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Cast a spell and find yourself in the land of Harry Potter, Hermione, and Ron on a themed tour of filming sites around London. Pay homage to the bespectacled boy who became a literary hero—here are some ways to get in on the movie magic.

Warner Bros. Studio London Tours

Visit the studio where Harry Potter was brought to life, and see the sets, props, and costumes used in a decade of filmmaking. The studio is on the outskirts of the capital, so the easiest way to visit is by tour with roundtrip transport. Upon arrival, you can sip on butter beer, fly a broomstick, and marvel over the animatronic creatures and special effects.

London Filming Site Tours

Experience the true Harry Potter filming sites for yourself with a guided sightseeing tour in London, during which you can see real-life locations like the Leaky Cauldron and learn some film set gossip and pop culture facts. Bonus: most tours include a photo stop at the iconic Platform 9 ¾.

Private Sightseeing Tours

If you're a Harry Potter super fan, consider a private tour of the film sites around London. With a guide just for your group and no other muggles, you'll enjoy a an interactive tour with personalized attention. For a Potter experience with an iconic London twist, book a private tour by black cab.

With three days in London, you have enough time to check off the must-see sights and customize your itinerary to suit your preferences. Take advantage of super saver tours and money-saving city passes, head out on a day trip, and add in a few additional landmarks to make your trip even more memorable. Here are some ideas for a 3-day trip to London.

Day 1: Discover Historic London

A hop-on hop-off bus tour offers the convenience of a guided tour while leaving you free to decide where to go and how to long to stay at each stop. Hop off at top attractions such as the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus, then time your arrival at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. After a busy morning of sightseeing, hop aboard a lunch cruise down the River Thames and tuck into a meal as you pass Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. In the afternoon, ride on the London Eye—be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket as queues can take over an hour—and enjoy views that reach as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day. Afterward, head to Oxford Street or Covent Garden for some shopping before walking to London’s West End theater district for a show such as Wicked or The Lion King.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip

Many of England’s most popular spots can be visited on a day trip from London, so choosing where to go is up to you. Perhaps discover ancient Stonehenge, visit medieval Windsor Castle, and take a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Bath. Alternatively, visit Oxford’s world-famous university and Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, stopping along the way to admire the Cotswolds and visit Warwick Castle. If you’re feeling really adventurous, it’s even possible to cross the Channel and visit Paris. Simply hop on the Eurostar and within hours you could be cruising down the Seine. To maximize your time, opt for a full-day tour that combines multiple destinations into one trip and—if you’re on a budget—look for a tour that includes extras such as hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch.

Day 3: Experience the Fun Side of London

Spend your final morning visiting some of London’s award-winning museums—the British Museum is a history lover’s paradise, while the Tate Modern is one of the most cutting edge contemporary art museums in the world. This is also the day to take in any attractions that you’ve missed and perhaps a few fun extras. Stop by Madame Tussauds to rub shoulders with celebrities and “meet” the queen, visit family favorites like the Sea Life London Aquarium and London Zoo, or indulge in afternoon tea at Grosvenor House. Alternatively, you could just spend the entire day on the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour, a must for Potter fans. On your final evening, opt for an entertaining food tour of Soho or head down to the Southbank to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

After your visit to the Eiffel Tower, stay in Paris' 7th Arrondissement to take advantage of nearby landmarks and sightseeing areas. Here are your options as you venture toward the city center or cross the River Seine with the tower in sight.

Stroll across the Seine to explore the Trocadéro Gardens.

One of the best vantage points of the Eiffel Tower can be found from the Trocadéro Gardens (Jardins du Trocadéro), a public park directly on the other side of the Seine. Simply walk across the Pont d'Iéna, and enjoy photo ops of the tower, perhaps with the gardens' fountains in the foreground. A stop at Trocadéro is part of a number of Paris sightseeing tours.

Hop on a riverboat for a cruise along the Seine.

Relax your legs before or after climbing the Eiffel Tower with a leisurely boat ride on the Seine. You can admire Paris' other waterfront landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral or the Louvre, at nearly any time of day, as morning, lunch, dinner, and night cruises are available. Tour boats depart at various locations along the Seine, one of which is located at the Eiffel Tower.

Learn about France's military history at Les Invalides.

Just east of the Eiffel Tower sits Les Invalides, a collection of museums and other attractions that relate to the military history of France, most notably the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. From Champ de Mars, walk along Rue de Grenelle or Avenue de Tourville to reach Les Invalides for an independent visit (you can't miss the large gold dome), or opt for a bike tour or night tour that includes the site.

Immerse yourself in art at Musée Rodin.

For a look at the sculptures of French artist Auguste Rodin, check out his eponymous museum, located in an 18th-century mansion just on the other side of Les Invalides from the Eiffel Tower. In addition to Rodin's famous pieces such as The Thinker, the museum is home to paintings by the likes of Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Visit with a Paris sightseeing pass, or opt for a private tour.

Paris is a dream destination for travelers around the world, and that popularity comes with some major crowds. Plan ahead to secure your spot at the very best sites—see below for our top picks and experiences you can't miss in the City of Light.

The banks of Paris' Seine River, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are best explored by water. Relax on a Bateaux river cruise as you glimpse landmarks such as Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower from the water’s edge. Some cruises options include food and drink. Here are the best Bateaux Seine River cruise options to try.

Dining Cruises

Dining cruises offer an ideal, 2-in-1 experience: you can explore Paris and dine in style at the same time. Vessels are equipped with comfortable seating and large windows; many also host live-music performances to help foster that je ne sais quoi ambiance. Both lunch and dinner itineraries are available. Choose to see Paris by day, or explore the City of Lights once the sun sets. Dining cruises can also be booked for special occasions. Plan a different kind of festive outing when you embark on a Christmastime jaunt, see fireworks light up the city during a Bastille Day Seine cruise, plan a romantic Valentine’s Day to remember, or even ring in the New Year with Champagne as you wend your way along the river.

Sightseeing Cruises

If you have only a limited amount of time in Paris, sightseeing cruises offer an efficient way of exploring the city and a relaxing interlude between museum visits and crosstown treks. Even 1-hour itineraries include some of the city’s most famous landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to Pont Neuf and Notre-Dame. Audio commentary provides the stories behind the sights, while open viewing decks help you capture memorable shots of the City of Lights. For an especially celebratory twist, choose an itinerary with on-board Champagne.

Whether you’re taking a city break in Paris or London, exploring ancient Rome or beachside Barcelona, or touring the imperial cities of Prague, Budapest, and Vienna, Europe has plenty to fill up your travel bucket list. Advance planning is the key to maximize your time and minimize your spending. Here are some tips to help you see it all in Europe.

Don’t Waste Time Waiting in Line

Queues for Europe’s top attractions can take more than two hours in peak season. Prebooking tickets is often cheaper than purchasing them at the door, and skip-the-line access means you won’t waste precious time waiting for tickets. Sights like the Tower of London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, , the Vatican Museums in Rome, and La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona all offer skip-the-line admission.

Book a Tour

Opting for a tour can be a cost-effective way to visit multiple destinations in one day, and to save the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation. Europe’s open-border policy makes it easy to visit more than one country on a day trip. Visit Paris or Belgium on a day trip from London; hop over to Salzburg from Munich; visit Amsterdam from Brussels; or tour France, Andorra, and Spain in one day from Barcelona.

Save on Transport Costs

With low-cost flights connecting cities across Europe, flying can be the cheapest way to visit multiple countries in one trip. Train travel can be pricy, so it’s worth investing in a rail pass or limiting your train use to just a few special trips, such as the Glacier Express through the Swiss and Italian Alps, the Flam Railway in Norway, or the Eurostar from London to Paris or Brussels.

Enjoy a Local Experience

With limited time, you’ll want to fill your itinerary with must-see landmarks and must-do tours, but make an effort to experience local culture and traditions, too. Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea in London, take a cooking class in Istanbul, attend a football game in Barcelona, or learn to surf in the Canary Islands.

Travel During the Offseason

Touring Europe’s cities in July or August, or hitting the ski slopes of the Alps in December means bigger crowds and higher rates on flights, hotels, and tours. Alternatively, visiting offseason can allow your budget to stretch much further. Head to the Mediterranean beaches in May or June before the summer vacationers arrive, or take a city break at the end of November, when many of Europe’s famous Christmas Markets are already open.

Bring Your Walking Shoes

Most European cities are easy to explore on foot, and walking tours provide a great way to take in the sights. Save cash on public transport by choosing a hotel within walking distance of the main attractions and soaking up the scenery along the way. Active types could also hire a bike, join a running tour, or zip from one sight to another on a Segway.

When the gray skies clear, London comes into its own. City parks and walkways bloom between May and September, and the warmer temperatures lead to long days of exploration. Here are some fun ways to see London and the surrounding area in summer.

• Visit the lavish State Rooms of Buckingham Palace and see the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The Queen's private residence is open to the public from the end of July through September.

• Watch a show in the West End, the heart of London's theater district. The options are endless, but classics such as Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera should be at the top of your list.

• Take sightseeing to new heights and ride a loop on the London Eye. Set on the curve of the River Thames, the iconic Ferris wheel is loved for its unbeatable panoramas over London.

• See where the Harry Potter magic happens with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The north London studio is home to props, sets, and costumes featured in the films.

• Head out of the capital and into the countryside to see Britain's most mysterious set of stones. UNESCO-listed Stonehenge is at its best in the summer months, when you can walk around the prehistoric stones without shivering from the cold.

While there’s no lack of things to do and see in Florence, the city is well situated to allow for further Tuscan exploration on day trips to picturesque hilltop towns, vineyards, and famous monuments. Choose from any of the popular options below.

Chianti — 31 miles (50 km) away

Tuscany’s Chianti region is known the world over for its namesake wine, and day tours from Florence often include a visit to a winery or two for tastings. The area’s hilltop towns offer particularly great views over the vineyard-covered hills and are sometimes difficult to reach without a car or guided transportation. Taking a wine tour in Chianti means you get to relax while a knowledgeable local does all the navigating through Tuscany’s winding back roads.

San Gimignano — 35 miles (56 km) away

San Gimignano’s many medieval towers stand out against the surrounding Tuscan hills and give the small walled town its nickname of “Tuscany’s Manhattan.” You can climb some of the towers in the city walls for great views, browse the charming shops, or stroll the pedestrian-friendly historic center. Full-day tours to San Gimignano from Florence often include a visit to Siena or wine tasting in Chianti as well.

Siena — 45 miles (71 km) away

Siena’s historic center is focused on its multicolored hilltop Duomo and Piazza del Campo, the main square that hosts the annual Palio horse race. Popular Siena is often included on full-day tours from Florence, along with San Gimignano or the nearby Chianti wine region. The city can just as easily be the sole destination on a half-day trip.

Lucca and Pisa — 48 miles (77 km) and 51 miles (82 km) away

Pisa’s claim to fame is its eponymous leaning tower, but don’t overlook the beautiful cathedral and enormous baptistery nearby. And if you make it to tiny Lucca, check out its famous intact city walls, which are so wide that the tops used to be a road. Today, it’s a walking path around the whole town. The two cities are in the same direction from Florence, so they are often paired on day tours from the regional capital.

Tuscany in One Day Tours

If you really want to see it all, opt for a full-day tour that covers multiple destinations in Tuscany. You’ll see more places, though you won’t have as much time in each one—Tuscany is the fifth-largest region in Italy. These trips tend to be long days, covering a lot of ground and routinely running for 11 to 12 hours, with some at 14 hours or more. Itineraries can vary, but tours tend to include stops in Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, and Monteriggioni, plus wine tasting in Chianti and lunch or dinner.

Paris’ 20 arrondissements (districts) are well served by public transportation, and the central districts that house the main attractions are a quick Metro ride or walk away from each other, meaning a car isn’t necessary in the bustling French capital. Here are a few ways to explore the city with ease.

Public Transit

Paris’ public transportation network includes the Metro (subway), buses, trams, and the RER. With 16 lines and roughly 300 stations, the Metro covers most of your needs for sightseeing in the city, and it’s the fastest; pick up a free map at any station. The RER is a suburban train line that you can use to get to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport. For getting around when the Metro is closed overnight, use the Noctilien, a night bus service.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours and Cruises

A hop-on hop-off tour is often the easiest way to get oriented to a new city. See the sights from high above the ground on a visitor-friendly route that stops at top attractions and neighborhoods—with the option to get off and explore independently. Paris offers these tours on typical double-decker buses as well as riverboats on the Seine, which runs through the city center.

Walking and Biking Tours

With a photo op around every corner, Paris is ideal for exploring on foot or by bike. Themed walking tours that center around Parisian food, architectural styles, or a specific neighborhood such as Marais or the Latin Quarter are popular, with pastry tastings a highlight. Bike tours allow you to cover more ground and often see things you might miss without a guide.

Walk the ancient streets in Rome, but don’t miss a visit the excavated city of Pompeii for an even more vivid look at daily life in the ancient Roman Empire. Explore both the ruins and nearby Naples on a tour from Rome—here are your options.

Guided Day Trips

A day trip to Naples and Pompeii from Rome in the company of a knowledgeable guide is great for those short on time. You’ll see the highlights of the ruins as well as the UNESCO-listed historic center of Naples on a well-organized, stress-free excursion.

Private Day Trips

Upgrade to a private day trip to Naples and Pompeii from Rome to tailor your itinerary to better suit your interests. Some private tours include lunch or wine tasting, while having a private guide means you’ll have all the time in the world to ask questions along the way.

Multi-Day Tours

Spending more than one day around Naples and Pompeii gives you the ability to explore at a slower pace—you’ll see and do more, and still have time to relax. Add visits to more sights to your trip, such as the gorgeous towns of the Amalfi Coast, the excavated city of Herculaneum (not far from Pompeii), or the islands of Capri or Ischia.

Things to Know

• Naples is roughly 140 miles (224 km) from Rome, reachable in a little more than one hour by high-speed train.

• Full-day tours from Rome to Naples are typically 10 to 14 hours long, though express options running about 7 hours are available. Prepare for a long day.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; the terrain at Pompeii is uneven in many places.

• Bring a water bottle and sun protection—much of Pompeii is exposed, offering little shade, and drinking fountains aren’t as readily available as they are in Rome.

Imagine sipping limoncello while enjoying fresh fish that was plucked from the sea just hours before your meal. That’s just one of the memorable moments you’ll find on the Amalfi Coast—here are some of the best ways to visit from Rome.

Day Trips

Whether you book a private guided tour or are part of a small group, you’ll start your journey from Rome to southern Italy by road or high-speed train. Choose a tour that stops at Pompeii to explore the historic ruins, or upon reaching Amalfi, opt for a scenic cruise down the coast after sipping limoncello in the orchards. Wander the alleys of Positano and stroll its pebbly shores, and understand first-hand why celebrities are known to escape to this craggy Italian coast. Maybe you’ll spend time with a local cheese maker or enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood among the oceanfront architecture and coastal cliffs.

Multi-Day Trips

If you want to experience the Amalfi coastline in depth, consider a multi-day trip from Rome so you can tack on additional adventures like cruising to the island of Capri. Much like you would on a day tour from Rome, you can choose to explore the famous Pompeii ruins and poke around Positano, but you may also have time to stroll through Sorrento and see the best sights in Naples. 

Things to Know

• Most Amalfi Coast day trips from Rome begin between 6am and 7am, and return around 9pm.

• Amalfi is located about 175 miles (280 kilometers) southeast of Rome, a journey of about 3.5 hours by road.

• Tours typically include free time to explore and enjoy the coastline at your leisure.

• Many day trips include a stop at Pompeii.

• Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

• The winding road along the Amalfi Coast is arguably Italy’s most scenic drive.

• You can either travel entirely by road, or choose from tours that break up the journey between bus, minivan, and train.

From the Athens Acropolis to the London Eye, Europe is dotted with some of the world's most popular tourist attractions. The Eiffel Tower alone receives more than 7 million visitors every year—that’s an average of nearly 20,000 visitors each day—and the wait for the elevator to the top can be as long as two hours. Meanwhile, at the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, you'll likely share space with more than 2,000 people at any given time.

Who wants to waste precious vacation time standing in line or elbowing for space? Here are three ways to skip the lines and avoid the crowds at Europe’s top attractions.

Skip-the-Line Tours Skip-the-line tours allow you to do exactly that: skip the long lines at popular spots such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Vatican, Sagrada Familia, the Colosseum, the Anne Frank House and more.

VIP Experiences Viator’s VIP tours take you beyond the velvet ropes and behind closed doors for unforgettable experiences that aren’t available to most tourists. Check out secret rooms in the Vatican, see the famous Moulin Rouge show from the best seats in the house, or enjoy a four-course dinner with a view at the Eiffel Tower.

Early Access and After-Hours Tours The early bird may get the worm, but when it comes to travel, both the early birds and the night owls also get the chance to see top sights with fewer crowds. Early access tours bring you into popular attractions before they open to the masses, and after-hours tours allow for visits long after the doors have closed to the public.

Paris ranks among the most visited cities in the world—spend just one day in the City of Light and it’s easy to see why. With its surfeit of monuments, extraordinary museums, and romantic je ne sais quoi ambience, Paris more than lives up to its stellar reputation. Here’s how to make the most of your 1-day trip.

Morning: Enjoy Panoramic Paris Views

One of the best ways to discover Paris? Find a lofty perspective and take in the picturesque city views. Scoring a rooftop seat on a hop-on hop-off bus is one of the simplest ways to see the sights (and traverse around town). Then there’s the Eiffel Tower’s topmost observation deck—poised 906 feet (276 meters) above the ground, it ranks among the highest viewing platforms in Europe and can be seen quickly with skip-the-line tickets. Alternatively, make your way to Montmartre and its hilltop Sacré-Coeur Basilica on a walking tour. Though you must climb numerous stairs to reach the top, the views are well worth the effort.

Afternoon: Explore Paris’ Museums

A trip to Paris, where the arts reign supreme, isn’t complete without a museum excursion. The Louvre is an essential stop, and for good reason: home to the Mona Lisa and other world-famous masterpieces, it’s a cultural juggernaut. Don’t try to conquer it all in one day—instead, pick a preferred gallery or go on a guided Louvre highlights tour. Either way, be sure to secure skip-the-line tickets to save time. Alternatively, the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, is ideal for fans of impressionism, while the modern Centre Pompidou offers avant-garde architecture and of-the-minute exhibitions.

Evening: Cruise the Seine (and More)

After a busy day of exploration, relax on a Seine river cruise. From your comfortable perch on board, sightsee as you float by Notre Dame, the Pont des Arts, and numerous other top landmarks. To make a meal of it, book a dinner cruise that combines elegant French gastronomy and seamless sightseeing. And if you’d like to extend your outing into the wee hours, pair your dinner with a trip to the Moulin Rouge, where a cabaret show and glasses of Champagne make for a festive celebration of your unforgettable day in Paris.

With sweeping Georgian crescents, Roman ruins, and beautiful Avon River views, the UNESCO–listed city of Bath is widely considered among the great treasures of Britain. See below for our top tours of Bath and the West Country from London.

Day Trips

Lying within easy reach of London by road, Bath makes an ideal day trip destination from the capital. Escape busy London and stroll the honey-colored streets of Bath, once home to famous author Jane Austen, to gain insight into the city’s colorful past and admire top attractions including the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Most day trips to Bath from London also include time to take in other famous British sites of interest such as the Cotswolds, Oxford, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Stonehenge, or Windsor Castle.

Multi-Day Tours

Overnight tours from London give travelers an opportunity to spend a little more time in the Georgian city of Bath and the surrounding areas of interest. In addition to exploring Bath, visitors can see medieval Oxford (home to the famous Oxford University colleges) and spin through authentic Cotswold villages. With accommodations and breakfast typically included, you’ll enjoy a relaxing break in the British countryside before returning to the city.

Things to Know

• Bath lies 115 miles (185 kilometers) west of London, a drive of about three hours.

• Stonehenge is located 86 miles (138 kilometers) from London, a journey of about two hours by road.

• Most Bath tours from London also visit Windsor Castle, only 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the capital.

• Full-day and multi-day tours to the West Country from London generally include a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Known for its artistic treasures, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and prime location in Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is a favorite destination for international travelers. That popularity often means large crowds, but by planning ahead with skip-the-line tickets and advance tour bookings, you can avoid sold-out activities and long lines at sights such as the Florence Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Accademia Gallery.

For those with time to explore the region outside Florence, you won’t want to miss a wine-tasting tour to Chianti, a day trip to the coastal villages of the Cinque Terre, or a cooking class in a Tuscan farmhouse. See below for our top picks and experiences in the Tuscan capital.

Everyone knows that Rome wasn’t built in a day but with some forward planning, it is possible to take in the highlights in one. Maximize time with skip-the-line tickets for top attractions, travel between the sights on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and choose tours that combine multiple sights. Here’s how to see Rome in one day.

Morning: Visit the Vatican

Kick off your sightseeing in Rome with an early-access tour of the Vatican Museums. Making an early start not only saves time but also means you’ll get to enjoy the UNESCO-listed treasures before the crowds arrive. First, marvel at masterpieces by artists like Raphael, da Vinci, and Botticelli in the enormous museums, then step inside Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Finally, head into the grand St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can climb the dome for a stunning view of the city.

Afternoon: Journey to Ancient Rome

The Colosseum is on top of most must-see lists, so it’s best to prebook skip-the-line tickets to avoid wasting hours waiting outside. Follow in the footsteps of fearless gladiators and Roman emperors as you explore the mighty amphitheater, then continue to the nearby Roman Forum, home to some of the city’s most impressive ancient ruins. Make a pit stop for some Italian gelato as you stroll into downtown Rome, where you won’t want to miss a photo by the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.

Night: Cruise Around Illuminated Rome

Rome’s scenic riverfront is most magical by night, and an evening cruise along the Tiber river affords stunning views. Opt for a dinner cruise and tuck into traditional Italian dishes such as lasagna or gnocchi as you sail past St. Angelo’s Castle and spot the distant spires of St. Peter’s Basilica. Or, continue sightseeing in the evening hours with a moonlit tour of the Colosseum or a night walking tour of Rome’s most atmospheric neighborhoods.

The Cinque Terre is incredibly popular among travelers to Italy, but staying overnight isn’t always an option. Luckily, you can explore and hike through the five colorful villages on a convenient day trip tour from Florence—here are your options.

Cinque Terre Day Trips

Day trips to the UNESCO–listed Cinque Terre are a great option for visitors to Florence who want to get out to the coast but don’t have the time to stay a few days. A group tour will allow you to see all the top spots and may include a guided hiking trip through the five villages, the chance to swim in the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea, free time to wander a seaside town or two, or perhaps even a boat ride so you can enjoy views of the Cinque Terre from the water.

Combo Tours to the Cinque Terre

To make the most of your time and cover more ground in one day, choose a tour from Florence that combines a visit to the Cinque Terre with another top destination in the area. After checking out the Cinque Terre with your tour guide, make a stop in Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower, or continue your exploration of the Ligurian Coast with a stop in Portovenere on what's known as the Italian Riviera.

Things to Know

• Day trips from Florence to the Cinque Terre are typically 12 to 13 hours, including transport time, whether they focus solely on the Cinque Terre or include a visit to another location.

• The Cinque Terre's five towns (Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, and Riomaggiore) are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park (Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre) and connected via a famous trail open to hiking.

• A rocky coastal area, the Cinque Terre includes trails that are quite narrow and others that are at the edge of somewhat steep cliffs. Some spots lack handrails, so wear good walking shoes to keep your footing sure.

• Bring water and sunscreen for any Cinque Terre hikes, as there's little to no shade along parts of the trails.

With three days in Rome, there’s time to check off all the must-see sights and also explore a little farther afield. Look out for sightseeing passes and super saver deals offering discounts on combined tours, and then splash out on one or two unforgettable experiences. Here’s how to spend three days in Rome.

Day 1: Discover Historic Rome

To get the lay of the land, you may want to start things off with a comprehensive full-day Rome tour or opt for a special VIP experience at a top landmark, such as breakfast at the Vatican or a night tour of the Colosseum. For independent travelers, a hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to get around, offering the convenience of a tour while leaving you free to decide where to go and how long to stay at each stop. Spend the morning touring the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, then continue to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Be sure to book skip-the-line tickets, as wait times can be more than two hours at peak times. Finally, hop off at popular photo stops like the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip

Many of Italy’s top attractions can be visited on a day trip from Rome, so you have options. To maximize your time, opt for a full-day tour that visits multiple destinations. Perhaps head south to discover the remarkably preserved ruins of ancient Pompeii and admire the views along the Amalfi Coast, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Or, head a little farther to Sorrento and catch a ferry out to Capri island. If you don’t mind a long day out, it’s also possible to take day tours to visit Venice, explore the Renaissance city of Florence, or discover the medieval towns and award-winning wineries of Tuscany. If you’re on a budget, look for a tour that includes extras like hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch.

Day 3: Eat Your Way Around Rome

Spend your final morning visiting any sights that you’ve missed—the Borghese Gallery is a must for art fans, while history enthusiasts might prefer to explore the Catacombs of Rome or the ruins of Palatine Hill. In the afternoon, set out to sample as much of Rome’s delicious cuisine as you can. A food-tasting tour is a brilliant way to taste pizzas, pasta dishes, and street food favorites like suppli (deep-fried rice and mozzarella balls), gelato, and sweet Maritozzi pastries. Alternatively, sign up for a pizza- or pasta-making class and learn the skills to recreate these classic Italian dishes back home. On your final evening, head to the lively Trastevere district to experience Rome’s nightlife and take a stroll along the illuminated riverfront.

Off mainland Greece, the Aegean Islands—home to dramatic rocky landscapes, crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and quiet traditional villages—attract adventure-seekers keen to escape bustling Athens. Here are a few ways to go island-hopping in the Aegean and experience the best of Greece’s stunning coastal landscapes.

Crete Tours

Greece’s largest island, with its soft-sand beaches and soaring White Mountains, is a veritable playground for travelers. Follow a guide along hiking trails above historic Agia Roumeli, explore beneath the waves on an Aegean Sea scuba dive, enjoy high-octane thrills with an off-road Jeep safari, or watch the waves roll over Elafonisi Beach. Chania and Heraklion are two of Crete’s most historic cities, and to escape civilization completely you can head to Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe.

Cyclades Islands Tours

Over a couple of days or longer, soak up the sunshine on the beaches of Mykonos, then watch the sunset from a seaside bar. Explore the pretty town of Chora (affectionately known as Little Venice), island-hop by catamaran, or visit the 19th-century Armenistis Lighthouse for stunning coastal views.

On nearby Santorini —widely considered to be the ultimate Greek island—explore the Minoan archaeological site at Akrotiri, sunbathe on the black sands of Perissa Beach, and get a taste of traditional island life in the village of Megalochori. Wine-lovers can hit the island’s vineyards and sample some of the delicate local wines in production.

And on the slightly more remote Milos, escape the tourist trail and experience a quieter side of Greek island life. Milos offers peaceful beaches, rich culture, delicious local food, and amazing sunsets. If you’re keen to see the Greek islands in their natural glory—minus the crowds—it’s a dream destination.

Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands lie off the west coast of Greece. From these shores, take to the waves and spot native loggerhead turtles swimming off Zakynthos, or explore the Drogarati Caves and Myrtos Beach on Cephalonia. On the nearby island of Corfu, discover top attractions such as 19th-century Achilleion Palace, the Byzantine-era Angelokastro Castle, and the elegant arcades of the Liston Promenade.

Dodecanese Tours

Perhaps most famous for their Byzantine churches and medieval castles, the Dodecanese Islands include the popular hotspots of Rhodes and Kos. Rhodes has its own ancient Greek Acropolis and other historic monuments, including a stadium and theater. But the island was even more of a powerhouse in the Middle Ages—and boasts one of the largest inhabited medieval towns in Europe. On nearby Kos, explore the ruins of 14th-century Neratzia Castle and Antimachia Castle, stroll along sandy beaches to mountainside villages like Pyli and Zia, or sample local wine at a family-run winery.

Two of Tuscany’s most beloved day trip destinations—Siena and San Gimignano—are easy to visit in a tour from Florence. Both have medieval structures and gorgeous scenery, with wine tasting in Chianti as an option. Here’s what you need to know.

Group Tours

Booking a spot on a group tour to Siena and San Gimignano from Florence is the most budget-friendly way to see these two charming cities. Tours include transportation, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the scenery of Tuscany en route. Many of these day tours include other destinations, such as Greve in Chianti or Pisa, so you can see even more in a single day.

Private Tours

On a private tour you’ll be able to focus more on the places and sights that interest you most, with a personal tour guide to answer your questions. Some private tours can include cities in addition to Siena and San Gimignano, such as Pisa.

Things to Know

• Siena is about 47 miles (76 kilometers) from Florence.

• There is no train station in San Gimignano, which is about 33 miles (53 kilometers) from Florence, so a vehicle is the only transportation option.

• It’s roughly 30 miles (47 kilometers) between Siena and San Gimignano.

• Some tours include a meal, either lunch or dinner, and some include wine tasting in the Chianti region, but these are not standard. Read the descriptions carefully to know what’s included.

• Siena’s historic center has steep hills from one attraction to the next, so be prepared for brief climbs as you see the sights.

• Tours are typically six to eight hours, though some run between 12 and 14 hours.

Set on the windswept Salisbury Plain is Stonehenge, the UNESCO-listed stone circle famous for the mystery that shrouds its purpose. Why was it built? How was it built? Take a peek into its prehistoric past with a day trip to the site from London.

Combo Tours

Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor, and Oxford: They’re all within easy reach of London. Pair a tour of the stones with some English highlights to enjoy prehistoric and modern history in one go. Windsor Castle, the Roman spa town of Bath, and the quintessential English country village of Lacock are among the pairing options.

Unique Experiences

Most Stonehenge tours and tickets allow you to walk around the stones but not amid them; it's a tactic to reduce erosion caused by our feet. However, private viewings offer privileged access to the mystical inner circle, at times when the site is free from its daytime crowds. Viewings are timed to sync with sunrise or sunset for an extra-special Stonehenge experience.

Things to Know

• Stonehenge's location on an open plain leaves it at the mercy of the fickle British weather—something its neolithic architects didn't consider. Bring warm clothing and a waterproof jacket just in case.

• Most tours start at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, more than a mile (1.6 km) from the stones. Skip the walk and take the free shuttle service, which speeds you there in less than 10 minutes. You can also hop off halfway and walk the rest so that the megaliths slowly come into view.

• Stonehenge is not well-served by public transport, so tours and day trips are the way to go. Most depart from Victoria coach station or central London hotels, and the journey straight there takes about two hours.

The Eiffel Tower is arguably Paris’ best-known landmark, and there are plenty of ways to discover the architectural marvel. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can ascend to its summit, skip the lines to save time, visit after dark for romantic views, and even enjoy a gourmet meal as part of your tour. Here’s how to explore.

For the First-Timer

If you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower for the first time, make the most of your trip to the world-renowned icon: Venture all the way up to its lofty summit, perched 906 feet (276 meters) above ground level. You won’t just have access to the tower’s three main levels as part of your admission—you’ll also enjoy a rare, bird’s-eye view of Paris.

For the Budget Traveler

Even if you’re keeping a close eye on your wallet, you can make the most of your visit to the Eiffel Tower. While pricier tours include access to the tower’s summit observatory, you can book a tour that takes you to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor. The level is located 377 feet (115 meters) up and still offers exceptional Paris panoramas.

For Those Short on Time

The Eiffel Tower can attract formidable lines—particularly during the summertime high season. If you’ve only got a short time in the City of Lights and need to make the most of your limited sightseeing schedule, then book a priority-access tour. You’ll pay slightly more for the privilege, but you’ll also prevent any hassle or stress.

For the Romantic

Paris is known around the world for its amorous reputation, and few landmarks personify that better than the Eiffel Tower. For a romantic way to discover the landmark, visit after dark and admire the city’s glittering lights from on high. Alternatively, book a gourmet dinner at one of the Eiffel Tower’s exceptional restaurants for a meal to remember.

Combine centuries-old culinary traditions with a diverse city home to people of many different nationalities and you can’t help but get a fabulous food scene. London is a fantastic destination for foodies, and here’s what you need to eat when you’re there.

**Bacon roll:**Start your day in Spitalfields, in the East End, with the quintessential British breakfast. A bacon butty is a thick slab of back bacon smeared with tangy HP sauce and sandwiched between a roll or two slices of buttered bread.

**Curry:**Head to Brick Lane for a plate of one of England’s favorite dishes: curry. The heart of the city’s Bangladeshi community, Brick Lane is home to numerous curry houses. While you are there, save some room for a salt beef bagel from one of Britain’s most famous bagel shops, Brick Lane Beigel Bake.

**Cheese:**Make your way to the posh Mayfair neighborhood to find London’s oldest cheese shop, where you can sample many varieties of cheese from around the country. Another great spot for cheese sampling is Borough Market, with dozens of vendors and countless delicious products.

**Scones:**Indulging in a traditional English cream tea, featuring scones smothered in clotted cream and pots of fragrant tea, is a must-do in London. Make like the ladies who lunch by heading for one of central London’s posh department stores, such as Liberty of Fortnum and Mason, for this quintessentially British experience.

**Fish ‘n’ chips:**Don’t miss out on the chance to eat Britain’s national food while visiting the capital. Stop into a traditional pub near Charing Cross or London Bridge and tuck into a plate of crispy battered cod and thick, perfectly cooked chips—and wash it all down with a pint of real ale.

Lying in the southern Aegean Sea, Santorini is a volcanic island of rugged shorelines, rolling waves, and soaring cliffs. But the Greek island’s main draw is its postcard-perfect beaches. Whether you’re seeking adventurous water sports or sun-soaked relaxation, here are some the best beaches in Santorini.

Monolithos Beach

Of all of Santorini’s beaches, Monolithos ranks among the most family-friendly, with a playground and beach games to keep youngsters entertained all day. It’s also popular with families thanks to its ample shade and gentle waves. Monolithos Beach lies just over four miles (seven kilometers) from Fira, on the eastern shore of Santorini.

Kamari Beach

Framed by the towering limestone cliffs of Cape Mesa Vouno—topped by the ruins of Ancient Thira—Kamari is a sizzling black-sand beach with all the spectacular coastal views people have come to expect of Greece. Rent a beach chair, pick your spot, grab a drink, and watch the waves roll in.

Perissa Beach

Like Kamari Beach, Perissa is a black-sand beach and a great spot to park yourself and top up the suntan. Snorkeling and windsurfing are popular activities by day, and when night falls, Perissa turns into a lively party beach.

Perivolos Beach

Perivolos is the longest stretch of sandy beach on Santorini. Break up a long coastal stroll with a refreshing drink at one of the welcoming beach bars, which fuel nighttime beach parties after the sun goes down. The deep blue waters make Perivolos a popular dive site, as well.

Red Beach

Nestled beneath soaring cliffs, with volcanic red pebbles and clear, turquoise waters, Red Beach is widely considered among Santorini’s top beaches. Shallow waters close to shore make it popular among families, with plenty of fun to be had among the rock pools and paddling spots.