perfect New England weekend getaway destination.

places to stay woodstock vt
places to stay woodstock vt

Where is Woodstock, VT?

Woodstock is located in the state of Vermont, in the New England area of the country.

How far is Woodstock?

The trip from New York City to the town of Woodstock is around 250 miles (402 km) via I-95 and I-91. The drive took us a little over 4 hours, with normal driving conditions and very little traffic on a Friday morning. If you are visiting Woodstock from Boston, the trip is 140 miles (225 km). Woodstock’s location makes it a perfect weekend destination.

Which airport is best for Woodstock?

Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB) is 16 miles from Woodstock, a 25 minute drive.

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is 87 miles from Woodstock, a 1+ hour drive.

Another option is to fly into Albany International Airport (ALB), and drive a little over 100 miles to Woodstock. If you enjoy exploring by car, I would suggest to fly into Boston Logan Airport (BOS) or any of New York City’s airports, and drive up to Vermont.

Why visit Woodstock, Vermont?

Woodstock is incredibly precious all year round! Vermont is also a destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, so if you find yourself in Killington Ski Resort, the biggest ski resort in Vermont, I highly recommend adding a stop to Woodstock to your trip (a 30 minute drive).

Woodstock Inn Vermont
Woodstock Vermont Hotels

Where to stay in Woodstock VT?

We stayed at the wonderful and historic Woodstock Inn & Resort, located just steps from the village of Woodstock. Staying at this resort had been on my bucket-list for years, and although snow is typically expected during the month of November, we enjoyed temperatures in the high 60s all weekend long!

The Woodstock Inn is a New England gem that has been cherished for decades. The original property, Richardson’s Tavern, was built in 1793 and renamed The Eagle Hotel in 1830. Years later, during the tourism boom of the mid-19th century, the new Woodstock Inn was built on the tavern’s original site, quickly becoming Vermont’s first winter-sports center for tourists.

Woodstock VT Hotels
Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont

The Red Rooster – Woodstock Inn’s Restaurant

After an afternoon exploring the village of Woodstock, we headed back to the hotel for dinner at the Red Rooster, a restaurant located inside the resort. The drinks we ordered were excellent, Bees Knees and the seasonal Woodstock Warmer. I recommend starting with their beet & apple salad (with mint and yogurt dressing!) or the autumn squash soup, and having the prime ribeye as the main course. Don’t forget to order dessert, the pumpkin cremeux and the maplewood orchard were both delicious.

Woodstock Inn Resort Vermont
Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont
Woodstock Inn Vermont
Woodstock Inn Resort Vermont
Woockstock Inn
Beautiful details at the Woodstock Inn & Resort

The Woodstock Inn has been beautifully preserved thanks to the Rockefeller’s generosity and a major renovation that took place in 1967 to modernize the property.

Laurance Rockefeller was a conservationist interested in creating eco-friendly resorts, including the Woodstock Inn in Vermont, and properties in Hawaii, and Wyoming.

Woodstock Inn

How many rooms does the Woodstock Inn have?

The Woodstock Inn has 142 elegant rooms and suites that embrace Vermont’s style.

The Woodstock Inn warmly welcomes dogs and has pet-friendly rooms, so we brought our two elder pups with us on this vacation. 🙂

See all rooms at the Woodstock Inn & Resort here.

woodstock vermont hotels
where to stay vermont

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What to do in Woodstock?

Woodstock, one of the most beautiful towns in North America.

Visit a Covered Bridge

Vermont is home to more than 100 covered bridges, more than any other U.S. state! The majority of these bridges were constructed during the mid and late 19th Century. While visiting Woodstock you can explore Middle Covered Bridge, one of the most picturesque covered bridges in Vermont, located across the street from the Woodstock Inn! Other covered bridges near Woodstock include Taftsville Covered Bridge, Lincoln Covered Bridge, and Quechee Covered Bridge.

Shop at Local Stores

During our walk around the village of Woodstock, we stopped at as many local shops as I could! I love buying unique gifts to bring back home, and I bought a cheese board, the cutest red jar for serving maple syrup, Christmas decorations made by local artisans, holiday cards, and magnets! Be sure to stop by F.H. Gillingham & Sons, a New England general store that has been in business for over 130 years, selling everything from jams and maple syrup, to clothing and toys. Visiting their store was like stepping back in time!

Sample Maple Syrup & Cheddar Cheese

We also enjoyed Maple Creemees, a Northern staple made with local Vermont maple syrup at Woodstock Scoops, the local ice-cream shop!

MIddle Covered Bridge
MIddle Covered Bridge is one of the best covered bridges in Vermont
covered bridge woodstock vt
The list of top things to see in Woodstock definitely includes the Middle Covered Bridge!

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MAP OF VERMONT

WHAT TO SHOP FOR YOUR TRIP TO VERMONT

MORE THINGS TO DO IN WOODSTOCK VT

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DESTINATIONS, MAINE, Travel, UNITED STATES ·

20 Amazing Things To Do in Portland, Maine

Bug Light Park Portland Maine
Bug Lighthouse

With its beautiful lighthouses, award winning lobster rolls, rich historic district, a world class dining scene and striking scenery, I am adding Portland to the list of cities that are a must-see in the Northeast of the United States!

Whether you are looking to take a vacation with friends, family, or by yourself to Portland, here is a list of fun things to do when you visit Portland!

Amazing Things To Do in Portland, Maine

1. Visit Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light Park)

Bug Light Park is one of my favorite spots in Portland!

Originally constructed in 1855, the new 26 ft lighthouse resembles a 4th century Greek monument that was inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. The light was restored in 1989 and was reactivated in 2002.

The surrounding park is the perfect place for a waterside walk, and if you visit during sunset you might catch one of prettiest pink sunsets you’ll ever see.

This gem was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and memorializes the ship building efforts of World War II.

We stopped here the night we arrived to Portland. I captured these photos at 8:02 PM on July 30th!

I love that the park offers free and convenient parking, which made it easy for us to explore the area with our two pups, before heading over to the hotel for a late-night check in!

Address: Bug Light, S Portland Greenbelt Pathway, South Portland, ME 04106

Bug Light Park Portland

2. Climb the Portland Observatory

If you’d like to admire Portland from above, then the Portland Observatory is for you!

The 86-foot high observatory is a historic maritime signal tower that was built in 1807 at the direction of sea captain-turned-entrepreneur Captain Lemuel Moody (1768-1846). It is the only known surviving tower of its type in the United States.

At the time, ships entering the harbor could not be seen from the docks of Portland until they rounded the point of land at Spring Point Ledge and were almost in the harbor. Moody identified incoming vessels with his powerful telescope at the top of the tower.

The Observatory remained a working marine signal tower run by the Moody family until 1923 when the invention of the two-way radio made it obsolete. 

I highly recommend the guided tour! My husband was pleasantly surprised – he loved learning the history of the builder, the physical structure of the tower, and the impact it had on Portland’s harbor. We thought the views from the top were fantastic!

The tour lasts 45 minutes, you will climb 103 steps, and once you reach the top you will enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view of Portland. The breeze blowing through the open windows made the climb comfortable. The tour stopped on each level for the interesting exhibits, and to allow everyone to sit or move upstairs at a reasonable pace. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17.

Address: Portland Observatory, 138 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101

Best Things Portland Observatory

SHOP: Cleobella Eyelet Dress

Portland Observatory best things to do in Portland

3. Tour the Historic Victoria Mansion

Victoria Mansion was built between 1858 and 1860 as a summer home for two people, Ruggles Sylvester Morse and his wife Olive. When Morse died in 1893, his wife sold the house with most of its furnishings to J.R. Libby, a prominent dry goods merchant.  The Libbys occupied the mansion until 1929.

The house has been open to the public as a museum since in 1941, and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1971.

Don’t miss this gem! The mansion is one of the finest examples of the Italian Villa style in the United States. It is strategically located near the city’s earliest gas and sewer lines, and the house had hot and cold running water.

I loved stepping back in time, and being able to see 90% of the original interiors of the house! The original wall paintings by the Italian-born artist Giuseppe Guidicini, a master of the trompe l’oeil (“fool the eye”) style, making the surfaces in the house appear to be three-dimensional will make you look twice! The mansion’s parlor and reception suite are breathtaking!

The guided tour lasts 45 minutes. Tickets are $16 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17.

See the video I made after touring Victoria Mansion here.

Address: Victoria Mansion, 109 Danforth St, Portland, ME 04101

Victoria Mansion Portland Maine

SHOP: Cleobella Dress

4. See the Portland Head Light

The Portland Head Lighthouse is Maine’s oldest lighthouse, and the most photographed lighthouse in the United States!

Construction began in 1787 at the directive of George Washington, and was completed in 1791.

Address: Portland Head Light, 12 Captain Strout Cir, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107

Best things to see Portland Head Lighthouse

5. Walk around the Arts District & Downtown Portland

The Arts District is a section of downtown Portland designated in 1995 as to promote the cultural community of the city.  It covers a large part of upper Congress Street towards the West End.

Right behind that green clock on Monument Square, you will find Hifi Donuts, a neighborhood spot in a vintage setting where we grabbed artisanal donuts & lattes one early morning.

In these areas you will find many coffee shops, bars, restaurants, art galleries, a theater company and museums. Maine College of Art (MECA) and Portland Museum of Art are located here as well.

downtown portland maine
Arts District Portland Maine

6. Bike around Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

A caisson-style lighthouse located in South Portland that was first lit in 1897 to help watercraft safely navigate Casco Bay!

We enjoyed walking around the trails that surround the lighthouse during sunset. We saw lots of people letting their dogs play in the water. The views were magnificent all around.

Address: Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106

best lighthouses portland maine
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

7. Try Honey Wine at Maine Mead Works

Maine Mead Works is a winery that specializes in honey wine. The winery’s brand HoneyMaker is offered in a variety of year-around and seasonal styles and are all hand-crafted in Maine using 100% wildflower honey.

We visited the tasting room at Maine Mead Works and enjoyed a flight of four different meads: lavender lemonade, cranberry, blackberry lavender mint, and dry. These flavors were so good.

Address: Maine Mead Works, 51 Washington Ave, Portland, ME 04101

Maine Mead Works Hours

8. Have Brunch at Bayside American Cafe

This well-known breakfast spot has been a local landmark since 1990!

Their famous brunch menu features breakfast, lunch and specialty brunch items such as Maine lobster eggs benedict, homemade corned beef hash, as well as pancakes and french toasts served with 100% local Maine maple syrup.

Because we visited in July, the patio and deck were open for dining.

Brunch is served from 7AM – 2PM, Wednesday – Monday.

Address: Bayside American Cafe, 98 Portland St, Portland, ME 04101

Bayside American Cafe Portland-best
Bayside American Cafe Portland-best

9. Enjoy Dinner at Scales on the Maine Wharf

Scales is a traditional New England restaurant that offers lobster, seafood, and a raw bar in an elegant setting on the Maine Wharf, on Portland’ Maine’s Historic Waterfront.

We loved our appetizers and dishes: anadama bread, green salad, Maine clam chowder, warm buttered lobster roll, and grilled Maine bluefin tuna. We also ordered a mint chip frappe to-go!

Be sure to make your reservation weeks in advance!

Address: Scales Restaurant, 68 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101

Scales-Restaurant-Portland-Maine
Scales Restaurant Portland Maine

10. Try the Mini Donuts at Eighty 8 Donuts

Eighty 8 Donuts was highly recommended to us by two locals we met during our first night in Portland.

We ordered a box of ‘Specialty Bites’ and the taste was divine. The flavors included: Bamm Bamm (fruity pebbles topped donut), Homer (strawberry glaze with rainbow sprinkles), 007 (maple icing with bourbon cream and candied bacon), Cookies & Cream (cookie on a donut), Boston Cream (chocolate icing with Bavarian cream) and Lemon Zinger (lemon glaze with raspberry center).

They also have a location at the base lodge of Sugarloaf Mountain in Carrabassett Valley, and a donut truck that is based in Portland, Maine.

Address: Eighty 8 Donuts, 225 Federal St, Portland, ME 04101

best food portland eighty 8 donuts

11. Grab a Lobster Roll at The Highroller Lobster Co.

Portland has some of the best lobster you will ever find, and plenty of places offering delicious lobster rolls. We decided to check out The Highroller Lobster Co., a neighborhood diner that serves a full menu of lobstery options. My husband does not eat shellfish, so after I finished my lobster roll we walked 140 feet to Crispy Gai where he ordered fried chicken.

Luke’s Lobster is one of the favorites amongst the tourists. You can find this spot directly on the working waterfront, off the Portland Pier, in the heart of the Old Port.

Address: Highroller Lobster Co., 104 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101

Highroller Lobster Portland Maine

The city of Portland is full of amazing things to do! I hope today’s post helps you plan a trip to this must-see destination in Maine!

Keep reading to see 9 more fun things to do in Portland!

How many days do I need in Portland, Maine?

3-5 days in Portland, Maine is the perfect amount of time to discover the city’s history, and enjoy the craft brews and bites.

What is the best time of year to visit Portland, Maine?

The best time to visit Portland is June – August.

9 MORE FUN THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND

BEST PLACES TO STAY

See all Portland area hotels, prices and reviews here.

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DESTINATIONS, MAINE, UNITED STATES ·

3 Epic Lighthouses You Must See in Portland, Maine

best lighthouses portland maine

The Best Lighthouses in Portland, Maine

Hi everyone! We just returned from Portland, the largest city in the State of Maine, set on a peninsula that extends into Casco Bay. Portland has everything you’d expect from a seaside New England town: charm, an incredibly delicious culinary scene, a scenic coastline, the freshest lobster you’ll ever eat, lots of breweries, landmarks, and of course, lighhouses.

Seeing lighthouses is definitely one of the amazing things to do in Portland, so if you are planning to visit the state, add at least one of these lighthouses to your list! In today’s post I am sharing a a round-up of the photos that I took last week!

How many lighthouses are in Portland Maine?

Portland is lucky to have six lighthouses located within twenty minutes of the city! Here are three lighthouse that I loved!

1. SPRING POINT LEDGE LIGHTHOUSE

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is the only caisson-style light station in the United States that visitors can walk to! This lighthouse was constructed in 1897 by the government after seven steamship companies stated that many of their vessels ran aground on Spring Point Ledge. The light resembles a giant spark plug, sitting at the end of a granite breakwater in South Portland.

Be sure to allocate an hour to explore the surrounding area! We saw lots of people playing frisbee with their dogs in the water, riding bicycles, and walking along the trails.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse Portland Maine
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
Portland, Maine

2. PORTLAND HEAD LIGHT

Portland Head Light is a quintessential coastal landmark, Maine’s most famous lighthouse, and the most photographed lighthouse in the United States! George Washington commissioned this lighthouse that has been in operation since 1791, making it the oldest lighthouse in Maine. You can find it along the shores of Fort Williams Park, in Cape Elizabeth. Fort Williams Park is open from sunrise to sunset, and with over 90 acres of recreational space, you will find plenty of areas to explore.

If you are interested in climbing the Portland Head Light, you can do so on September 10, 2022 – Maine Open Lighthouse Day. This is a popular annual event that attracts 18,000 visitors and offers the public the opportunity to climb over two dozen historic Maine lights. Keep in mind that the Portland Head Light will only have 280 tickets available on a first-come first-serve basis. All lighthouses will be open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Learn more about Maine Open Lighthouse Day here.

Best things to see Portland Head Lighthouse
Portland Head Light
Portland Head Lighthouse
Portland Head Light

3. PORTLAND BREAKWATER LIGHTHOUSE (BUG LIGHT)

Bug Light is perhaps my favorite lighthouse! We drove to see it the night that we arrived to Portland, right before we checked into our hotel. As I approached the lighthouse, the sky turned into a beautiful shade of pink and purple, and my jaw dropped – it was absolutely breathtaking!

 I loved the park that is adjacent to the lighthouse (we walked our pups here!), and admiring the expansive views of Portland Harbor. The parking lot at the park is a major plus!

We returned to see this lighthouse on our last day in Portland, for a final walk around the park with our pups, before heading back to New York City!

Bug Light Park Portland Maine
Portland Breakwater Lighthouse
Bug Light Park Portland
Portland Breakwater Lighthouse

And that’s a wrap of my favorite lighthouses of Portland, Maine!

Have you visited any of Maine’s lighthouses? I’d love to know which is your favorite! Feel free to comment below or DM me on Instagram @anaflorentyna with any questions.

Talk soon! Xx

MORE THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND MAINE

PLACES TO STAY

See all Portland area hotels here.

See all Maine area hotels here.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR PORTLAND ME TRIP

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DESTINATIONS, RHODE ISLAND, Travel, UNITED STATES ·

The Best Things to Do in Newport, Rhode Island

what to do in newport ri best restaurants
Forty Steps, Newport, Rhode Island

Is Newport worth visiting?

Yes!! Newport is a city set on Aquidneck Island in the New England state of Rhode Island. It is about 175 miles from New York City, and it usually takes us three and a half hours to get there. We just returned from visiting the city of Newport for the fourth time, and today I am rounding up a list of favorite things that you could do during your next visit to The Classic Coast!

What is Newport known for?

This beautiful seaside city in Rhode Island is known for its Gilded Age mansions, spectacular sailing, all-around nautical vibes, miles of beaches and magnificent sights. If you are into sailing, you might be aware that Newport has hosted the American’s Cup, a renowned annual sailing regatta, for many years.

If you are looking for a vacation destination that has beautiful beaches, restaurants, is family-friendly, then Newport is for you! Here is a selection of the best spots in the city that will surely take your breath away. At the bottom of the post you will find a list of hotels & restaurants to enjoy during your stay in Newport!

Cliff Walk & The Forty Steps

Cliff Walk has been an icon for centuries. It runs 3.5 miles and about two-thirds of the walk is in easy walking condition. The walk starts at the western end of Easton’s or First Beach at Memorial Blvd. and runs south with exits at Narragansett Ave., Webster St., Sheppard Ave., Ruggles Ave., Marine Ave., Ledge Rd., and ends at Bellevue Ave. This enjoyable walk offers panoramic ocean views and the perfect amount of sea breeze. A total must-see!

The Forty Steps is a landmark dating back to the 1830s that is located right by Cliff Walk (at the east end of Narragansett Ave).

cliff walk newport rhode island
cliff walk newport rhode island
Map of Cliff Walk

Castle Hill Lighthouse

The Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898 and it is located on Narragansett Bay in Newport, at the end of the historic Ocean Drive. The lighthouse is not open but the grounds are adjacent to the Castle Hill Inn and are open to the public. It is worth noting that the lighthouse is still an active navigation aid for vessels entering the East Passage between Conanicut Island and Aquidneck Island! We explored the area around sunset, and it was incredibly peaceful! The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

lighthouse newport rhode island
Lighthouse, Newport, Rhode Island
how to get to castle hill lighthouse

How do you get to the Castle Hill Lighthouse?

The easiest way to arrive to the lighthouse is by parking your car at the Castle Hill Cove Marina and walking across the street. Follow the sidewalk to the left until you see a small white sign that says “Castle Hill Lighthouse” on your right. Walk through the trees, luckily it is a short path to the lighthouse! Be sure to bring your camara!!

Outfit Details: Sweater | Jeans | Bag | Shoes | Earrings

Newport Harbor

Newport Harbor is the area across Bowen’s Wharf, between Goat Island Marina and Fort Adams State Park. During this trip to Newport we stayed on a hotel located right on the harbor, so we enjoyed daily walks in the area with our pups!

newport harbor
Newport Harbor

Bannister’s Wharf & Bowen’s Wharf

Bannister’s Wharf is a historic spot located between the Old Port and Bowen’s Wharf. Cobblestone paths, local boutiques, galleries and award-winning restaurants are some of the things you will find in this charming area of Downtown Newport.

bannisters wharf newport
Bannister’s Wharf Marina
bowens wharf newport
Bowen’s Wharf

Newport Mansions

Newport was the summertime playground of America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. The Newport Mansions is a collection of about a dozen historic house museums ranging from the 18th century to the Gilded Age. And, your visit to Newport would not be complete unless you experience the opulence of one of the mansions! To plan your visit to the The Breakers, The Elms, Rosecliff or Marble House, click here!

Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is a 10-mile coastal drive and a total must-see during sunrise! Although we drove our way around this winding path to enjoy the scenic coastline, another option is to do so with a bicycle. Either way, you will absolutely love it!

ocean drive newport best things to do
Ocean Drive

King Park

King Park is a gem along the water that I love visiting each time I am in Newport! Street parking is free and available so it is easy to park your car, walk around, take pictures of Pell Bridge and enjoy the view! If you are traveling with pups, this is a great spot for relaxing by the water! You will also find a beautiful gazebo, the statue of Rochambeau, and other memorials at this peaceful park.

king park newport
King Park
rochambeau-newport

Where is Rochambeau’s statue located?

This statue of Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau is located in King Park along the waterfront at the south end of Newport. Rochambeau led the French forces against the British at the decisive Battle of Yorktown.

what to do in newport ri best restaurants

Where to Stay in Newport

During this trip, we stayed at The Brenton Hotel on Newport Harbor, and it was the best decision! We had previously stayed here, so we were very familiar with the hotel. Our waterview king room was spacious with an ultra comfortable bed, and it had the most spectacular view of the marina across the street. Walking anywhere from the hotel was easy because it is located just steps from Newport’s downtown area. The Brenton Hotel has a modern nautical elegance, and all of its 57 rooms face views of the harbor and historic Newport. We loved the hotel’s rooftop and enjoyed dining at the hotel’s restaurant, The Living Room (the best cocktails!).

Here’s the list of beautiful Newport hotels that I am familiar with and recommend, click on any below to check out their rooms and property!

To read my review about our previous stay at The Vanderbilt, click here!

where to eat in newport

Where to Eat in Newport

There are so many great restaurants in Newport! Here are the ones that we loved on this trip:

The Living Room – This restaurant is located inside The Brenton Hotel and it offers tons of seasonally inspired “small plate” dishes designed to share. I loved the clam chowder, grilled octopus and warm farro salad. My husband loved his truffle fries, pork belly steam buns and grilled lamb lollipop!

White Horse Tavern – Cozy and upscale restaurant in a historic setting dating to 1673! This is America’s oldest tavern, the oldest operating restaurant in the U.S., and a National Historic Landmark. We highly recommend it!

Diego’s – This casual restaurant offers Mexican food with a twist, plus delicious margaritas! I love that they have a gluten free menu. This spot is located in Bowen’s Wharf and it is great if you are looking for a low-key casual lunch or dinner.

Drift Cafe – This is my favorite breakfast spot for Açaí bowls, smoothies and lattes! You will find it tucked in Downtown Newport, next door to some of the cutest local boutiques (totally worth checking out!).

22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille – This classy nautical-themed dining room offers steak and seafood with waterfront views. So many people have recommended this restaurant to us, and we always leave Newport without trying it!

Have you been to Newport?!

I’d love to hear your thoughts of this coastal city in New England! 🙂

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DESTINATIONS, FLORIDA, Travel, UNITED STATES ·

The Top Things To Do in St. Augustine FL | 2-Day Itinerary

2 or 3 days in st augustine florida
Castillo de San Marcos

2 Days in St. Augustine Florida

Good morning, everyone! After spending a couple of months in Miami, it was time to start heading back to New York City. While looking for excuses to stay in the sunshine state a little longer, I told my husband that it’d be wonderful to make a stop in northeast Florida to visit St. Augustine. New York City was expected to have snow and 18 degree weather, so he agreed with my idea!

free things to do in st augustine itinerary
The Bridge of Lions

Why visit St. Augustine, Florida?

Exploring the oldest continuously settled city in the United States had been a dream of mine for years! I had visited St. Augustine in high school, but I barely remembered anything, so I approached this visit to the city as if I was a first-time visitor. We stayed a week in Jacksonville, and I dedicated two days to exploring St. Augustine’s sites and attractions.

Today I’m sharing the 2 day itinerary that I created for myself, as well as all my photos that I took while I was in St. Augustine.

Read on for my tips on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 1

Take the Old Town Trolley Tour

I am a big fan of the Old Town Trolley. Trolley tours are available in only 7 cities in the United States, and St. Augustine is one of them. Whenever I am visiting a city for the first time, I like to take the city tour to get a highlight of the must-see places in the city, and to find those attractions that I want to take time to see on my own.

If you don’t have many days to explore, or are unable to walk for hours, the trolley is your best bet. I wanted to save time and not have to deal with finding parking lots, so this was a practical option. The trolley becomes your taxi, and you can hop-on and hop-off all day long. I’ve taken the trolley or the red bus in various cities around the world and have always found it useful.

St Augustine Old Town Trolley Tour best things to do
The Old Town Trolley in front of Flagler College

The cost of the trolley is around $32.00 for the first day, and $15.00 for the second consecutive day. The fully narrated tour lasts a little over an hour, and I recommend jumping on it as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM. The last trolley departs at 4:30 PM, and it is worth noting that a complimentary hotel shuttle service is included in your ticket.

I forgot to pre-purchase a trolley ticket, so I bought mine at the stand by Potter’s Wax Museum. I also paid for parking, left my car in the parking lot, and hopped on the trolley that arrived within 10 minutes.

Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

The Cathedral Basilica is the 8th stop in the Old Town Trolley Tour and the first one that I, and half of the trolley, decided to hop-off at. The cathedral is home to the nation’s first Catholic parish, it was first built in 1797, then rebuilt after a fire in 1887. The facade is a combination of Spanish mission and Neoclassical styles, and the interior is adorned with murals and stained glass windows. There is so much to see in the beautiful details, keep reading to see the photo I took of the cathedral’s unique interior…

Cathedral Basilica St Augustine best things to do
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
cathedral basilica free things to do st augustine
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

The Cathedral Basilica offers tours Monday through Thursday at 3:00 PM.

Walk the grounds of Mission of Nombre de Dios

After visiting the cathedral, I waited 10-15 minutes for the next trolley to arrive, and I stayed on it until the 20th stop, the Mission of Nombre de Dios. It is at this location that the Great Cross, which rises 208 feet, was erected in 1965 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first parish mass. I can just imagine Father Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales celebrating the first mass as he proclaimed the land in the: “Nombre de Dios” (“Name of God”). He was the chaplain who accompanied St. Augustine’s founder and the Spanish explorers.

Historical Facts:

  • When General Pedro Menéndez de Aviles came to the New World from Spain, he arrived in hopes of establishing a colony and securing the land for Spain, and also to convert the native American Indians to Christianity. 
  • The 208’ bronze cross is the tallest cross in the Western Hemisphere. A gift from the Vatican, it was capped at that height to avoid the installation of a mandatory aircraft warning light.
shrine lady of la leche best free attractions
The Great Cross

These first Spanish settlers brought with them a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and established the Holy Virgin’s first sanctuary in the U.S on the grounds.  They built a chapel and dedicated it to “Nuestra Señora de La Leche” (“Our Lady of Milk & Safe Delivery”).

The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, America’s first Marian shrine, is located on the mission grounds. Pilgrims come from all parts of the world to pray for Our Lady of La Leche’s powerful intercession and light a candle in the historic chapel. I love visiting churches when I travel and spent an hour strolling the grounds and looking at all the monuments.

shrine lady of la leche
Front of Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche

Entrance to the grounds is restricted to their daily hours, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Parking is free.

From outside the shrine I hopped back on the Old Town Trolley at exactly 5:00 PM. The trolley continued its way to its final stops of the tour: The Old Senator Tree and the Fountain of Youth. It wasn’t until the trolley dropped us off at stop #1 that I realized that I had parked my car outside of stop #3. Thankfully, a complimentary shuttle service is included in your Old Town Trolley ticket!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 2

A friend of mine and her husband joined me during Day 2 of my visit to St. Augustine! While she has been living in Jacksonville since 2014, her husband has lived in the surrounding area his entire life. He is incredibly familiar with St. Augustine and was our guide for the day. He mentioned that his sister lived in a home within the historic district of the city of St. Augustine for fifteen years, and I thought that was really cool. I had told them that I was interested in checking out Flagler College, so it was our first stop of the day!

Take a Tour of Flagler College

Flagler College is perhaps my favorite building in all of St. Augustine! The college is named for industrialist and railroad magnate Henry Flagler who built it in 1888 as a hotel. The property is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture and was one of the most exclusive resorts of its day.

Flagler College was the first of Flagler’s series of luxury resorts along Florida’s east coast, others include the neighboring Hotel Alcazar (now, Lightner Museum). I highly recommend taking a tour of this gorgeous property, exploring the courtyard, the grand lobby, the rotunda, the 86-foot domed ceiling supported by eight oak caryatids hand carved with robed women, and the Flagler Room!

flagler college st augustine
Entrance to Flagler College

Tours of Flagler College are guided and based on the college’s academic calendar. The cost of admission is $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors / military, and $1.00 for children 4-12.

Flagler College St Augustine things to do
Flagler College

Flagler College – Fun Facts:

  • Architects John Carrére and Thomas Hastings were young men right out of college when they designed Hotel Ponce de León (now, Flagler College) and Hotel Alcazar (now, Lightner Museum). They are noted most for the New York Public Library and The House and Senate Office Buildings adjacent to the Capitol in Washington, D.C. 
  • Louis C. Tiffany is credited with the building’s interior design including the stained glass & mosaics.
  • Hotel Ponce de León was one of the nation’s first electrified buildings. The Edison Electric Company powered the building with steam heat and 4,000 electric lights.
  • During the Depression, the federal government sponsored arts programs at the property that were attended by Robert Frost, Ernest Hemingway and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard commandeered the property during World War II for use as a training center. 
  • Mark Twain, President Theodore Roosevelt, Babe Ruth and Babe Didrikson stayed at the hotel.
  • Henry Flagler’s great nephew sold the property to a group from Mount Ida College to establish a women’s college, known today as Flagler College.

The Lightner Museum

Lighter Museum St Augustine
Lighter Museum in St. Augustine

The Lightner Museum occupies the former Hotel Alcazar, a resort also commissioned by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. The Hotel Alcazar opened in 1889, it was slightly less expensive than Hotel Ponce de León but had lots of amenities for guest enjoyment, like saunas, a casino, archery ranges, and the world’s largest swimming pool at the time.  The hotel began to decline during the Depression and eventually closed in 1932. In 1947, Otto Lightner purchased the building to house his massive art collection. This property is now known as the Lightner Museum and it occupies the back half of the former hotel.

Walk St. George Street

After stopping for lunch at Casa Reina (I’ll get to it in a bit!), we made our way to St. George Street, a lovely pesdestrian-only street lined with bars, restaurants and shops. This street represents the center of the town, and the site of many of the reconstructed Spanish colonial buildings in St. Augustine. We grabbed coffee and tea at the cutest little store, and strolled up and down St. George Street while visiting local shops.

If you visit St. George Street, be sure to check out the following spots! The first image is of the Oldest School House, a wooden structure located at 14 St. George Street. The school house was built over 200 years ago, with red cedar and cypress, and put together with wooden pegs and handmade nails. In the second image you can see the Old City Gates, one of St. Augustine’s most recognizable landmarks located at the north end of St. George Street. Be sure to take a photo in front of this historical site!

Oldest Wooden School House St Augustine
Oldest Wooden School House
Old City gate St Augustine
Old City Gate
St George Street St Augustine
St. George Street

Explore the Castillo de San Marcos

The Castillo de San Marcos is a must-see during to your visit because it is the focal point of historic St. Augustine! This 17th-century Spanish stone fortress was built over 300 years ago by the Spanish to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route. An interesting fact is that many forts preceded the Castillo, however, this one made of coquina was impenetrable to enemy attack and was fire resistant. Construction began in 1672 and lasted 23 years, until 1695. I loved walking around the fort during sunset time, I got to enjoy views of the inlet and the most beautiful bright pink sky!

Castillo de San Marcos best time to visit st augustine florida
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo is open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee for adults is $15.00 and it is valid for seven consecutive days. Children (age 15 and under) are admitted free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult. I used the parking lot located in front of the Castillo, but the lot has a very limited number of spots.

Learn more about the Castillo de San Marcos here.

Castillo de San Marcos best time to visit st augustine florida
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

 More Things To Do in St. Augustine

casa reina st augustine
Beautiful view from Casa Reina

Where to Eat in St. Augustine?

CASA REINA TAQUERIA & TEQUILA

If you want to sip on a margarita while enjoying the flavors of Mexican cuisine, this place is a must! It is located in St. Augustine’s historic downtown area, on the bay front at the foot of the Bridge of Lions. I ordered the house margarita, and the ‘nachos reina style’ that were the best loaded nachos I’ve ever had! This restaurant has lots of seating areas, both indoors and outdoors. I suggest that you go during the day, so that you can enjoy the outstanding view (see my images above & below)!

casa reina taqueria tequila
I took these images at Casa Reina, a few minutes before we ordered our margaritas!

CAP’S ON THE WATER

Cap’s On The Water is a waterfront spot located 6 miles from St. Augustine’s historic downtown. This restaurant is a hidden gem that only locals know about (and was recommended by my friend’s husband!). Be sure to arrive before sunset, and enjoy dinner from the wooden deck! The truffle parmesan fries and the seared catch that came with mashed potatos & roasted carrots were delicious! If you are looking for fresh local seafood and coastal cuisine, go here.

caps on the water where to eat
I captured this photo right before dinner at Cap’s On The Water!

Where to Stay in St. Augustine?

AirBnb

Staying at an AirBnb while visiting St. Augustine can be a wonderful option! While we initially intended to stay in a hotel within St. Augustine’s historic district, we quickly realized that renting an AirBnb was a more comfortable option for us travelling with two pups! We rented a four bedroom house located thirty miles north of St. Augustine, for the same price (per night) as a small hotel room in downtown, and stayed for a full week. The house was spacious and beautifully upgraded, it was located in a peaceful residential neighborhood, it had a huge open kitchen, a fantastic jacuzzi outside, and the owners lived in the property next door. The drive from the house to St. Augustine’s historic district was super easy and direct via Florida State Road A1A.

Bed & Breakfast

You will find numerous Bed & Breakfasts within walking distance of the historic district of St. Augustine!

Hotels

If you prefer to stay in a hotel within St. Augustine, take a look at these options below by clicking on their name.

See all St. Augustine area hotels and reviews here.

Casa Monica best places to stay
Casa Monica in St. Augustine, Florida

An interactive map of St. Augustine FL

More info for your days in St. Augustine

When was St. Augustine founded?

The city of St. Augustine was founded on September 8, 1565 by a Spanish soldier named Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. He named the settlement “San Agustín,” as his ships bearing settlers, troops, and supplies from Spain had first sighted land in Florida eleven days earlier on August 28, the feast day of St. Augustine.

When is the best time to visit St. Augustine?

I recommend visiting in January / February. It is not too busy, and the weather was breezy and pleasant. If you would like to avoid the crowds, visiting right before Spring or Fall is your best bet.

Are 1-2 days in St. Augustine worth it?

Absolutely! Seeing all of St. Augustine in 1 – 2 days is doable because it is a compact and walkable city. St. Augustine is the perfect city for history lovers, and those who want to experience Old Florida.

How far is St. Augustine?

The trip from Miami to St. Augustine is around 311 miles (500 km) via Florida’s Turnpike and I-95. The drive usually takes 5 hours, with normal driving conditions. If you are visiting St. Augustine from Orlando, the trip is a little over 100 miles (165 km). St. Augustine’s location makes it a perfect day trip or weekend destination.

Which airport is best for St. Augustine?

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is 51 miles from St. Augustine, a 1 hour drive.

Orlando International Airport is 121 miles from St. Augustine, a 2+ hour drive.

A final note!

In February of last year, we made a similar stop while making our way from Miami to New York. That time we stayed one week in Atlantic Beach, a lovely city with laid-back beaches located 15 miles from downtown Jacksonville. To read about our stay at a resort located on the prettiest beach in Jacksonville click here. Staying in Jacksonville or Atlantic Beach, and making a day-trip to St. Augustine, is another option for making the most of your visit to northeast Florida.

If I didn’t answer your question about St. Augustine, leave it in a comment and I’ll get back to you! 

What will you do with your days in St. Augustine?!

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR ST AUGUSTINE TRIP

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Spend 2 days St Augustine Florida
Spend 2 days St Augustine Florida
Spend 2 days St Augustine Florida
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DESTINATIONS, SOUTH CAROLINA, Travel, UNITED STATES ·

One Day in Charleston: Itinerary & What To See in 24 Hours

charleston best things to see
itinerary charlesotn south carolina

If you like charming cities as much as I do, then you will absolutely love Charleston! My first visit to Charleston was in 2018, and I was dying to return because there is so much to see, do and eat. So as we made our way north, from Miami to New York City, we decided to spend a week in South Carolina. In today’s post I am sharing a round-up of the photos I took during my latest visit to the city.

Charleston was founded in 1670 and is defined by pastel antebellum houses, cobblestone streets, historic sites, horse drawn carriages and its beautiful harbor. This port city is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in the United States with beautiful Colonial architecture.

Here is a list of my Top Favorite Spots in Charleston, and a complete One Day in Charleston Itinerary (in case you are wondering what to do with your first 24 hours in the city!).

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is an eight-acre park overlooking the Charleston Harbour and the Cooper River.

Be sure to stop at the enchanting Pineapple Fountain, not only is it the iconic focal point of the park, it is also one of Charleston’s most Instagrammable landmarks!

Did you know that pineapple motifs represent hospitality?

charleston waterfront park best places to see
Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park
AnaForentina in Charleston South Carolina
Charleston Waterfront Park best places to see in

Rainbow Row

You can’t leave Charleston without checking out Rainbow Row!

Rainbow Row refers to the captivating row of thirteen pastel-colored homes located on East Bay Street, just along the waterfront. These historic homes were first constructed around 1740 and were used by merchants who run their business on the ground floor and lived on the top floor.

charleston rainbow row
Rainbow Row

After the Civil War, Dorothy Porcher Legge and her husband purchased a section of the houses and started the process of renovating them. These homes will brighten your day!

The Battery

After checking out the homes on Rainbow Row, make your way to The Battery, a fortified seawall at the southernmost tip of the Charleston peninsula. We enjoyed this beautiful promenade that is well known for its antebellum homes!

the Battery Charleston
The Battery

Charleston City Market

Spend a couple of hours exploring the Charleston City Market, pick up a regional souvenir and soak up the local culture. Spanning four blocks, the historic market was established in the 1790s and is one of the oldest public markets in the country. The most popular arts and crafts available at this market includes sweetgrass baskets, a true Charleston treasure.

An interactive map of how to spend one day in Charleston SC

 

the mills house hotel charleston best places to stay
The Mills House
Carmellas Cafe Charleston
Carmella’s Cafe

Charleston – Where to Eat

Poogan’s Porch

If you would like to try traditional Southern cuisine, then you will enjoy this restaurant located inside a beautiful Victorian townhouse tucked away on charming Queen Street. When visiting Charleston, biscuits are a must! Their homemade biscuits are fantastic, and one early morning I walked over to pick up half a dozen for my husband and I! To read the story of how the restaurant go its name, click here!

Address: 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401

The Watch Rooftop

The Restoration’s The Watch Rooftop is a farm-to-table restaurant that is totally worth checking out! One of my husband’s college roommates recently moved to Charleston, and brought us here for cocktails on the rooftop and a panoramic view of Charleston from above!

Address: 75 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401

Indaco Italian Restaurant

Wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pastas, and great wine, need I say more?! My husband’s cousin has been living in Charleston for many years, so we met up with her and her boyfriend here for dinner. Delicious food & fun times!

Address: 526 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Carmella’s Cafe & Dessert Bar

We stopped at this lovely eatery on the way to the Pineapple Fountain! This popular cafe has smoothies, sandwiches and desserts, and it is located just three minutes away from the Waterfront Park area.

Address: 198 E Bay St #100, Charleston, SC 29401

Charleston – Where to Stay

Indigo Inn

We enjoyed our stay at the Indigo Inn for these reasons: (1) excellent location, (2) pet friendly, (3) adorable rooms, (4) friendly staff, (5) very clean, (6) wine & cheese daily at 5PM! We were traveling with our two dogs, so staying at a hotel that welcomed them was a must! I feel that we got lucky with this one… we booked it one hour before we arrived to the city!

To see the rooms at Indigo Inn, click here.

Address: 1 Maiden Lane, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29401

Francis Marion Hotel

This historic hotel is also located in the heart of Charleston! Live jazz music along with cocktails is available at the hotel’s Swamp Fox Bar. A full-service spa and Starbucks Coffee shop are on site as well. We could not stay here because the hotel only allows one dog per room, and small breeds only. I think this hotel would be perfect for a romantic getaway!

To see the rooms at the Francis Marion Hotel, click here.

Address: 387 King Street, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29403

The Loutrel

This top notch hotel offers a relaxing and cozy environment in the heart of Charleston’s historic district.  If you are looking for refined elegance during your visit to the city, this luxury boutique hotel is a must!  The hotel offers complimentary cruising bikes, and a Tesla car charging station.  Be sure to check out the rooftop!

To see the rooms at The Loutrel, click here.

Address: 61 State Street, Charleston, SC 29401

The Charleston Place

We didn’t learn about this hotel until after we left, but I’d love to stay here in the future! This 5 start hotel features a gorgeous lobby, indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, a fitness center and a rooftop terrace! The hotel welcomes two pets of any size, for an additional fee.

To see the rooms at The Charleston Place, click here.

Address: 205 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC, 29401

See all Charleston area hotels and reviews here.

Best time to visit Charleston

The best time to visit Charleston, South Carolina is during spring (March – May) or fall (September – November).

Keep in mind that September is hurricane season, so be sure to check the weather reports.

Where to go in Charleston in one day: A complete 1-day itinerary

  1. Start your day with an early breakfast at Poogan’s Porch
  2. Explore the Historic Charleston City Market
  3. Take a coffee break at Carmella’s Cafe
  4. Walk to the Pineapple Fountain & enjoy a walk along the river
  5. Make your way to the colorful homes on Rainbow Row
  6. Continue to The Battery & stroll by the water
  7. Watch the sunset at The Watch Rooftop while enjoying a cocktail
  8. Finish your day with dinner at Indaco on King Street

Are you ready to visit Charleston? I hope this 1 day Charleston itinerary is helpful in planning your next trip to the Holy City.

Thank you for reading!

Lots of love, Xx

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR CHARLESTON SOUTH CAROLINA TRIP

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Charleston Itinerary
Charleston 1 Day itinerary
Charleston 1 day itinerary
Charleston 1 day itinerary

 

FLORIDA, Travel, UNITED STATES ·

Jacksonville Travel Guide & Where To Stay in Atlantic Beach Florida

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Jacksonville Travel Guide

The city of Jacksonville had always been at the top of my list of cities to visit in Florida. Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches, beautiful historic neighborhoods, parks, museums, outstanding golf courses and fantastic local restaurants. We recently drove down to Miami to spend time with my family during the holidays, and on our way back to New York we enjoyed the most perfect week in the city of Jacksonville!

I was invited by Jacksonville Florida Tourism to explore the city and share my favorite activities. We visited the third week of January and the weather was beautiful! It was a bit chilly at night but lots of sunshine during the day.

Keep reading to find out where we stayed, where we ate and what we enjoyed the most!

the-ultimate-jacksonville-travel-guide
One Ocean Resort & Spa
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EUROPE, STYLE, Travel ·

FRANCE | 10 Things To Do in Paris

10 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS

My days in Paris were short and sweet, and I am already missing the delicious food, the strolls, the views and the Parisian vibes.  The City of Light has always been one of my fave cities in the world, not only because I lived there during my early 20s, but because my experiences have always been lovely.  So I was incredibly happy when my sister announced that she would be getting married in France… that meant that I would return to Paris!  The day finally arrived and a few weeks ago we took a flight from Miami to Paris, spent the weekend, and then drove on Monday to Dordogne, the southwestern region of France.  We returned to Paris the following Friday and stayed six more days.  Today I’d love to share with you my 10 things to do in Paris! … and a few photos I took on this trip.  😉

saint germain des pres
[Outfit details at the bottom of this post]

SAINT GERMAIN DES PRÉS

This quarter of the 6th arrondissement of Paris is one of the swankier neighborhoods in Paris’ rive gauch (left bank), filled with brasseries, upscale boutiques, yet not overcrowded with tourists.

Two cafés that I recommend to try are Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, I used to go to the first one with friends for l’aperitif (love this French habit!).  The aperitif is a friendly ritual that Parisians do before a meal, they share a drink (nothing too high in alcohol) and something salty like chips.  They also do it on regular week nights!

Sit outside, order the croque-monsieur and a Monaco bière with grenadine (my fave!).  While the timing of the aperifit may remind you of the American Happy Hour, it is not the same concept.  Happy hours celebrate the end of the ‘work-day’ but the aperitif is something else, it is not the end, it is the ‘beginning of the night,’ so the mind set is very different.  And while in Paris I used to do the aperitif almost every night, here in Miami, I rarely make my way to any happy hours!

museos en paris
  • musee d orsay
  • musee d orsay

MUSÉE D’ORSAY

Skip the lines at the Louvre and visit this beautiful museum instead!  Musée d’Orsay houses the largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces of the world.  Inside are the works of a few of my favorite artists: Pierre Auguste Renoir, Édouard Manet, and Claude Monet.  This museum is housed inside the former Gare d’Orsay, a railway station constructed for the 1900 World Fair.  The view from the top level is amazing!!

I have a big admiration for painters and their art, that is one of the reasons why I initially moved to Paris – to focus my studies on Art History.  If you are in Paris for a few days, and not sure whether to visit this museum or the Louvre, consider the following: the Louvre exhibits over 35,000 works of art (that’s a lot!), Musée d’Orsay contains 2,000 paintings and 600 sculptures.  Back in the day, I visited the Louvre over a dozen times (3-4 hours inside each time), and I still have tons to see! … plus it is overwhelming due to the size of it.

cafe de l'esplanade

CAFÉ DE L’ESPLANADE

This café (pictured above) is my absolute favorite café in Paris, and it has a spectacular view of Les Invalides!  I love how cozy the outdoor seating is, the trendy inside decor, their menu, and that it sits in all of its Parisian splendor.  Overall, it is a discreet, quiet, and elegant café in the exclusive 7th arrondissement.

I found this café because it was less than half-a-block away from the apartment where I used to live.  [Side note: if you walk 50 meters up the street shown on the left side of the photo above, my apartment was there].  I loved going there with a friend who lived nearby, to study for exams while enjoying the peaceful view.

If you are going to splurge and treat yourself, this place can be a nice option, but I suggest that if you go for dinner – make the reservation the day before.  Also, the gorgeous Musée Rodin is around the corner, it is dedicated to the works of my favorite French sculptor, Auguste Rodin – go check it out!

eiffel tower

PALAIS DE TOKYO

If you want a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower, make your way to Palais de Tokyo located near Trocadero in the 16th arrondissement!

Afterwards you can also enjoy lunch or dinner at two trendy restaurants that I highly recommend:

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EUROPE, ISRAEL, Travel ·

Israel | Travel Diary | Amazing Historic Landmarks to See

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HISTORIC LANDMARKS TO SEE IN ISRAEL

It’s been an AMAZING opportunity to be in Israel – the Holy Land.  Inside Jerusalem, also known as the ‘Old City,’ you can find the most sacred sites in the country, but there is a long list of historic landmarks in the entire land of Israel that can be visited.  

Below is a list of the places that we have visited so far, and will visit during our time here.  

  • Mount of Beautitudes (It is located up on a hill.  Jesus is believed to have delivered the ‘Sermon on the Mount’ right here).
  • Old City of Jerusalem (Our hotel wass located a few blocks away, so we went as much as possible.  There is so much to see!)
  • Church of Holy Sepulchre (Located inside the ‘Old City’ of Jerusalem.) (This place is packed with tourists, so it is better to go early in the morning when it opens around sunrise, or very late before it closes around 7pm).  We went on our own about 3 times, and then with our guide.  The first time we went was on the night we arrived, as the sun was setting.  This is not a good idea!!! the ‘Old City’ is like a labyrinth and you get lost easily).
  • The Western (Wailing) Wall (if you want to visit the tunnels, reserve before arriving!!)
  • Mount of Olives (adjacent to Jerusalem’s Old City)
  • The Jewish Quarter
  • Take a Day Trip to the Dead Sea!
  • Masada (Situated on top of an isolated rock plateau.  We took a ride up to it, and walked it down afterwards.  Must wear tennis shoes for this!).
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