Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s home to impressive museums, historic buildings, picturesque plazas, chilled-out cafes, and a lively mix of clubs and candlelit music venues where people go to listen to traditional fado music. I fell in love with the city as soon as I arrived — and it was even better the second time!

Today, Lisbon is one of the most popular cities on the continent. From cruisers to digital nomads, everyone loves this sunny city. I’ve visited a few times over the years and always look forward to going back. The warm weather, inviting colors, and laid-back vibe really make people feel welcome.

The best way to see the city, though (especially if it’s your first time) is to take a walking tour. It’s the first thing I do when I visit a new city as it’s the best way to connect with a local guide, get insider info, and see the main sights.

These days, there are a ton of walking tours available to ensure you make the most of your visit. Here’s a list of my favorites – from free tours to food tours to pub crawls – to help you sort through it all so you just end up with the best!

Best Overall Tour

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Walks

I’ve taken Walks tours all over Europe and it is, by far, my favorite tour company. They always manage to go above and beyond with tours that are both fun and educational.

In Lisbon, they offer a few tours (including food tours) but for a good primer on the city I recommend their Lisbon in a Day tour. It includes a river cruise, early access to Jeronimos Monastery, and lunch. It lasts a full day too!

Best Free Tour

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Lisbon Chill-Out Tours

This informative three-hour free tour takes you through five of Lisbon’s most popular neighborhoods — Graça, Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto — offering up an entertaining and enlightening dose of history and culture along the way.

The tours also focus on a more local side of Lisbon. If you’re on a budget and want an introduction to the city, this is the tour for you. Just remember to tip the guide!

Here are a few more walking tour options to help you make the most of your time in Lisbon:

1. Devour

Devour started in Spain and quickly began doing tours in Lisbon. They offer a food and fado tour, mixing two cultural highlights of Lisbon on one tour. I personally like the Tastes & Traditions food tour they do: you stop at seven small businesses in Lisbon, eating up to nine samples and sipping three different types of beverages. Devour is one of the best food tour companies in Europe and their Lisbon tours are no exception.

Tours start at 95 EUR.

2. Inside Lisbon

This tour company offers a whole range of tours but their Best of Lisbon introductory tour is perfect for both first-time Lisbon visitors and budget travelers. The three-hour tour starts at 9:30am and takes you through some of the city’s main neighborhoods, making a stop for wine and a bite of the famous pastry, pastel de nata (an egg custard tart). The group tours max out at 14 people.

Tours start at 18 EUR.

3. City Guru Street Art Tour

Street art has taken over the world’s big cities, including Lisbon. On this three-hour tour, you’ll see some of the best works in the city and learn about the social and political motives behind them. Tours are led by a local street artist too, so you’ll really get an insider’s look at the scene and visit murals most other tours skip.

Tours start at 35 EUR.

4. Pancho Tours

Pancho does tours all over the Iberian Peninsula, using local guides and crafting itineraries that focus on street art, tapas and wine, and day trips to places like Sintra. Personally, I like their fado music tour. During the 2.5-hour tour, you’ll learn everything there is about this melancholic music that’s endemic to Portugal. You’ll get a front-row seat at a fado show in the center of Lisbon at the end.

Tours start at around 40 EUR.

5. We Hate Tourism Tours

Overtourism is a problem in many cities, particularly in Europe, with crowds of people ping-ponging from one attraction to the next. Hence, the idea behind We Hate Tourism Tours: the 3.5-hour walking tour takes you to some way off-the-radar neighborhoods to show you how the people of Lisbon really live. There are only about six people per tour, which keeps things intimate. It also means you should book in advance as tours sell out fast. I love how they are getting people out of the main touristy areas and showing you a real look at Lisbon life. I can’t recommend this tour enough.

Tours start at 40 EUR.

6. Discover Lisbon Pub Crawl

Lisbon has a very lively nightlife these days and, if you’re looking for a way to see it while also meeting other travelers, the classic pub crawl is a good way to go. This tour takes you to three spots, with a free shot at the first and the third stop. Plus, there’s a one-hour period of all-you-can-drink cider or sangria. It’s a great option for solo travelers looking to meet other people. It’s not a real “local” thing but it’s fun!

Tours start at 20 EUR.

Lisbon has walking tours for just about every interest and budget, which is one of the many reasons I love the city. Whenever I visit, I always take a tour or two because the city just has so much to see and do, and the local guides always add a ton of value to my trip. These tours allow you to get an inside perspective on life here and ask locals questions on where to go, what to do, and how to act. Be sure to take at least one of these tours while you are in the city.
 

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed, 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It gets straight to the practical information you need to save money while backpacking around Europe. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and more! Click here to learn more and get started!
 

The post The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Oaxaca is one of my favorite cities. From the moment I first visited, I knew this was a place I would return to again and again and again. I’ve been half a dozen times now, even leading tours around the city.

Located in southwestern Mexico in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains, Oaxaca has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, it’s a center for food, mezcal production, and artisan textiles and pottery, and features a rich history, owing to places like Monte Albán and Mitla.

Take all that history, food, and drink, and package it in a place brimming with colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, unique street art, and picturesque parks, and it’s no surprise so many people — myself included — love Oaxaca.

Since I’ve visited this city a lot, to help you plan your trip, I put together this five-day Oaxaca itinerary. It covers all the highlights, my favorite things to see and do, and some off-the-beaten-path activities too!

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 1

Take a free walking tour
One of the first things I do when I visit a new place is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the culture, and meet a local who can answer all your questions and give you tips.

My favorite company here is Oaxaca Free Walking Tour. They offer free daily tours that show you the hidden gems and what life is like for residents. I can’t recommend them enough if it’s your first time here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

See the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
While in downtown Oaxaca, don’t miss stopping in this complex, which features a 17th-century Baroque Roman Catholic church, a cultural museum, and a botanical garden. Originally used as a Dominican church and monastery, this photogenic site was later used as a barracks and military building during Mexico’s revolution (1910–1920) all the way into the 1990s.

While here, see the Museo de las Culturas, which is home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The “Treasures of Monte Albán” exhibition showcases over 400 relics from a Mixtec tomb that is one of the most important burial sites in Mesoamerica, including a skull covered in turquoise, carved bone objects, weaving tools, and jewelry made of gold and jade. It is by far one of the best things to do in town. Expect to spend a couple of hours in the entire complex.

C. Macedonio Alcalá S/N. The Museo de las Culturas is open Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm. Admission to the church is free, while the museum is 85 MXN.

Wander the city and admire the street art
Oaxaca has a wealth of street art, ranging from political pieces commenting on social issues to murals focused on indigenous culture and history. The areas of Xochilmilco and Jalatlaco are two of the best for murals. You can also join a street art bike tour offered by Coyote Aventuras (850 MXN) for an even more in-depth look.

Try a street-stall hamburguesa
After a busy day of exploring, feast on an hamburguesa for dinner. It’s a burger topped with a hot dog, sliced cheese, Oaxaca cheese, ham, pineapple, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeño. I know it’s weird to include this but trust me, you’ll want one. And it’s not made for Gringos and tourists either. Locals devour these. It started here. You’ll see stalls all over town but Cangreburguer near Santo Domingo sells one of the best.

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 2

Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre
This 19th-century covered market has many kinds of delicious street foods and fresh, local produce. It’s also my favorite in town. Named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910, this huge market has everything and is really good for grilled meats. Also nearby is the Mercado Benito Juárez. It has a bunch of food stalls and shops worth browsing if you have more time.

20 de Noviembre 512. Open daily 7am-9pm. Admission is free.

Stroll through the Botanical Garden
Located in the former convent in the aforementioned Santo Domingo de Guzmán complex, the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca was founded in 1994 and opened to the public in 1999. Spanning six acres, it features plants from across the state (many of which have been transplanted here, since the garden is so young). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art.

Admission is by guided tour only and there is only one English tour per day (offered at 11am), which has only 25 spots and fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early to grab your spot.

Reforma Sur, Ruta Independencia. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-3:30pm. Admission is by guided tour only. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for English ones.

Learn about mezcal
I love mezcal (which is one of the reasons why I love Oaxaca). This is the birthplace of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave. Unlike tequila, which is also made from agave, when making mezcal, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. Then water is added, and it’s allowed to ferment. Since the plant is cooked, mezcal has a much smokier flavor than tequila.

If you want to learn more about this popular (and delicious) spirit, Rambling Spirits runs the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca. Go with them if you want to learn more. Their guides have incredible knowledge and can take you to places the bigger tours can’t. I learned a ton on this tour and highly recommend it! Most tours leave after lunch so it’s a perfect way to spend the remainder of your day.

Additionally, you can pop into one of the many mezcalerías in town to taste and learn more about the region’s favorite spirit. My personal favorites are Los Amantes Mezcalería, Mezcalogia, Tres Hermanas, Mezcalería In Situ, and Comere.

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 3

See Monte Albán
This site is a pre-Columbian UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 15 minutes outside town (with regular shuttles to and from downtown). Founded in the sixth century BCE, Monte Albán was one of the earliest Mesoamerican cities and an important sociopolitical and economic center for almost a thousand years.

Start your visit by stopping in at the museum, as it’ll give you context, especially if you’re not on a guided tour. Then, wander the sprawling site at your leisure, climbing ancient Zapotec pyramids and admiring the tombs, terraces, and canals that span several miles. The site takes about 2-3 hours to visit, depending on your pace. Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there isn’t much shade.

Ignacio Bernal S/N, San Pedro Ixtlahuaca. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 90 MXN.

Take a food tour
Upon returning to the city, explore the culinary scene with a guided food tour. Oaxaca is considered one of the most important hubs for gastronomy in Mexico. My favorite tour company is Oaxaca Eats, which runs several tours, most of which last around four hours. You’ll get to sample over 20 dishes and learn a ton about the food and its history. It’s one of the oldest food tour companies in town and run by a lovely local woman with a passion for food.

Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 4

Swim at Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua is one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural sites and a sacred place for the indigenous Zapotec people. These petrified waterfalls seem frozen in time — and they practically are, as they’ve been in the making for thousands of years. As water from natural springs flows over the side of the cliffs, the minerals from the water create rock formations, much in the same way that stalactites form in caves. Bring your swimsuit, as you can bathe in the natural and manmade pools at the top!

In addition to admiring the calcified cliffs, there are also hikes in the area, which is a good way to get away from the crowds.

Open daily 7am-6:30pm. Admission is 50 MXN.

Explore Mitla
Another historic site that I think is a must-see, this pre-Columbian UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people. Used as a sacred burial ground and believed to be a gateway between the realms of the living and the dead, Mitla was built in 850 CE but was mostly destroyed by the Spanish in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact (some of which date as far back as 400 CE), which you can explore on your visit to the archaeological site, which stands out from other Mesoamerican ruins due to the mosaics covering the tombs and walls. It’s another site I always take people to see when I guide them around the city.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 10am-2pm. Admission is 90 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 5

On your last day, pick and choose from a handful of activities, depending on your budget and travel style:

Visit Oaxaca’s artisan towns
Scattered throughout the state of Oaxaca are small folk-art villages, where you can meet artisans, see how traditional goods are made, and bring back a souvenir of your travels if you choose. Each village specializes in a different craft: Teotitlán del Valle is known for its textiles, San Bartolo Coyotepec for black pottery, and San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola for (brightly colored fantastical animal sculptures), to name just a few.

Experience a temazcal
On your last evening in Oaxaca, wind down at a temazcal (meaning “house of heat”), a traditional Zapotec sweat lodge. You’ll sit in a small domed hut that becomes increasingly warmer. You’ll rub everything from clay to fresh fruit juices and peels on your skin as you heat up, cooling down by dunking yourself in cold water. It’s a very meditative, spiritual experience with numerous health benefits.

Visits usually last an hour and cost around 600 MXN.

Wander the Sunday market
If you’re in town on a Sunday, be sure to visit Mercado Tlacolula, one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s been in operation for centuries and is a good place to buy local crafts, produce, food, and everything in between. It’s located 45 minutes outside of town, so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. Thousands of people come here, and there’s tons of amazing food to try. Don’t skip the barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds)!

Admire the world’s widest tree
Just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the center of Oaxaca, in the humble town of Santa María del Tule, is the world’s widest tree. Estimated to be 1,500-3,000 years old, this Montezuma cypress (Mexico’s national tree) has a diameter of about 14 meters (46 feet) and is a magnificent sight to behold.

Oaxaca quickly becomes a favorite of everyone who visits and a lot of people ending up coming back over and over again. There’s a lot to see and do here. This itinerary is jus ta general outline as there are tons of little museums, churches, experiences, and markets you can find on your own.

Use this itinerary to see the highlights and fill in the rest of your time with some wandering!

The post How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

One of the biggest barriers to entry when it comes to travel is airfare. It can be prohibitively expensive — especially in this post-COVID travel boom.

As anyone who’s spent time searching for flights knows, finding a cheap one can be an arduous and time-consuming task. Unlike other aspects of travel (say, museum entry fees or walking tour prices), flight tickets don’t have a set price. Instead, tickets are volatile and unpredictable. We can’t expect a nonstop journey from NYC to Tokyo to always cost the same amount (though that would be nice!).

And even if you find an affordable deal, it can be easy to get caught in decision paralysis, questioning whether you should really book it, or if you could find something even cheaper (this is something that happened to me a lot when I first started traveling).

But this volatility in pricing can actually be used to a traveler’s advantage — with the right tools.

That’s where Going comes in. It’s a tool designed to help you find cheap flights.

Formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights, Going is a membership-based website and newsletter that finds flight deals to over 900 destinations around the world. Most deals are 40-90% off normal prices, meaning members save an average of $550 USD on international economy seats (first-class flyers save $2,000 USD on average).

That’s a huge amount of savings!

Going started back in 2013 when Scott Keyes found an unbelievable deal from NYC to Milan: just $130 USD round-trip. He immediately booked the ticket, went to Italy, and had the time of his life.

When he came back, friends and family kept asking how he found such a great deal. So, he started sending a regular email to friends with the deals he found. By 2015, Scott’s Cheap Flights was born.

Many years — and over two million members — later, Scott’s Cheap Flights rebranded as Going. Same company, new name. Going encourages its members to take a reverse-booking approach to travel, which means choosing your destination and dates based on the flight deals that are available rather than deciding when and where you want to go and then looking for a bargain. It seems counterintuitive at first, but it means you can find incredible deals if you’re flexible.

I’ve known Scott for years and love what he has done with the company. I think he’s created one of the best tools for finding cheap flights there is. But don’t just take my word for it — here’s everything you need to know about Going to decide if it’s right for you!

How Going Works

At its core, Going is a membership website, meaning you have to sign up for some sort of plan to access its deals (one of the options is free, and all the plans offer free trials).

After signing up, it’s a super simple process to set up your account and get deals landing in your inbox:

There are three membership tiers: Limited, Premium, and Elite. While Limited is entirely free, you can take advantage of a 14-day free trial of both Premium and Elite before signing up.

New users can also get 20% off Premium with the code NOMADICMATT20.

The tiers break down as follows:

Limited (free):

• Small selection of deals on economy-class tickets for international travel, 1-2 days after they are found
• Can follow five US departure airports (but you can’t filter flights in any other way)

Premium ($49/year):

• Immediate notification of both international and domestic economy-class deals
• Alerts about rare mistake fares from your home airport (when the airlines incorrectly price a flight)
• Weekend Getaway alerts (for flights departing within the next month)
• Ability to filter what alerts you get
• Can follow up to 10 US airports

Elite ($199/year):

• Everything in Premium
• All mistake fares Going finds
• Deals on all ticket classes
• Unlimited number of departure airports
• Deals on award flights (for booking with points)
• Priority support

Here’s a full breakdown of the plans:

If you’re just looking for the odd flight deal, chances are the Limited plan will suffice for you. However, if you’re looking to travel more and want to really save money, Premium is a must. It has way more perks and offers a lot of value. And if you want deals on booking with points, you’ll need to sign up for the Elite plan as it is the only plan that includes award flight deals.

(If you’re a new user, don’t forget to use the promo code NOMADICMATT20 for 20% off Premium.)

Once you pick a plan and sign up, you’ll want to enter your home airport, as well as any additional airports that you might be willing to travel to for a great deal.

While the major benefit of being a member of Going is that you can just sit back, do nothing, and wait for a bargain to show up in your inbox, you can also search the Flight Deals page:

Here’s an example of what you can see on this page on the Limited Plan vs. the Elite Plan:

The Limited (free plan) view:

The Elite plan view (as you can see, there are hundreds more deals here, and this is filtered for Economy flights only):

How Going Finds Deals

It might be surprising to hear, but most of Going’s deals are found by their (human) Flight Experts using a set of criteria to determine what makes for a “deal.”

That means that they don’t just send you any and every cheap flight, but instead curate a selection of deals. They won’t send you a flight with several long layovers or an overnight layover, and they don’t send deals on budget airlines.

Instead, Going deals consist of nonstop or one-stop flights on full-service airlines with manageable layovers. They also make sure that a deal has at least ten different departure dates, so you’ll never encounter one that requires to you travel on a specific day. In short, they only pick decent flights, which I really appreciate.

On every deal, you’ll see a breakdown with a bit about the flight and destination, as well as sometimes a write-up including helpful tips and information from the Flight Expert who found the deal:

You’ll also see a price history for the flight, so you can see exactly how good of a deal it is. To me, this is super interesting:

Once a deal comes up that you want, all that’s left is to book it. Simply hit the “book” button on Going, which will then take you to the booking site. Usually it’s Google Flights, but sometimes it might be Skyscanner or similar platforms.

As you can see, when you click through, Going has already set all the filters so that the deal it found comes up:

When booking, you’ll want to act fast. Flight prices change all the time, so snag that fare while it still exists. That’s especially the case with mistake fares, as they’re rare and get scooped up or fixed quickly.

Remember, in the US you legally have 24 hours after purchasing a flight to cancel it, so book first and then quickly figure out any required logistics (time off, pet care, etc.), knowing you can cancel within a day if needed.

And that’s all there is to it!

Pros and Cons of Using Going

Pros:

• Getting cheap-flight alerts delivered to your inbox (saving you a ton of time)
• Simple and easy to use
• Great, hands-on customer service
• Affordable tiers (including a free one)
• Allows for a variety of departure options to streamline your searches

Cons:

• Paid membership is necessary for the best deals
• Only works if your home airport is in the US (including the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Guam)
• Award-flight availability is limited (in beta version for the Elite plan)

Should You Use Going?

Going is for travelers who want cheap airfare and can be flexible on dates and destinations in order to get the best deals. Going calls this its “reverse-booking” approach.

Going is for people that don’t have the time or inclination to constantly check for cheap fares, and would rather pay a small fee (the $49/year Premium plan is sufficient for most people) to unlock a world of deals.

Going also works best for travelers who can act quickly once a deal becomes available. While most deals are for travel 2-9 months in the future, since prices change so quickly, you’ll need to be able to book as soon as you get an email alert (but: remember the blanket 24-hour free cancelation policy on all US airlines).

On the flip side, Going is not a tool that will help you find cheap fares to a specific destination for a specific time. (If that’s all you want, simply set up a Google Flights alert for your required dates and destination.) The very nature of the service requires flexibility in order to take advantage of the best deals.

Going is also not for people who would rather spend the time searching for deals themselves rather than pay for a membership. You can find the flights that Going discovers on your own, as they’re publicly available on search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak. However, that takes (a lot of) time, and one person would never be able to find all the deals that Going’s team of over 50 people can! Even I get tired of searching for flight deals sometimes!

I think Going is a great resource to help budget travelers find incredible flight deals all over the world. While you can certainly learn the tips and tricks for doing so on your own, Going saves you the time and energy it takes to look for deals so that you can keep living your life, wait for the perfect one to arrive in your inbox, book it, and get going.

Sign up with promo code NOMADICMATT20 to get 20% off a Premium Plan!

The post Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) Review: Is This Flight Tool Worth Using? appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Bologna is considered one of the food capitals of Italy. And that’s saying something, because, well, Italy is a food capital in itself. The city has some of the most protected designations in the country and is fast become a center for culinary tourism.

And the food is what drew me to Bologna. I had gone there to eat. Over the years, I’d heard about it from all my friends, so, on my way from Prague to Rome, I decided to stop and see eat for myself.

But where to start?

As a fan of food tours, I decided to sign up for one via Get Your Guide. These walks help you learn about the unique cuisine of a region and its history, all from a local who can tell you about the best places to eat.

Get Your Guide is an activities and experience booking website. Name an experience and it has it. Think of it like Expedia but for tours and activities.

There are a lot of food tours in Get Your Guide. I went with the 3-Hour Secret Food Tour as it had a lot of positive reviews, was offered during lunch (at peak hunger), and seemed to last a long time (value for your money).

What was it like? Was it worth it? I’ll tell you.

It started at Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, where we got a traditional pastry and an introduction to the tour. After that, it was a walk through the markets right off Via degli Orefici, an area that, despite being in a touristy part of town (right next to the main square), is still frequented by locals.

It was there that we stopped at Osteria del Sole. This affordable wine bar is in fact one that was recommended to me by a reader, famous for having been around for hundreds of years and for letting people bring in outside food. It’s very popular with locals. I had actually stopped there the night before so it was interesting to go back and learn more about it. (In fact, lots of food tours stop there, so it’s not exactly a secret.)

Our guide went across the street to get us a ton of meat and cheese from shop across the street (as the wine bar doesn’t have food). We tried some mortadella, which is the most famous sausage from the region, as well as Parma ham, a light cheese, parmigiana cheese, and one other type I can’t remember. We were off to a good start!

After that, we walked through the backstreets to a restaurant, where we had more wine and traditional tortelloni. There we learned the difference between tortelloni and tortellini — I honestly had no idea there was a difference. Turns out that the former is primarily made with cheeses, herbs, and vegetables, while the latter is filled with meat.

We also learned that this region serves its pasta al dente (cooked just enough to retain a somewhat firm texture). I’m not a huge fan of that method, but that’s because I grew up in middle-class suburbia and became accustomed to overcooked pasta, but nonetheless, it was great. We tried some more red wine and, since some on the tour didn’t drink, I happily finished off their glasses.

This was also where we really got to sit down and chat with our super knowledgeable guide. He had moved to Bologna over ten years ago and was really passionate about the city’s culinary scene. He was also good to talk to about life in Bologna and rising tourism (he was not a fan of Airbnb).

Then we went to back to the market from the beginning of the tour for a balsamic vinegar tasting. Nearby Modena is the spot for balsamic vinegar, and no food tour would be complete without some. We tried three: a 5 year, 15 year, and 25 year. As balsamic ages, it becomes thicker and a lot more flavorful. Personally, I liked the 15 year the best. It just had a better consistency and taste. I found the 25 year too rich.

After that it was time for gelato and goodbyes. (Frankly I think all goodbyes should involve gelato.)

Was this the best food tour I’ve gone on? No. It was pretty standard. And I felt there was a lot of walking between stops — maybe if they were closer together, we could have gone to more places. We also finished where we started, so it was kind of like going in a circle.

But it gave me everything I wanted, even if it didn’t blow me away.

I left full, and that is always the most important aspect of a food tour. Plus, our guide really knew what he was talking about and was super passionate about food. He wasn’t going through the motions. He loved to eat!

So, if you’re are looking to book this food tour, click the link here.

And if you want to see what others tours and activities you can book in Italy, this page has everything you need!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

The post Food Tour Review: My Experience Eating in Bologna appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Oaxaca stole my heart. I was enamored by this colorful and vibrant city from the moment I stepped foot on its cobblestoned streets. It has it all: history, culture, friendly people, food, mezcal. (I love this city so much that we run tours there now!)

While the town may be small, there’s a lot to do here. Its growing popularity post-COVID has seen a rise in a lot of new experiences, tours, restaurants, and art galleries. (The popularity is just not due to Americans and Europeans either. Mexicans also come here in droves!).

With so much more to do now, here is my list of all the best things to see and do in Oaxaca:

1. Take a walking tour

One of the first things I do when I visit a new city is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the destination and its people, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. My favorite company is Oaxaca Free Walking Tour. They offer free daily tours showcasing the main sights. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
 

2. See the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

With original construction dating back to the mid-16th century, this Dominican church and monastery was also used as a military building during Mexico’s revolutionary war (1910–20). The interior is incredibly ornate, with intricate carvings on the walls, and it still holds services today (so dress respectfully when visiting).

One part of the complex became a museum in the 1970s: the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which focuses on Oaxacan culture, with all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts in its collection. The “Treasures of Monte Albán” exhibition showcases over 400 relics from a Mixtec tomb that is one of the most important burial sites in Mesoamerica, including a skull covered in turquoise, carved bone objects, weaving tools, and jewelry made of gold and jade. It is by far one of the best things to do in the city. You’ll need a couple of hours to see it all.

C. Macedonio Alcalá S/N, +52 951 516 3720. The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is open Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm. Admission to the church is free, while the museum is 85 MXN.
 

3. Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Also located in the former convent in the Santo Domingo de Guzmán complex, the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca features 900 species of plants from across the state, which is one of the most biodiverse areas of Mexico. In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti, there are sculptures and works of art too.

Admission is via tour only. There’s just one English tour available per day (offered at 11am). It fills up quickly, as there are only 25 spots available, so be sure to arrive early as it is first come, first served.

Reforma Sur, Ruta Independencia, +52 951 516 5325. jardinoaxaca.mx. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-3:30pm. Admission is by guided tour only. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for tours in English.
 

4. Just wander the city

Oaxaca contains over 1,200 historic buildings. One of the best things to do is walk around town and take in the historic buildings, colorful murals, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. Just get lost. Take your time wandering the iconic landmarks like the Zócalo (the main square, in front of the National Palace), the Baroque Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, the murals of Xochilmilco, and the colors (and murals) of Jalatlaco (which is my favorite neighborhood in the city).
 

5. Explore the markets

Oaxaca is famous for its markets. My favorite is Mercado 20 de Noviembre, a 19th-century covered market where you can indulge in all kinds of delicious street food (fresh, local produce is sold here too). Named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910, it has remained one of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural hubs for over a hundred years. I love coming here to wander and people-watch. It’s open daily from 7am-9pm.

I also love nearby Mercado Benito Juárez with its food stalls and shops.

Additionally, there is the famed Abastos market, which is the largest market in the region. You can find everything here. It’s huge. If they produce it in the world, it is here. It’s a little outside the city center but it’s worth the trek.
 

6. Learn about mezcal

Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal and more than 70% of Mexico’s production happens here. Like tequila, mezcal is a spirit distilled from agave, but unlike tequila, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. There are a ton of options to learn about mezcal while you are here. For bars, my personal favorites are Los Amantes Mezcalería, Mezcalogia, Tres Hermanas, Mezcalería In Situ, and Comere.

For tours, take Rambling Spirits. This tour company was founded by two journalists who have developed deep roots with the local mezcal producers and will take you to places the more commercial tours won’t. They have an insane level of knowledge and can teach you everything you need to know about mezcal as well as introducing you to the families and producers. It’s my favorite mezcal tour in the city.
 

7. Visit Monte Albán

Founded in the 6th century BCE, Monte Albán was one of the earliest Mesoamerican cities and an important sociopolitical and economic center for almost a thousand years. Get context for the rest of your visit by stopping in at the museum first, and then continuing on to wander the sprawling venue, which is filled with ancient Zapotec pyramids, tombs, terraces, and canals. It is super impressive and takes a few hours to see.

This pre-Columbian UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just 15 minutes outside town. There are regular shuttles to and from downtown Oaxaca, or you can visit on a guided tour if you want an expert guide to show you around (it’s the best way to learn more about the site).

Ignacio Bernal S/N, San Pedro Ixtlahuaca, 01 951 513 3346. inah.gob.mx/zonas/94-zona-arqueologica-de-monte-alban. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 90 MXN.
 

8. Take a food tour

Oaxaca is a center for Mexican gastronomy, with some of the most diverse selections of dishes in the country. Some popular dishes include:

• Tlayudas: a thin and crispy corn tortilla topped with refried beans, pork lard, lettuce, avocado, Oaxacan cheese, and your protein of choice; this is usually a nighttime street food snack.
• Memelas: thick grilled corn cakes with black beans, meat, and cheese toppings.
• Mole: a sauce with dozens of ingredients that varies greatly in preparation (there are seven traditional Oaxacan moles) but often includes cacao, several types of chili peppers, garlic, onion, and other spices; it is served over rice, meat, and tortillas.
• Tetelas: corn tortillas stuffed with black or refried beans, cheese, and cream.

I highly recommend exploring Oaxaca’s local food scene with a guided food tour. Oaxaca Eats runs several tours. You’ll get to sample 20+ dishes. Tour prices vary, but expect to spend 2,000 MXN. They are a local owned company that I think runs the best tours in the city. I use them for all my group tours and when I take friends there.
 

9. Swim at Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is one of the most beautiful natural sites in the country. These calcified waterfalls have been created over millennia as water from natural springs cascades over the side of cliffs. Similarly to how stalactites form in caves, the minerals from the water create bright white rock formations that look like frozen water.

In addition to admiring and snapping photos of the cliffs, there are also hikes around the falls you can take too (it’s pretty steep so you’ll want to be in good physical shape for them). Bring your bathing suit too as you can swim in the pools on top.

+52 951 502 1200. Open daily 7am-6:30pm. Admission is 50 MXN.
 

10. Explore Mitla

This pre-Columbian site was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people. Used as a sacred burial ground connecting the worlds of the living and the dead, Mitla was built in 850 CE but mostly destroyed by the Spanish in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact (some of which date as far back as 400 CE), which you can explore. It stands out from other Mesoamerican ruins due to the mosaics covering the tombs and walls and is well worth a visit.

+52 951 568 0316. lugares.inah.gob.mx/es/zonas-arqueologicas/zonas/1764-mitla.html?lugar_id=1764. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 10am-2pm. Admission is 90 MXN, while skip-the-line tickets (which I highly recommend!) are 160 MXN.
 

11. Visit Oaxaca’s artisan towns

The province of Oaxaca is known for its small folk-art villages, each specializing in different handicrafts. Visit one or a few to meet the artisans, see how traditional goods are made, and bring back a souvenir. Teotitlán del Valle is known for its textiles, San Bartolo Coyotepec for black pottery, and San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola for alebrijes (brightly colored, fantastical animal sculptures — you can even take an alebrije-making workshop in San Martín Tilcajete).

You can visit by rental car, local buses, or a guided tour that goes to a few villages.
 

13. Try a street-stall hamburguesa

The hamburguesa is a delicious must-eat fast food meal. It’s a burger topped with a hot dog, sliced cheese, Oaxaca cheese, ham, pineapple, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeño. It’s all the unhealthy foods you could ever want for just 50 MXN. I know it’s weird to include this as a “must see thing to do” but trust me, you’ll want one. And it’s not made for Gringos and tourists either. Locals devour these. You’ll see stalls all over town but Cangreburguer sells one of the best in my opinion.
 

14. See the world’s widest tree

The world’s widest tree is located in the town of Santa María del Tule, just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the center of Oaxaca. Estimated to be 1,500–3,000 years old, this Montezuma cypress (Mexico’s national tree) has a diameter of about 14 meters (46 feet)! It’s a magnificent sight to behold, but as it doesn’t take very long to see, it’s good to combine it with other activities, such a full-day guided tour that also takes you to Mitla and Hierve del Agua.
 

From unique and delicious food and drinks to history and culture stretching back millennia, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your time in my favorite city in Mexico. (And if you don’t want to plan anything but like to travel with new friends, let us guide you around Oaxaca on one of our TNN tours!).

Oaxaca is a magical place and this list of activities will keep you busy while tapping you into the local culture. I suspect, like me, you’ll end up falling in love with it too.

The post The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

I love Mexico City. It’s dynamic, diverse, bustling, and filled with incredible museums and restaurants.

There’s so much to do here. It takes a long time to peel back the layers of this onion and get to the essence of the city. We run week long tours to the city and that only gets you a good overview of it all!

However, with so much to see and do, I always suggest that first-time visitors here take a walking tour (or three) during their trip. History, food, nightlife, markets — there are all kinds of tours that can introduce you to the city with the help of an expert local guide.

Here’s my list of the best walking tours in Mexico City:

Best Overall Tour

Learn More

Devoured

Run by friend and food expert Anais Martinez (aka The Curious Mexican), Devoured tours go in-depth into the food scene of CMDX, with five different four-hour tours to choose from. On each one, you’ll meet a local “tastemaker,” an expert in their craft who shares the process behind Mexican gastronomic traditions like making mouth-watering tacos or crafting exquisite mezcal cocktails.

Best Free Tour

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The Monkey Experience

The Monkey Experience, a Mexico City-owned-and-run travel company, offers free two-hour walking tours every day. You’ll set off for a tour of the historical center and get to learn about the Zócalo, the city’s main cathedral, the local food markets, the Palace of Fine Arts, and much more. Just remember to tip at the end!

While those may be the best free and paid tours in town, Mexico City has a lot more to offer, no matter your interests. Here are seven other insightful and educational tours:

1. Food Tour of Polanco

The upscale neighborhood of Polanco is a great district for eating. You can find everything from excellent street food to elevated and creative takes on Mexico City staples. This three-hour food tour is a super introduction to the neighborhood. In between munching tacos, grazing on Oaxacan specialties, and feasting on tortilla soup, you’ll learn about the history and the culture of the area from the local guide. This tour does a great job of giving you a wide range of food.

Tours start at 1,590 MXN.

2. Mexico City at Night

The Mexico City at Night tour is two hours of strolling the historical center streets and stopping to gawk at the lit-up architecture while learning about the history and culture of the area. Some of the popular sites you’ll see at night include the Zócalo, the city’s main cathedral, Templo Mayor, and the Torre Latinoamericano, a 44-floor skyscraper that is like the Mexico City version of the Empire State Building. It’s a great tour to get a taste of the night food scene in the city.

Tours start at 394 MXN.

3. Volcano Hiking Tours

If you want to get out of the city for the day, book a day trip to go hiking up a volcano. You’ll be shuttled to La Joya where you’ll walk the trails, learning about the flora and fauna of the area as you go. You’ll even see legendary Paso de Cortés, the spot where Spanish explorer Hernan Cortes and his army passed through on their way to the Aztec city of Tenochititian in 1519. Tours last a full 11-12 hours.

Tours start at 1,180 MXN.

4. Lucha Libre Tour

Lucha Libre is the term for professional wrestling in Latin America and, on this tour, you’ll learn all about this popular sport. The four-hour experience starts with a two-hour walking tour where your guide explains lucha libre culture. After that, you’ll spend a couple hours at an actual lucha libre event. During the match you’ll get to drink tequila and munch on chips and guacamole. And you’ll leave with your very own lucha libre mask. It’s one of my favorite experiences in the city.

Tours start at 1,590 MXN.

5. Poray Street Art Bike Tour

This three-hour guided tour takes you to some off-the-radar parts of town to marvel at the city’s best street art. You’ll learn about the history of the street street art scene, the political significance of most of the art, and discover out of the way neighborhoods you might not normally have visited. The tour also has some authentic street food stops so you get eat along the way. Street art is big here and this is the best way to see a lot of it.

Tours start at 525 MXN.

A massive, sprawling city, Mexico City is an incredible destination that is really just one of the new hotspots in the world. Tourism here is growing by leaps and bounds.

Taking a tour will get you insider tips and give you a local perspective on the culture and people of the city in a way that would be impossible if you just walked around on your own.

And, while these are some of the top walking tour options in town, for even more, check out the online marketplace Get Your Guide, where you can find and book tours offered by local operators.

The post The Best Walking Tours in Mexico City appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

I love trip planning. Reading about a destination, learning its history, and discovering all the cool things to see and do (and eat) is one of the many things I like about traveling.

When I first started backpacking, planning a budget trip was a challenge because you could only really rely on out-of-date guide books or questionable online forums.

These days, however, it’s never been easier to fill out an itinerary. Researching activities, reading reviews and booking excursions can be done months in advance from the comfort of home or as a last-minute decision if you like to travel spontaneously.

One of the websites I use a lot when I travel is GetYourGuide.

GetYourGuide is a marketplace for tours, activities, and excursions. It has everything from skip-the-line museum tickets and walking tours to winery tours and adventure activities — and everything in-between. That includes major “must-see” sights as well as off-the-beaten-path activities too.

Here’s everything you need to know about GYG to help you plan your next trip, have fun, and save money!

What Kind of Activities Does GetYourGuide Offer?

GetYourGuide has a ton of activities in destinations all around the world, but they usually break down into a few different categories:

Tickets – GYG sells tickets to museums, galleries, theme parks, and everything in between. These are often skip-the-line tickets, which are super helpful if you’re visiting a busy attraction.

Public tours – This is what most activities are, including walking tours, guided hikes, whale watching excursions, vineyard trips, etc. You pay a fee and join a small group of fellow travelers.

Private tours – From private walking tours to private guided hikes, if you have a larger budget (or are traveling with a small group), you can find all kinds of guides here that offer more exclusive activities.

Day trips – If you’re staying in a large city, you’ll find countless day trips (and even multi-day trips) further afield. These can be to national parks, wineries, beaches, and more. They usually include transportation to and from your accommodation as well as a meal.

Transportation – Airport transfers, private drivers, and public transportation passes can all be found on GYG.

For most activities, GYG is promoting a local operator. They’re just the middleman helping facilitate your planning. However, they also have their own “Originals” experiences that are created in partnership with a local operator and are only available to book on GYG. Originals experiences include Turning the Lights on at the Vatican Museums, Wine Tasting in the Eiffel Tower, and an exclusive before-hours tour of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC.

My Experience Using Get Your Guide

I’ve used GetYourGuide in a few different destinations on my travels because they’re an easy place to find tours. I booked an awesome food tour in Bologna, another wine tour in Bologna (where the guy was just starting his company so I gave him some tips on how to succeed), and a day trip around the countryside in Slovenia.

Like most travel search engines, what’s great about GYG is that everything is in one place. This is especially important for experiences because most big cities have tons of tour operators. That means that if you’re searching just via Google, you’ll probably miss a lot.

So, I like that GYG puts everything in one place for me so I can bounce around and compare activities prices, durations, and more — all from one website/app.

I plan on using GYG on my upcoming trip to Japan as there are a ton of cool activities and tours available, from tea ceremonies in Kyoto to watching sumo training sessions in Tokyo to trying traditional Japanese archery in Hiroshima.

So, Is GYG Worth Using?

If you’re looking to simplify your travel planning and find cool activities for your next trip, GYG is a great place to start. You can not only find fun excursions and tours but you’ll be able to read reviews and compare prices to see if those activities meet your needs. It’s a simple, easy-to-use website and app that can really add depth to your travels.

And not only do they run their own unique tours and activities but they are a reseller for thousands of others. That means that you’re booking with local companies, ensuring most of the money you spend is staying in the community.

Whether you like to plan your trips in advance or stumble into new activities on the fly, GetYourGuide is a helpful website and app that can ensure you make the most of your time abroad. Foodies, history buffs, nightowls, backpackers, adrenaline junkies — GYG offers unique activities for every travel style and budget, allowing you to dive deeper into your destination, connect with local guides and other travelers, and have more unique experiences.

The post Get Your Guide Review: Is It Actually Worth Using? appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Backpacking Europe is still one of my favorite things to do as a traveler. There isn’t a year I don’t criss-cross the continent (except 2020 when no one was crossing Europe).

During the summer, hostels burst with life, the Mediterranean sparkles, streets fill with people slowly drinking wine and enjoy the day, and the late night setting sun leads to long wonderous days. Winter brings Christmas markets, skiing, fewer crowds, and lower prices! And Spring and Fall bring the right mix of people, temperatures, and prices that make these two my favorite seasons to travel Europe.

Since starting this website in 2008, I’ve written a lot of posts on Europe. I visit Europe multiple times a year, have been all over the continent, lived there on multiple occasions, and even run tours there.

With so much content on the blog, I wanted to create a resource page that will help you plan your backpacking trip to Europe with ease. That way you don’t miss anything! In this post, you’ll find all my best resources on planning a backpacking or budget trip to Europe, including destination guides, transportation tips, accommodation information, ways to meet people, and so much more!

So, without further ado, here’s everything you could ever want to know about backpacking Europe:

Step 1: Plan Your Backpacking Europe Trip

How Not to Feel Overwhelmed While Planning – Planning the perfect trip to Europe can be daunting and overwhelming. I’ve been there and I understand, but I can tell you from years of experience that the more you plan your trip, the more anxiety you will face.

How to Save for Your Trip – Is money stopping you from taking the trip of your dreams? Here are 22 easy ways to cut down on your daily expenses so you can save money to backpack Europe.

How to Find a Cheap Flight – Getting to Europe can be half the challenge. Luckily, there are a ton of flight deals to the continent now if you know when and how to look for them. This article will show you how to always get a cheap flight to Europe.

How to Earn Points for Free Flights and Hotel Stays – Free travel is my favorite kind of travel! This post shows you eight strategies I use to get over a million frequent flier points. These will get you out of your house faster, cheaper, and in comfort!

How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days – Every year, thousands of travelers wonder how they can stay in Europe for more than 90 days, which is the limit in the Schengen Zone. The good news is that there are a few different ways to stay. In this post, I share what you can do to stay legally beyond 90 days and on the continent in general.

How to Avoid Paying ATM Fees – You should never have to pay any bank fees while you are accessing your money in Europe! Here is my advice on how to avoid bank fees as your backpacking Europe.

Is Europe Safe to Visit? – Here is how to ensure you stay safe while traveling across the continent.
 

Step 2: Get Your Gear for Backpacking Europe

How to Pick the Best Backpack – It’s important to pick a quality backpack for your trip since it’s going to get beaten up as you travel! This guide to choosing the right travel backpack will help you determine the best pack for your trip.

What to Pack for Your Trip – What should you pack on your trip? Well, there is no one right answer, but this list will give you a good place to start. It’s what I take on my trips with me (though you’ll need to make some seasonal variations, I’m sure!).

The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers – In this post, Kristin Addis shares her packing insights for women, so that you can travel just about anywhere without spending a fortune on gear.

How to Buy Good Travel Insurance – Travel insurance is one of the most important things you’ll need for your trip. You wouldn’t have a car without car insurance or a home without home insurance, and you can’t have a trip without travel insurance!

The Best Travel Cameras – Wondering what kind of camera you should get for your trip? This post will show you exactly what you need — no matter your budget!
 

Step 3: How to Get Amazing Accommodation in Europe

How to Find Cheap Accommodation – If you are looking to stay somewhere besides a hotel or a hostel, this article lists all the types of places where you can rest your head in Europe — from couches to farms and even monasteries!

How to Find a Good Hostel – This article features my best tips on how to find an affordable, clean, and fun hostel where you can meet a lot of amazing people.

The Best Hostels in Europe – This is a list of European hostels that I would definitely use again if I have the chance. Hope this helps with your next European backpacking adventure!

How to Become a House Sitter – This is a how-to guide to house-sitting, a wonderful opportunity that allows you to stay in a location rent free in exchange for watching someone’s house.

For more budget accommodation suggestion, check out my hostel hub page. It has all my favorite hostels around Europe!

And to find out where to stay in each city, visit my list of the best neighborhoods in Europe!
 

Step 4: Get Around Europe on the Cheap

7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe – Traveling around Europe can still be fairly expensive. Here are seven ways to backpack Europe without breaking the bank.

The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money with Eurail Passes – Everyone traveling to Europe wonders if they will save money by buying a rail pass or if it’s cheaper to buy tickets as they go. This detailed post outlines everything you need to know buying a rail pass!
 

Step 5: Save Money While Backpacking Europe

How to Save Money on Food – While traveling Europe, food often becomes a major expense. Here are some tips for saving money on food so you still can afford a nice meal out every now and then.

How to Use the Sharing Economy to Save Money – The rise of the sharing economy has made backpacking Europe so much easier and cheaper. This post lists all my favorite ridesharing, house sharing local meeting websites so you can get off the tourist trail and experience day-to-day life with locals!

61 Tips to Make You the Savviest Traveler – These 61 travel tips will help you become an expert traveler who gets around Europe cheaper, better, longer, and smarter!

14 Major Travel Scams to Avoid – Losing money to a preventable travel scam sucks. Learn what scams to look out for in Europe and save yourself a potential headache!
 

Step 6: Find Out What to See and Do in Europe

What do you do while backpacking Europe? LOTS! Here are all my comprehensive budget travel guides for destinations around Europe with tips and advice on things to do and see, ways to save money, and typical costs for each of them. You’ll find country-specific tips as well as a host of cities listed as well.

I have over 100 guides to places in Europe! Everything you ever need to know about where you are going can be found in these articles!

In addition to the country guides above, I’ve created tons of cool itineraries for cities all around Europe. You can find my best Europe itineraries here!

This massive resource list will help you plan your trip to Europe in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step pattern so you won’t get lost, overspend, or stress out about your upcoming dream trip. Europe is one of my favorite regions of the world (which is why I spend so much time there). There’s so much variety in food, culture, and language, as well as so much history. I love the continent and hope you use these tips to plan your ultimate backpacking adventure in Europe!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

The post My Step-By-Step Guide to Backpacking Europe appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

New Orleans is known for its rambunctious nightlife and wild Mardi Gras.

But there’s more to the Big Easy than the frozen drinks on Bourbon Street.

It’s essential to branch out during your visit. The Garden District, the Central Business District (aka CBD), the Marigny, Bywater, and Mid-City (among other neighborhoods) all have their own distinct style, vibe, and personality.

And, since each is going to shape your experience, you want to pick an area to stay that fits your style.

To help you plan your trip, here is my breakdown of the best neighborhoods in New Orleans for visitors (as well as suggested accommodations in each).

But, first, some frequent questions I get asked about staying in New Orleans:

What’s the best neighborhood for sightseeing?
This one is pretty simple: the French Quarter. Yes, it’s packed with tourists, but if sightseeing is on your agenda, then a stay here is a must.

What’s the best neighborhood for families?
If you’re traveling as a family, Mid-City is the place for you. In addition to hugging up against the expansive City Park, the area is also home to the Louisiana Children’s Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art.

What’s the best neighborhood for shopping?
The Warehouse District is filled with great shops and boutiques. Make sure you hit Magazine Street, which stretches into the Lower Garden District as well.

What’s the best neighborhood for foodies?
Tremé and the 7th Ward are excellent for people who travel with their stomach and taste buds in mind. There are new trendy spots but also a handful of excellent traditional Creole and Cajun restaurants.

What’s the best neighborhood for history?
While lots of people might point the history buff to the French Quarter — and understandably so — the Garden District is a more tranquil neighborhood that is worth exploring, replete with 19th-century mansions and historic cemeteries.

What’s the best neighborhood for hipsters?
The Marigny and neighboring Bywater are chock-full of dive bars, art galleries, and cool restaurants with an all-around hip vibe. Frenchmen Street boasts a bunch of great jazz bars and bohemian hangouts.

What’s the best neighborhood overall?
It’s hard to pick just one neighborhood in a city where each district has its own unique flavor and style, but I’m going with the French Quarter, because that is usually the one that lures people here in the first place.

So, with those questions answered, here’s a breakdown of each neighborhood, with suggested accommodations, so you know precisely where to stay in New Orleans:

Where to Stay in New Orleans for Sightseeing: the French Quarter

This famed historic neighborhood is the central spot for most visitors to the Big Easy. The debaucherous district — where you can walk around with a potent Hurricane drink in hand — is also loaded with famous restaurants, small museums, and cocktail bars. It may get crowded at times, but the French Quarter is most definitely worth spending time in, as it’s one of the great neighborhoods in North America.

Best places to stay in the French Quarter:

• BUDGET: City House Hostel — City House Hostel is one of the most centrally located, budget-friendly accommodations in town. The bunk beds in the dorms don’t have privacy shades, but the mattresses are quite comfortable. There’s a kitchen for guests and a fun common room with foosball.
• MIDRANGE: Villa Convento — Rumored to be the “House of the Rising Sun” from the famed 1960s song by the Animals, Villa Convento is steeped in history. Housed in a former convent from the 1830s, the villa has loft, balcony, and courtyard rooms, all of which are bedecked with antique furniture.
• LUXURY: The Ritz-Carlton — Situated in the southwest corner of the Quarter, the Ritz-Carlton is the epitome of luxury. Rooms are decorated with the commissioned work of local artists; some have balconies overlooking the Quarter. They also feature signature robes, marble bathrooms, Asprey bathroom amenities, soundproof windows, and high ceilings.

Where to Stay in New Orleans for Families: Mid-City

Just about a 10-minute ride on the streetcar, Mid-City feels hours away from the decadence of the French Quarter. The neighborhood is made up of stately houses along Canal Street and quirky and cute bungalows down side streets. There are a number of great restaurants — such as Parkway Bakery & Tavern, home of one of the best po’ boy sandwiches in town — as well as a set of fantastic museums, such as the Louisiana Children’s Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art. City Park, a huge swath of green that is an oasis of tranquility, can also be found here.

Best places to stay in Mid-City:

• BUDGET: India House Hostel — This budget-minded hostel smack in the center of Mid-City has male-only, female-only, and mixed dorm rooms. Bunks don’t have privacy dividers but the mattresses are comfortable. In addition to the usual hostel amenities, such as a nice common space and kitchen, India House also has a swimming pool.
• MIDRANGE: Lucky Inn — Quirky and bohemian in spirit, the Lucky Inn is a small boutique hotel with a lot of style and personality. It has spacious king-sized bedrooms fit for the whole family.
• LUXURY: Inn at the Old Jail — As the name suggests, the landmark Victorian building was an actual jail in 1902 and then became a library before being transformed into a comfortable and spacious hotel. Each room is a suite, so there is room for the whole family.

Where to Stay in New Orleans for Shopping: Warehouse District

Also known as the Arts District, the Warehouse District boasts tons of galleries and a handful of museums. There is also a slew of impressive restaurants, bars, and sleek hotels with rooftop pools. Those who like shopping should point themselves to Magazine Street. The long street, flanked by unique and quirky shops and boutiques, stretches into the Garden District and beyond. It’s also a nicely situated part of town, wedged between the rowdy French Quarter and the more tranquil Garden District.

Best places to stay in Warehouse District:

• BUDGET: The Auberge Hostel — The Auberge is a fun hostel with a party spirit. The dorm rooms are mixed and offer comfy bunk beds complete with lockers to store your stuff.
• MIDRANGE: Holiday Inn Express — This hotel is your typical Holiday Inn and the best value for your money in the area. There is a large fitness center, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a business center.
• LUXURY: Roami at The Brandywine — Complete with a great rooftop view, the Brandywine consists of eight fully furnished, fully stocked apartments of various sizes. Each unit has a washer and dryer for when you want to refresh your shopping and partying clothes for the next day.

Where to Stay in New Orleans for Foodies: Tremé and the 7th Ward

These neighboring districts are brimming with excellent eateries. New Orleans is one of the best dining towns in North America, and winnowing the options down just one (or in this case, two) neighborhoods to eat in is next to impossible. But if you want some traditional Creole and Cajun fare, Tremé and the 7th Ward are where to eat your fill.

Best places to stay in Tremé and 7th Ward

• BUDGET: HH Whitney House — Budget accommodations in Tremé and the 7th Ward are not particularly easy to come by. This charming bed & breakfast is one of the most affordable in the area, with large rooms and enormous, comfortable beds.
• MIDRANGE: Degas House — This unique B&B gives includes a free walking tour. You also get a Creole breakfast complete with mimosas and/or Bloody Marys. The large rooms have wooden floors and four-poster beds.
• LUXURY: La Belle Esplanade — This charming Victorian inn from the 1880s only has five suites (and comfortable ones at that). Rather than offering a cooked breakfast, each suite is catered with local food products. The suites are large, and each one is unique, complete with cheery colors and antique furniture.

Where to Stay in New Orleans for History Lovers: Garden District

After the French Quarter, the Garden District may be the second most popular neighborhood in the Crescent City. The plus-sized mansions, the sturdy, sprawling oak trees, the historic cemeteries, and the great restaurants (including the famed Commander’s Palace) make the Garden District one inspiring and atmospheric place. The district oozes with the past, particularly from the 19th century.

Best places to stay in the Garden District:

• BUDGET: The Quisby — Housed in an old hotel from the 1920s, the Quisby is a fun hostel with a 24-hour bar. Each bunk has a reading light and an outlet nearby. The hostel is just over the border in the Warehouse District.
• MIDRANGE: St. Charles Coach House — Located on historic St. Charles Street, Coach House is a boutique hotel that brings back regulars for its charm. Rooms are spacious, and all have Keurig coffee makers, large TVs, and thick, comfortable mattresses.
• LUXURY: Grand Victorian Bed & Breakfast — This really is a grand Victorian house, one of the most stunning in the neighborhood. The rooms have antique furniture, Egyptian cotton towels, balconies, and jacuzzi hot tubs. There is also a huge luxurious breakfast too

Where to Stay in New Orleans for Hipsters: The Marigny

Located just east of the French Quarter, the Marginy’s main drag is Frenchmen Street, which is flanked by hip and cool bars and jazz clubs that are far less touristy than anywhere in the Quarter. The neighborhood is highlighted by historic, shotgun-style houses, while hipster cocktail bars and great restaurants are sprinkled throughout.

Best places to stay in the Marigny:

• BUDGET: Creole Gardens Inn — The rooms are on the smallish side, and the amenities are fairly basic, but the beds are thick and comfortable. Each room is unique, and the service from the couple who run the place is warm and welcoming.
• MIDRANGE: Lamothe House Hotel — The individually designed rooms are outfitted to make you think you may have just woken up in 19th-century New Orleans.
• LUXURY: Serenity in the Marigny — This is an über-comfy bed & breakfast and spa. Each of the spacious rooms is uniquely designed and the New Orleans-style breakfast is fantastic.

New Orleans has a slew of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and vibe. Choosing where you stay is going to shape your stay here. While the city isn’t always walkable (especially in the summer heat), there’s a robust trolley system that can get you between neighborhoods.

The post Where to Stay in New Orleans: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

New Orleans is one of the best cities in the world. Synonymous with debauchery, it’s become famous for the boisterous Mardi Gras festival that takes over the city each February.

But there is more to “NOLA” than just partying. Much more.

I first went in 2006 and have been drawn back countless times, diving deeper and deeper into the city. From feasting on delicious Creole food to learning about voodoo and its cultural roots, New Orleans is a city with layers — layers that are often overlooked by partying tourists.

New Orleans is magic. It is such a phenomenal place. I’ve never not had a great time there. It’s one of my favorite places in the WORLD! That’s how good it is!

To help you have fun and make the most of your visit beyond the tourist trail, here’s my list of the best things to do in New Orleans:

1. Celebrate Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras — French for “Fat Tuesday” — is one of the most popular festivals in the world. It kicks off in January and lasts until Ash Wednesday. There are parades with floats and live music, balls, and a nonstop party atmosphere known for getting rowdy. Upwards of a million visitors flock here each year to celebrate, turning the city into a giant party.

While it can be a blast, make sure you book everything well in advance, as prices skyrocket and everything sells out quickly. But it’s a party not to be missed!
 

2. Listen to music on Frenchmen Street

Buskers, jazz, blues, big band: you can find it all in NOLA. Live music is hugely popular here, and there are tons of bars and clubs in which you can take in a performance. The main area to find them is on Frenchmen Street, which grew to prominence in the 1980s and has been a staple of the music scene ever since.
 

3. Take a ghost or voodoo tour

New Orleans is considered one of the most haunted spots in the country, thanks to the city’s voodoo roots. Voodoo is a set of underground religious practices that came out of the African religious traditions that enslaved people brought to America in the 17th and 18th centuries. Over the years, voodoo and the occult became synonymous with New Orleans. From stories of ghosts and vampires to Marie Laveau (the most famous voodoo practitioner), New Orleans has a certain unsettling aspect.

To learn more, take a voodoo tour through the French Quarter and its cemeteries. Witches Brew Tours and the Ghosts, Vampires, and Voodoo French Quarter Tour are two of the best.

400 Royal St, +1 504-454-3939, witchesbrewtours.com. They host multiple tours daily, including some only for adults. Its Cemetery Insiders Walking Tour lasts two hours and costs $35 USD.
 

4. Visit the Voodoo Museum

This small museum is the place to learn more about voodoo and to actually see objects used in its practices. Comprised of just two rooms, it opened in 1972 and is packed with all kinds of artifacts, talismans, taxidermied animals, and voodoo dolls. And if that’s not enough, the museum can facilitate psychic readings and other rituals with local practitioners if you’re so inclined.

You can visit the museum at your own pace via the self-guided option, or take the walking tour, which includes a guided tour of the museum.

724 Dumaine St, +1 504-680-0128, voodoomuseum.com. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is $10 USD for a self-guided tour or $32 USD for the guided museum and walking tour.
 

5. Tour the French Quarter

The famous French Quarter was settled by the French (hence the name) in 1718. The district is now a haven for revelers on Bourbon Street, antique shoppers on Royal Street, and foodies seeking some of the best Cajun food in town. Here you’ll also find Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral (the oldest in the country, dating back to 1789), beautiful homes, bars blaring top-notch jazz, and iconic 18th century French-style homes with wrought-iron balconies.

I start off every visit to a new city with a free walking tour. Try the one from NOLA Tour Guy. You’ll learn about the history of the neighborhood and get access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

For a more in-depth tour, go with Take Walks. It is my go-to company when it comes to detailed walking tours that go above and beyond the guidebook.

For more suggestions, here’s my list of the best walking tours in NOLA.
 

6. Stop by Sazerac House

Opened in 2019, Sazerac House is part bar, part museum, highlighting the importance of the Sazerac cocktail, born at this very location and considered by many to be the oldest American cocktail. This is an immersive experience, with several floors of interactive exhibits. You can chat with virtual bartenders about their favorite drinks and see what the French Quarter looked like in the 1800s. It’s a super detailed and fun experience that’s one of the best in New Orleans.

You can also take a 90-minute free tour (which includes samples) or attend one of the events or workshops (which start at $30 USD), such as a whiskey tasting or a workshop that teaches you how to craft whiskey-based cocktails.

101 Magazine St, +1 504-910-0100, sazerachouse.com. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-6pm. Admission is free, but booking in advance is required.
 

7. Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez

This boat launched in 1975; however, it’s the ninth steamboat to bear the Natchez name (one of its predecessors took part in the most famous steamboat race in history, in 1870). Today, it’s the city’s only authentic steamboat and makes for a touristy (but fun) way to spend the afternoon. There are brunch and dinner cruises and live jazz music. You’ll also get to enjoy the scenic skyline as you cruise on the placid waters of the Mississippi.

400 Toulouse St, +1 800-233-2628, steamboatnatchez.com. Cruises depart at 11:30am, 2:30pm, and 7:00pm. Evening jazz cruises cost $50 USD ($95 USD with dinner); the Sunday jazz brunches are $68 USD.
 

8. Learn about 1850 House

For the centuries leading up to the Civil War, the widespread reliance on slavery in the South allowed white plantation owners to get incredibly wealthy (there were around four million slaves in the US then, about one-eighth of the entire US population). Like the rich and powerful today, they built elaborate homes to show off that wealth — and some of those are still standing today.

Located next to Jackson Square, 1850 House is an example of what many of those townhouses looked like before the Civil War. Built by the wealthy aristocrat and 19th-century New Orleans personality Baroness Micaela Almonester Pontalba, this particular edifice had many different occupants over the years. When the Louisiana State Museum took it over, it decorated the building to be representative of upper-class life at the time of its construction. It’s the best place to get an immersive understanding of just how affluent white slave owners were in the south (because they were wealthy!).

523 St Ann St, +1 504-524-9118, louisianastatemuseum.org. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-4pm. Admission is $5 USD.
 

9. Take a Bayou tour

The bayou, a swampy section of a slow-moving river, provided early settlers with trees for homes, fish for eating, and waterways for commerce. It’s still the lifeblood of the region and an important part of its culture. Spend your morning in this beautiful and relaxing area by getting back to nature.

Kayak tours cost around $50-60 USD and last a couple of hours. Wild Louisiana Tours offers guided outings that will get you out on the water and teach you about the ecosystem. It also offers rentals from $40 USD if you don’t want a tour.

1047 Piety Street, +1 504-571-9975, neworleanskayakswamptours.com.
 

10. Relax in the park

When you need to rest your legs, grab a book, pack a picnic, and head to one of New Orleans’ stunning parks, both with ponds, trees, walking and biking trails, and plenty of space to relax.

City Park is a massive green space 50% larger than NYC’s Central Park — one of the biggest urban parks in the country! It is home to centuries-old oak trees, the New Orleans Botanical Garden, the New Orleans Museum of Art, cafés, and restaurants, among other attractions. Audubon Park was formerly a plantation, a staging area for both the Confederate and the Union armies during the Civil War, and host to a World’s Fair in 1884–85.
 

11. Visit Oak Alley

Over a dozen oak trees (each of them over 250 years old) line the lane leading to this antebellum manor right on the Mississippi River. Once a sugar plantation and a cattle ranch, it opened to the public in 1976.

Personally, I found the home’s interior to be less impressive than the exterior. However, wandering the grounds was absolutely worthwhile, as the signs/placards have a lot of information on the horrible institution of slavery. It’s a very sobering but important experience.

It’s located an hour from the city by car. Try to arrive early (or stay late) to avoid the day tours that come from New Orleans, so you can beat the crowds.

3645 Highway 18 (Great River Road), +1 225 265-2151, oakalleyplantation.org. Open daily 8:30am-5pm. Admission starts at $25 USD. For tours that include transportation from New Orleans and admission to the plantation, expect to pay $70-80 USD per person.
 

12. Tour the National World War II Museum

Opened in 2000 as the National D-Day Museum, this is the largest museum dedicated to World War II in the entire United States. The exhibits focus on the American contribution to the war, which lasted from 1939 to 1945 (the US entered the war in 1941).

Even if you’re not a history buff like me, I highly recommend visiting. Many veterans spend time here, and you can listen to firsthand accounts of the war, as well as see some of their pictures. It’s sobering but incredibly insightful.

945 Magazine St, +1 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org. Open daily from 9am-5pm. Admission is $31.50 USD (buying advance timed tickets is highly recommended).
 

13. Take a food tour

From po’boys to gumbo and everything in between, food, culture, and history are part of the city’s DNA. If you want to learn more about New Orleans’ best eats, take a food tour. You’ll not only get to eat more of the best chow in town, but you’ll learn how and why certain dishes came to prominence. A tour will add much more insight and nuance to your time here.

Doctor Gumbo Tours runs one of the best food tours. It also offers a cocktail history tour that goes to historic venues (with a cocktail at each stop, of course) while teaching you about famed drinks and liquors.

+1 504 473-4823, doctorgumbo.com. Tours last three hours and cost $75 USD per person.
 

14. Explore the Confederate Memorial Hall Museum

This is one of the oldest museums in the state and is home to the second-largest collection of Confederate items in the world. I’m always intrigued by Civil War history museums, especially those in the Deep South, where the memory of “Northern aggression” is still very strong.

The museum contains over 5,000 historical artifacts, including the uniforms of Generals Bragg and Beauregard and personal items owned by Confederate President Jefferson Davis (including his Bible and a piece of the crown of thorns he received from the Pope). The museum highlights Southern patriotism and reiterates the historic argument that the South was fighting for “honor” and “states’ rights.”

I found the absence of a discussion of slavery here unsurprising, given that the museum wants to pretend that that wasn’t the main cause of the war. It’s always fascinating to learn how people frame their history, even if they do so in such a biased light. Despite the one-sidedness — and in fact, because of it — this museum is worth visiting.

929 Camp St, +1 504-523-4522. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm. Admission is $10 USD.
 

15. Tour the NOLA Jazz Museum

I love jazz: listening to it, learning about it. I can’t get enough. This museum not only has a ton of artifacts (over 25,000) but it hosts lots of concerts and over a dozen festivals throughout the year. The museum is housed in an old US Mint building and features instruments, artwork of and by musicians, memorabilia, and more. Most events are free, and many of them are broadcast live as well, so you can watch them for free from home too.

400 Esplanade Ave., 504-568-6993, nolajazzmuseum.org. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-4pm. Admission is $8 USD.
 

16. Visit Studio Be

Located in the hip, artsy neighborhood of the Bywater, Studio Be is a unique art gallery created by local artist Brandan “Bmike” Odums. In the 35,000 square foot warehouse, you’ll find colorful spray-painted murals and large-scale pieces as well as multimedia installations by Bmike and other local artists, largely focused on social justice issues. Meandering through is a moving way to glean insights into the Black experience in New Orleans.

2941 Royal St, 504-252-0463, studiobenola.com. Open Wednesday through Saturday, 2pm-8pm and Sunday 2pm-6pm. Admission is $15 USD.

New Orleans is one of the liveliest (and popular) destinations in the USA. But there’s much more to it than letting loose on Bourbon Street. With incredible live music, delicious food, a rich history, and world-class museums, NOLA has something for everyone. It’s a place with layers and, if you take the time to explore beneath the surface, you’ll discover one of the most unique cities in the country.

The post The 16 Best Things to Do in New Orleans appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.