We’ve been to many places in Italy, but we haven’t yet visited its southern part. Luckily, on the cruise we did from Rome, one of the stops was Naples in August 2025.
As always, before arriving at a new destination, I conducted some research to understand what we could do there with our daughters, Maya (5.5) and Sophie (2.5). The truth? I found quite a few nice ideas, but I quickly realized we would need much more time to see everything, so we focused on a few key activities and there’s no doubt we’ll need to return to Naples again 🙂
In the meantime, I decided to write a post about the things we did and also share a list of places and experiences we saved for next time.

A bit about Naples

Naples is a city in southern Italy located on the coast, facing the Gulf of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius nearby. The city is large and lively, offering a mix of history, narrow streets, markets, and famous local food, especially the pizza Naples is known for.

How to get to Naples

You can reach Naples via direct flights from many European cities. Airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air fly there, so it’s often possible to find cheap tickets.
We arrived in Naples as part of a cruise, which docked at the city’s port. The port is very close to the center, which allowed us to explore the city on foot without needing a taxi or bus.

Nuovo Castle

One of Naples’ most famous landmarks, located right by the port, making it very easy to reach, especially if you arrive on a cruise. It’s an impressive 13th-century castle with tall towers and a huge stone gate that immediately catches the eye. Inside, you can walk through large rooms like the Barons’ Hall, enter the Palatine Chapel, see paintings and sculptures from the 15th to 19th centuries, and also climb to viewpoints overlooking the city and the bay. Kids love exploring it – Maya, for example, was thrilled to wander through the rooms and feel like she was in a fairy tale.

The castle is generally open Monday to Saturday, from morning until late afternoon (last entry around 17:30). The price is about €6 per adult, and children under 18 enter for free. A visit can take about 1–2 hours, depending on how long you spend in the exhibits and rooms. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth passing by to see it from the outside. Directions.

Piazza del Plebiscito

Any place with a large open space is always good with kids 🙂 In this case, it’s also very beautiful. Piazza del Plebiscito is the largest central square in Naples, surrounded by impressive buildings like the Royal Palace on one side and the Church of San Francesco di Paola on the other.

The square has plenty of space for kids to run around and burn off energy, and you can also enjoy the historic buildings around it. Sometimes there are events, performances, and open exhibitions. Even if you visit in the middle of the day, it’s a nice spot to stop, take photos, or just rest a bit during the city tour. Directions.

Coffee and Pastries

Well, the coffee is less for kids 🙂 but I tried a type of coffee I hadn’t had before and really liked it. It’s called Cremosito, a mix of coffee and dessert, with a sweet and creamy texture. We had it at Gran Caffe Al Centro, and the timing was perfect because it started raining (in mid-August!).
The café offers a wide variety of sweet and savory pastries, pizzas, and desserts. For Maya, we ordered hot chocolate, and for the girls, we got two pastries – one with ricotta that wasn’t great and another with cheese noodles, which was a big hit. Definitely a nice stop during a city walk.

Royal Palace of Naples

The Royal Palace is located in Piazza del Plebiscito and is one of the most impressive buildings in the city. You can explore the large, magnificent rooms, see historical furniture, paintings, and painted ceilings, and get a sense of how the kings and nobility lived. The palace is usually open Thursday to Tuesday, from 9:00 to 20:00 (last entry at 19:00).

Admission is €15 for adults, free for children under 18. A 1–2 hour tour is enough to see the main rooms, and you can also combine it with a visit to the gardens or exhibitions. The palace is stroller-friendly and close to public transport, making it easy to include in a city tour with kids. Directions.

Street Leading to the Sea

One of my favorite streets in Naples is the one we continued to from Piazza del Plebiscito. It leads to the sea and overlooks the bay, offering wonderful views of the city and the water. It’s very stroller-friendly, with beautiful viewpoints along the way. The street is in the Via Acton Ferdinando area and is recommended for walking with kids. Directions.

Fontana Park

Our daughters love parks and birds, and this park was perfect for them. What we especially liked was the variety of birds and even a sign explaining all the species you can see there. The girls enjoyed learning the names of each bird and chasing them while exploring. It’s not a spectacular park, but it’s plenty of fun for kids, and there are benches for parents to rest. Directions.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

In Rome and Barcelona, we tried the Hop-On Hop-Off bus and loved it – it makes exploring the city comfortable with audio explanations at each site. In Naples, we didn’t have enough time to try it, but it’s definitely worth considering, especially with kids.
There are two main routes:

• Route A – City Center and History: Piazza Municipio / Largo Castello, Piazza del Gesù, Dante – Port’alba Decumani, Archaeological Museum, Porta San Gennaro, Palazzo Caracciolo, Corso Umberto I, Garibaldi Train Station, and Piazza Bovio/Università.
• Route B – Views and Gulf of Naples: Parco Castello, Piazza Vittoria, Viale Anton Dohrn, Mergellina, Le Stanze Capo Posillipo, Parco Virgiliano, Via Petrarca, Castel dell’Ovo, and Piazza Vittoria – Galleria Borbonica.

The buses run daily from April 1, 2025, with the first departure at 9:45 and the last at 17:15, every 30 minutes. Tickets are valid for 24 hours and allow unlimited stops. It’s a convenient way to explore Naples with kids without too much walking, and to enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf and historic city.

To book Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets with free cancellation

Day Trip to Pompeii

A friend of Roman really recommended a trip to Pompeii, but unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time. The drive from Naples to Pompeii is not long – about 30–40 minutes by car or train.
Pompeii is a fascinating archaeological site where you can see the remains of the city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in the 1st century AD. It gives a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life, with houses, squares, shops, amphitheaters, and painted walls. For those who prefer organized tours, there are full-day or half-day trips available, including transport and a guide – very convenient when traveling with kids.

To book a small group tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an archaeologist, with free cancellation

Boat Trip to Capri Island

Another place we really wanted to see but didn’t manage was Capri. At first, I wondered if we should dedicate the whole day to it instead of exploring Naples, but since we were already on a cruise, I felt another boat trip would be too much for us, haha. Still, the island looks amazing and is definitely worth visiting – Capri offers a mix of stunning nature, picturesque beaches, dramatic cliffs, charming towns, walking paths, viewpoints, and the famous Blue Grotto. You can reach it via full-day or half-day tours, including boat trips around the island or guided tours of Anacapri and Capri, making it easy and fun even with kids.

To book a small group boat tour to Capri Island from Naples with free cancellation

Pizza-Making Class

Another activity that looked really fun with kids is a pizza-making class with a local chef in Naples.

To book a pizza-making workshop with a local chef in Naples with free cancellation

Summary, In short, even though our visit to Naples was short, we managed to experience some of the main attractions with the kids – Nuovo Castle, Piazza del Plebiscito, the Royal Palace, Fontana Park, and a coffee stop with pastries. We kept a list for next time: Pompeii, Capri, and a pizza-making class. The city offers a great mix of history, nature, culture, and food, proving it’s possible to enjoy Naples even on a short trip with children.

I hope my post was helpful! If so, I’d love to hear your comments, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or reach out via the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Italy? I have plenty of other posts about Italy on the blog.

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We have been to Barcelona four times, and the last time was in August 2025. This was the first time I was there together with our girls – Maya, 5.5, and Sophie, 2.5. We arrived in Barcelona for one day during a cruise we took from Rome. I checked in advance what would be good to do in the short time we had, and honestly, we managed quite a lot, and the girls really enjoyed it. I also have a detailed post with recommendations for things to do in Barcelona (from our previous trips).

Do I think Barcelona is suitable for a trip with kids? Definitely. The city is crowded, but it has a lot of attractions suitable for children, parks to visit, and even a beach. Really enough to enjoy together.

Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus

We found that with kids this is a great way to explore the city, especially if time is limited and you want to fit in a lot. The Hop-on Hop-off bus allows you to explore the city comfortably and easily – especially for those traveling with kids or who have little time. The bus stops at several stations along the route, letting you choose whether to get off and explore the area or stay on the bus and continue. Usually, the buses run every 10–15 minutes.

The bus has audio in different languages explaining the attractions and stops. Some companies even have audio in Hebrew. Tickets can be purchased for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and some companies offer different colored routes – some include less-known points and some the main sites of the city.

During our ride, we stopped at Jardins Miramar and from there took a cable car to the beach. Another stop was at Poble Espanyol, from there we continued to the Barcelona Aquarium (combined with another bus route) and finally to Parc Guell.

It is worth noting that the company we chose was a bit outdated in my opinion, and on some buses the audio did not work for some seats. In hindsight, I would do more research on which company is recommended. From the reviews I checked, it seems worth considering City Sightseeing, which offers quality service and working audio in most places.

To book tickets for the tourist bus with cancellation option

Jardins Miramar

Being with kids in gardens and parks is always fun, and if there is also an amazing view, even better. We arrived at this garden during the hop-on hop-off bus ride, and there was a live musician playing, which was very pleasant and relaxing.

Jardins Miramar is a well-kept garden with comfortable walking paths, shade trees, and wide lawns, from which you can see a stunning view of the city and the sea. It is a great place for a short stop, for children’s play, or just to enjoy the moment and the view. Directions.

Directions: Near the garden there is also a cable car that leads directly to the beach, making the place accessible and easy to combine with a trip with kids.

Cable Car to the Beach

Barcelona has two main cable cars: one leading to the beach and the other climbing to Montjuïc hill. On previous trips we had been on the Montjuïc cable car, but this time we had the opportunity to use the cable car to the beach, and the experience was very fun.

The ride costs 20 euros per adult for a round trip, and no payment is required for small children. We arrived around 11 a.m. and there was almost no line, but it is important to know there is only one cable car, so during busy hours there may be a wait.

The ride lasts only a few minutes, but during that time you can enjoy amazing views of the sea, the port, and the city. The girls really enjoyed the experience, both the ride itself and the view.

During the ride, you can see Barcelona’s beaches, the port, the city area, and the surrounding hills. The cable car has closed and spacious cabins, so it is also suitable for families with small children. Directions.

Beach

Honestly, this was the first time I saw Barcelona’s beach fully, also because all our previous visits to the city were in summer, but this time we experienced the beach from a different viewpoint, after descending from the cable car that dropped us right near the beach. In August, it was perfect for a day with the girls: the weather was warm, the sun was pleasant, and the water ideal for swimming.

Barcelona beach is wide and clean, with golden sand and facilities suitable for families. There are shaded seating areas, restrooms, and public showers. Along the beach is a pleasant promenade, restaurants, fast-food stalls, and bars with drinks and ice cream. You can rent chairs and umbrellas or bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the beach.

The beach is also a convenient starting point for other activities in the area, like cycling along the promenade, water sports, or just a pleasant walk along the sea. Directions to San Sebastian Beach.

Poble Espanyol Museum

Poble Espanyol is a unique open-air architecture museum built in 1929 for the international exhibition, presenting a typical Spanish neighborhood with narrow streets, charming squares, buildings in various architectural styles from all over Spain, and authentic daily life.

In Poble Espanyol you can find not only stunning architecture but also a variety of craft shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Children can enjoy special playgrounds spread throughout the complex, try crafts, and roam freely while adults browse the art and design.

Additionally, the place hosts workshops, temporary exhibitions, and family events, so during some visits you can participate in experiential activities like painting, sculpting, or special activities for kids. Sculptures and artistic installations appear in every corner, and the entire complex is pleasant for walking, with paved streets and squares with fountains.

Entrance fees are 15€ per adult and 10€ per child, or 40€ for two adults and two children. The place is easily accessible by Hop-on Hop-off bus or public transportation, and there is limited parking if arriving by car.

To book tickets for Poble Espanyol Museum with a discount

Barcelona Aquarium

Before arriving in Barcelona, I searched for activities suitable for children and found the aquarium. Once I showed Maya that there are sharks, she got really excited and wanted to go there, and waited for it all day. For Sophie, whose favorite animal is fish (and birds, haha), the aquarium was also a perfect experience.

It is recommended to book tickets online in advance; it is usually cheaper and avoids waiting in line. You can check the aquarium’s official website or booking sites like Get Your Guide with free cancellation.

You can also reach the aquarium by Hop-on Hop-off bus, but it is about a 10-minute walk from the station. We took a taxi via the FreeNow app, which was convenient to use in Spain, as our time was limited.

The aquarium itself is not huge, but well designed and shows a wide variety of fish, crabs, and other marine animals. The girls were especially fascinated by the sharks, just sitting and watching them for a long time. But what they enjoyed the most, and still talk about, was feeding the fish with a squeeze bottle, an experience that is both educational and fun.

If your kids like fish and marine animals, the visit is definitely recommended. If not so much, you could consider skipping it.

To book aquarium tickets with free cancellation
To book a combined ticket for the Barcelona Aquarium and Zoo with free cancellation

Parc Guell

Parc Guell is one of the most famous parks in Barcelona, and it can also be easily reached via the Hop-on Hop-off bus. The park was designed by the iconic architect Antoni Gaudí and is famous for colorful paintings, sculptures, mosaics, and unique building designs that resemble imaginary structures.

Maya really wanted to see the park because she said the houses looked like gingerbread houses – and when we entered, she was fascinated by the colors, shapes, and unusual sculptures. Sophie also enjoyed it very much, especially the open spaces and places to play.

The park is large, so it is recommended to choose in advance the areas you want to see to save time, especially when traveling with children. You can combine the visit with a short walking tour of the nearby neighborhoods or take a break for coffee or ice cream at one of the kiosks in the park.

Note that there is a specific area in the park that requires an entrance ticket (the central part with the famous mosaics), while the rest of the areas are public and free (you need to reach the stairs above to get to the free entrance). It is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially in summer.

The park also offers stunning viewpoints over the city and the sea, and walking in it is a fun experience for both children and adults.

Ciutadella Park

Due to lack of time, we did not manage to go there with the girls this time, but Ciutadella Park is one of the greenest and nicest places in Barcelona, and we visited it on previous trips. It is a well-kept park, suitable for relaxing, a calm walk, a picnic on the lawn, or just sitting in the shade and relaxing, and it is very suitable for a visit with kids.

The park includes open spaces, shaded lawns, and pleasant walking paths. There is also a beautiful lake where you can rent pedal boats and row among the swans. Additionally, you can find Barcelona Zoo here, which is especially suitable for families with children, and a small zoological museum.

To book tickets for the Barcelona Zoo with free cancellation

The park features a stunning fountain, partly designed by the young Antoni Gaudí, as well as small bridges and charming corners that add to the magical atmosphere.
Entrance to the park is free, and it is suitable for a visit at any time of day. Many local residents come in the afternoons and evenings to relax away from the bustling city. If you are looking for a quiet spot in nature in the heart of Barcelona, Ciutadella Park is the perfect place.

Cable Car and Magic Fountains

Another cable car we loved but didn’t manage to do this time with the girls is the cable car leading up to Montjuïc Hill. It is highly recommended to do this during the day, to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the entire city, including the sea, the port, La Rambla, and the Sagrada Familia. The ride itself is short but impressive, and the views are worth every moment. Directions.

After finishing the cable car, you can continue on foot to the Magic Fountains of Barcelona (update 2025: the fountains are currently not operating). It is a water, light, and music show held in front of the Palau Nacional, not far from Plaça Espanya. The fountains change colors, move according to the rhythm of the music, creating an exciting and impressive experience for all ages. Each show lasts about 15 minutes, and in the evenings the place fills with people, both locals and tourists, who come to watch and enjoy it.

The operating hours of the fountains vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to check in advance on the Tourist Information Center website.

You can return down with the cable car or walk down pleasant paths that lead back to the city center. The whole experience combines nature, views, architecture, and art, and it is a perfect ending to a day of sightseeing in Barcelona.

To book a round-trip cable car tickets with free cancellation

In Summary, Barcelona is definitely suitable for a trip with children, even if time is short. The city is busy, but there are enough attractions suitable for kids: parks, beaches, museums, and even cable cars with views. We found the Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus to be a convenient way to explore the city, especially when traveling with children and limited time. The gardens, beaches, museums, and parks provide pleasant breaks from the busy city and also offer play and activity opportunities for children. With a little advanced planning, it is possible to see many things and enjoy together without stress, and the experience combines fun for children, beautiful views, and enjoyment for adults.

I hope my post helped you. If so, I would be very happy if you leave a comment here, and if you have more questions, you are also welcome to ask them in the comments or contact me on the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Barcelona? I have more posts on my blog about Barcelona and more posts about Spain.

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In August 2025, we went on a cruise that departed from Rome. We decided to spend two nights in the city before the cruise, and then stay another four nights afterwards. To be honest, we hadn’t originally planned to spend so much time in Rome with the girls (ages 2.5 and 5.5), but the more convenient flight times made us book our tickets this way.

We had already been to Rome a few years earlier, just Romen and I (I even have a detailed post about what to do in Rome), so this time I had a few concerns: I worried it would be too hot in August, I remembered that the sidewalks aren’t always stroller-friendly, and I also feared it would be too crowded with tourists. In reality, we had such a great time! I felt like there was still so much left to see and explore, and the girls adapted perfectly.

So, if you’re wondering whether to visit Rome with little kids, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic option, with plenty to see and do for the whole family.

Where to Stay in Rome with Kids

At first, I looked at hotels, but quickly realized that most of them were too expensive, and many had less-than-stellar reviews. I also figured it might be more comfortable to stay in an apartment with two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a washing machine – much more practical with kids.

I ended up booking two apartments:

• Appartamento Piazza del Parlamento (before the cruise), near the Parliament.
• Cola Di Rienzo A E B (after the cruise), near Piazza del Popolo.

Both were in excellent locations. The first one was less fancy but cheaper, while the second one was more spacious and comfortable. Both had two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The girls loved the first apartment’s design, as it felt like a loft with stairs in the middle of the room leading to a window and hidden corners to explore. The main bedroom with the double bed was great, but the second bedroom had a very low ceiling and two single beds, which felt a bit claustrophobic. The owner was super nice – he met us at 11:00 p.m. when we arrived, showed us around, and didn’t charge extra for late check-in. The location was convenient, the price was fair, and each room had air conditioning. Link to Appartamento Piazza del Parlamento 3

The second apartment was more spacious and luxurious, with a fully equipped kitchen. The owner was also very kind and gave us a key to a small storage room next to the elevator, where we could keep our stroller. The apartment was located above a gelateria and surrounded by shops and a great café. Each room had air conditioning Link to Cola Di Rienzo A E B

Another plus: there were no stairs at all, and having the storage room for the stroller was especially convenient – no need to carry it inside every time.

Getting from Rome Airport to Your Apartment or Hotel

We landed at FCO (Fiumicino Airport). I had read that booking a taxi in advance could be more expensive than taking the licensed taxis at the airport, and this turned out to be true. The fixed fare from the airport to the city center is €55, and you can easily find a taxi right outside the terminal.

There are also train and bus options, but since we were traveling with the girls and landed around 10:00 p.m., we preferred to take a taxi and get straight to the apartment as quickly and comfortably as possible.

Tips for Visiting Rome with Young Kids

• Location matters: Choose accommodation close to restaurants, cafés, and major attractions. It saves time and energy, especially on hot days.
• Weather prep: We arrived in mid-August (the 19th), and the temperatures were pleasant – around 27°C. But Rome can get hotter, so be ready with hats, sunscreen, and water.
• Stroller choice: We brought our Bugaboo Fox 3 with quality wheels and a ride-along board for our older daughter. It worked really well on Rome’s sidewalks and in the parks. With a simpler stroller, it might be more challenging.
• Groceries: Visit a supermarket on the first day for snacks, fruit, yogurt, and simple meals like pasta and cheese, so you’re not relying only on restaurants.
• Late check-in: If you’re booking an apartment and arriving late, make sure the host allows late check-in. Share your flight number and arrival time. Also check if there’s an elevator and whether you can store luggage after checkout.

Villa Doria Pamphili

We love spending time in parks with the girls, and Villa Doria Pamphili is one of the largest and most beautiful in Rome. It has wide walking paths, manicured gardens, a lake with ducks, and endless green spaces, perfect for kids, picnics, and outdoor activities.

We got there by taxi from the city center, about 15 minutes, costing around €20. The paths are stroller-friendly if you have sturdy wheels, though basic strollers may struggle with gravel. Directions.

The girls had a blast running around, and we stopped by a small lake with geese for a picnic. Later, we walked to a gorgeous wooden playground with stunning park views. Right next to it is ViVi – Villa Pamphili, a restaurant offering healthy dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The food was hit-and-miss: the kids’ meals (nuggets, fries, and a hotdog bun) weren’t great, but my tuna salad was delicious, and Romen loved his “wellness bowl.”

Tip: The restaurant also sells picnic boxes to-go – perfect if you’d rather eat on the grass.

Villa Borghese

Another park we loved was Villa Borghese, located in the city center. Here, you can rent rowboats on the lake or pedal-powered carts to explore the grounds. We didn’t try those because it was too hot when we visited, but we enjoyed strolling around, relaxing by the lake, and letting the girls play in the open spaces.

The park is stroller-friendly, with wide shaded paths – a great spot to cool down on hot days.

La Casina di Raffaello – Playroom & Library

On our last day in Rome, we needed an indoor activity before our flight. Since it was Monday, most museums were closed. On Google Maps, I found Casina di Raffaello, a small library with a children’s play area inside Villa Borghese.

It turned out to be a hidden gem: not very big, but it had shelves of books (mostly in Italian) and a small playroom that kept the girls happy for a while. Entry was free. We grabbed iced coffees from the nearby kiosk and relaxed inside the air conditioning – they even let us bring in drinks.

It’s also a bookstore, so you can buy books and toys for kids.

The San Carlino – Puppet Theater

Inside Villa Borghese, there’s also The San Carlino Puppet Theater, a fun attraction for kids. Unfortunately, we couldn’t see a show because they only resume performances in September. Still, reviews are great, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance – it looks like a magical experience for families.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus

The Hop-on Hop-off bus is a tourist bus that allows you to explore the city in a convenient and easy way – especially for those who have little time in the city or are traveling with children. The bus stops at several stations along the route, and allows you to choose whether to get off and explore the area or stay on the bus and continue. Usually, the buses arrive every 10–15 minutes.

On the bus, there is audio in different languages that explains about the attractions and the stations themselves. You can purchase tickets for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and there are companies that offer routes in different colors – some covering less familiar points and some of the main sites in the city.

In the past, we didn’t use this type of bus much because we preferred to explore the city on foot, but since we are traveling with the girls, we discovered that the buses are very convenient and fun. Maya is already old enough to listen to the audio and learn about the places, and even Sophie, the younger one, enjoyed just sitting upstairs and watching the city. In August, this option is especially good – there is a pleasant breeze when sitting on the upper deck, and at the same time you can discover new places worth checking out.

One of the stops where we got off was the Trevi Fountain – the place was very crowded, one of the most crowded we saw in Rome. From the station, it took us about 10 minutes to walk to the fountain, where we looked for a few minutes and then moved on. Sophie was especially excited, but it was really packed.

There are several companies that offer this service in the city. We chose I Love Rome, which was the cheapest that seemed to us, and also had some advantages, for example, children under the age of 6 travel for free (usually in other companies free is only up to age 5). In addition, we got the price itself with a discount through the website.

The main disadvantage is that sometimes the stations are full, not everyone managed to get on the bus and had to wait for the next one. I don’t know if this comes only from this company or if it happens in all the companies, especially in August. What we especially liked is that there is child-friendly audio, with simple stories in English, and in all the places where we sat the audio worked, unlike previous experiences in other cities.

Booking tickets for the Hop-on Hop-off bus – discounted price for the bus we were on

Price comparison with another Hop-on Hop-off bus company

Ikono Interactive Museum

I discovered Ikono Museum on Google Maps – a fun, interactive activity for kids on a hot day. It’s centrally located near the Pantheon. You can book tickets online, but we bought them on-site around 5:00 p.m.

The museum isn’t very large; you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on your kids. Highlights included:

• A giant ball pit
• A fan shooting paper confetti
• A light-effects recording room
• A retro games area (our girls loved this most!)
• and more….

We spent just over an hour there and had a great time – it was playful, interactive, and fun for all ages.

Gelato

No trip to Rome is complete without gelato!

We took the girls to Venchi, near the Pantheon. We thought this was the branch with the famous chocolate wall (which Maya really wanted to see), but that’s located elsewhere. Still, there was no line, and the gelato was just as good.

Another favorite was Gelateria La Romana, right under our second apartment. Usually, there was a line (especially on weekends), but we managed to go when it wasn’t busy. The girls loved it, and besides gelato, they also serve cakes and desserts.

Campo de’ Fiori Market

A lively central market with colorful stalls selling local products: cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, handmade pasta, fresh produce, spices, liqueurs, and small gifts. Great for picking up snacks or picnic supplies.

Around the square, you’ll also find restaurants, cafés, and bars. In the evening, the piazza transforms into one of the liveliest spots in Rome, with music, street performances, and a fun atmosphere.

Market hours: Monday–Saturday, roughly 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Directions.

Rose Garden & Orange Garden

We had visited these gardens a few years ago (without the kids), but didn’t make it this time. Still, they’re worth mentioning:

• Rose Garden: A beautiful, peaceful place with stunning city views. Perfect for a quiet break or picnic.
• Orange Garden: About 10 minutes’ walk from the Rose Garden, less impressive but still scenic with panoramic views.

Both are free to enter and located near Circo Massimo metro station.

Museums for Kids

We didn’t manage to visit these because they’re closed on Mondays, but they look great for children:

• Explora – The Children’s Museum of Rome: Interactive, with play areas like a supermarket, fire station, science experiments, and more. Best for ages 3–10. Directions.
• Museo delle Illusioni Roma: Small but fun, with optical illusions, upside-down rooms, and mirrors. Very central, near Piazza Venezia. Directions.

Piazzas

Rome is full of piazzas, and they’re magical, especially in the evenings when it cools down. They’re lively, with street musicians, restaurants, and plenty of space for kids to run around.

Our favorites:

• Piazza del Popolo: Spacious, close to Villa Borghese. If you climb up from here, there’s a nice viewpoint (a bit tricky with a stroller, but doable).
• Piazza Navona: Stunning, full of street performances, and always buzzing.

Colosseum and the Vatican

Of course, you cannot talk about Rome without mentioning the Vatican and the Colosseum – the two most famous sites in the city. This time, we didn’t manage to go inside with the girls. We only saw them from the outside during a tour with the Hop-on Hop-off bus, and we were struck by how crowded it was, especially in August, so we decided to skip the interior visit.

Still, these are definitely attractions that can also be interesting with children – of course, you just need to take into account their age and patience.

The Vatican:

• You can visit the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
• It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance with a skip-the-line option, to save time, especially during the summer months. Link for booking skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican with free cancellation.
• It’s best to arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds.

The Colosseum:

• It is advisable to book tickets in advance with early entry or guided tours, both to avoid the long lines and to enrich the experience for children. Link for booking skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum with free cancellation.
• Bring water, hats, and be prepared for walking with a stroller or comfortable walking shoes if traveling with young children.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Rome

Back when Romen and I traveled alone, I used to do in-depth research on which restaurants were worth visiting. But with the girls, it’s different – our schedule is less flexible, and many times we just stopped to grab something quick wherever we happened to be. Still, there were a few restaurants that really stood out, especially the first two.

Spizzicamo – Italian restaurant with great prices
Located near the courthouse in Rome, this place really impressed us. It had excellent reviews on Google, but we weren’t sure what to expect. The décor is simple yet modern and pleasant. We ordered three different pastas, and they were all delicious – especially the one I had, tonnarello Spizzicamo. The wine we ordered was also excellent. website.

CiPASSO – Gourmet dining, highly recommended
We came across this restaurant by chance on our first evening, as it was close to the first apartment we stayed in. We didn’t know what to expect, but it looked nice from the outside and had good reviews on Google. As soon as we sat down, we realized it was a high-end place, and luckily there was a free table for us for an hour. I recommend reserving in advance. We ordered several dishes, and every single one was amazing, with unique and surprising flavors. Definitely worth it if you’re looking for a gourmet experience. Directions.

Prefetti 19 Bistro – Great for breakfast
On our first morning in Rome, I looked for a breakfast spot and found a boutique hotel near our apartment that had a good bistro. We ordered avocado toast with scrambled eggs, avocado toast with a fried egg, sunny-side-up eggs and fruit salad for the girls, and everything was very tasty. The coffee was also great. Directions.

Caffè Vergnano 1882 (Prati, Cola di Rienzo)
Just a 3-minute walk from our second apartment, this quickly became our regular café for five days. Excellent coffee, delicious mini muffins (the chocolate ones were our favorite), great sandwiches that can be toasted, pastries, fresh fruit, and very affordable prices. Plus, the service was quick and friendly. Highly recommended if you’re in the area. Directions.

Pastasciutta – Quick pasta spot
A great option for a fast meal when traveling with kids or if you’re just in a hurry. They serve a variety of pasta dishes for €7–8 each. Service is very fast, and you can either sit down or take it to go. We picked up pasta twice after visiting Villa Borghese, since it’s close by, and it was tasty both times. Directions.

Smash Tag Prati – Quick burgers
Another easy option for a fast meal with kids if you want a break from Italian food. On our last evening we went there for a quick dinner, and the girls devoured their burgers and fries, saying they were delicious. I had a vegetarian halloumi burger with their special sauce, which I really enjoyed, and Romen had a regular burger that he said was excellent. Directions.

For conclusion ,Rome is a wonderful destination with kids, even in August. Between shaded parks, fun museums, bustling piazzas, good food, and the convenience of the Hop-on Hop-off bus, we found so much to do and enjoy as a family.

The city may seem challenging with young children, but in reality, it turned out to be full of family-friendly options and unforgettable experiences.

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Romania was one of the most surprising destinations I’ve discovered in Europe. When I first arrived there, I was amazed to find a beautiful, affordable, and accessible country, with warm and welcoming people and a variety of charming towns and cities that are easy to fall in love with. Over three visits, two of them with my husband Ruman, we had the chance to explore different cities, enjoy breathtaking nature hikes, and stay in unique and pampering accommodations. On the third trip, I went on a women’s getaway during winter, staying in a lovely villa in the snowy mountains that added a whole new layer of magic to the experience.

In this post, I’ve put together a guide to the top cities to visit in Romania. These places are well worth including in a longer trip or visiting separately. I recommend spending at least three days in each city to experience its vibe and make the most of what it has to offer. In addition to the cities, Romania also boasts the famous Transfagarasan Highway and incredible hiking trails. You’re welcome to check out my detailed guides on our one-week and ten-day trips in Romania.

Brasov

Brasov, located in the Transylvania region, completely charmed us with its beauty. The city has picturesque old streets, an impressive gothic church, and a particularly relaxed atmosphere. We explored the main square, Piata Sfatului, walked through the narrow Strada Sforii, and took the cable car up Mount Tampa for stunning views. One of the best experiences we had was the free daily walking tour with Walkabout. We learned about the city’s history, heard fascinating stories, and met travelers from all over the world.

For a festive dinner, I highly recommend Sapori, an Italian restaurant with fresh pasta, beautifully presented dishes, and a warm, pleasant ambiance. Don’t skip the apple strudel – it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. For an afternoon coffee and dessert, Zoomserie is a charming bakery with wonderful cakes – the savarina got huge compliments from our group. If you want to sit in the main square and people-watch, German Bakery is the perfect spot for an iced coffee and relaxed vibes.

Brasov also makes a great base for day trips. I highly suggest hiking the Seven Ladders Canyon or visiting the famous Bran Castle, known as “Dracula’s Castle.” If you’re traveling with kids, Adventure Park Brasov and Dino Park Rasnov are great options. From there, we continued on to unique countryside cabins and then to Sinaia, for a wonderful nature-filled getaway with fresh air and breathtaking views.

A detailed post about things to do in Brasov

Sinaia

Sinaia is a stunning resort town in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, and one of the most delightful surprises of our trip. We spent two nights there and honestly wished we had booked an extra night. The magical vibe, stunning views, and crisp air won us over instantly. We visited Sinaia as part of a ten-day road trip that started in Cluj and ended in Bucharest. Renting a car made everything much easier and more relaxed.

A must-do in Sinaia is the Gondola lift, which takes you up to 1,400 meters and even up to 2,000 if you continue higher. The views are breathtaking, but make sure to dress warmly even if it’s hot at the bottom. Another place you can’t miss is Peles Castle, a fairytale-like palace surrounded by lush greenery. The walk up is gorgeous and the tour inside is worth every minute. Book tickets to the castle online. 

We really enjoyed our stay at Pension Casa Teo, a charming boutique hotel (note: as of 2025, the hotel has permanently closed). Sinaia also impressed us with its food scene. We found a great local restaurant with amazing burgers – the vegan burger was a surprising highlight, and the classic one was one of the best we had. For a late dinner, we popped into Irish House, a cozy Irish pub with excellent food. The grilled fish and shepherd’s pie were especially good. For something different, try Taverna Sarbului, a Serbian restaurant with an endless menu and a fun, laid-back vibe.

A detailed post about things to do in Sinaia

Sibiu

Our trip to Sibiu happened by chance after finding cheap flights for August. Once we did a bit of research, we realized it’s a lovely city with lots to see and do. We booked three nights in the city and three more in a nearby village. Our apartment wasn’t in the center, but the host was very kind and taxis were cheap, so it worked out fine. Renting a car is also a good idea for exploring the area. We rented through Autonom and enjoyed the flexibility.

In Sibiu, we loved walking through the old town, sitting in charming cafés like Arhiva de Cafea si Ceai and Wien Cafe, and climbing the cathedral tower for a beautiful view of the city. On Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm there’s a lovely local market with cheese, vegetables, honey, and bread – perfect for a picnic. Among local restaurants, we recommend Prima for its delicious sour ciorba soup and great Romanian pastries in a less touristy area. For a romantic final dinner, we ate at Old Lisbon, a fantastic Portuguese restaurant with great service and excellent seafood.

One special spot in Sibiu is the Bridge of Lies, an iconic landmark surrounded by food and souvenir stalls. It’s worth passing through even if it’s not in your plan. We loved wandering the city without a strict schedule, enjoying the architecture, relaxing in the main square, and listening to live music. Sibiu is one of those places where you can just sink into the atmosphere and feel completely at home.

A detailed post about things to do in Sibiu

From Sibiu, we drove the Transfagarasan Highway – one of the most scenic roads in the world.

Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is a charming city full of life, surrounded by beautiful green nature. I especially enjoyed walking through the city, discovering lovely cafés and hidden corners around every turn. The city’s botanical gardens were a highlight for me, with Japanese gardens, forests, cacti, and even a rose garden – a magical escape into nature within the city.

Another great spot is the Fortress Hill viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the city. Go up a little before sunset and sit on a bench or at a nearby restaurant to enjoy the view. Don’t miss a relaxed stroll through the main square near St. Michael’s Church, an area full of restaurants, shops, and vibrant energy.

Food-wise, I loved Roots, a healthy café with amazing toast, fresh juices, and an unforgettable banana bread. For authentic local food, try Valachia – their traditional polenta and sour ciorba soup are fantastic. In the evening, we went to The Lab, a bar designed like a science lab, with cocktails served in lab flasks – a creative and fun experience. If you’re heading out of town, don’t miss the Salina Turda salt mine, one of the most incredible places we visited in Romania.

A detailed post about things to do in Cluj-Napoca

From Cluj-Napoca, we continued to Salina Turda – an unforgettable experience.

Bucharest

Bucharest truly surprised me. It’s a vibrant, modern city full of life, cool cafés and restaurants, street art, and a feeling of renewal in the air. We stayed in a beautiful Airbnb right near the old town – stylish, clean, and super convenient. We joined a graffiti tour with Open Doors, which cost just 15 euros. Our guide, Elena, was amazing. She told us not just about the street art, but also about local history and culture. We also took a free walking tour with Walkabout that covered downtown highlights, churches, the Parliament building, and even a Dracula-themed stop.

One of the most memorable experiences was a homemade dinner at the home of Laura and Cosmin. We found them through a Facebook page called Eat with Bucharest Locals (Update from 2025: The page is no longer available).

Another great day was spent in Herastrau Park, a huge green space with a lake, restaurants, lawns, and even a big playground for kids. I also had an incredible Thai massage at Balinesse Spa – just like in Thailand, fairly priced, and with excellent service.

If you’re looking for shopping, AFI Palace Cotroceni is a massive mall with dozens of restaurants, attractions for kids, and even an ice-skating rink. It’s worth spending half a day there. Another place we didn’t get to visit but looks amazing is Therme Bucharest – a spa and thermal water complex that’s perfect for couples or families. It looks like a mix between a water park and a luxury spa and would be a great addition to any Bucharest trip.

In short, Bucharest is a lively and exciting city that deserves a spot on your Romania itinerary.

A detailed post about things to do in Bucharest

To sum up, Romania surprised me again and again with its unique blend of historic cities, stunning nature, and warm, authentic atmosphere. The cities I’ve mentioned here are just a small part of what Romania has to offer, and each one brings a different and special experience. Whether you’re looking for old streets and beautiful architecture, breathtaking landscapes, or a vibrant, modern vibe, you’ll find it all in Romania. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to include these cities in your route, and don’t miss the amazing nature and hiking trails along the way.

I hope this post helped you. If it did, I’d love for you to leave a comment below, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media – Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more info on Romania? I’ve got plenty more Romania travel posts on the blog.

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Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, pleasantly surprised us big time. It’s a quiet, green, and charming city that feels more like a magical small town than a typical European capital. There’s almost no traffic, the atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can walk to almost every place. Beyond the impressive architecture and rich history, the city offers plenty of museums, parks, markets, and attractions. But what really caught us off guard was the culinary scene: we ate at one of the best restaurants we’ve ever experienced anywhere in the world. You can read a detailed post about all the restaurants we visited in Vilnius.

Additionally, if you visit in the summer, be prepared for endless sunny days. The sunset happens only at 10:40 PM, and sunrise is already at 5:00 AM. We left a restaurant at 10 PM and it was still light outside. It was simply perfect.

We’re always excited to discover new destinations, and the Baltics were high on our list of places we hadn’t been before. When we received an invitation from the Vilnius Tourism Board to experience the city, we jumped at the chance. For us, it was not only a new experience but also a way to introduce our audience to a less touristy but very worthwhile destination. Next time, we want to rent a car and explore all of Lithuania. If Vilnius was this successful, we have no doubt the rest of the country will captivate us too. By the way, Kaunas, which is about an hour’s drive from Vilnius, I visited back in October and really enjoyed it as well.

We stayed at Hotel Vilnia, a new four-star hotel in a central and quiet location. We really loved the hotel, and our room was excellent, spacious, comfortable, and with a balcony overlooking a park. For more details about our hotel experience, check out my extended review.

Vilnius Card

The city has many museums and things to do, and if you plan on doing a lot with discounted or free entry, the Vilnius Card is a great option. You can buy it for one, two, or three days. With the card, you get discounts and free entrance to many places. For example, the gondola ride cost us 1 euro instead of 8, and the Hop-on Hop-off bus was free for two routes, with an additional 3 euros for the third route. In short, it’s very worthwhile if you want to explore the city extensively. There is also a card version that includes free public transport.

Gondola Rid

We checked the benefits of the Vilnius Card and discovered there is a gondola ride along the river that lasts about 50 minutes. We decided to buy some cherries at the supermarket on the way and enjoy them during the ride. The gondola departs from a central point in the city, and it’s good to know the ride costs 8 euros, but with the Vilnius Card it drops to only 1 euro (very important to bring both the coupon book that comes with the card and the card itself).

There were four of us in the gondola, and the ride was a wonderful experience — the weather was perfect and the views along the river were magical. We passed under old bridges, by historic buildings, and through green areas, which added to the relaxing atmosphere. The cherries made the experience even sweeter.

If you’re looking for a light and fun activity, especially on a sunny, pleasant day, the gondola ride is a recommended, refreshing option in Vilnius.

Trip to Trakai Town

We decided to take a day trip to the charming town of Trakai, choosing a tour we found included in the Vilnius Card. We went to the bus station where the tour departs to Trakai (there is a tour only with audio guide for 20 euros without the castle visit, and a tour with a guide including the castle visit for 35 euros. Both offer discounts with the Vilnius Card).

We took the guided tour. It’s a half-day tour to the former capital of Lithuania (about a 30-minute drive). Our tour included transportation with a guide who told us about the city in English along the way. Then we toured the castle itself with the guide for about an hour, followed by about an hour of free time in town. We quickly realized an hour was not enough, so we told the guide we wouldn’t take the return transfer and decided to come back independently.

You can also get there by rental car or public transport (there is a bus from Vilnius to Trakai but it stops 2 km from the town center, so you either walk or take a taxi).

Trakai is a picturesque town about 30 km west of Vilnius, famous mainly for the Trakai Castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, looking like it was taken right out of a fairy tale.

The town is surrounded by natural lakes and green landscapes, making it a popular day trip from Vilnius. You can boat on the lake, rent bicycles, hike nature trails, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

A small, beautiful, and unique place definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Castle Tour

After arriving in Trakai, we took a tour of the 15th-century castle, which has been restored several times. The castle is quite large and it’s recommended to join a guided tour because otherwise it’s hard to understand what you’re seeing in each room. If you’re visiting Trakai independently, try to call ahead and check if you can arrange a guided tour.

Lunch in Trakai

After the castle tour, we wandered a bit around town and then sat down at Bona restaurant, right by the lake. We ordered a local starter called Kibinai — a kind of pastry filled with various fillings. I chose cheese and sun-dried tomato filling and it was delicious. For mains, I had fish and Roman had mussels. We enjoyed the meal, especially the view of the lake and castle.

Pedal Boat in Trakai

After lunch, we decided to rent a pedal boat. The rental cost was 10 euros per hour and it was a really fun activity. The weather was warm and we regretted not bringing swimsuits because many people were in swimsuits, paddling in the boat and even swimming in shallow parts near the castle. It’s generally recommended to bring swimsuits because aside from pedal boats, you can also swim in the lake on hot summer days.

Museum of Illusions

Before the trip, I researched the city and saw many recommendations for the Museum of Illusions. Admission costs 11 euros, but with the Vilnius Card, it drops to only 5 euros. We spent about two hours there and enjoyed it.

The museum is suitable for adults and children alike, offering a wide range of visual illusions, puzzles, and interactive games that challenge perception and thinking in surprising and fun ways. Attractions include mirror rooms, 3D painted rooms that make you part of the scene, light and space illusions, and more.

I highly recommend visiting this museum, especially if you’re looking for a different, enjoyable, and stimulating activity during your visit. In my opinion, it’s a must-see spot in Vilnius.

Bike Ride in the Park

We rented bikes from our hotel, Hotel Vilnia, for 3 euros an hour and went for a short, relaxing ride in Bernardine Park, right across from the hotel. The park is simply lovely, with green spaces, well-kept paths, colorful flower gardens, and many seating areas by the river. There are playgrounds for kids, fountains, sculptures, and even a small botanical garden. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant — a great way to start the morning.

If you’re not into biking, you can just walk around, stop for a coffee at one of the spots, or sit on the grass and relax. The park is perfect for families and couples alike, and it’s within walking distance of Vilnius Old Town, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Open Kitchen Street Food Market

We went to the Open Kitchen street food market, which is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you’re in Vilnius on those days, don’t miss it. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. There’s music, seating areas, and various food trucks offering Vietnamese, Turkish, burgers, and more. There’s also a beer stand and a juice bar.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

We saw that the Vilnius Card allows free access to the hop-on hop-off bus, and thought it was a great, easy way to see the city, especially since I was a bit tired (that’s what happens when you travel pregnant). We went to the bus stop, but unfortunately missed the bus we wanted.

The city has three routes: the Red Route — the main and most popular route; the Blue Route — which passes through the Old Town and less touristy areas; and the Green Route — which covers greener, more scenic areas outside the center. We wanted the Red Route, but since it had already left, we took the Green Route instead.

Luckily, the delay turned out to be a blessing in disguise because thanks to the Green Route we discovered a magical and unique place we probably wouldn’t have found otherwise

Belmontas Area

We took a bus for about half an hour, and during the ride, we listened to an audio guide that told us about the places we saw along the way. When we arrived at Belmontas, from the audio description alone, we knew we wanted to stay there instead of continuing by bus. For those who want to continue, there is an option to stop for a 10-minute break to take pictures and then resume the tour. We decided to stay and return later by taxi; the distance to the city center is about a ten-minute drive.

The park itself is charming and located on the grounds of an old flour mill that was renovated and turned into a recreational and cultural area. Along the Vilnia River, calm waters flow, with small waterfalls, cute bridges, walking and biking paths. The place is surrounded by a green forest with many trees and plants, creating a peaceful and pleasant atmosphere. At first, we took pictures and explored the area.

Walking Trail in Belmontas

Afterwards, we went on about an hour-long walking trail. Along the way, we saw families having picnics on the shaded grass and people entering the shallow, refreshing river with small children. There is also an option for a longer hike for those who want to deepen their nature experience.

Grill Restaurant in Belmontas

When the walk ended, we decided to stop for lunch. There are several restaurants in the area, and we chose one facing the river and waterfalls. The restaurant, Belmontas Waterfalls, specializes in grilled dishes and local cuisine. Roman ordered excellent ribs, and we also had a Greek salad and sausages. Everything was very tasty, and the amazing atmosphere made the meal a special experience.

Red Bus Tour Hop On Hop Off

After lunch at Belmontas Waterfalls, we ordered a taxi via the Yango app and returned to the hotel (the cost was about 4 euros). After resting at the hotel, we decided to go on another bus tour, this time taking the red route. We did about a one-hour tour where we stayed on the bus, just listening to the audio guide and learning about the points of interest we passed by.

City Tour

We went on a city tour, our first time doing a Hebrew tour abroad since we usually join free tours based on tips. But this time we went on a private two-hour tour with the guide Danny. Danny took us to several landmarks in the city and told us about their history and about Vilnius in general. Then we went to the Jewish quarter, which the tour focused on. The tour was fascinating, and we learned a lot about Judaism in Vilnius and the darker sides of Lithuania during World War II. If you want a Hebrew tour in the city, you can book a private tour through Danny’s company Jerulita. If you want to join a group tour, there are free tour companies in the city such as FreeTour.

Restaurants and Cafes in Vilnius

You can read detailed information about all the restaurants in the post about recommended restaurants in Vilnius.

Chef Restaurants

During our trip, we visited two amazing chef restaurants. The first was Amandus, and the second Sweet Root. In both, we had tasting menus. If you’re looking for a very high-level restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, I highly recommend going to one or both of these restaurants (if possible), as they are considered among the best in the city and offer a unique culinary experience.

Georgian Restaurant

We got the recommendation for this restaurant from our private tour guide Danny, who told us Georgian House is the best Georgian restaurant in the city, so of course, we followed his advice. The restaurant was excellent, and I especially loved the khinkali with mushrooms.

Portuguese Restaurant with Indian Touches

Before the trip, I saw several recommendations for a restaurant called Gaspars, so we decided to give it a chance, and it turned out to be one of the best restaurants of the trip. Seafood lovers will enjoy it a lot, and even those who don’t, will find very good dishes.

Local Restaurant

A local restaurant called Leiciai. Roman made a mistake eating ribs that day because we already had a full tasting menu with a lot of hearty local food, so he was full. The restaurant is decorated in a medieval style and had a band playing Lithuanian music. The atmosphere was great, and if you come for the tasting menu, which costs 25 euros per person, come hungry. The meal also includes tastings of 5 different local beers.

Legendary Cafe

That morning, we decided to skip breakfast at the hotel and go to a cafe called Augustas ir Barbora, which I got recommended on Instagram. It’s a perfect cafe for photos and also tasty food. I had a healthy breakfast of muesli, fresh juice, and coffee, and Roman just took juice because he was still full from the day before.

To sum up, this trip was a huge pleasure! We discovered a calm and beautiful city with lots to do. Before the trip, people asked if five nights was too long, but honestly, I felt we didn’t get to do many things. We wanted to visit several impressive churches, go to another big park, visit more museums, and check out some markets we didn’t get to, plus there are two great viewpoints in the city with stair climbs, but because of the pregnancy, I decided to skip those. In short, I recommend staying in the city at least four days, and if possible, even longer is better.

I hope my post helped you. If so, I would love for you to comment here, and if you have any other questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Lithuania? I have more posts about Lithuania on my blog.

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Larnaca is a beautiful city with many local restaurants, good cocktails bars, and nice sites to visit.
I tLarnaca is a charming city in Cyprus, featuring great local restaurants, bars, beautiful sites to visit, and a lovely promenade to stroll along. It’s definitely worth visiting and dedicating two to three days to explore. Additionally, Larnaca is a short drive from Ayia Napa and Protaras, so if you rent a car, you can also visit these towns for more attractions.

Larnaca Old Town

The entire Old Town area is full of life, with cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants. You’ll find charming, colorful architecture and plenty of spots to explore. I recommend starting at Saint Lazarus Square and wandering through the nearby alleys. Since it’s just a short walk from the sea, you can continue to the beach, promenade, and Larnaca Castle.

Church of Saint Lazarus

This historic Greek Orthodox church sits in the heart of Larnaca. Built in the 9th century, it is considered one of the island’s most important and impressive churches. The church is named after Lazarus, who, according to Christian tradition, was resurrected by Jesus and later became the bishop of Cyprus.

It’s located in Saint Lazarus Square, in the city’s historical centre, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Its central location makes it a notable landmark easy to reach on foot from the main promenade. Directions.

Larnaca Salt Lake

Larnaca’s Salt Lake is one of Cyprus’s most well-known natural sites. Located west of the city and close to the airport, it’s wonderful at sunset. The lake serves as a temporary home for migratory water birds, and during autumn and winter, you’ll see tens of thousands of pink flamingos stopping here to feed. Directions.

Hala Sultan Tekke

This Muslim mosque, located on the western shore of the Salt Lake, is also known as “The Holy Mother” because it’s believed to house the remains of the prophet Muhammad’s stepmother. One of the unique experiences here is the many cats that gather around visitors looking for attention. If you’re a cat lover, this is the perfect spot to visit! If cats aren’t your thing – consider this a warning. Directions. 

Opening Hours: 08:30–17:00

Address: Tekke Road, Dromolaxia, Cyprus

Kamares Aqueduct

This charming site features a trail leading directly to the Salt Lake. We took a 30-minute walk there, but the trail is about 4 km long, so you can walk its full length or just part of it. Directions.

Metropolis Mall

Larnaca’s modern Metropolis Mall, opened in 2021, offers a wide variety of international and local fashion brands, sports stores like Decathlon, restaurants, and even a children’s play area. The full list of stores in the mall.

Opening Hours: Daily 08:00–22:00. Directions.

If you’re hungry, I highly recommend the Aldente restaurant located inside the mall – it’s excellent!

Larnaca Promenade

The seaside promenade features the museum, Larnaca Castle, and numerous restaurants. It’s a lovely place for a stroll. If you visit with children, you’ll find playgrounds and a trampoline park that opens at 14:00.

Larnaca Castle

Located at the southern end of the Finikoudes Promenade, this historic castle has served as a fortress, prison, and military base over the centuries. It was built in the 13th century and later renovated in the 17th century under Ottoman rule. Today, it is a museum showcasing artefacts from various periods of Cypriot history. From the top of the castle, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Larnaca, the promenade, and the Mediterranean Sea. Directions.

Indoor Playground for Kids

If you’re with kids and looking for an indoor activity, you can visit the Fun Factory play area. We’ve been to this play area a few times, and it has always been nice. There is a gymboree and play zones for the little ones as well. The play area also has a restaurant with great food. We spent a few enjoyable hours there. In my opinion, the play area is best suited for ages 2-5.

The play area is open every day from 10:00 to 21:00.

SALTO Trampoline Park

Right on the promenade, near the Sunhall Hotel, is a trampoline park mainly suitable for children aged 5 and up.
The park features a variety of trampolines, both in covered areas and outdoors. The outdoor area also has a grassy section, several picnic tables, and food stands, making the visit pleasant and convenient for families. Directions. 

Recommended Beach

Finikoudes Beach, A lovely beach near the castle with sunbeds and umbrellas. The rental cost is €2.5 per item. Finikoudes Beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in Larnaca, Cyprus. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a perfect combination of relaxation, entertainment, and convenience.

Recommended Restaurants and Cafés

Wok and Oven

We loved the Thai restaurant Wok and Oven, a small and very authentic place. Reservations are a must since there aren’t many seats. All the dishes we ordered were excellent, with true Thai flavours. Directions.

Aldente Restaurant

Aldente restaurant in Larnaca Mall offers a cozy dining experience that blends Italian flavors with a modern and stylish ambience. Known for its delicious Italian cuisine, it’s a great spot for visitors looking for quality food in a relaxed setting while shopping or exploring the mall.

Red Pepper Restaurant

An Italian and steakhouse restaurant. There’s a different menu every day. You can opt for a three-course meal for €48 per person or choose individual dishes from the menu. The atmosphere is great, and the service is wonderful. We visited with Maya when she was little and enjoyed it. Directions.

Chef Grill Restaurant

A meat restaurant in the old town that offers great skewers and meats, with an excellent location. Directions.

Mingle Café

An excellent café located in the Qbic hotel (a new boutique hotel in the center of the old city), just a 5-minute walk from St. Lazarus Church. It has a diverse menu with brunch and lunch options, and plenty of choices for vegans. The coffee is excellent, and so is the food. I ordered a sweet potato dish with chickpeas, spinach, mushrooms, and yogurt, and it was simply delicious! Directions.

Edem’s Yard Café

A fantastic café for breakfast, with a varied menu offering all kinds of dishes at great prices.
The only downside is that it’s very popular, both among locals and tourists, so on weekend mornings, it can get quite crowded. My recommendation: arrive as soon as it opens to avoid the rush.

Maya especially loved the ricotta pancake dish. For Sophie, we ordered scrambled eggs with tomatoes and cream cheese, while Roman and I thoroughly enjoyed the pear Benedict with salmon. Directions.

Smoothie Factory Café

Honestly, we came to this café after seeing photos of their brunch dishes, which looked really good. However, we arrived at 9:00 only to discover that brunch starts at 10:00.

Nevertheless, we really liked the place, mainly because of its variety of healthy breakfast options that aren’t brunch-related. The menu features dishes like muesli, chia with peanut butter, fruit salad, and more. There are seating options both indoors and outdoors. Directions.

Greek dessert with a twist

The Greek loukoumades are a type of small doughnut dipped in honey (or other syrup) and while strolling along Pavlou Valsamaki Street at night, we couldn’t ignore the smell in the air and noticed the long queue to the Lokmakos dessert shop. If you have a sweet tooth, this is for you (or for the kids). I recommend trying it with pistachio sauce as in the picture:

A few years ago, we were in Larnaca (when we were a couple without kids), and we visited a few other restaurants and bars. (It’s recommended to check if these places are still open as they may have closed since.) Link to an article about recommended restaurants and bars in Larnaca.

Day Trips Outside Larnaca

Cape Greco Reserve

A stunning nature reserve that I highly recommend dedicating at least 3 hours to, or even more. There are very easy and pleasant hiking trails, a beautiful natural bridge, a picnic area, and simply amazing sea views. I recommend bringing food for a picnic, as it’s really nice to sit there, whether at the picnic tables or in nature itself. It’s a 45-minute drive from Larnaca, located in Ayia Napa. Directions.

On the way back from the reserve, we stopped to eat in Ayia Napa at Liquid, a western-style restaurant. It’s not a local place and is quite touristy, but the pasta dishes there were excellent and very well-prepared. If you’re hungry after visiting the reserve, this is a good option for a satisfying meal.

Pano Lefkara Village

A picturesque village with local restaurants, charming cafés, and plenty of lace shops. You’ll also find a local wine shop with a variety of wines and liqueurs. Detailed post about Pano Lefkara.

Additional things to do in Larnaca and the area

• From Larnaca: Cape Greko Guided Tour with Transfers
• Larnaca Bay: Sunset Cruise with a Glass of Champagne
• Larnaca: Sunset Cruise with a Glass of Wine
• From Larnaca Bay: Grand Tour Jeep Safari
• Larnaca: Zenobia Shipwreck Cruise Swimming & Snorkelling

Car Rental in Larnaca 

Public transportation in Larnaca and Cyprus generally isn’t very convenient. Buses and taxis will be sufficient if you’re coming only for a beach vacation. However, if you also want to explore, I recommend renting a car. Driving here is indeed on the left side, but as someone who lives here, I can say that you get used to it quickly.

You can search for rental cars using the search engine Paapm Paapm. I personally love using it because it saves me time (instead of checking multiple websites) and lets you filter out unreliable car rental companies. I wrote a detailed post on car rentals abroad, and I recommend reading it, especially if this is your first time renting a car.

Special Offer for Blog Followers: I recommend renting a car from Cosmos, and I received a 10% discount coupon from the owner for online bookings. To rent a car directly from Cosmos, don’t forget to use the coupon code trvbox at checkout. Full details on car rentals in Cyprus.

Recommended Hotels in Larnaca

Radisson Blu Hotel 

Radisson Blu is a five-star hotel located just 10 minutes by car from the city center, the beach, and the new mall. We stayed in the suite with a panoramic view, and as Mayush described it: “Wow, what a room!” The suite includes a bedroom, living room, two bathrooms, a bathtub, a shower, a coffee machine, a pillow menu, and a balcony with a panoramic view of the city and sea.

The hotel features a pool, bar, gym, sauna, cafe, lounge, Japanese restaurant, steakhouse, and a sky bar. The service is exceptional, and overall, the hotel is fantastic. Most of the time, we relaxed by the pool, and the rest of the time we ordered room service to enjoy the lovely balcony. Breakfast was wonderful, with various cheeses, smoked salmon, pastries, pancakes, eggs of your choice (including eggs Benedict), bread, fresh orange juice, and more.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

The Quality Lodge Boutique Hotel 

The Quality Lodge is a modern boutique hotel that opened two years ago. It’s located in a quiet area of Larnaca, so it’s an excellent option for those with a car or those looking for peace. The hotel has spacious rooms with a separate bedroom and living room, and each room has a balcony. There is an outdoor pool, a small playground, and a restaurant. It’s just a three-minute walk from the beach.

We’ve stayed here twice and enjoyed it both times. On one occasion, we visited in the winter because it was close to the Christmas market in Larnaca and a wonderful vacation.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Sun Hall Hotel on the Promenade

Sun Hall Hotel is in an excellent location right on the promenade, just 50 meters from the beach. It’s a 4-star hotel offering breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a gym. The promenade has many restaurants and bars, making the hotel’s location fantastic.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Elenora Hotel Apartments 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option in a central location, we previously stayed at the lovely Elenora Hotel Apartments, which is located right in the heart of the city near restaurants, bars, and the promenade. The rooms are spacious, with a kitchen, balcony, and living room. There’s free parking and very kind service. We loved the location, which allowed us to walk to the beach and nearby restaurants and bars.

Note: I recommend requesting a rear-facing room, not one facing the main street, as the nearby bar plays music until 2 AM.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Jimmy’s Suites Hotel

In December 2024, we decided to spend a weekend in Larnaca to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. We chose a simple hotel, knowing we wouldn’t spend much time in the room and preferred to save on accommodation costs.

Jimmy’s Suites is in a super central area, surrounded by many cafes, restaurants, and shops. There’s no reception desk on-site, and check-in is done independently using access codes. The process was simple and quick, and communication with the staff was very convenient. When we requested extra towels, they arrived promptly.

The main drawbacks for me were the construction work across from the hotel that woke us up at 7 AM on Saturday and the relatively low level of maintenance – but the place was clean.

In short, this is definitely a good option if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in a central location.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

By the way, if you’re looking for a boutique hotel in a central location, our friends stayed at two different hotels that they liked:

Qbic City Hotel
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Larnaca

Christmas in Larnaca

Although Christmas in Cyprus isn’t as extravagant as in big European cities, there’s still a festive atmosphere. Every year, Larnaca hosts a Christmas Market with over 200 stalls offering souvenirs and food, creating a lovely vibe in the city. You’ll find a decorated Christmas tree and festive decorations in the old city centre at Saint Lazarus Square. This year, the Christmas market in Larnaca will take place from December 6 to 8.

• Opening Hours: Friday 17:00–22:00, Saturday & Sunday 15:00–22:00.

Additionally, 8 villages in Cyprus are selected yearly to host Christmas celebrations with even more decorations and festive activities. The villages this year are:

• Agros
• Deryneia
• Fikardou
• Kalopanayiotis
• Kiti (20 minutes drive from Larnaca)
• Kyperounta
• Laiki Geitonia (Lefkosia)
• Lefkara

The Christmas villages will operate from November 23, 2024, until January 6, 2025, during the following times:

• Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
• Daily from December 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

Full post about Christmas in Cyprus 

Guided Tour in Cyprus

If you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, I highly recommend Roni Schwartz! He lives in Cyprus and takes care of everything – private tours with a certified guide (available in English/Russian), extremely professional and friendly, who will take you on a perfect day trip for 8-9 hours. Roni plans a personalized itinerary tailored exactly to your preferences, including a pre-trip consultation to make sure you’ll visit all the places you want. This is also suitable for large groups.

Contact Roni for a guided tour in Cyprus

Want to travel independently?
No problem! Roni also creates custom itineraries (minimum 3 days), so you can experience Cyprus at your own pace and exactly the way you like.

Contact Roni to plan a self-guided trip in Cyprus

Special offer! If you book one of Roni’s services and mention that you came through me, a special surprise awaits you.

I hope my post was helpful. If it was, I’d love for you to comment below, and if you have more questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or reach out to me on the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Cyprus? I have more posts about Cyprus on my blog.

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In May 2025, I went on a trip to Greece with my siblings, visiting both Athens and the Peloponnese region. The trip lasted four nights and five days, during which we managed to do quite a lot while also having time to relax. If you’d like more detailed information on what we did in the Peloponnese, I’ve written a dedicated post about the Peloponnese, as well as a post with Athens recommendations from this and previous visits.

Day 1 – Arrival in Athens and Drive to Epidaurus

We landed in Athens and rented a car through Europcar, found via the search engine Paapm Paapm. The company is located inside the airport terminal, so there’s no need for a shuttle. We got the car quickly and were on the road within ten minutes. Returning the car was also smooth and hassle-free (we made sure to return it with a full tank).

About an hour into the drive, we stopped for lunch at an authentic and excellent seafood tavern called Ψαροταβέρνα Ο Ρούκουνας. We ordered tzatziki, a Greek salad (as we did at every restaurant on the trip), small fried fish, and two grilled fish we picked out on the spot. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and local.

We then stopped for coffee at Riva Coffee, a modern café with a very friendly owner and beautiful design. We enjoyed our coffee outside—a perfect pause before continuing the day.

Later, we stopped at the Θέση στάθμευσης viewpoint to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

We arrived at the Yialasi Hotel, a boutique hotel in Epidaurus, where we stayed for the night (and every other night in the Peloponnese). It’s a small hotel with 14 rooms in a quiet area just above Epidaurus. The rooms, pool, and balconies offer stunning views of the sea and town. The hotel is clean, spacious, nicely scented, and well-maintained. I had a room to myself, my brother had his own, and my sisters shared a suite. We all agreed the beds were exceptionally comfortable.

The hotel features an outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, and we booked it with breakfast included. In practice, we also had dinner there every night. Each evening, special dishes like homemade moussaka or grilled fish were served. After our day trips, we’d relax with a glass of wine or homemade lemonade. The atmosphere was peaceful, like a small retreat. The owners were lovely and gave great recommendations. The price was very reasonable.

To book the hotel and more reviews

Day 2 – Ancient Theatre, Beaches, and the Town of Nafplio

After breakfast, we visited the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus.
Tip: arrive early, as it fills up with tourist groups. Entry is €20 – a bit pricey, but well worth it.

The theatre, from the classical era, is one of the best-preserved in the world, with incredible acoustics. The site also includes other archaeological areas. Plan for about two hours. There’s not much shade. Directions.

We then drove along the coast. Looking for a seaside café, we first stopped at Johnny Beach, but they didn’t serve drinks.

We continued to Kastraki Beach and had coffee by the sea.
It was windy, so we didn’t swim despite bringing swimsuits. We saw others swimming.

We arrived in Nafplio, a small port town with a calm Greek atmosphere. It was once the first capital of Greece and features Venetian architecture, colorful alleys, fortresses, and beautiful views. It’s much less crowded than Athens and great for slow strolls, coffee, and ice cream.

We visited in mid-May. Nafplio is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. The town has the Palamidi Fortress, boutique shops, pastry shops like L’amande, quiet bays, and a lovely sunset promenade. I wrote a full post about Nafplio if you’d like more details.

We returned to the hotel, read in the lobby with homemade lemonade and a bottle of Santorini wine.
Dinner included fresh grilled fish.

Day 3 – Methana Peninsula

After breakfast, we drove about an hour to the Methana Peninsula, starting with a hike up the volcano.
The trail is about 4 km long, not too hard but requires attention. The views are stunning. It’s best to have your hands free, as some parts require using them. Directions to the trailhead.

After the hike, we stopped at Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία, a seaside taverna for coffee and a light bite.

Nearby is the thermal bath of Pausanias, a sulfur-smelling hot spring. We soaked our feet, those who enjoy such things might want to stay longer.

We ended the day with a fish dinner at Theoni Kolias, which has no fixed menu, dishes depend on the day’s catch. It’s a quiet place with good food.

Back at the hotel, we read, had lemonade, and dinner. That night’s special was slow-cooked meat.
I’ve also written a full post on things to do in Methana.

Day 4 – Thermal Pools and Drive to Athens

After breakfast, we headed to the Loutraki Thermal Spa, located halfway to Athens.

We booked the treatment a day in advance via email. After a doctor’s check, we changed into swimsuits and entered the pools, one indoor and one outdoor. Afterwards, we got massages.

We spent about 1.5 hours there. The pools were pleasant with jets. The massage was okay, my sister and I enjoyed it, our other sister liked it less, and my brother thought it was average.

We grabbed coffee in the area and drove to Athens. It wasn’t a must-stop, but it came at a good point in the trip.

We arrived at the Sweet Home Hotel in the Plaka neighborhood.
There’s a parking lot across from the hotel where we left the car.

It’s a small and pleasant hotel in the heart of Plaka, walking distance to the Acropolis, Monastiraki, museums, restaurants, and cafés. Despite its central location, it’s quiet and relaxing. The staff are friendly and offer personal attention.
Rooms are small but clean and well-maintained. Some have Acropolis views. The décor is retro and floral. Breakfast is simple and varied. For more recommended hotels in Athens.

We had lunch at the vegan restaurant Winners Vegan. We ordered the Kale Salad and Winners Salad—both very tasty. The pitaya-mango smoothie was especially refreshing.

Excellent coffee at Samba Coffee Roasters | Crossroads—both coffee and cakes were fantastic.

We wandered through the Monastiraki Flea Market.

Dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Makris
We made a reservation for 7:00 PM with a €50 non-refundable deposit per person.

We sat outside in a magical atmosphere. The restaurant is meticulous down to every detail. The cuisine is high-end and creative, with many ingredients sourced from the chef’s own farm. Every bite was amazing.

Day 5 – A Charming Neighborhood and Shopping

We bought pastries and coffee at 72H Bakery near the hotel.
We tried cinnamon, chocolate, and espresso-chocolate pastries – all excellent.

We walked to the Anafiotika neighborhood.
We arrived at 8:00 AM when it was nearly empty. Built on the slope of the Acropolis, the neighborhood features white houses, colorful shutters, artistic graffiti, and a village-like vibe. It’s important to stay quiet, as it’s a residential area. There are stairs and narrow paths. At the end of the alleys, there’s a great view of the city, a perfect stop for photos.

The entrance is within Plaka. Start at Stratonos Street stairs and head northeast. There’s no clear signage, so just follow the alleys and you’ll get there.

We returned to the hotel for breakfast and coffee, then went shopping on Ermou Street, Athens’ main shopping street, with stores like Zara, Mango, H&M, and more. Prices were lower than in Israel. Shops are open on Sundays starting at 11 AM.

Lunch at Vietnamese Street Food
I ordered wonton soup and a vegan Bánh cuốn with mushrooms—both were excellent.

Bubble tea at Funjoy.

Flight home.

Hope this post helped you! If so, I’d love for you to leave a comment – and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more information about Greece? I have more blog posts about Greece.

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In May 2025, I went on a trip to Greece with my siblings, which included Athens and the Peloponnese region. I was in charge of finding accommodations and planning the overall itinerary. To be honest, most of our route was based on a perfect place I found to stay in the town of Epidaurus. I didn’t plan a strict daily schedule in advance, but rather marked a few spots on the map worth visiting that were relatively close to our hotel. During the trip, we discovered some especially stunning places and excellent food. Some of the recommendations came from our hotel owner, and others we found through Google Maps.

An Amazing Boutique Hotel

Of course, I’ll start with our hotel, Yialasi Hotel, which made our trip even more successful. It’s a small boutique hotel with 14 rooms located in a quiet area slightly above Epidaurus. From the rooms, pool, and balconies you get a breathtaking view of the sea and the town. The hotel is very clean, the rooms are spacious, it smells great, and everything is well-maintained. I had a room to myself, my brother had his own, and my two sisters shared a suite. We all agreed that the beds were especially comfortable.

The hotel has a lovely outdoor pool, both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and we booked it with breakfast included – though we ended up eating there every evening too, simply because the food was excellent. Every night they offer different specials, like homemade moussaka or grilled fish. After our day trips, we would sit and read a book with a glass of wine or homemade lemonade. The atmosphere is very peaceful – like a small retreat. The hotel owners were also wonderful and gave us great tips for exploring the area. The price was relatively low for what the hotel offers, and the glowing reviews are justified.

To book the hotel and for more reviews

The Town of Epidaurus

Epidaurus (also spelled Epidavros or Palaia Epidavros) is a small, pleasant port town in eastern Peloponnese, with a simple local vibe, a small fishing harbor, waterfront restaurants, a quiet promenade, and natural coves. There’s also a beach with very clear water and even a snorkeling area with underwater archaeological ruins. In the evenings, you can see locals playing backgammon or sipping ouzo at the taverns. The place is quiet, not overly touristy, and that’s what makes it special.

When we arrived in mid-May, it felt lively but not crowded. We enjoyed walking around, dining by the water, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re looking for a base to explore the region, this is an excellent spot – with easy access to both historic sites and nature.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

We visited the ancient theatre in the morning – I recommend arriving as early as possible since it’s a very popular site, including large tour groups. Admission is €20 per adult, which felt a bit expensive at first, but it’s truly impressive and worth it.

The theatre is from the classical period and considered one of the best-preserved in the world, with amazing acoustics – you can stand in the center and be heard all the way from the top rows. The complex also includes other archaeological sites like the Temple of Asclepius, an ancient hospital, and more. There are food and drink stalls at the entrance. Set aside at least two hours for your visit, and note that there’s very little shade. Directions.

Authentic Beaches

What I especially loved about the Peloponnese was the beaches – simple, beautiful, and with crystal-clear turquoise water. One of the places we stopped at was Johnny Beach, an organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, but the snack bar was closed when we arrived, so we couldn’t get drinks.

From there, we continued to Kastraki Beach, which has a restaurant just above the shoreline. We sat at a high table overlooking the sea, ordered iced coffee, and enjoyed the calm and relaxing vibe. The beach has thatched umbrellas, and the view is stunning.

The Town of Nafplio

Nafplio is a small port town with a relaxed Greek vibe. It was the first capital of independent Greece and has a lovely blend of Venetian architecture, colorful alleyways, ancient fortresses, and beautiful sea and mountain views. It’s much less crowded than Athens and perfect for leisurely strolls, afternoon coffee, and a mid-walk ice cream.

We visited in mid-May as part of our trip based in Epidaurus. The drive from Athens takes about 2.5 hours by car, but you can also go with organized guided tours. The town features a hilltop fortress (Palamidi), boutique shops, small galleries, excellent pastry shops like L’amande, quiet coves for swimming, and a beautiful promenade, especially at sunset.

A Detailed Post About the Town of Nafplio

The Methana Peninsula

We visited Methana following a strong recommendation from our hotel owner. He said it’s his favorite place – less touristy, with small villages, waterfront taverns, and hiking trails. Methana is a mountainous peninsula with dormant volcanic activity, connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. The scenery is wild and unique, and there are even thermal waters.

The drive from our hotel took about an hour. From Athens, it’s around three hours. Our first activity was hiking up the volcano near the village of Kameni Chora – about a 4 km trail. It’s not too hard but requires some attention. The view during the climb is amazing, and it’s recommended to keep both hands free, as sometimes you need to use them to climb.

After the hike, we stopped at a local tavern right on the waterfront called Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία for coffee and a light meal. Nearby, there’s a thermal pool called The thermal bath of Pausanias with hot, sulfur-smelling water. We just dipped our feet, but those who enjoy such things can fully relax there.

We ended the day with a fish dinner at Theoni Kolias, there’s no set menu, just what was caught that day. The place was quiet and pleasant, and the food was good.

A Detailed Post About the Methana Peninsula

Spa and Thermal Pools in Loutraki

Before heading back to Athens, we wanted one last pampering stop and chose the Loutraki Thermal Spa. It offers massages and thermal pools and is located by the beach. Most of the visitors seemed local, though there are probably some tourists too.

We booked treatments in advance by email – highly recommended since spots aren’t always available. We paid for a 20-minute back massage and 20 minutes in the pools. Before entering, there’s a short check-up with a doctor, then you go to the changing rooms. Massage clients receive a robe.

The pools were pleasant, with good water jets, and there are both indoor and outdoor options. The massage was fine – my sister and I were happy, our other sister liked it less, and my brother said it was average. We stayed for about an hour and a half, then stopped for a simple coffee before heading back to Athens. It’s not a must-do or a luxury spa, but it was a good choice after a few days of walking.

Q&A About the Peloponnese Area

How do you get to the Peloponnese?
We rented a car in Athens from Europcar via the Paapm Paapm search engine. The drive takes 2–3 hours depending on the destination.

When is the best time to visit the Peloponnese?
The best times are April–June and September–October, when the weather is nice and the area is less crowded.

Which towns are especially recommended?
Nafplio, Epidaurus, and Methana – three quiet towns with beautiful views, beaches, taverns, and cultural points of interest.

Are there direct flights to the Peloponnese?
There are no direct flights – most visitors land in Athens and continue by car or public transport.

How much time should you spend on a trip?
At least 4–5 days is recommended. If you have a week, even better. It’s a region suited for a relaxed trip with lots of stops.

What is there for kids in the Peloponnese?
There are quiet beaches, easy walking trails, historical sites, and even hot springs. It’s not a theme park area, but there’s plenty of nature, sea, and open space.

Hope this post helped you! If so, I’d love for you to leave a comment – and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more information on the Peloponnese? I have more blog posts about the Peloponnese and about Greece in general.

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In May 2025, I went on a family trip to Greece with my three siblings. Each of us came from a different place: my brother from the United States, me from Cyprus, and my sisters from Israel. The flight times to Greece were convenient for all of us, and we managed to find a date that worked for everyone. None of us had ever been to the Peloponnese, and we thought it could be a great region to explore together. We wanted to combine history, nature, Greek food and relaxation. One place that especially surprised us was Methana, a small peninsula.

We didn’t plan anything; I just marked a few interesting-looking places on Google Maps. However, our hotel owner in Epidaurus, at Yialasi Hotel, recommended Methana because it’s his favourite spot. It sounded like something we would enjoy too. He said it’s an authentic and untouristy destination with hiking trails, small villages, and seaside tavernas.

A bit about Methana

Methana is a mountainous peninsula with dormant volcanic activity, located in the northeastern Peloponnese and connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. It’s a relatively quiet area, with few tourists, volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, waterfront tavernas and small villages. There are hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, hot springs and interesting geological sites.

When to visit

The most pleasant weather is between April and June or September to October. Summer is very hot and winter can be rainy. May was a great time for us to visit, with warm and comfortable weather.

How to get there

We arrived by rental car, which we picked up in Athens through Europcar, using the Paapm Paapm search engine. We drove to Methana in the morning from our hotel in Epidaurus, the Yialasi Hotel. It’s about a one-hour drive south, across a narrow bridge connecting it to the mainland. There is no proper public transportation, but by car, it’s very simple.

If you’re coming directly from Athens, the drive is around three hours.

Hiking trail to the volcano

One of the first things we did in Methana was hike to the volcano. The trail starts in the village of Kameni Chora and follows a gentle uphill path for 4 kilometers. The dark volcanic rocks reflect the region’s geological past and the views gradually open up as you go.

The climb isn’t too difficult, but it does require some attention. We completed the round-trip in just over an hour. The summit itself doesn’t have a spectacular viewpoint, but the walk is beautiful all along the way. It’s recommended to bring a water bottle and keep your hands free, since you’ll occasionally need them to balance or hold onto rocks. Directions.

Coffee and snacks by the sea

After the hike, we stopped at a small beachside taverna called Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία. The owner was very friendly and when we went inside to find the bathroom, we discovered that she also knits and sells her handmade items like scarves and hats. My sister and I bought a headband that also warms the ears.

We ordered tzatziki, tomatoes with feta, frappé (Greek iced coffee) and black coffee. Places like this by the water feel magical to me, especially when we’re the only ones there.

Small thermal pool

Just a 2-minute drive from the taverna is a small thermal pool called the thermal bath of Pausanias. It’s a warm pool that fills with water at the press of a button. The water is around 39°C, and the smell is very strong, similar to a hot spring.

We only dipped our feet in, but if I had been there with my husband, we might have gone in for a few minutes. The smell is quite intense, so it’s not for everyone, and I think it’s a nice stop only if you happen to be alone there, since the pool is very small.

Lunch at a fish taverna

We ended the day at a small fish taverna called Theoni Kolias. Our hotel owner recommended it because he likes it. They have a menu, but most items aren’t available because it depends on what fish the owner caught that day and what vegetables are in stock. In the end we ordered tzatziki (as usual), a calamari salad, eggplant spread and two grilled fish. Again, we were almost the only ones there and the restaurant is right on the sea. The food was tasty, but we did have better meals on our trip. Overall, a solid lunch stop.

Beaches in Methana

Limnionas Beach – A quiet beach with shallow waters. Not always with facilities, but suitable for a picnic or swim.

Paralia Limnionas – There is sand, unlike most beaches in the area. Quiet and empty of people.

Peristeri Cave

Located in Methana, Peristeri Cave is a small and lesser-known cave nestled among rocks in a quiet, hilly part of the peninsula. The cave is not developed for tourists, but you can reach it by foot as part of a short nature trail. Inside the cave are narrow passages with unique rock formations formed by past volcanic eruptions. We didn’t get a chance to visit, but for cave lovers, it seems like a place worth exploring. Directions.

Castle Favierou

This small historic site sits on a hill and is considered an interesting but less-visited stop. The castle was built by French General Charles Fabvier in the 19th century as part of a defence effort during the Greek War of Independence. Today, only remnants remain. It’s a nice short stop with a quiet view, especially in the late afternoon. There are no signs or tourist facilities, but it’s accessible by car or a short walk from the town. Directions.

If you’re in the Peloponnese and looking for something a bit different, Methana can be a great choice. It’s small, untouristy and very charming. You should dedicate at least a day to it, maybe even spend the night. We saw a few simple guesthouses right by the water. There are small villages, hiking trails, seaside tavernas and plenty of peace and authentic beauty.

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In May 2025, I traveled to Greece with my siblings. The trip included Athens and the Peloponnese region. We planned the trip a few months in advance to ensure we visited special places that suited our style—beautiful natural landscapes, charming towns, and authentic cuisine.

One of the places we were especially curious about was the town of Nafplio. We had seen tons of recommendations and pictures, and it looked magical. The only thing we were a bit hesitant about was its reputation as a highly touristic spot—but we decided it was worth a visit anyway, and it truly was.

A Quick Look at Nafplio

Nafplio is a small, pleasant port town in the Peloponnese, with a rich history and stunning views. It was the first capital of modern Greece in the early 19th century. The town features a blend of Venetian architecture, picturesque alleyways, impressive fortresses, and a relaxed vibe. It sits right on the sea, with mountains all around, adding to its charm.

When to Visit?

We visited in mid-May, which isn’t peak season, so the town didn’t feel too crowded. There were tourists, mostly local school groups on year-end trips, but it wasn’t noisy or packed.

The best times to visit are probably in spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). The weather is pleasant, the landscape is lush, and the crowds haven’t taken over like they do in July–August.

How to Get There

We stayed in the town of Epidaurus at the Yialasi Hotel and drove to Nafplio in about half an hour with a rental car.

We rented the car in Athens through Europcar, which we found via the Paapm Paapm search engine. I like booking through them because it saves time and allows you to filter out unreliable rental companies. I’ve written a detailed blog post about renting a car abroad, and I highly recommend reading it—especially if it’s your first time renting.

In the Paapm Paapm search, I filtered for an automatic car and pick-up directly at the terminal, so we didn’t have to wait for a shuttle.

The drive from Athens to Nafplio takes around two and a half hours.

Also, if you’re visiting Athens and just want to do a day trip to Nafplio and the surrounding area, you can join an organized tour.
Click here to book a tour from Athens online and for more info

Where to Stay

As mentioned, we stayed in another town, not in Nafplio itself, but I did look into accommodations in Nafplio and found some interesting options:

• Aetoma Hotel
• Nafsimedon Hotel
• The K Nest Hotel Nafplio
• Navria by Aetoma
• Naus Hotel

Palamidi Fortress

A stunning fortress perched on a high hill above the town, offering amazing views of the sea and city. There are quite a few steps to climb, but you can also drive to the top. It’s best to visit in the morning or near sunset for the light and cooler weather.

Shopping

This isn’t a shopping destination like Athens with big brands, but you’ll find boutique shops selling handmade jewelry, locally designed clothes, natural soaps, ceramics, and handcrafted bags.

I bought a pair of Camper shoes and a handmade, high-quality laptop bag. It’s worth checking out the small side-street shops, not just the main pedestrian street.

Wandering the Town

The town is full of charming spots to discover, and it’s best explored without a specific goal. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, balconies with flowerpots—all contribute to the lovely vibe. There’s no one main attraction, but any alley can surprise you.

Pastry or Ice Cream Stop

My siblings are ice cream fans, and we found a good patisserie that also serves ice cream and coffee. It was less crowded than other places and had good reviews on Google: L’amande.

There are some nice outdoor seats in a quiet alley, which adds to the experience. The coffee was okay (I think it’s hard to find great coffee in Greece outside of Athens—but maybe I’m just picky). My siblings liked the ice cream, and the pastries looked good too—worth a try.

Swimming

If you visit in summer or on a hot day, bring swimsuits. There are small, lovely coves along the coast of the town, with shallow, clean water—great even for kids. Some are near restaurants and bars, so you can combine swimming with a light meal or drink.

The Promenade

Nafplio’s promenade is gorgeous. If the wind isn’t strong, it’s a great spot for a walk. There are benches, sea-view restaurants, and an overall relaxed feel. Around sunset, it’s the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine or a coffee and just take a break.

Bourtzi Castle

When we were there, it was a windy day and the sea was rough, so we skipped the visit to the castle on the small island in the bay.

But if the weather is nice and the sea calm, it’s worth taking a short boat ride from the port to visit this impressive Venetian structure. If you don’t get seasick, it could be a great little adventure.

Snorkeling Boat Trip

If you’re staying in the town, you can also enjoy other activities like a snorkeling boat trip and visits to secluded beaches near Xiropigado.

Online booking and more info here

More Nearby Recommendations

Argos – About a 20-minute drive from Nafplio. It has a local market (Municipal Neoclassical Argos Market), open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with fresh produce, local honey, cheeses, and more. Directions.

Epidaurus Theater – Ancient Theatre at the Asklepieion of Epidaurus: A major archaeological site about a 30-minute drive away. A massive ancient theater with amazing acoustics—well worth a visit. Directions.

In Summary, Nafplio offers a great balance of history, scenery, atmosphere, and light tourism, at least during the shoulder seasons. You can easily spend 2–3 days here, and it’s even better when combined with nearby day trips. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. If you’re looking for a place that mixes calm vibes, walkable streets, charming alleys, good ice cream, and beautiful views, it’s worth stopping by.

I hope my post helped you! If it did, feel free to leave a comment. And if you have any questions, you’re welcome to ask below or message me via my blog’s social channels: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more info on Greece? I have more Greece posts on my blog!

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