Europe Travelers Recommend

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.

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.

Soak up history, wine, and culture on a 3-day trip to Porto, with plenty of time to check out urban highlights and venture into the countryside. From strolling coastal towns and Douro Valley vineyards, to exploring museums and hilltop castles, here’s how to make the most of 72 hours in Portugal’s 2nd-largest city.

Day 1: City sightseeing

Porto’s beautiful historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason—so spend your first day wandering around its sloping streets, cozy squares, and museums. If you’re up for tackling some hills, a walking tour is a great way to take in the atmosphere, while a coach, car, Segway, or hop-on hop-off bus tour is a less strenuous option. Most itineraries feature key landmarks such as the Porto Cathedral, the Church of Santa Clara, and the Palacio da Bolsa, a 19th-century stock exchange.

Later, catch a live fado show at a wine cellar, local tavern, or concert venue. (Secure your ticket in advance.)

Day 2: Wine lodges

It’s no coincidence that Porto shares a name with Portugal’s most famous wine, and the city’s winemakers keep the sweet fortified drink flowing in local cellars called wine lodges. Wine tours take you to handpicked spots for a tasty introduction to the history and traditions of port.

Not all flavors of Porto come in a bottle. From cured meats to aged cheeses and codfish fritters, you’ll find lots of food worth sampling—so browse local markets, duck into neighborhood tabernas, or join a tasting tour. (Many wine tours also include food, so you get the best of both worlds.) Once the sun sets, embark on a cruise along the Douro River as the lights begin to twinkle on the slow-moving water.

Day 3: A day trip

Porto’s central location on Portugal’s northern coast makes the city an ideal base for day trips, whether you’re looking for a long walk on the beach or a crisp-tasting glass of Vinho Verde. A favorite wine destination is the Douro Valley, whose winding river and postcard-ready villages make it as scenic as it is delicious.

Alternatively, if you’re dreaming of history and hilltop castles, head to Guimarães and Braga, two of Portugal’s oldest cities. Or, take a day cruise on the river to the traditional village of Pinhão.

Set on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, fado is a song style mixing elements of poetry and music. Although it originated in Lisbon, this soulful folk music has found its way into Porto's music venues as well. Here's where to listen for yourself.

Highlights

• Listen to authentic live Fado music at one of Porto's many live music venues.

• Combine an evening Fado concert with a Porto night tour, Rio Douro cruise, or wine tasting.

• Savor the flavors of a traditional Portuguese meal during a Fado dinner show.

• Sip on Porto City's famous port wine during a haunting Portuguese guitar and vocal performance.

• Most Fado tours include hotel pickup and drop-off.

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.

As Paris' top landmark, it’s no surprise that the Eiffel Tower comes with a long entrance line. But by booking a skip-the-line ticket in advance, you can spend more time up in the tower than in line on the ground. Here are a few ways to do so.

Guided Skip-the-Line Tours

Get more out of your experience at the Eiffel Tower by visiting with a guide, who can provide insight into the 19th-century landmark’s history and architecture. You’ll get priority access to bypass the main queue and also receive insider tips about the best viewpoints and how to fully enjoy all the tower’s features.

Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower and River Cruise Combos

With the Eiffel Tower’s location on the banks of the Seine, it’s easy to combine a visit with a cruise on the river — a fun way to see waterfront sights such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Paris’ many elegant bridges. You’ll receive skip-the-line access to the tower’s second level and a ticket for a one-hour cruise, which can be used the same day or a different day, giving you flexibility.

Evening Visits with Skip-the-Line Access

By visiting at sunset or after dark with a skip-the-line ticket, you can enjoy priority access and a new perspective on the Eiffel Tower and the city’s evening lights. For an even more enhanced visit, opt for a VIP dinner experience that includes Champagne and a 4-course meal at 58 Tour Eiffel, the gourmet French restaurant on the first level of the tower.

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.

With two days in Porto, there's time to wander the cobblestone streets and cruise the River Douro, while also sampling the city’s wine. The thriving city offers riverside neighborhoods to explore, historic sites to visit, and a bustling atmosphere. Here’s where to start.

Day 1: Cobblestone Streets and Wine Lodges

Morning: Head to Porto’s historic center to see preserved buildings that snagged the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Guided tours untangle Porto’s history and most cover essential landmarks, from the Porto Cathedral to the Mosteiro da Serra do Pillar. To avoid trekking up Porto’s steep hills, take a tour by bus, car, or Segway.

Afternoon: Sightseeing is thirsty work, so reward yourself with an afternoon of wine tasting in local cellars called wine lodges. Wine tasting tours in Porto often feature a series of stops, offering an expansive perspective on the region's wines.

Night: Every word in a fado song drips with feeling, but recorded versions can’t compare to a live show. Prebook tickets to a fado performance in Porto, since many venues are tiny and fill up fast.

Day 2: Boat Cruises and Tascas

Morning: Now that you’ve seen Porto by land, hop a boat cruise on the Douro River to enjoy views from the water. Morning light is great for photography here—as are the unobstructed city views available by boat.

Afternoon: On your second day, venture beyond wine to try Porto’s culinary specialties, which go from aged ham and cheeses to bolinho de bacalhau, fritters made from salted cod. Not that you have to move on from vintages altogether; many Porto food tours also feature wine pairings.

Night: With one last night in Porto, slip into the local scene at one of the city’s tascas or tabernas. Tascas are simple and traditional restaurants that can often be found tucked into side streets; family-run tabernas often feature homestyle Portuguese cooking such as hearty stews and grilled fish.

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.

Given that the Colosseum is Rome’s most recognized monument and one of Italy’s most popular attractions, you certainly won’t be alone in visiting. But skipping the line means avoiding a long wait and gaining priority access. Here are your options.

Guided Skip-the-Line Tours

Visiting the Colosseum with a guide allows you to use the exclusive tour entrance where lines are always shorter. There is a variety of tours to choose from, including private and kid-friendly options.

Skip-the-Line Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tours

Many skip-the-line Colosseum tours also visit other nearby attractions. Most cover the Forum and Palatine Hill, as all three sights share an admission ticket. Some tours stop at less commonly visited points of interest, such as the Casa di Augusto and Casa di Livia.

Skip-the-Line Colosseum Tours with Meals

Add a savory element to your Colosseum tour with a food or wine experience. You can start your day with a buffet breakfast overlooking the Forum, followed by a skip-the-line tour, or choose a dinner experience with a view of the Colosseum, with an exclusive evening tour of the monument afterward. For a full-day of sightseeing, combine a skip-the-line tour of the Colosseum and ancient Rome with a wine-tasting visit in nearby Frascati.

Sightseeing Bus Tours with Skip-the-Line Access

Cover plenty of ground with a sightseeing bus tour of Rome that stops at all the main attractions in the city. Choose a bus tour option that comes with a Roma Pass, which entitles you to fast-track entry to the Colosseum and several other sights.

Two of the United Kingdom's top historic attractions, Windsor Castle and Stonehenge lie within easy reach of London and draw visitors from around the globe all year round. Here are a few ways to take in both of these British landmarks in one day.

Highlights

• Explore two of Britain's most popular and historic sites in one day

• Marvel at the Stone Circle's prehistoric rock formations, and decide for yourself how and why they were placed there

• Explore the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, where the Stone Circle's history comes to life

• Visit Windsor Castle, Her Majesty the Queen's official residence

• Gain insight into 900 years of English history—from the time of William the Conqueror in the 11th century to present day

• With travel included, relax and take in the sites in comfort

Things to Know

• Stonehenge lies 88 miles (141 km) to the west of London, a drive of about 2.5 hours.

• Windsor Castle is set 22 miles (36 km) west of London and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.

• Day tours from London typically last 9 to 12 hours, including travel time.

• Be sure to bring your camera, seasonal clothing, water, and snacks for the trip.

• Tours typically include pickup and drop-off in central London, and many include entrance fees to Stonehenge.

Places to Visit Nearby

Windsor Castle and Stonehenge both lie west of London, and there are plenty of places nearby to stop for further exploration. Many of the Windsor Castle and Stonehenge tours from London also take in Salisbury or UNESCO–listed cities such as Bath and Oxford.

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.

London comes alive in the spring, thanks to the return of good weather and sunny days. Take advantage of the season and visit the city’s flowering Royal Parks, go for an elegant cruise along the Thames River, venture into Kensington Palace, and more. Here’s how to plan your perfect springtime itinerary in London.

• Make the most of a sunny spring day with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour.

• Glimpse the Crown Jewels and elegantly attired Beefeaters when you visit the UNESCO-listed Tower of London.

• Follow in the footsteps of the British Royal Family during a visit to Kensington Palace.

• Take advantage of the pleasant spring weather during a bike tour of the city’s Royal Parks.

• Combine a sightseeing outing with a beloved British tradition when you go for a Thames River cruise, complete with afternoon tea service.

• Experience London’s theatrical side, and book tickets to see Matilda: The Musical on the West End.

• See where the Beatles and the Rolling Stones spent their days on a rock ’n’ roll tour of London.

• Delve into Harry Potter’s magical world on a tour of Warner Bros. Studio.

• Plan a full-day getaway to three of England’s most in-demand destinations: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath.

Porto is filled with hidden gems, from small local restaurants and shops to medieval architecture, street art, and live music. The following private cultural tours offer a personalized experience and allow you to discover the city's best spots alongside your guide. Tours are only on sale for a limited time, so check out your options below.

Highlights

• Marvel at Porto's famous azulejo tiles and see vibrant street art on a walking tour of the city.

• Discover Porto's foodie scene and sample Portuguese specialties including cured meats, regional cheeses, and pastel de nata pastries.

• Admire Porto's historic architecture, including the "Gryffindor fountain"that inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter.

• Receive insider tips on where to eat, drink, and listen to fado music in Porto.

• Visit family-run wineries, enjoy guided port wine tastings, and soak up the scenery of the Douro Valley wine region on a day trip.

• Travel in the comfort of a private vehicle and enjoy the undivided attention of your tour guide.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.