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Splendours of Japan

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13 Day Japan Tour from Tokyo to Osaka via Hiroshima

East Coast USA and Canada

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14 Day USA and Canada Tour starting and ending in New York

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Bohemian Highlights 2024

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14 Day European Tour of Germany, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Czech Republic

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14 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Gallipoli, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

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13 Day France and Monaco Sightseeing Tour from Paris

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13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento

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Arts & culture tours inspiration

Cultural wonders, ancient traditions & local artisans

Delve into the unique cultures of the world and get a deeper insight with your Local Specialists on our art and cultural experiences. Meet with local artisans, learn how they keep their traditions alive, and witness moving cultural performances.

Stays with incredible stories

Our cultural vacations continue on well into the night, with our unique Stays with Stories. Step back in time with a stay in the lavish 17th-century Château de Beauvois in France, sleep in a room hewn out of the surrounding ancient rock in Turkey, experience genuine Japanese hospitality at a traditional ryokan in a mountain hot springs village, or stay in an old Franciscan convent in Santa Maria degli Angeli in Italy.

Witness powerful cultural rituals

Immerse yourself in ceremonies and traditions around the world with our cultural experiences. Witness the soulful ritual of Aarti on the River Ganges in India, take part in a private blessing ceremony at Wat Damnak in Cambodia, meet a Shaman who will perform an ancient Pago a la Tierra ceremony to welcome you to Peru, or watch the Grand Entrance Dance Performance at a Black Hills Pow Wow in the USA.

Connect with locals

Our cultural trips connect you with locals who share their unique customs. Witness the revival of Khmer crafts by young artisans in Siem Reap, see the delicate craft of Venetian glassblowing on Giudecca Island, learn the art of haggling at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, discover the spiritual connections the local Anangu caretakers have with the land at Uluru, or learn how local artisans make Japanese washi paper in Gokayama. 

The best local culture unlocked for you

Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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Want to learn about Black Forest craft?

Want to discover folk italian weaving, want to see lusitano horses in portugal, all you need to know about arts & culture tours, what is culture heritage tourism.

Culture heritage tourism is traveling to experience authentic food, music, clothing, stories, artifacts and activities of different countries and cultures around the world. Our arts and culture tours include cultural heritage experiences like listening to Fado music in Portugal, learning how to wear a kimono in Japan, and witnessing the flamenco in Spain.

What is the art capital of the world?

Looking for the best cities in the world for art? You can’t miss the art mecca of Paris, with over 1,000 galleries including The Louvre. You also have to visit New York for its MoMa and Guggenheim, London for its Tate Modern and National Gallery, Florence for Renaissance art, Barcelona for the works of Gaudi, Amsterdam for its iconic Dutch artists, and Singapore for its futuristic exhibitions.

Which destinations are popular for arts and cultural trips?

If you’re keen on arts tours or cultural vacations, you can’t go past destinations like Kyoto in Japan, Shanghai in China, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, Wellington in New Zealand, the Northern Territory in Australia, the east coast of the USA, and European cities like Paris and Rome.

What are the top cultural trip destinations in Europe?

Our cultural tours take you to some of the top destinations in Europe where you can experience arts and cultures, including Istanbul, Vienna, Prague, Porto, Seville and of course, the cultural heavyweights like Venice, Florence and Rome of Italy and Paris and Bordeaux of France.

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Want to discover more about traditional Black Forest craftmanship?

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Art & culture tours

Whether you’re learning about glassblowing in Venice or sipping mint tea on the ground of a Bedouin tent, you’re bound to have a life-changing experience with us.

Each of our tours will help you uncover the art and culture of a destination, but if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, check out the tours below.

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Faqs about our art and culture tours.

Great art comes from all over the globe, but here are a few hot spots we'd recommend:

• Italy for the birthplace of the Renaissance
• Paris for some of the richest art collections in the world
• Rome for sculptures of all kinds
• Morocco for artisan markets and performances

Whether you're into painting, sculptures, theatre, music, architecture, or nature, you'll see it up close—in museums, parks, performance halls, and even city bus tours. View any of our trips for the full itineraries.

Italy is home to some of the greatest artists in history—and not just Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci. Italy has incredible glass-blowers, playwrights, and crafters. It also has some of the most notable sites from famous works of art, like Shakespeare’s fair Verona, the Amalfi coast, and the Sicilian backdrops for Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic movie The Godfather. Check out our The Art-Lovers Guide to Italy . 

When you travel with us, you get a full educational and cultural experience with knowledgeable guides, free time to explore, and all the benefits of traditional group travel, too. Learn more about the Go Ahead Tours difference .

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Wander-Lush

World’s Best Cultural Tourism Destinations: 30 Cultural Trips to Take This Year

Discover the best cultural trips and immersive travel experiences our world has to offer. From Southern India to the High Arctic, here are the top 30 countries and regions for cultural tourism this year .

With many of us now on the lookout for deeper and more meaningful travel experiences , cultural tourism – travel that prioritises learning about and appreciating different ways of life – has never been more appealing.

Immersive cultural experiences give travellers an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, form meaningful relationships, and develop new skills. They can also open the door to a slower, more sustainable type of travel that has benefits for local communities and a lighter impact on the planet.

Whether you’re a seasoned cultural traveller researching for your next trip or you’re interested in getting off-the-beaten-track but aren’t sure where to start, I hope this guide to culture and travel offers you some food for thought!

I also suggest reading these tips for socially responsible travel for advice about engaging with different cultures in a sensitive and mindful way.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

This post may contain sponsored links for which I received compensation.

What is cultural tourism?

Cultural travel is as broad and multifaceted as culture itself – it’s difficult to pin down, and highly subjective. For me, cultural tourism is a kind of travel that prioritises activities and experiences designed to immerse you in a way of life that differs from your own.

It might involve consuming tangible cultural products (museums, archaeological sites, food , tea ) or encountering intangible cultural elements (rituals, performances, processes). As well as art, literature, religious monuments and the like, it also encompasses ways of living, values and beliefs – both historical and contemporary.

It’s almost impossible to avoid local culture when you travel. No matter your motivation, it’s inevitable that you’ll end up experiencing some aspect of local culture, even if it’s something as simple as eating local cuisine or learning a few words of the language.

Apart from these incidental encounters, cultural tourism represents a more concerted effort to engage with local culture through specialised activities. In the same way an adventure traveller might seek out a particular hiking route, for example, a cultural traveller might plan their trip around a festival.

Cultural vacations might involve:

• Learning a new skill, for example through a cooking class or craft workshop
• Attending a local festival or event
• Participating in a ritual or ceremony
• Eating local food
• Staying with a family at a homestay
• Immersing yourself in the local community by teaching English as a foreign language
• Visiting a community-based tourism project
• Visiting World Heritage Sites and immersive museums
• Taking a locally guided tour

There’s lots more to cultural trips (as you’ll soon see), but these are some of the common elements we tend to associate with this genre of travel.

Pros and cons of cultural travel

Cultural travel is almost a guaranteed way to enrich your experience as a tourist. But it’s worth noting that this type of travel has both benefits and downsides for host communities.

Cultural tourism helps to encourage the preservation of culture and heritage by keeping endangered traditions alive. There might be little demand for heritage handicraft skills, for example, but outside interest (and an opportunity to earn an income) could be enough to safeguard a tradition that might otherwise have been lost.

By the same token, cultural tourism can incentivise better protections for physical heritage sites, ensuring that monuments and the like remain accessible for future generations. Cultural tourism can have far-reaching social impacts and environmental benefits when it gives rise to new social enterprises, local businesses and women-led ventures geared towards giving tourists an immersive experience.

On the other hand, there’s always a question mark around authenticity when it comes to cultural travel. If a ritual is performed for the benefit of outsiders, does it lose its meaning? Commodification of culture for tourism is a serious issue that impacts many communities and can be damaging to social and economic development more broadly.

Cultural tourism often involves travelling to more remote areas, which introduces a whole host of other pros and cons. A road constructed for the benefit of tourists is also new infrastructure for the community – but it might speed up globalisation and cultural erosion, while the very presence of tourists can worsen environmental pollution or cause rifts between different social groups.

These are complicated issues. Personally, I think cultural exchange is one of the most important aspects of travel and when managed properly and in a way that actively involves communities, the benefits can outweigh the drawbacks.

Top 30 countries & regions for cultural trips

There’s not a town, city, county or region in the world that doesn’t have something amazing to offer in terms of local culture. This makes it very hard to pick the ‘best’ places for cultural tourism.

However, each of these 30 hand-picked destinations stands out for its extravagant festivals and celebrations, rich cuisine and heritage handicrafts that give travellers a window on culture, heritage and the local way of life.

At the end of the list, you’ll find my top tips for having a more culturally immersive travel experience no matter where in the world you go.

Cultural destinations in the Americas

Antioquia Department, Colombia • Cuba • Ecuador • Big Island of Hawaii, USA • Orleans Parish, USA • Oaxaca, Mexico

Colombia’s Antioquia Department – for pueblos, bandeja paisa & Botero

A melange of Indigenous traditions and colonial influences, there are few destinations in the world more culturally vibrant or intriguing than Colombia.

Antioquia Department in the north-west – with the city of Medellin as its capital – has become one of the most popular destinations in the country for tourists, beloved for its exquisite landscapes, colourful small towns and coffee farming heritage.

Along with several other departments, this part of Colombia is home to the Paisas , a self-defined cultural group whose name is derived from a Spanish word meaning ‘countryman’. They speak their own dialect, eat their own cuisine, and pass down their culture through a rich tradition of music and folklore.

Modern-day Antioquian culture is defined by the region’s artists, writers and poets. And then there’s the city of Medellin itself, which has undergone a huge transformation in recent years and is now considered one of the country’s main cultural hubs.

Top cultural experiences in Antioquia

Eat Paisa cuisine: One of the biggest joys of visiting Antioquia is experiencing the food scene. Paisa cuisine is heavily influenced by the topography and way of life in the Colombian Andes – carb-heavy dishes that feature beans, rice and maize are designed to fuel bodies for back-breaking work on the land. Bandeja Paisa is by far the most popular traditional dish and a must-eat in Medellin. The Antioquian version of a ploughman’s lunch, it consists of carne asada (grilled steak), chicharrón (crispy pork rind), rice and red beans served with a slice of avocado, fried plantains, a fried egg and a corn arepa on the side. It’s not for the faint hearted!

Visit a pueblo : Colombia is renowned for its small towns with colourful painted facades and pretty flower boxes. Antioquia is home to some of the loveliest pueblos in the country, including  Jardin , Jericó and Santa fe de Antioquia, to name but a few. Developed during Spanish times, most follow the same basic town plan: A public square, a market, a church, and rows and rows of houses built in the region’s vernacular style. If you’re short on time, Pueblo Paisa in Medellin is a model village in the heart of the capital.

Shop at the San Alejo Handicraft Market: If you happen to be visiting Medellin on the first Saturday of the month, don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Colombia’s handicraft traditions on display. Vendors from across the region descend on the city to sell traditional products, including woven Wayuu bags, and artisanal foods. You can chat to the vendors and watch live demonstrations to see how these Indigenous handicrafts are produced.

Visit Comuna 13: A locally guided tour of Medellin’s Comuna 13 will allow you to delve into the city’s tumultuous recent past in a respectful and mindful way. This collection of once-notorious city neighbourhoods has become a symbol for the nation’s transformation and cultural revitalisation. Street art, music and other expressions of local creativity are all on display for visitors to enjoy.

Cuba – for Mambo, classic cars & casas particulares

The native Taino Indians called their beautiful island Cubanacán. When the Spaniards arrived in 1511, they shortened it to ‘Cuba’ and claimed it for Spain, labelling it “the most beautiful land human eyes have ever beheld.”

Ethnically, the country is a vibrant mix of Europeans, Africans brought over as enslaved workers throughout the 1700s, and a large group of Chinese imported as indentured servants. Sadly, the original inhabitants have largely disappeared.

On December 31, 1959 the Cuban Revolution succeeded in converting the country into a communist nation. Since then – and due to the mutually adversarial relationship with the United States – the island nation has existed in semi-isolation, frozen in time.

The cars that roam the streets are the same classic American models from the 1950s, and the frequently crumbling buildings have enjoyed little renovation.    

Despite Cuba’s trying history, the spirit of the people lives on and in its rich and celebrated culture. Before you go, learn the dos and don’t of visiting Cuba . 

Top cultural experiences in Cuba

Dance the night away at a musical venue: Cuba is the birthplace of dozens of musical genres including Mambo, Cha-Cha-Cha and Afro-Cuban Jazz. These Afro-European genres have contributed and enriched music categories around the world. Be sure to experience one of Cuba’s world-famous carnivals and Jazz Festivals.

Overdose on art and architecture: With nine UNESCO World Heritage sites and an amazing collection of museums, Cuba is a culture vulture’s paradise. Most are found in the capital city of Havana, but you also find little gems in the second city, Santiago de Cuba, and the perfectly preserved colonial city of Trinidad. Cuba’s architecture ranges from Spanish colonial and French Baroque to 1920s Art Deco. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Havana and the Bacardi Museum in Santiago to start; but don’t miss the quirky Rum Museum or the delectable Museum of Chocolate either.

Stay at a Cuban homestay: These Airbnb-type experiences are called ‘ casas particulares ‘. This is your opportunity to live with a Cuban family and delve into the culture.

Go hiking: Cuba’s national parks, biosphere reserves and 1,500 miles (2,400km) of coastline provide an opportunity to experience the outdoor culture.

By Talek from Travels With Talek

Ecuador – for jungle homestays, festivals & colada morada

A country with just over 17 million people, Ecuador is an extremely culturally diverse nation and a cultural tourism destination that should not to be overlooked.

Retaining a strong influence from Spanish colonisation, with widely-celebrated Catholic festivals and traditions, there is also a diverse mix of Andean Indigenous groups and traditions that dominate the mountainous centre of the country. In the east, the influence of various Amazonian Indigenous groups and their traditions is strong.

The coast of Ecuador, meanwhile, is marked by African influence from the cultures of enslaved peoples brought during colonisation.

With such a diversity of cultures – each with their own festivals, traditional foods and more – there are plenty of immersive experiences to partake in across the country that make a trip to Ecuador a must for any cultural traveller.

Top cultural experiences in Ecuador

Visit a remote community in the Amazon rainforest: One of the most popular and fascinating cultural experiences for travellers to Ecuador is to visit an Indigenous community to learn about and experience the rich traditions. Even a jungle tour of the Amazon on a budget can be tailored to include a visit to an Indigenous community, where you’ll learn to make traditional dishes and beverages such as chicha . Tribes deeper in the Amazon that welcome visitors often offer more in-depth cultural experiences including homestays, ritual cleansings, or even ayahuasa retreats.

Celebrate Easter in Ecuador: In addition to the Indigenous traditions in Ecuador, there are many popular celebrations from the Catholic tradition that travellers can partake in. Easter celebrations during Holy Week include Quito’s parade, known as the Procesión Jesús del Gran Poder, which features thousands of purple-hooded devotes carrying crosses and statues. Make sure you enjoy a bowl of traditional Fanesca , a rich and creamy soup made with 12 grains representing the 12 Disciples.

Dress up for Día de los Difuntos : Another cultural celebration with Indigenous roots is the Día de los Difuntos or ‘Day of the Deceased’, marked on November 2nd. Ecuador celebrates by honouring the dead and visiting cemeteries. Celebrations also include preparing and eating guaguas de pan , bread in the shape of a baby filled with fruit jam, and drinking colada morada , a thick, sweet drink made with berries and fruit and thickened with blue corn flour before being served warm. These delicious treats are sold in bakeries across the country for at least a month prior to the festivities. The largest celebrations are held in Indigenous communities such as Otavalo in Northern Ecuador.

By Carley from Home to Havana

The Big Island of Hawaii – for palm weaving, stargazing & petroglyphs

The natural abundance of the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, is nothing short of spectacular. With eight different climate zones, three active volcanoes, and the most mesmerising waterfalls and beaches in different shades, there’s a wealth of diversity to explore on the Big Island .

This unique natural setting is also home to several important cultural sites. After all, this is the Hawaiian island where the first Polynesian settlers arrived, where the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, King Kamehameha the Great, was born, and where the European explorers first arrived.

With such a rich heritage, it comes as no surprise that Hawaiian culture is still very much alive on the Big Island. Here are some experiences that allow you to explore the island’s heritage.

Top cultural experiences on the Big Island of Hawaii

Take a self-guided tour of the Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: Just south of Kailua-Kona, there’s a site where the royal family and their warriors once lived. It’s very well preserved and you can still see the thatched huts, an ancient temple, wooden carvings and fishponds. But this site was more than just a royal retreat: When Hawaiians broke the law or kapu , they were condemned to death. The only option to escape their fate was reaching this sanctuary, known as the Place of Refuge. You can visit this intriguing site on a self-guided tour.

Learn the traditional Hawaiian art of weaving palm fronds: In the Hawaiian craft known as lau niu , the leaves of the coconut palm were used to thatch roofs, create baskets and even hats. There’s a handful of workshops where you can learn this traditional craft from a professional weaver. Not only does it make for a unique experience, it also allows you to craft your own handmade Hawaiian souvenir.

Go stargazing at Maunakea: In Hawaiian culture, the dormant Maunakea volcano, with its unique alpine Lake Waiau, is considered sacred. They believed the summit to be the realm of the gods and the meeting place of earth and sky. To this day, cultural rituals are performed on the slopes of Maunakea. This intriguing volcano is home to the world’s largest astronomical observatory, the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, which hosts a regular stargazing program.

Check out the Hawaiian petroglyphs: Hawaiian petroglyphs tell the stories of ancient times and give a unique inside into the different cultural beliefs on the islands. You can find carvings of canoes, turtles, babies and more at one of the petroglyph sites that dot the Big Island, such as the Puuloa Petroglyph site in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve near the Mauna Lani Resort.

Conquer the ocean in an outrigger canoe: Step aboard a double-hull outrigger canoe and explore the shore in the same way the Polynesian settlers did centuries ago. This type of canoe features lateral support floats or outriggers fastened to one or to both sides of the hull. Learn how to paddle and work as a team as you glide along the Kona reefs teeming with fish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins.

By Sarah from CosmopoliClan

Orleans Parish – for jazz, Madi Gras & creole cooking

When it comes to cultural destinations, few cities have as much to offer as New Orleans and the surrounding parishes. Located in Southeastern USA, New Orleans is all about tradition and culture. The city’s unique heritage comes from a blend of French, Spanish, Cajun, and Creole cultures.

Combined, these groups have given birth to something truly iconic. The beautiful Mardi Gras celebrations are a remnant of the French colonial era, while the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture in Jackson Square is worthy of a walking tour .

You will also find unique Cajun cuisine served in the city’s most popular restaurants. Add in the many historical museums, southern plantation homes, and distinct architectural styles and Orleans Parish makes for the ultimate cultural destination in the US.

Top cultural experiences in New Orleans

Join a Mardi Gras parade: New Orleans is well-known for its lavish and grand Mardi Gras parades and balls. Visitors can enjoy the festivities for an entire month in the lead up to the big day. Outside of Mardi Gras, there are plenty of other festivals in New Orleans to check out as well. 

Listen to jazz: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz. The city’s Creole population gathered and celebrated in the city’s Congo Square on Sundays and thus jazz was born!

Tour a plantation home: Many southern plantation homes are located along the banks of the Mississippi. These can be seen on a road trip along the Great River Road. On a tour, you will learn about pre-Civil war life in the South and the history of slavery. Learn more about the ethics of visiting plantation homes here .

By Ketki from Dotted Globe

Oaxaca – for Indigenous cuisine, Zapotec rugs & mezcal

The state of Oaxaca is a cultural hub in Mexico. Void of resorts or even big-name hotel chains, Oaxaca is rich in flavourful cuisine, celebrations, and Indigenous revitalisation.

Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca features a variety of different landscapes, from lush hills and forests, to dry arid deserts and blissful beaches. However, the community atmosphere of Oaxaca is what keeps people coming back, both international visitors and Mexican residents alike.

Oaxaca is known as the food capital of Mexico, with dozens of celebrity chefs. Notably, Indigenous culture is very visible in Oaxaca, with 16 recognised Indigenous groups in the state. Zapotec weaving is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in the area – and Mexico in general – and it comes from Oaxaca.

Top cultural experiences in Oaxaca

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos : Oaxaca City is a top destination for Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with its dazzling parades, intricate family altars and abundant festivities. Dia de los Muertos is a pre-Columbian tradition that honours deceased loved ones with food, drink, and merriment. So, if you happen to visit Oaxaca during a festival like Dia de los Muertos, bring comfortable shoes for fun activities throughout the day. Oaxaca City is an extremely walkable city, and you will want to explore every inch of its mural lined walls.

Eat Oaxacan cuisine: Since Oaxacan cuisine is also central to the region’s identity, sign up for a food tour with a local to learn the origins of some of the most popular dishes and what makes Oaxacan food and flavour so unique and different from other states in Mexico. Or, if you want to take a more hands-on approach, take a cooking class with a world-class chef at Casa de los Sabores and learn how to make mole and other Oaxacan staples.

Visit a Zapotec village: If you’d prefer to focus on Indigenous cuisine, take a day trip out to the Zapotec village of Teotitlán del Valle for a cooking class at El Sabor Zapoteco . After you finish, there are many things to do in Teotitlán del Valle , but you will probably want to get your fill of shopping at the many boutique shops for best quality Zapotec rugs.

Drink mezcal: If you’re a fan of hard drinks, Oaxaca is a great destination for mezcal tasting! Hop on any tour and view the vast agave fields as you taste mezcal throughout the day. Depending on the season, you may even get to try your hand at using the harvesting machete!

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

Learn more: A local’s guide to the best of Mexican culture and an in-depth guide to Mayan culture in the Yucatan .

Cultural travel destinations in Europe

French Basque Country • Armenia • Sicily • Greece • Bosnia & Herzegovina • Russia • Northern Europe’s Arctic Regions • The Greater Caucasus • Andalusia, Spain

French Basque Country – for frontons , fêtes & espadrilles

The Basque country at the southwestern-most tip of France is one of those regions you might not guess is French – at least not at first.

The half-timbered houses are painted oxblood or green, and the Euskara (Basque) language, Europe’s oldest, is related to no other tongue. The Basques are also among the oldest ethnic groups of Europe.

Basque culture is unique and is spread among seven provinces, of which three are in France (the other four are in Spain). The Basques have their own festivals, music and dances, their own foods, games and folklore, as well as an acute sense of history and heritage.

Top cultural experiences in French Basque Country

Here are just a few cultural experiences to whet your appetite for all things Basque!

Gastronomy: The food is different from your regular French fare. For example, the Espelette pimento is spicier than seasonings you’ll find elsewhere in France, and food itself is taken to new heights here – the region has the highest number of Michelin stars per capita in the world. And let’s not forget the pintxo , the Basque equivalent of the Spanish tapas.

Fronton s: You’ll find one of these walls in every Basque village – it’s what Basques use to play their national sport, Basque pelota (known in some countries as jai alai). It’s played with a racquet-like bat which scoops up the ball. Then, a bit like squash, the players fling it back and forth against the wall, or fronton.

Family-owned businesses: Basque artisanal traditions run deep, whether it’s leatherwork, espadrilles, Basque linen or beret making. This is a region in which hand-made goods thrive and where mass-production takes a back seat. The local government makes sure family businesses are promoted and Basque know-how exported, however stiff the competition – there are special labels for family businesses, and even labels for those businesses that have been around for more than a century (and there are plenty). As a result, hand-made goods from this small region find their way around the world, symbolising not only Basque savvy but Basque determination to hang on to its heritage.

Bayonne Festival: With its one million annual participants, the Fêtes de Bayonne is France’s largest festival. It was ‘borrowed’ in 1932 from not-too-distant Pamplona in Spain, but has grown immeasurably since. Each July, visitors dress up in white clothes and red scarves (and a red beret, of course) and spend five days eating, drinking, singing Basque songs and watching Basque sports. The Festival includes bullfighting, which has a long tradition in the region, although this particular sport might be short-lived given the growing opposition to it.

By Leyla from Offbeat France

Bosnia & Herzegovina – for old bazaars, woodcarving & kahva

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse countries in the Balkans . If you have your sights set on this lesser-visited part of Europe for your next cultural trip, it’s the perfect setting to learn about the region’s different – often competing – influences and how they’ve shaped modern life.

Bosnia is the original cultural melting pot, and Sarajevo is where it all comes to a head. The city is divided into two parts – Ottoman and European – with the sprawling Old Bazaar on one side, and the Austro-Hungarian planned portion of the capital on the other. A plaque on the pavement marks the spot where East Meets West.

But the boundaries aren’t always that clear. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s character is a combination of Bosnian, Serb and Croat, layered with Jewish, Romanian, Albanian and Turkish traditions. The vignette of a mosque’s minaret and a church bell tower rising up side by side is a perfect motif for the country’s diversity.

Top cultural experiences in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Explore Sarajevo’s Old Bazaar: One of the most beautiful Ottoman bazaars in the region (and there are a lot), just wandering the rows of picturesque wooden shops connected by cobbled streets – the sound of coppersmiths beating intricate designs onto plates ringing in your ears – is a completely immersive experience. At the kafane coffeehouses, where kahva and rakia are served with much pageantry, you get a feel for famous Bosnian hospitality.

Take a food tour of Sarajevo: Bosnians are fiercely proud of their national cuisine. Dishes such as burek (filled savoury pastry) and cevapi are a common ground and bring the country together. A food tour of Sarajevo takes you behind the scenes on some of the city’s liveliest markets and busiest restaurants while giving you an insight into the history behind some of the country’s most iconic dishes.

Visit a woodcarving master in Konjic: Sarajevo in particular has an incredibly rich art and literature scene, as evidenced in the many festivals that take place in the city throughout the year. Bosnia’s heritage handicrafts shine a light on the culture of craftsmanship that has bestowed the country with so many beautiful landmarks over the years. Woodcarving has been practiced for generations in the city of Konjic and today, visitors can tour the masters’ workshops for an up-close encounter.

See the Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards: Stećci medieval tombstones were laid during the time of the Bosnian Kingdom. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they’re found throughout the territory including in forests close to the border with Serbia . Carved from limestone, the Stećci contain motifs and inscriptions and provide a rare window onto this epoch of the country’s history that’s still shrouded in much mystery.

Greece – for markets, mythology & Orthodox Easter

Greece is a country rich in culture, from the legacy of ancient history and mythology to traditional cuisine and celebratory festivals that still bring people together to this day. Greek nationals tend to be very proud of their history and culture , which can be seen in the well-executed museums, galleries and archaeological sites throughout the country.

Believed to be the ‘birthplace of Western civilisation’, Greece is known for its scholars, medics, architects, philosophers and politicians that shaped the way the world works today. This makes the country an excellent choice for cultural tourism as there are simply so many things to see and do that will both satiate your wanderlust while also teaching you new things.

Whether you’re interested in archaeological excavations, gastronomic tours, local festivals or ancient architecture, Greece certainly has you covered.

Top cultural experiences in Greece

Take a Mythology Tour of Ancient Athens: Athens has a whole host of archaeological sites to explore , from the Ancient Agora and Hadrian’s Library to the world-famous Acropolis and Parthenon perched on a hillside overlooking the city. One of the best ways to discover these sites is via a Mythology Tour that takes you around the best historic monuments and ruins while also giving you interesting information about the city and country’s history and mythology. This tour , suitable for all ages, gives you skip-the-line access to some of Athens’ most important landmarks along with an experienced guide to give you detailed history about how Greece became the centre of the world.

Visit the Athens Central Market: If your idea of cultural tourism involves food, you might be interested in a trip to the Athens Central Market and a local cookery class. A gastronomic experience allows you to soak up the sights and smells of the city’s biggest market, picking up local produce and souvenirs while also trying some tasty titbits along the way . You’ll then take your purchases back to the kitchen where you’ll cook up a storm using local recipes and techniques. Try classics like Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), Tzatziki and Spanakopita (spinach and feta pies) to give you a real taste of traditional Greek cuisine.

Attend the Epidaurus Festival: The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a grand amphitheatre located on the bank of the Acropolis Complex, runs an annual summer festival of art. The festival combines modern and traditional music, theatre and dance with the picturesque Ancient Greek setting, making it a real highlight for any traveller. Over the years, the Epidaurus festival has played host to names like Frank Sinatra, Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti.

Celebrate Orthodox Easter in Greece: Easter is one of the biggest traditional festivals on the Orthodox calendar, so no matter where you are in Greece during this time, you’re sure to come across some pretty exciting celebrations! One destination that always enjoys epic Easter festivities is the island of Corfu. Local Easter traditions begin on Palm Sunday (a week before Easter) and there are different festivities each day leading up to the main event.

Palm Sunday sees a large procession of the Holy Shrine; Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday see locals preparing their Easter meals and sweet specialities, going to evening ceremonies and lighting up the town with lanterns; Maundy Thursday is egg-painting day; Good Friday features the mournful marches of the philharmonic orchestra and the procession of epitaphs; Good Saturday features an artificial earthquake(!), bell ringing, the throwing of clay pots and tossing coins into a barrel; and the whole week culminates on Easter Sunday with a celebration of the Resurrection of Christ – fireworks, marches, music and traditional family meals galore!

By Chrysoula from Athens and Beyond

Learn more: 7 awesome cultural activities in Athens .

Russia – for ballet, banyas & borscht

While many may think of Russia as cold and grey, this could not be further from the truth. From the famous colourful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral to the gilded fountains of the Peterhof Palace, Russia’s beauty is undeniable.

Russia is also a country rich in culture and filled with literature, ballet, painting and classical music.

Top cultural experiences in Russia

To really delve into Russian culture, there are a few experiences you should have whilst here.

Experience a Russian banya : One of the best cultural experiences you can have in Russia is to visit a banya . A banya is similar to a sauna. The biggest difference, though, is that a banya has high levels of humidity, while a sauna usually has dry air. They’ve been a part of Russian life for over a thousand years! You wear funny felt hats to protect your hair and ears from the heat. This also helps to regulate your body temperature, so you are able to sit in the banya for a longer period of time.

Another interesting aspect of the Russian banya is ‘flogging’ using birch twigs ( venik ). This is supposed to benefit your health and improve your immune system, and honestly, if you have someone who knows what they are doing, it does feel really good!

After you’ve gone in and out of the banya a couple times, you then cool yourself off by taking a quick, cold shower, jumping into a cold pool or tub (banyas do have these), jumping into a snowbank (seriously). Or… You can just jump in a frozen lake!

See a ballet at the Bolshoi: Seeing a ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre is one of the best things to do in Moscow and all of Russia in general. Even though ballet did not originate in Russia, Russian ballet is world-renowned, and the locals are incredibly proud of the tradition. If you can, try to see a performance of The Nutcracker or Swan Lake on the historic stage. Tickets sell out very quickly, so don’t delay in purchasing them once they go on sale!

Experience NYE: New Year’s Eve is the biggest holiday in Russia. This is because Christmas was forbidden during the Soviet years. Many traditions were moved from Christmas to the New Year, including keeping presents under the Christmas tree and visits from the Russian equivalent of Santa. Celebrations and fireworks take place across the country on December 31 – the biggest and most famous displays are in Moscow’s Red Square and Gorky Park.

Sample Russian cuisine: No trip to Russia would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine. The best Russian food and drinks to sample on your visit are: Pelmeni (a Russian dumpling filled with meat and usually topped with sour cream); borscht (a traditional Russian soup whose main ingredient is beetroot); beef stroganoff (a Russian dish made with sautéed beef in a sauce with smetana ); syrniki (essentially a cottage cheese pancake topped with jam or sour cream – SO good!); kvass (a fermented beverage made from rye bread); and caviar and vodka (alas, you can’t come to Russia and not try caviar and vodka!)

By Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel

Northern Europe’s Arctic Regions – for reindeer & Sami traditions

In Europe’s high northern reaches, you will find one of the continent’s oldest and most distinct cultures, the Sami. Spread across the Arctic regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, the Sami are Indigenous people who have traditionally led a nomadic lifestyle, known for herding their reindeer between their summer and winter feeding grounds.

The origins of the Sami are largely unknown, and it is believed that they once inhabited grounds much further south. But years of persecution drove them north and forced them to decrease livestock numbers in order to maintain their way of life. 

Against all odds, they have managed to hold onto large parts of their culture, including languages, traditions and ceremonies. As the modern world has encroached further north, there have been clashes over natural resources and land, which has put the plight of the Sami at the forefront of people’s minds in recent years and led to movements to protect the people and the culture. 

Top cultural experiences in the Arctic regions

Head to Tromso for an immersive Sami experience: Today, there are plenty of ways you can learn about and experience Sami culture. During the winter months, there are many Sami experiences in Tromsø, Norway and beyond where you can educate yourself about the Sami way of life, hear stories that have been passed down through the generations, and eat traditional foods.

Shop at a Sami market: Keep an eye out for Sami markets where you can purchase handmade traditional items.

Participate in a Sami festival: Norway is known to have the largest festivals and in various Arctic cities, you will find Sami festivals on National Sami Day (February 6th). In the summer, there are also Sami music festivals, such as the one found near Murmansk in Russia.

A visit to Northern Europe’s Arctic region is one of the most meaningful cultural trips in Europe as it helps bring attention to a group of people who have spent many years marginalised in their respective modern-day societies.

By Megan from Megan Starr

Andalusia – for Moorish architecture, tapas & Flamenco

Andalusia is an autonomous region in Southern Spain, geographically bounded by Spain’s southern coast. It’s culturally vibrant and very distinctive when compared to other parts of Spain such as Catalunya.

This part of the country was ruled by the Moors for centuries, and Moorish influence is evident in the cuisine, architecture and culture. Seville, Cordoba and Granada are all among the best Spain city breaks and each serve as a good base for exploring more of the region.

Top cultural experiences in Andalusia

Marvel at the Moorish architecture: The Andalusian architecture will capture your attention as soon as you land there, and this is probably the easiest way to start digging into the region’s past and cultural evolution. Cities like Seville and Granada have major UNESCO sites that will blow your mind – the style is in no way similar to buildings in France or even northern Spain for that matter. Islamic calligraphy and intricate details are most evident at the Real Alcazar Palace in Seville, the Alhambra in Granada , and the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Go tapas hopping: People in Andalusia are known for being a more little laid back, and generally enjoy food, family and companionship. Popular ‘tapas hopping’ is best experienced in Andalusia. Tapas bars in the south cultivate a cosy atmosphere with rounds of $1 dollar beers, spinach and chickpeas, cheese, and churros. Moorish/Muslim influence can be seen in the preparation of some foods, especially marzipan, and in the use of herbs and spices such as cumin and cilantro.  

Watch a Flamenco performance: After food, flamenco is what defines Andalusia. Flamenco is a dance that is synonymous with Southern Spain and is one of the most energetic and passionate forms of dance/storytelling. Flamenco shows in Seville and other cities in Andalusia are a great way to understand and enjoy this side of Southern Spanish culture.

By Mayuri from To Some Place New

Cultural tourism destinations in the Asia Pacific

Central Australia • Timor-Leste • Sarawak, Malaysia • Cambodia • Japan • Bhutan • Kerala, India • Rajasthan, India • Uzbekistan • The Tibetan Plateau • Taiwan

Central Australia – for ancient landscapes, ochre & bush tucker

The Arrernte and Anangu people have lived in Central Australia for over 20,000 years. From Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) to the MacDonnell Ranges and Alice Springs, they have made their home in one of Australia’s driest and hottest regions.

The landscape, its plants and animals permeate every aspect of their culture. The natural environment is the basis for the Creation (or Dreamtime) stories at the core of their beliefs, ceremonies and traditions.

Their relationship with the land also has a practical aspect as a source of food, shelter and medicine. The Arrernte and Anangu’s land management techniques, native foods and art have all found their ways into broader Australian life.

Today, members of the communities have roles as guides, ranges and managers of major tourism businesses. For travellers, there are many opportunities to appreciate the on-going connection the Arrernte and Anangu people have with the Central Australian landscape.

Top cultural experiences in Central Australia

Visit Uluru (Ayres Rock): You can’t go to Central Australia and not visit Uluru. It is an iconic Australian landmark and when you visit this enormous rock, you’ll find many ways to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture. At Yulara Resort you can join a free session to learn about Indigenous food, crafts and didgeridoo playing.

On your way to Uluru, stop at the Cultural Centre. There are ranger talks about the area’s wildlife, how the Anagu have lived in the area for thousands of years, and how that knowledge is used to manage the park today. There are also galleries featuring local art and craft. For something a bit different, try a Segway tour of the rock . As you cruise around the 10 km base, you get a wonderful explanation of the Creation Stories tied to many of the rock’s features, caves and waterholes.

Ochre Pits: Ochre is a natural clay that comes in a range of colours and has been used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The Ochre Pits are at a site in the West MacDonnell Ranges where ochre has been collected by Arrernte men for generations. The Ochre Pits are an easy and accessible stop as you tour the gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The colourful ochre cliff face is spectacular and it is quite an experience to be in the presence of a site that has been used for so long and continues to play a role in Arrernte life.

Alice Springs Desert Park: With the lives and lore of the Arrernte tied so closely to the environment, this combination of a wildlife park and botanic garden gives you a great insight into their relationship with the land. Besides the fantastic desert animal exhibits, there is a full program of keeper and cultural talks over the day. Learn about surviving in the desert, bush food and the meaning many of the animals have in the daily life of the Arrernte. The park is in Alice Springs with the West MacDonnell Ranges providing a spectacular backdrop.

By Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

Timor-Leste – for sacred houses, tais weaving & Cristo Rei

Asia’s youngest nation, tiny Timor-Leste fought hard for its independence, first from Portugal and later from Indonesia. Holding strong to customs and beliefs is part of the resistance and against all odds, the Timorese have managed to pass down many traditions through music, dance and storytelling.

Fiestas held year-round throughout the country showcases these oral traditions, while in recent years, contemporary collectives have began building on the nation’s heritage of performance arts to process the events of the past and express their visions for the future.

There aren’t many physical reminders of Timor’s time as a Portuguese colony left – most architecture was subsequently destroyed – but the invisible influence is still there, along with the influence of the Catholic Church.

In the more remote regions, ethnic groups such as the Fataluku speak their own language and observe a fascinating array of cultural practices you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.

Top cultural experiences in Timor-Leste

Tais weaving: Timor’s ornate national textiles are storytelling objects, filled with symbols inspired by folktales and animist traditions. At the Tais market in Dili you can shop for handwoven tais scarves and tablecloths, while visiting a weaving centre such as Koperativa Lo’ud gives you a chance to see the natural dyeing and weaving process in person.

See the uma lulik in Lospalos: Part of the Fataluku tradition, these sacred houses perched high on stilts symbolise the link between the dead and the living. They are sacred objects that cut an impressive profile as you pass them on the coast around far-eastern Timor.

Make the pilgrimage to Cristo Rei: Standing 27 metres tall on a hill overlooking the capital, Dili, Cristo Rei is the ultimate symbol of Timor-Leste’s piety. More than 99% of Timorese are Christian, and the church has played a huge role in shaping the island’s character post-independence. Walking the 590-step path lined with Stations of the Cross is a right of passage. At the top, views of Dili, Atauro Island and the sparkling coastline.

Sarawak, Malaysia – for ikat textiles, longhouses & forest trekking

The largest of Malaysia’s 13 states , Sarawak envelops much of Borneo. Local culture and way of life is intimately intertwined with the island’s flora and fauna and offers visitors experiences quite distinct from anything you find in Peninsular Malaysia.

Life, history, culture and spirituality is all heavily influenced by the area’s Indigenous peoples, most notably the Iban. Malaysia’s mix of Malay, Indian, Muslim, Chinese and British culture can also be felt in Kuching , the autonomous state’s biggest city and a hub for culture and the arts.

Top cultural experiences in Sarawak

Visit a museum in Kuching: The Tun Jugah Textile Museum, the Sarawak Cultural Village and the Sarawak State Museum – all in or near Kuching – offer immersive exhibits that explore Iban culture. The former is dedicated almost completely to the art of ikat weaving, a time-honoured craft tradition that’s kept alive by artisans and students who learn to dye and weave at the museum workshop.

Stay in an Iban longhouse: Travelling up river into the forest to spend the night at an Iban longhouse is an unforgettable experience. As well as sleeping in traditional quarters, you’ll get to taste home-cooked food and experience various oral traditions, including Renong singing and Ensera storytelling.

Eat Sarawak cuisine: Malaysia is a foodie’s paradise and Sarawak is no exception. In addition to the usual mix of cuisines served up at hawker markets, the state boasts many regional breakfast specialties including Sarawak laksa, kolo mee (Sarawakian noodles) and ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo).

Cambodia – for Theravada Buddhism, apsara & golden silk

It’s easy to think of Cambodian culture as a relic of the past – a crumbling stupa or a cobwebbed museum display. But nothing could be further from the truth.

Khmer culture is a living, breathing thing, and it permeates everything – from underrated Cambodian cuisine to the country’s handicraft industry and the young collectives in Battambang and Kampot who are reviving the arts scene.

Many traditions and art forms almost lost during the 1970s have been brought back from the brink by artists and entrepreneurs determined to keep Cambodian culture alive.

Whether you’re interested in the legacy of the most powerful Golden Age state, the Khmer Empire, or discovering reminders of the Kingdom’s time as part of French Indochina in the beautiful colonial architecture and peppercorn plantations, it’s never been easier for visitors to get a feel for Cambodian culture.

Top cultural experiences in Cambodia

Take a Buddhism tour of Siem Reap: Spirituality plays a huge role in contemporary Cambodian life and there’s no better lens for exploring the country through. After you’ve taken in the Temples of Angkor that blend Hinduism and Buddhism, learn the ins and outs of Theravada Buddhism with an immersive Buddhism tour of Siem Reap . It’s a life-changing experience that teaches you how ancient beliefs coexist with modern society.

Watch an Apsara performance: It wasn’t so long ago that Cambodia’s national dance, Apsara, was considered an endangered art form. Artist and genocide surviver Arn Chorn-Pond has almost single-handedly revived Apsara traditions through his organisation Cambodian Living Arts. Nothing captures the Cambodian spirit like the understated but immensely beautiful performance. Nightly shows are held in Phnom Penh along with hands-on Apsara workshops that teach visitors the basic moves.

Go forest trekking in Mondulkiri: Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri in Cambodia’s far north-east are two of the country’s most remote provinces , known for their thick forests and biodiversity, including wild elephants. Ethnic minority groups including the Tampuan and the Bunong have developed sustainable tourism offerings, hosting guests at homestays and organising guided forest treks. During the tours, you get a glimpse of how people have coexisted with the forest for generations, and learn about the struggles they face today.

Seek out Khmer handicrafts: From Siem Reap’s Golden silk to Takeo cotton and clay pottery in Kampong Chhnang, every Cambodian province has its specialty crafts, many of which are still made by hand according to traditional techniques. In addition to making the perfect Cambodia souvenir , many co-ops offer tours and workshops so you can see the processes up close.

Japan – for ryokans , geisha culture & tea ceremonies

For those seeking an immersive cultural travel experience, Japan offers visitors a unique look at some of the oldest and most beautiful traditions in the world.

From the historic temples and shrines found throughout the country to the many spiritual and cultural celebrations, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to Japan to learn about the various philosophies and spiritual traditions that underpin Japanese culture. 

Top cultural experiences in Japan

Observe a temple ritual: Consider participating in some of the various rituals at Japan’s temples and shrines. This is especially beneficial if you’re visiting Japan with kids , as it helps to gain a better understanding and appreciation for Japanese customs. Many people in Japan have deep-seated beliefs in symbolism. At the temples and shrines, you can observe and participate in practices that will bring you good fortune, luck, prosperity or health.

Spend the night in a ryokan : To truly embrace Japanese culture, book a stay at a ryokan rather than a hotel. These traditional Japanese inns typically feature rooms with tatami-matted floors and communal onsens or bathhouses. Guests tend to walk around the ryokan in a yukata or lounging kimono and slippers. It is also common for guests to walk around barefoot, as it is considered unclean to wear shoes inside.

Drink matcha : A tea ceremony is another immersive experience that is unique to Japan. Although popular throughout Japan, tea ceremonies are especially prominent in Kyoto, the home of geisha culture. Geishas are treated somewhat like celebrities in Japan, and booking a geisha performance and tea ceremony can be expensive and fairly difficult to arrange. However, you can book a tea ceremony with a maiko , or geisha apprentice, for a more modest price. This one-of-a-kind ritual ceremony is sure to be one of the most memorable travel experiences you’ll have in Japan!

By Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Bhutan – for handicrafts, thangka & fertility symbols

Most people think of the Tiger’s Nest when they think of Bhutan. But this small, mountainous nation has a wealth of cultural history to offer in addition to its ornate monasteries.

Bhutan is a nation of crafters. In every town and city you will find streetwise vendors selling all manner of clothing, kitchenware, homeware and decorations that have been made using techniques that have been taught and passed down for hundreds of years.

Likewise, if you turn your attention to the buildings, you’ll see that many of them are adorned with colourful decals and patterns, especially designs that depict the eight auspicious signs which, among other things, represent wealth, good fortune, purity and harmony.

Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure their country’s wellbeing based on Gross National Happiness as opposed to Gross Domestic Production, which makes it (un)officially the happiest country on Earth.

Best cultural experiences in Bhutan

Attend a Tshechu ceremony: The annual Tshechu ceremonies show off Bhutan’s handicraft history perfectly. Throughout the year, locals gather across the country in regional Tshechus to celebrate Bhutan’s culture by singing traditional songs and performing dances in elaborate, brightly coloured costumes. At the Tsechu celebrations, an enormous religious banner or thangka depicting the country’s founder, Guru Rinpoche, is unveiled. The thangka is the size of a three storey building, hundreds of years old, and has not faded through the centuries due to the tradition of making sure that the light of the sun never touches it, so it’s still incredibly colourful and detailed.

Visit the Choki Traditional Art School: In order to see the historical handicrafts of Bhutan in production for yourself, make sure to visit the Choki Traditional Art School. Located just to the north of the capital city of Thimpu, here you can witness the students being taught how to weave, paint and sculpt masks, clothes, models, tapestries and dioramas from Bhutan’s history. Students’ ages range from elementary through to late teens, with all levels of skill on display. The students’ creations can then be bought from the school craft shop, with the proceeds helping fund the continuation of the institute’s classes.

Spot the phallus in Punakham: Punakham is the former capital of Bhutan, and was the seat of government until 1955. Located in the north of the country, the town is notable to western tourists for one particular reason. In the 15th century, a controversial master named Lama Drukpa Kunley (also known as the ‘Divine Madman’) popularised the phallus as a means to ward off slander and provide protection for those who lived in houses that displayed it prominently. Yes, it may be taboo for most of the world, but not here – these graphic symbols of fertility and good luck are artistically painted on walls everywhere!

By Jeremy from Cultura Obscura

Kerala, India – for houseboats, tea estates & contemporary art

Dubbed ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is a noodle-shaped state in the Southwest of India on the Malabar Coast. It’s known for its beautiful nature – especially a series of canals known as the backwaters and the hilly terrain of the Western Ghats Mountains.

Kerala people are officially the most literate in India and have the longest life expectancy. It is often said the Keralites have the best quality of life in this part of India, and that things are a lot more advanced. This is conveyed in the increasingly popular field of ecotourism and other initiatives.

The region is a beautiful mix of influences and religions. The spice trade has flourished in the area, which brought about European colonisation. You can feel Portuguese influence to this day, especially in the town of Kochi.

Top cultural experiences in Kerala

Cruise Kerala’s backwaters on a houseboat: With the decline of goods being transported on water, Kerala’s trade boats were repurposed into houseboats, and now provide a unique immersive experience on the famous backwaters. The most popular route is between Alleppey and Kumarakom or Kolam. Spending at least one night on the backwaters is necessary for the ultimate houseboat experience.

Soak up the tea heritage in Munnar: Munnar in the Western Ghats is famous for its tea production. You can visit several tea estates in the area and enjoy a tasting. In the village of Munnar, you can also experience the peaceful coexistence of three religions. There’s a Hindu temple, a Catholic church and a mosque all within a few meters from each other. 

Attend the Muziris Biennale in Kochi: A bi-annual international exhibition of contemporary art takes place in Kochi. This is the largest festival of its kind in Asia. When the biennale is on, the whole city lives it. The main space for the festival is a large complex of empty buildings near the port. Here, art installations covering all possible mediums bring the space to life. It’s a wonderful sight and quite a modern undertaking in Kerala.

Watch the artists at work at Kerala Kalamandalam: This is one of India’s most traditional universities of art and culture. Students learn Indian performing arts, especially those typical for Kerala. When visiting, you can observe students practicing unique dances with distinct facial expressions such as the Kathakali or Ottan Thullal, learning martial arts, and playing on unique musical instruments. The school is located in Cheruthuruthy.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Learn more: 9 amazing cultural encounters in Kerala .

Rajasthan, India – for folk dance, thaali & camel fairs

Rajasthan, the ‘Land of Kings’, is one of the most historically and culturally significant states of India. Over the centuries, Rajasthan has witnessed many rulers and many epic battles. Each built their own magnanimous fort and helped develop the region’s rich culture of art, dance and literature.

Over the past few decades, the Ghoomar dance from Jodhpur region and Kalbeliya dance of the deserts of Jaisalmer and Bikaner have become famous all over the world. Along with dance, folk music and songs relating the heroic tales of epic battles, these form an essential part of Rajasthan culture.

Against a backdrop of the vast Thar Desert, this has all shaped the culture of Rajasthan as we see it today.

Top cultural experiences in Rajasthan

Rajasthan offers travellers a plethora of unique cultural experiences .

Be a bystander at the Pushkar Camel Fair: The Pushkar Camel Fair, held every year in November, is one of the largest animal trading fairs in the world. This colourful carnival is a great opportunity for travellers to experience the charm-in-chaos of traditional melas (Indian fairs) along with a huge tribal gathering. In 2018, nearly half-a-million people visited this multi-day festival. Pushkar is only 150km from Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, and is easily accessible by road. 

Visit Choki Dhani: A resort village merely 20km from Jaipur, Choki Dhani is the go-to place to experience a collection of Rajasthan cultural experiences. Spread across 10 acres, this uniquely designed resort-village reflects the grandeur of the Rajasthani tradition. Visitors can experience Rajasthani traditional folk dance, watch a puppet show, see skits and sketches depicting important battles, and relish a traditional Rajasthani thaali (set meal), eaten while seated on the floor.

Watch a Dharohar dance performance: The Dharohar dance show at Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur is a mesmerising experience in itself. This hour-long show is a combination of many traditional, tribal and folk dances local to the region along with a puppet show. One of the highlights of the show is when an 80-year-old folk dancer performs with more than 10 earthen pots stacked on her head.

By Mainak from Places in Pixel

Uzbekistan – for ceramics, Silk Road heritage & plov

Uzbekistan is an upcoming cultural destinations in Central Asia. With a new visa policy, it is now easier than ever to visit the country – and there are many good reasons to do so.

Uzbekistan was once an important part of the famous Silk Road and has a rich cultural heritage that is still visible in the beautiful Islamic architecture and historic sites throughout the country. 

Uzbekistan’s major cities including Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara were multicultural melting pots where people from all over the world exchanged goods, ideas and philosophies. The Turks, Greeks, Persians, Russians and Mongols all ruled parts of what is now Uzbekistan. Each of them left behind their own influence.

With so much history around, it’s sometimes easy to forget modern Uzbek culture, but this is just as interesting. The Uzbek people are very friendly and will give you a warm welcome to their world of delicious Uzbek food, traditional dance and music, and beautiful handicrafts.

Top cultural experiences in Uzbekistan

Taste Uzbek cuisine: One of the highlights of Uzbek culture is without doubt its food. The best way to learn more about Uzbek food is by taking an Uzbek cooking class. Tashkent is a great place to do so and also has some great restaurants where you can try the country’s national dishes. The Plov Center serves plates of the national dish to thousands of people every day – the huge steaming pots and pans outside are impressive enough to warrant a visit. 

Explore ikat and ceramic traditions: Another great cultural experience in Uzbekistan is to explore the country’s beautiful handicrafts. The Fergana valley is home to several centres of handicraft production where they still use traditional techniques. Margilon is famous for its ikat silk textiles and there are several silk factories that offer free tours to see how it’s done. The Usmanov Ceramic Workshop in Rishton also welcomes visitors for a short visit to see its pottery production and design process. 

Watch a dance performance: Traditional dance and music is an important part of Uzbek culture. Uzbek dance is an ancient art that has been perfected over hundreds of years. In Bukhara, there are almost daily performances in the Nadir Divan Begi madrasah showing the traditional dances from the different regions in the country.

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Learn more: Things to do in Uzbekistan for cultural travellers .

The Tibetan Plateau – for horse trekking & nomadic culture

Sprawled across the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, in the remote northern tip of China’s Sichuan province, Ruoergai town and county do not appear on Google maps. To Google, this locality is known by its Tibetan name, Zoige.

After 12 hours of following your car GPS from Chengdu to Zoige, climbing onto the Tibetan Plateau , Chinese road signs welcome you to Ruoergai, 3,500 meters above sea level.

Top cultural experiences on the Tibetan Plateau

Witness nomadic culture: Remote and isolated, Zoige/Ruoergai is the best place in the world to witness the disappearing Tibetan nomadic culture. All you have to do is drive around this vast, open grassland to catch a glimpse. You’ll see white nomads’ tents with smoky chimneys scattered on the sides of the road, surrounded by herds of domestic yak and protected by the menacing Tibetan mastiffs. The nomads are mistrustful of outsiders, which is not surprising given political tensions in the region.

Go horse trekking: Yet there is a way to experience the nomadic culture first-hand here – by taking a horse-trekking adventure with the local Tibetan Horse Trekking Agency in the nearby town of Langmusi. Tours range from a day hike to the hills – the domain of the nomads – to a multi-day horseback adventure with overnight stays in nomad tents. Guides are local Tibetans, so while you may not be having extensive discussions in English, you’ll be welcome in nomadic households.

Visit the monasteries and mosques in Langmusi: Encircled by forest-covered mountains, the small sleepy town of Langmusi is inhabited by three ethnic groups: Amdo Tibetans, Han Chinese and Hui Muslims. So, even just a visit to the town is a unique cultural experience. There are two large Tibetan monasteries on the hills above the town and a Hui mosque at its centre.

The nearest airport to Langmusi is Gannan Xiahe Airport, 130 km away. From Xiahe, you can take a bus to Langmusi, or arrange a car with a driver via Tibetan Horse Trekking.

By Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries

Taiwan – for night markets, Confucianism & forbidden relics

An island nestled off the coast of Mainland China, Taiwan is fast becoming one of the best cultural tourism destinations in Asia.

Its long history and combination of cultural influences – including Indigenous culture, Mainland China, Korea and even Japan – make Taiwan as intriguing as it is complex. Bustling with life, amazing food and beautiful scenery, this island has it all.

Top cultural experiences in Taipei

Eat your way through the Night Markets in Taipei: The capital city of Taiwan, Taipei, offers a world of things for people to see and do . One of the most popular culturally immersive activities for visitors is to head down to the local night market, the biggest one being the Shiling Night Market. Along with delicious local foods, you can also find clothes, accessories, games, cosmetics and more. Night Markets are significant because they play a huge role in Taiwanese culture . Locals and tourists alike flock to these areas each and every day to shop and socialise.

Observe the rituals at a Taiwanese temple: Taiwan is a very religious country with most people following either Buddhism or Confucianism. Many temples are built around these religions in a very extravagant manner. Visitors can take part in the prayer ceremony, burn some incense, or just sit back and observe. If you’re interested in visiting these temples, one of the best places to start is the Songshan Ciyou Temple, which is conveniently located right next to the Raohe Night Market. 

Visit the National Palace Museum: This museum houses thousands of cultural relics, art and artefacts, including many items that were carried out of the Forbidden City in China and moved to Taiwan to protect them from destruction during the Chinese Civil War. It’s one of the largest collections of its kind in the world. Here, you can learn how the Chinese language was formed, see what kinds of ancient tools and weapons were used throughout history, and witness what life was like many hundreds of years ago.

By Wayne from Daily Tourist

Learn more: The best cultural experiences in Taiwan .

Cultural trips in Africa & the Middle East

Ethiopia • Oman • Mauritius • Morocco

Ethiopia – for coal-fired coffee, churches & injera

Ethiopia is a country like no other. Here in North East Africa, the steaming tribal lowlands of the Rift Valley collide with the cool thin air of the Northern highlands. The fertile lands towards the West produces some of the world’s best coffee, while the wind from the East carries whispers from Arabia. It’s truly a spectacular place to visit.

Ethiopia is even more unique in terms of its cultural treasures. As the only country in Africa never to be colonised, Ethiopia is a truly African country with African culture. If you want to see lions chase and eat zebras, go somewhere else. If you want to see and experience African culture at its purest, then book your ticket to Ethiopia already!

Top cultural experiences in Ethiopia

Visit the city of Lalibela: Situated in the northern highlands, Lalibela is the most important pilgrimage site in the country for the predominantly Orthodox Christian population of Ethiopia. It is here that you’ll find eleven incredible churches completely hewn from the rock. If you see only one place in Ethiopia, make it Lalibela.

Attend Sunday Mass: The UNESCO recognised Lalibela churches still function as churches, and attending a Sunday morning service before sunrise with hundreds of pilgrims is an experience that you won’t forget. Afterwards you can join the crowds eating injera while basking in the morning sun. Be prepared for the fact that everyone will want to come and talk to you.

Hike to a remote mountain community: Hiking into the mountains surrounding Lalibela will take you to small farming communities where time has seemingly stood still. It’s also possible to visit one of these communities for a day and learn how to cook traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera , tibs or shiro . You’ll also find a few cave churches and monasteries in these mountains. The priests will be eager to show off their ancient treasures for a small tip.

Participate in a traditional coffee ceremony: Ethiopia is considered the birthplace of coffee, and man are you in for treat! The best way to drink a cup of buna (Ethiopian coffee) is to attend a coffee ceremony. It starts off with the hostess washing green coffee beans and then roasting them in a pan over an open fire. The coals are infused with natural incense made from tree resin. You’ll see bags of these tree resin for sale in markets all over Ethiopia. Finally the coffee beans are ground and brewed in a special coffee pot called a jebena . It’s expected that guests will have at least three cups of buna, but why stop there?

By De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander

Oman – for dhow boats, frankincense & Bedouin culture

Unlike some of its more glitzy neighbours who’ve traded their souqs for skyscrapers, Oman has approached cultural preservation from a different angle. It’s often called out as the most culturally ‘authentic’ country in the region .

This part of the Middle East has long been a melting pot of Arabian and East African cultures, with a strong South Asian influence. Semi-nomadic Bedouin tribes that paint the desert with their costumes and brightly coloured carpets are less accessible, but a range of tourist-friendly desert experiences allow you to brush with this part of Omani culture.

Contemporary Omani traditions are deeply tied to Ibadism and revolve around an annual calendar of Islamic festivities.

Top cultural experiences in Oman

Get lost in a souq: Perfumed by rose petals and frankincense, Oman’s souqs are a treat for the senses. Roam displays of henna and spices while getting a feel for commerce and culture. Muttrah Souq in the capital, Muscat, and the delightful Nizwa Souq are both must-visits.

Visit a dhow workshop in Sur: Not only are Oman’s wooden boats an impressive feat of engineering, they’re steeped in legend and tradition. In Sur, the home of Sinbad the Sailor, you can watch expert craftsmen fitting the vessels together without glue or nails.

Spend the night at a desert camp. The Sharqiya Sands, Oman’s slice of The Empty Quarter, is the territory of nomads. Bedouin-inspired desert camps recreate the experience of staying with a Bedouin tribe – albeit with a luxury edge! Spending the night in a desert camp involves listening to folk music, eating Omani food, while the very lodgings – the tent lined with carpets you’re sleeping in – is part of the Bedouin tradition.

Mauritius – for street food, Sega & sugarcane

The island nation of Mauritius is normally associated with splendid white-sand beaches and luxury resorts – thus its inclusion on this list of cultural trips might come as a bit of a surprise.

Yes, this is an island paradise incarnate, but it also happens to be one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse countries in the region, with African, Indian, Chinese and South Asian cultures – along with layers of Dutch, French and British influence – all accounted for.

Many elements of Mauritian culture can be traced back to the island’s plantation roots and the legacy of slavery. Mauritians honour this period of history while proudly showing off their culture in everything from the cuisine to the music.

Top cultural experiences in Mauritius

Take a street food tour of Port Louis: Mauritian food, much like Mauritian society itself, combines Chinese, Indian, Creole, East African and European flavours. Must-try dishes include vindaye , an adaptation of West Indian vindaloo, Chatini (chutney) is a popular condiment and traces its roots back to British-Indian origins, briani (biryani) and creations gifted from the island’s Chinese community, such as bol renversé (a layered dish of rice, chicken, shrimp and vegetables). The best way to get a grasp of these edible delights is by joining a guided street food tour of the capital, Port Louis .

Watch a Sega performance: Recognised by UNESCO for its value to Intangible Cultural Heritage, Mauritian Sega is a performance art characterised by music, song, dance and costume. It started out as an expression of pain and loss practiced by slave communities but has morphed over time into a colourful, optimistic expression of local culture. Elaborate Sega costumes moving to the tune of Creole lyrics is a . Many hotels offer Sega performances.

Visit an old sugarcane farm: Mauritius’ history of slavery and plantation farming has left an indelible mark on the island. Visiting preserved plantation homes and crumbling sugar mills is a step back in time to the colonial period, while regenerated cane fields such as those on Frederica Reserve now serve as a sanctuary for the island’s wildlife.

Learn more: 8 ways to experience Mauritian culture .

Morocco – for riads , tajines & mint tea

By all accounts, Morocco is a beguiling destination . The most popular country to visit in North Africa, it stands out for its diversity of landscapes and cultural experiences.

Morocco is an important gateway to the rest of Africa, and has been since Roman times. Its position at the northernmost tip of the continent – with a coast shared between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean – means it’s been at the centre of conquests and various cultural overlap throughout the ages.

Today, Morocco lives with the legacies of various civilisations, including Roman, Phoenician, Jewish, Berber, Arabic, Spanish and French. Morocco has a very hospitable culture, steeped in a refined art of living. When you visit the imperial cities of Marrakech and Fes, or the coastal towns of Essaouira and El Jadida, you will notice a multitude of little details typical of Moroccan life.

This art of living and careful hospitality is very important in Morocco and, as a visitor, you can experience it in many different ways.

Top cultural experiences in Morocco

Try your hand at Moroccan cuisine: Moroccan cuisine is world-famous for its use of spices and mix of sweet and savoury flavours. Every restaurant offers a selection of delicious tajines , a stew of meat and vegetables. Couscous is on the menu every Friday and if you like sweets, you will be in heaven. Sweet biscuits mixing flower, almond and spice flavours make a delicious afternoon treat. If you’re interested in learning new skills, cooking classes are often available in traditional riads in Marrakech. Moroccan cuisine takes time and care, but the results are delicious and quite easy to recreate at home.

Shop for authentic handicrafts at a souq : Another great way to experience the heart of Morocco is to spend time in the souks. Shopping in Morocco is a fun experience and haggling for a good price is the norm. You have to engage with merchants, ask questions, make small talk and, most importantly, have fun with it! Never lose your smile and sense of humour, and it will great fun! The most spectacular shopping experience is in Marrakech due to the volume and intensity of the medina. It’s easy to get lost but that’s part of the experience too!

Sip mint tea, a Moroccan tradition: When you travel throughout Morocco, you will notice that mint tea is served everywhere. This is a pivotal element of Moroccan hospitality. Green tea is mixed with fresh mint leaves and served in little decorated glasses. There is a little bit of theatre in serving mint tea, with the brass or silver teapot held high above the glass… Traditionally, mint tea is served with a lot of sugar, but these days it is common for sugar to be served on the side, so you can dose it yourself. And you can even buy a set of decorated tea glasses in the souk as a souvenir!

By Delphine from Lester Lost

How to have a more culturally immersive travel experience anywhere in the world

It doesn’t matter if it’s a remote community or a popular city – there are things you can do to have a more enriching cultural travel experience no matter where you’re going.

Here are 10 practical tips to help you on your way.

1. Do your research before you go: Familiarise yourself with local customs and learn a bit of the history so you know what types of experiences to look out for. This guide is a great start!

2. Seek out festivals and special events: Many tourism boards feature a calendar on their website, or you can try using Facebook to find local events. Check out my four-part series about the world’s best festivals, starting here .

3. Eat local. Food is one of the easiest routes to culture. Here are my tips for eating local when you travel.

4. Stay at a homestay. Spending time with a local family will give you an invaluable insight into daily life. Here are my tips for using homestays in Vietnam.

5. Participate in a class or workshop . Trying a cooking class, handicraft workshop or any other hands-on experience is one of the easiest ways to immerse yourself in local culture. I recommend using Get Your Guide , Airbnb Experiences, Cookly or Backstreet Academy to find opportunities.

6. Learn a bit of the language. Even knowing a few basic words will show you’re interested and can go a long way to forming relationships.

7. Shop local. Support artisans and heritage skills. Here are my tips for finding authentic and meaningful souvenirs .

8. Slow down. The best cultural experiences are often spare-of-the-moment and can’t be planned in advance. Keep some flexibility in your travel itinerary for spontaneous detours.

9. Go your own way. You don’t always have to follow the pack. Venturing away from the crowds will often give you access to unique and meaningful experiences.

10. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If in doubt, ask a local. Remember that cultural tourism is all about exchange – don’t just take, make sure you give something back in return.

Are you a cultural tourist? Which of these destinations is your favourite? What other places would you add to the list? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below!

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More cultural travel inspiration.

• 30+ amazing cultural experiences around the world
• Best cultural festivals around the world
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• My collection of cultural travel guides for 30+ cities and regions
• World’s best unique & underrated travel destinations

This is a very wonderful article about cultural destinations! Thank you so much for sharing!

One can easily visit India and experience the different kinds of cultures in a particular place. Tourism in India has been much more managed and safe with passage of time. Rajasthan tourism has been the most reliable and safe in India. One can enjoy all the traditional dishes and enjoy living in the palaces as a hotel room in different cities. But, whenever you are visiting to Rajasthan, India travel guide is a must because one can easily lose track of pathways in the puzzle like roads of the cities in Rajasthan. One can easily plan for a Kerala tour packages because of the minimal expenses in the state.

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POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR

A Full Oahu Tour With A Visit To The Polynesian Cultural Center

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• Oahu, Hawaii

O ahu’s nickname is the gathering place, and it’s easy to understand why when you realize more people live on Oahu than all the other islands in Hawaii combined! What better place for a festival? This small island packs a punch with natural beauty, a bustling urban center, white sand beaches, and much more. On this full-day tour , you will be able to circle Oahu and see many of the sites it is famous for, including the Polynesian Cultural Center which will give you an understanding of the ancient cultures that shaped the islands into what they are today.

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Polynesian Cultural Center Circle Island Tour Features

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center consistently ranks as the #1 attraction on Oahu. Across the expansive grounds, you will be able to check out six recreations of the ancient villages of Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga. Throughout the Polynesian Cultural Center, you will see exhibits and live reenactments of some of the key moments in ancient Pacific Island culture. This stop along your adventure will give you a chance to step back in time and examine the cultures that have contributed so much to the Hawaii that we know and enjoy today.

Diamond Head Lookout

In Hawaiian, Diamond Head is actually called Leahi, which translates to ‘Brow of the Tuna’. This huge crater became known as Diamond Head after British sailors in the 19th century mistakenly believed they had discovered diamonds on the slopes of the extinct volcano. What they actually discovered were small and worthless crystals known as calcite. This small mistake gave rise to an enduring name for the mighty peak. Diamonds or no diamonds, the view from the top of the crater will give you a breathtaking vantage point from which to view Honolulu as well as the Pacific Ocean.

Halona Blowhole & Beach Cove

Blowholes are a natural occurrence in Hawaii because they are created by lava tubes that at one point poured red-hot magma into the ocean. During high tide, ocean waves fill the lava tube creating an immense amount of pressure that shoots sea water sometimes hundreds of feet in the air. Similar to a geyser, the Halona Blowhole is a wonderful and noteworthy stop on this circle island tour. These are the kind of unique sights you shouldn't miss out on!

Polynesian Cultural Center Circle Island Tour Details

Price & calendar, departure & return.

A Complete Circle Island Tour Of Oahu

Tour the Polynesian Cultural Center

Stop For A Delicious Lunch

Explore Oahu’s North Shore

Visit The Diamond Head Lookout

Spot The Halona Blowhole

Incredible Recreations of Villages From 6 Islands

Unmatched Ocean Views

This incredible full day tour starts with a pickup at major hotels and resorts so you don't have to worry about the hassle of transportation. The tour itself begins by driving over to Diamond Head Crater, which is actually an extinct volcano that overlooks Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean beyond it. This mighty peak allows you to gaze out over the island of O'ahu, uninterrupted by anything that would block your view. After enjoying the view at Diamond Head, you will head up O'ahu’s southeastern coast where you will catch views of the huge volcanic cliffs jutting out of the spectacular blue water. The southeast coast of the island is also famous for sights like Hanauma Bay, the Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach and the iconic red and white lighthouse at the Makapu’u Lookout. Heading over to the eastern side of the island will take you through some of the more lush and densely forested parts of the island as the region below the Ko’olau Mountains gets much more annual rainfall than other parts of the island. On the eastern coast of Oahu enjoy views of Kane’ohe Bay, Malaekahana Bay, and of course, the postcard worthy rock formation of Chinaman’s Hat.

After stopping for a delicious lunch you will hit the road once again to continue working your way up the coastline. From a distance, you will probably feel as if you are in the movie Jurassic Park because much of the scenery on this side of O'ahu was used for background shots. Upon reaching the small town of Laie prepare to stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center to take a tour of the incredible grounds, view the exhibits, and learn more about the voyaging people that originally settled the Hawaiian islands. The final stop on the tour will be the world famous Dole Plantation. This pineapple plantation is one of O'ahu’s main attractions, and while you are there be sure to pick up some souvenirs and try a Dole Whip frozen dessert. After a busy day of exploring, you deserve a delicious recharge. After the tour has concluded your driver and tour guide will drop you off at your hotel in Waikiki.

*Your pick-up location may be different from your hotel, yet it will be within a 5-minute walking distance.

6:45 AM - Departure from Waikiki

6:45 AM to12:30 PM - A historical and cultural narrated tour of Oahu

12:30 PM - Arrival at the Polynesian Cultural Center

6:30 PM or 9:30 PM Return to Waikiki at the end of the tour

• Transportation is not included, but is available in the booking box for a small charge.
• Please be ready to leave 30 minutes before departure time.

In the event of cancellation or request change to your reservation, please note the following. Tours originating from Oahu, there is no charge for date change or tour change based on tour availability but must be made 72 hours prior to the original tour day. No refunds issued for any tours within the 72-hour period, prior to the start of your tour. No stop is guaranteed to be operating on the day of your tour. We have no control of Navy and Army operations which may result in the closure of Ford Island or the boats going to the Arizona Memorial without notice. In the event of this occurring, our guides will make up for it in a variety of ways so your experience is always worthwhile.

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Cultural Tours in the USA

Get ready to embark on an unparalleled journey with one these exceptional cultural tours in the USA. We've invested our time and effort to scrutinize a wide selection of trips from top-rated companies, ensuring that we bring you the very best travel experiences. Our analysis covers crucial factors such as pricing, guest ratings, service excellence, sought-after destinations, and thrilling activities. Whether you're an intrepid wanderer or a novice traveler, these handpicked cultural tours will provide an unforgettable adventure in the USA.

• New York Uncovered (4 Days) 4 Days, $725.00
• Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days) 8 Days, $1550.00
• Highlights of Route 66 16 Days, $3099.00

What are cultural tours like in the USA?

Here are the important factors:

• 81 trip options analyzed
• $330 average price per day (USD)
• 1 to 17 days in length
• 4.68 of 5 average rating
• 41 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of cultural tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.68 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 41 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 1 days, while the longest is 17 days. When it comes to physical activity , tour options are organized as easy, moderate, relaxing, and serious, with a majority being easy tours. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 81 cultural tours, you can rest assured that the USA has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Cultural Tours in the USA

New york uncovered (4 days).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for cultural tours.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With a duration of 4 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 25 people, and is good for travelers aged 18 to 35 years old. New York City will be the beginning and end of your trip. This fantastic option, organized by Contiki , presents an unbeatable value at just $181 per day.

• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)

Spanning over 8 days, this voyage, visiting Canada and USA, has a maximum size of 52 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 5 to 80 years old, it is organized by Costsaver , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 7 destinations, featuring Kingston, Ottawa, Quebec City, and Cap-De-La-Madeleine. Beginning in beautiful Toronto, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Montreal. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. Available at an unbeatable price of only $174 per day, this option also has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of Route 66

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 16 days, this jouney will have 50 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers aged 5 or older. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. Expertly organized by Cosmos , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $194 per day.

The Lone Star State to the French Quarter

This memorable journey is offered by Cosmos which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $196 per day. Traverse through 9 enchanting destinations, with San Antonio, Houston, Lafayette, and Fort Worth among the must-see stops along the route. Dallas marks the starting point, while New Orleans stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. The maximum group size is 50 people, welcoming travelers aged 5 or older.

Colours of New England

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 10 days, this voyage offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 35 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 21 or older. This trip visits 11 destinations, including Kennebunkport, Portland, Acadia National Park, and Bar Harbor along the way. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Boston. Brought to you by Omega Tours , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $231 per day.

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days)

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 8 unforgettable days, visiting Canada and USA. It ensures an intimate group setting with 52 participants at most. Experience a trip that takes you to 6 remarkable destinations, including Niagara Falls (USA), Kingston, Ottawa, and Quebec City. Toronto will be both the start and end of your journey. Costsaver , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $186 per day.

America's Greatest Treasures with Rapid City Start

This fantastic journey has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Explore 9 incredible locations on this trip, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Deadwood, Cody, and West Yellowstone. Rapid City marks the starting point, while Salt Lake City stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Lasting 9 days, the maximum group size is 50 people, and it's good for travelers aged 5 or older. Organized by Cosmos , this is a great deal because it's only $258 per day.

• Walking Tour

Niagara Falls and Outlet Shopping

With a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary trip, visiting USA and Canada, is the perfect choice. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Discover a journey that spans 4 destinations, with notable stops in Finger Lakes and Niagara Falls (USA). New York City will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 2 days, the trip accommodates 99 individuals, and is suitable for people of any age. Offered by Amadeo , this remarkable trip is priced at just $193 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Western Wonders

This exceptional trip offering by Cosmos has received a 4.9 out of 5 rating. On this 12-day voyage you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip takes you on an adventure to 12 destinations, including Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park, Williams, and Las Vegas. Los Angeles will mark the start of your journey, while San Francisco will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 50 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 5 or older. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $201 per day.

Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation

Check out this trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating, visiting USA and Canada. With 11 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Niagara Falls (USA), Lancaster, Washington DC, and Boston, and more. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful New York City. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. Spanning across 15 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 50 participants, and it's great for travelers aged 5 or older. Brought to you by the renowned Cosmos , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $202 per day - an unbeatable value.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to the USA , The Best Wildlife Tours to the USA , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in the USA , The Best Historical Tours in the USA , The Best 10-Day Tours in the USA , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in the USA , The Best 3-Day Tours in the USA , The Best 2-Week Tours in the USA , The Best 3-Week Tours in the USA , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in the USA , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in the USA , The Best Coach Bus Tours in the USA , The Best Adventure Tours to the USA , The Best Eco Tours in the USA , The Best Train & Rail Tours in the USA , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in the USA , The Best Sightseeing Tours in the USA , The Best Photography Tours in the USA , The Best Camping Tours in the USA , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in the USA , The Best Walking Tours in the USA , The Best Tours Under $1000 in the USA , The Best Luxury Tours to the USA , The Best Tours for Seniors to the USA , The Best Contiki Tours to the USA , or The Best G Adventures Tours to the USA for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Las Vegas , The Best 3-Day Tours from Los Angeles , The Best 3-Day Tours from Asheville , The Best 3-Day Tours from New York City , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Boston , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from San Francisco , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Jackson , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phoenix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Honolulu , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Seattle , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nashville , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Washington DC , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salt Lake City , The Best 10-Day Tours from Anchorage , The Best 10-Day Tours from Las Vegas , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nashville , The Best 2-Week Tours from Las Vegas , The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles , The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage , The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco , The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City , The Best 2-Week Tours from Phoenix , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Atlanta for more package tour options.

How much do cultural tours in the USA cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for cultural tours when planning a visit to the USA. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of cultural tours in the USA based on data from 81 options is an affordable $330 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in the USA .

And for more information on United States of America, see United States of America Travel Costs and United States of America Hotel Costs .

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African American & Black Heritage NYC Tours

Inside Out Tours is an award-winning, certified minority and women owned business that is dedicated to presenting the histories of people of color in an engaging, sensitive and in-depth manner. Our African American Heritage tours are carefully researched to highlight the hidden history and contributions of black people in New York City.

African American Heritage Tour of New York City

Discover the African American Heritage of Lower Manhattan and Harlem in this comprehensive tour from the establishment of New York to present.

African American Heritage Tour of Brooklyn

Brooklyn has long been one of the great centers of African-American culture in the United States, boasting the largest black population in New York City. Explore the legacy of iconic figures like Spike Lee, Jay Z, Shirley Chisholm, David Ruggles and Frederick Douglass.

NYC Slavery and Underground Railroad Tour

Learn the exciting history of the enslaved people who built the foundations of New York City and the brave band of freedom fighters who formed the networks that became the Underground Railroad. This tour is featured in the New York Times!

Harlem Renaissance Bus Tour

Learn about the Harlem Renaissance including its musical, artistic and literary achievements while exploring Harlem on this bus-guided experience.

Heroes of Harlem Tour

Discover the iconic literary, political and artistic heroes that made Harlem the capital of Black America.

Need individual instead of group tickets?  See individual tours here .

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How to get to Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki (transportation options for Waikiki to Polynesian Cultural Center!) :: Oahu – Hawaii

So you’ve decided to experience some Hawaiian culture during your Hawaii vacation on Oahu?

Or you’re highly considering getting those Polynesian Cultural Center tickets?!

Good! Here’s why. 😉

Part of the reason is because of the evening show!

The show was definitely a pleasant surprise for me.

Within the first minute of the show starting, I was mesmerized!

This may sound a little dramatic, but it really was so much more than I was expecting!

And then be sure to see my other top picks of the best things to do at the Polynesian Cultural Center!

A trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the many ways you can get a glimpse into  Hawaiian culture on Oahu !

The two most convenient options for getting to the Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki are taking the shuttle provided by the cultural center or renting a car and driving yourself.

After that, your choices become a lot tougher!

You’ll essentially have to decide between time and money… and convenience.

And so, this is what’s covered on this page:

First, to get you oriented with the island of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Laie.

• Map of Waikiki to Laie

Then, here are the transportation options you may want to consider for getting to the Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki:

• Option 1: Shuttle to Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesian Cultural Center parking

• Option 3: Bus to Polynesian Cultural Center
• Option 4: Taxi to Polynesian Cultural Center

Be sure to take a look at things to do at the Polynesian Cultural Center too!

what to pack for hawaii >> what to wear in hawaii >>  what to wear to a luau – what to wear snorkeling – what to wear hiking

Map of Waikiki and Laie

Polynesian Cultural Center map

Where is the Polynesian Cultural Center?

So as you can see from the map, Waikiki and Honolulu are basically on the southern side of the island, and Laie is on the northern side of the island.

The island of Oahu isn’t that large, so despite being on opposite sides of the island, the distance from Waikiki to Laie is about 35 miles. But while 35 miles might take you 30 minutes when you’re driving at home, island driving is much slower! 😉

A straight (and smooth) drive from Waikiki to Laie is about an hour.

Waikiki Travel Guide:

• 2 mile walk on Waikiki Beach
• Best snorkeling spot in Waikiki
• Best hike near Waikiki
• Bike rental in Waikiki
• Free hula show in Waikiki
• Getting around by bus from Waikiki
• Best unforgettable adventures on Oahu

If you haven’t yet booked your tickets for the Polynesian Cultural Center, have a look here for some more options .

1. Shuttle to Polynesian Cultural Center

Bottom line: The shuttle costs around $22 round trip per person. Convenient option if you will be at the Polynesian Cultural Center for the daytime activities, luau dinner, and evening show.

One of the most convenient options is utilizing the shuttle transportation service that’s provided by the Polynesian Cultural Center.

This option is only available if you are planning for a full day at the cultural center.

To get there, you have the option of being picked up at around 10:00am or 12:00pm from a designated shuttle pick-up point in Waikiki. From the last Waikiki hotel pick-up point, which will be around 10:30am or 12:30pm, it will take about an hour to get to the Polynesian Cultural Center, depending on traffic. You’ll have a guide during your shuttle ride who will give you a bit of narration about points of interest as you pass them by.

To get back to Waikiki, the shuttle will leave shortly after the evening show which ends around 9:00pm. You’re given 20-30 minutes to get back to the shuttle in case you want to spend your last bit of time at the shops at the Hukilau Marketplace . So you can expect to be back in Waikiki between 10:30pm and 11:00pm.

No shuttles are provided by the Polynesian Cultural Center outside of these times, which is why the shuttle transportation option will only work if you’re spending the full day there. This includes the luau and evening show.

There are shuttle pick-up locations at a number of hotels around Waikiki, so you’ll be able to find a shuttle stop near you if you’re staying in Waikiki.

Among the Honolulu and Waikiki hotels included:

• Ala Moana Hotel
• Ilikai Renaissance Hotel
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel
• Waikiki Gateway Hotel
• Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Hotel
• Waikiki Beach Marriott Hotel

For a list of the shuttle stops and more information about this transportation option, see the map of Waikiki hotel stops for the Polynesian Cultural Center shuttle !

2. Driving to Polynesian Cultural Center with a rental car

Bottom line: Renting a car costs around $50 – 60 for your whole family. Parking is free at the Polynesian Cultural Center. You may have to pay for parking in Waikiki. Convenient, but night time driving may be an issue.

With the shuttle costing around $22 per person, if you have more than 2 people in your group, renting a car for a single day becomes an economical option with added convenience compared to the shuttle service.

You will likely be able to find a one-day car rental for under $60… it might even be possible to find a car rental for around $40.

And don’t forget about gas costs!

Renting a car also gives you the freedom to make stops along the way.

Since the Polynesian Cultural Center doesn’t open until 12:00pm, you can start your day early in the morning to get even more activities in.

This allows you the chance to stop off at any scenic overlooks you see, take a short hike in Kaneohe , or go for a  short visit to a macadamia nut farm !

things to do in oahu >> east oahu – north shore – central oahu  – waikiki

Similar to the shuttle, a straight shot with no stops between Waikiki and the Polynesian Cultural Center with no major traffic will usually take around an hour.

The one thing to think about in renting a car is how late you will be leaving the Polynesian Cultural Center at the end of the day.

If you’re going to be staying for the evening show, consider that it means that you will be driving at night past 9:00pm on unknown roads.

If you don’t consider that to be a problem, then renting a car may be your best option for getting to and from the Polynesian Cultural Center!

Another point of consideration:

If you’re coming from the mainland and will be renting a car, it may also be a good idea to not go to the cultural center in the first couple of days of your arrival in Hawaii if you can help it.

Keep in mind that you may suffer from jet lag!

Depending on the season (daylight savings time or not), 9:00pm Hawaii time is 12:00am Los Angeles time is 3:00am New York time!

And you’ll be on the road for at least an hour.

Polynesian Cultural Center parking is free, so once you get there you don’t need to worry about parking fees.

But, you may also want to consider where you’ll be parking once you get back to Waikiki at night.

You might want to factor in any potential parking fees in Waikiki.

Or you may want to think about returning your car that night… or maybe you want to keep it for a few extra days!

3. Bus to Polynesian Cultural Center

Bottom line: The bus costs $5 round trip per person and is the cheapest option to get to the Polynesian Cultural Center. It takes more time and is less convenient than other options.

The car rental and the shuttle are the best ways to get to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

After that, your options become a bit more limited.

The bus on Oahu can be a convenient way to get around Waikiki and Honolulu using public transportation.

Hanauma Bay by bus and Koko Head by bus can work out well too even though they are not directly near Waikiki.

Although it will be a little slower than driving yourself, the Oahu bus can still be convenient for these places.

There is also island-wide bus service that includes transportation to the Polynesian Cultural Center, but the timings and distance can make it slightly less convenient than bus service around Waikiki and Honolulu.

So it is possible to get to the Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki by bus.

It will take around 2 hours each way, and that doesn’t factor in time waiting for the bus.

Depending on where in Waikiki you are catching the bus, you may be able to avoid bus transfers and ride just a single bus to get you to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

The best part about the bus is that it will cost you just $5 round trip per person!

If you’re making serious consideration for taking the bus, have a look at bus from Waikiki to Polynesian Cultural Center .

4. Taxi to Polynesian Cultural Center

Bottom line: A taxi will likely cost over $100 each way. This is your most expensive option!

There are taxi companies on Oahu that provide island-wide service, but the cost of a taxi from Waikiki to the Polynesian Cultural Center will be very high.

The standard rate for taxis on Oahu, as determined by the Honolulu government, is $3.10 for the first 1/8 of a mile, and $0.45 for each additional 1/8 of a mile after that.

Subject to change, of course!

With this calculation, at a distance of around 35 miles between Waikiki and the Polynesian Cultural Center, the taxi cost is well over $100.

Other things to do in Oahu

If you’re interested in going to the Polynesian Cultural Center, you may like some of these Hawaiian culture activities in Oahu too!

Many of the sites are easy stops to make alongside other nearby points of interest and are free!

To find more things to do in Oahu, use the  Oahu vacation planning guide here !

There’s an interactive Oahu map!

things to do in oahu | map >> waikiki – east oahu – north shore – central oahu  || oahu snorkeling spots – oahu hikes

HAPPY POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER PLANNING!

Things to do with Polynesian Cultural Center tickets

what to pack for hawaii  >> what to wear in hawaii >>  what to wear to a luau –  what to wear hiking  –  what to wear snorkeling

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Ron - June 16, 2024

"Local Insider Guide and Driver were superb"

Excellent planning and conduct of the trip from pre-t thru entire trip Our Local Guide, German (pronounced Herman) was so knowledgeable and in tune with every aspect of the trip, from human culture and social challenges to all the challenges and successes for Costa Rican environments. The concept of sustainability was so evident in the coffee and cocoa plantations and the representatives of both of those were so personable in sharing every aspect of their production. Beyond that, or insider, German, was expert in bird identification and ecology which added so much to the experience. The hotels were all excellent although we did not favor the highly processed and bland food except that the fruit every morning was the best ever, so fresh and flavorful, and the coffee was superb. The food at the off-hotel places that our guide took us was wonderful, genuine and so enjoyable. All the people were so friendly and respectful and informative Our driver, Geraldo, was a gem! Very little English but we all had some Spanish and he had such a friendly, respectful and fun attitude and great driving skills. And with our small group, if we exclaimed "there's a sloth!! or "Monkeys!!" He immediately found a safe place to pull over and joined us with German to view and enjoy. German had a spotting scope and with that we could really see the monkeys, sloth, and many birds. We think the trip was carefully planned and a good value. It was our first guided trip and we do expect to enjoy more with Culture Trip

Alana - June 26, 2024

"Greece Odyssey Experience, recommend this trip"

I have been on two culture trips, Portugal and Greek odyssey. Both have been great. I traveled with my 3 adult daughters. We returned from Greece a month ago., June 3rd. Our accommodations were perfect, had a new guide upon arriving at each destination, which we enjoyed, all friendly and very knowledgeable and eager to converse. Our ferry trips to Naxos and Santorini were comfortable, with reserved seating inside. We were met promptly and easily at the pier upon arrival by our guide and driver. We visited the busy , tourist side of Santorini and the next day was taken to an organic farm on the quiet side of Santorini , enjoyed a tasty picnic dinner and stayed for a beautiful sunset. Our favorite was a three night stay in Naxos. We could easily walk to beach, town , shops, restaurants, A very relaxing experience. Culture trip provides excellent travel opportunities for a fair price.

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"Expertly Guided, Perfectly Organized, Beautiful Locations. Enchanting!"

Had a wonderful trip. Culture Trip responded quickly when I had an issue with a prebooked hotel and they made things right. Everything was well planned and ran smoothly. Our local guide (Francesco) was absolutely amazing. The places we went to were beautiful and not too crowded. We had guided tours along with plenty of time on our own, which made the trip enjoyable without feeling rushed, The group on this trip were also amazing and I had a great time getting to know them. A group number of 10 was perfect, not too few people but not too many. Having never been to Italy before, this trip was a perfect introduction and I will definitely use Culture Trip again for future adventures.

Lesley - June 23, 2024

"Soulful Korea"

I highly recommend the Soulful South Korea trip. It was a busy trip but an excellent way to see a variety of cities and other areas of South Korea and to take part in a variety of activities - some perhaps once in a lifetime - all wonderfully organised by our Local Insider Yong. As someone who is not particularly fit I was initially concerned about the amount of activity involved in the trip but I found this to be manageable and Yong, who went above and beyond to support our group and also to give us as authentic an experience of Korea as possible, was able to be flexible regarding the activities when necessary. It was a brilliant introduction to a beautiful and interesting country, shared with a wonderful group of people. I will definitely be returning to South Korea.

Meilin - June 15, 2024

"Best 1st trip overseas - Soulful South Korea"

This Soulful South Korea trip has been AMAZING! We loved everything about it, all thanks to Yong! (our tour guide) He was very informed, wise, knowledgeable, and being able to offer various choices to choose from. He was personal but also professional! He does what he does BEST! Thank you for making our trip the most memorable one ever! One thing we would like to alter, would probably be, if for people who love pamper sessions like we do, is the Visit to Centum Spa Land Jjimjilbang. We would do a whole day of it! Or maybe start in morning side of the day to get more out of the day. But other than that, we are really thankful for having the opportunity to visit a place with so much wonder and magic! Thank you, we have loved every moment of it! And we will definitely visit South Korea again!

What to See on the Cultural Bus from Puno to Cusco Peru

You can fly, take the train or the bus from Puno to Cusco Peru. Read what to expect on the tourist bus Cusco to Puno and the Puno to Cusco bus. I show you what you’ll see and where you’ll stop on the bus route. Learn why the Puno to Cusco bus is worth your time to see more of cultural Peru.

During my travels around South America , I crossed of many of my reasons to visit South America , like the Stargazing in San Pedro de Atacama in Chile and a tour of the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. After my visit to La Paz and Lake Titicaca , it was now time for my last highlight of the trip: head to Cusco and explore Machu Picchu. But I was still in Puno and roughly 400 km away from Cusco. If you want to travel from Puno to Cusco you can fly from Julianca to Cusco in less than an hour. You can take the luxurious train or you can take the bus. A normal bus runs during the night in different price ranges. I decided to opt for the cultural tourist bus from Puno to Cusco instead.

Puno to Cusco Cultural Tourist Bus

The tourist bus from Puno to Cusco runs every day and takes you on a luxurious bus from Puno to Cusco in 10,5 hours. It will cost you all day, but you travel in a relaxed pace and you get to see all kinds of cultural sites along the way . The bus stops at 6 different places along the route before they drop you off in Cusco. The same applies (in reverse order) for the Cusco to Puno bus. As I took the route from Puno to Cusco by bus, I’ll focus on that for this blog.

You can click on the Pinterest share button on the left to share this image on Pinterest in a Pinterest friendly size.

Details for the Ruta del Sol / Route of the Sun

This route on the Puno to Cusco bus is also called Ruta del Sol (the route of the Sun). I’ll give you some details below:

• Departure time Puno: 7.00 am
• Arrival time Cusco: 5.30 pm
• Price for the bus ticket from Puno to Cusco: $45. You can also buy your ticket with the entrance fees already included. This is $65. Buy it in advance here .
• Price for the entrance fees along the Ruta del Sol: 40 Peruvian Soles.

Entrance to Pukara: 10 Soles. Entrance Raqchi: 15 Soles. Ticket for Andahuaylillas: 15 Soles. The guide asked us to pay the 40 Soles up front to him, to prevent any delays.

I travelled with Wonder Peru Expedition but there are many other agents out there. If you wish to book your Puno to Cusco bus in advance , check the prices and availibility. We received information on the bus about the stops, how much time we had and we received some beverages on the bus too. Our guide joined us and spoke excellent English (exactly!) and provided us with a lot of background information .

The bus also runs in the opposite direction so you can travel by tourist bus from Cusco to Puno .

Why take the cultural Cusco to Puno bus?

When I first planned my trip to Peru, I wanted to take the train journey from Puno to Cusco. I love to travel by train but the schedule was not in my favour and the train journey was quite expensive . Plus you get to sit on the train for over 12 hours, and miss all the fantastic sites along the route.

I never expected this bus from Puno to Cusco to be that much fun. Yes, I am a bit of a culture geek and I love to learn about ancient history and culture.

I felt I was not getting enough cultural input during my first 2 weeks in South America. This was mainly because I was focusing on outdoor activities *read my epic fail hike in the Colca Canyon  and the wonders of nature from Chile and Bolivia. I missed the learning part a bit.

Want to read more about bus travel in South America? Read about my bus journey from Peru to Chile .

Relaxed way to travel around peru.

The bus from Puno to Cusco was very relaxed. All I had to do was show up on time in Puno and follow the herd . I know, not very adventurous but it was exactly what I needed. A guide accompanied us and he dished out all his knowledge to the group, which I absorbed like a sponge.

We visited different archaeological sites and ruins from the Ayamara, Quechua, Pukará and Inca culture. This was the perfect built up for the things to come in Cusco and Machu Picchu. To be honest, each different site along the bus route from Puno to Cusco, isn’t really worth a day trip. But…

… because they were strung along and we visited each for a short time, it was perfect to get a bit of a feel and vibe from the place .

Are you getting excited to take the bus from Puno to Cusco when you travel around Peru?  I’ll tell you what you’ll see and visit during this cultural tourist bus from Puno to Cusco.

Puno 3.827m / 12.555 ft. above sea level

I had to be at the Puno bus station at 6.30 am because the bus was leaving at 7.00 am. I took a taxi to the bus station and showed my ticket. I got on the bus which was absolutely freezing. Puno gets very cold at night and the bus still needed to heat up. I selected a nice spot by the window. The bus wasn’t full so this was an excellent way to travel . We would travel first for an hour or two, so I might have dozed off a bit here and there.

Pucará 3.900m / 12.795 ft. above sea level

The first stop was the town of Pucará, 3.900m/ 12.795 ft. above sea level.

Lithic Museum Pucará

We first stopped at the Lithic Museum of Pucará where we saw an immense time line to put the whole reign of the culture of the Pucará in world’s history perspective.

The museum is small but shows some gruelling statues of decapitation which was common during the reign of the Pucará. They believed, if you decapitate your enemy, his strength will transvers into you.

Ruins of Kalassaya

After we exited through the gift shop, we left the village behind and explored the ruins of Kalassaya, a little outside Pucará. I found this mighty interesting as this was basically my first encounter with ancient ruins of South America and pre-Inca culture.

The ruins of the old town of Pucará are dated from 1.800 years BC . This was the reign of the Pukara culture and was the focus of the administration and religion.

The main thing to see is the ruins of the Kalassaya pyramid and the staircase. There is also a sunken court, but you need a lot of imagination to picture what might have happened there. All in all a great site with striking views of the small town of Pucará below and the Route of the Sun alongside it.

For more info, visit pukara.org

La Raya 4.335m / 14.222 ft. above sea level

There isn’t much to see or do at La Raya, but this is the highest point on the bus from Cusco to Puno. Local people have set up some things you can buy and you can get a picture with the altitude sign. Always nice to have proof of where you’ve been.

The surrounding area is striking though.

High in the mountains, the river beneath it, the snow covered peaks and the railway tracks approaching the gorge. This is a great point to stretch your legs!

Sicuani 3.540m / 11.614 ft. above sea level

Another stop on the Puno to Cusco bus. A person got to eat of course. As you’re travelling as a tourist, you’ll be dropped off at a tourist restaurant where you’ll be served the tourist lunch menu for tourist prices. There isn’t anything else around to wonder off on your own, so I took the opportunity for a toilet break and waited for the bus to leave again.

Raqchi 3.450m / 11.319 ft. above sea level

After this, things got really exciting as we approached Raqchi. Raqchi is about 110 km from Cusco and I can recommend this as a day trip . We had little time as our tour guide guided us through the main ruins, but the complex is massive and I wish I would have had more time to wonder off and explore on my own.

But then again, if I hadn’t been on this tourist bus from Puno to Cusco, I wouldn’t have known about it.

So, what is so great about Raqchi in Peru?

The ruins of Raqchi show you the remains of the Temple of Wiracocha (or Virachocha ), the main Inca god of creation . He was the god of the sun, the moon and civilisation.

His temple remains can be seen at the archaeological site of Raqchi , where you’ll see the adobe wall of the temple and many administration houses. In the hills overlooking the ruins, you’ll see the ancient Inca trail.

As Raqchi was an important religious Inca site , it was highly protected and the people here were monks, high priest and other noble men and guards.

The sky was striking blue, the grass turned the yellow of autumn. As the sun was blistering down on our little group, I saw history unfold before me. I looked up to the remains of the massive temple of Wiracocha and imagined what is was like in the 15 th century.

Andahuaylillas 3.093m / 10.147 ft. above sea level

After such a great complex of ruins, we moved to more modern times when we visited the church of the tiny town of Andahuaylillas . The church is referred to as the Sistine Chapel of South America , and although it was very beautiful and the frescos were vibrant, it doesn’t really compare.

But it was a nice church, and again I learned a lot about this cultural history. We learned that after the Spanish conquest, painters from Europe, educated local artists to make the same religious paintings in the new churches.

As the Peruvian artists had never seen European churches or art, they adapted their own style and form . Our guide showed us the key elements of catholic religion intertwined with the local Pachamama culture .

More info on Andahuaylillas .

We were not allowed to take any pictures inside the church, but we received a DVD with information and pictures. With your entrance ticket to Andahuaylillas you can also visit the churches of Huaro and Canincuna. These are part of the “ Ruta del Barroco Andino “ and with your ticket, you’ll help the social projects of these churches and the region.

Read more:  Interesting Inca Sites near Cusco Peru other than Machu Picchu.

Cusco 3.400m / 11.155 ft. above sea level.

After the last stop on the Puno to Cusco bus, we headed to Cusco. No more stopping until we reached the bus terminal of the tour company where I took a taxi downtown. We did see one more unique thing on the bus.

As we approached the Cusco Valley, the driver slowed down the bus, so we could all see the ancient Inca gate way to the Cusco Valley and the Sacred Valley of the Incas . The last sun beams of the day flowed through the holes in the ruins, giving it a magic spell.

Are you looking for something relaxed to do in Cusco after such a long day?

Check out my post about the Chocolate Museum in Cusco .

This cultural bus tour from Puno to Cusco was over, but I never imagined it to be that much fun. I learned a lot about pre-Inca culture and Inca culture . And I learned about the adaptation of the Catholic religion from local Pachamama culture and I saw beautiful scenery along the way.

I was very happy to take this bus tour in Peru and I hope I peaked your interest to consider this journey if you travel by bus from Cusco to Puno or the other way around.

Buy your culture Puno to Cusco Bus Tickets here

Have you travelled from Cusco to Puno? At what site would you like to spend more time? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below.

Helpful tips and tools for your Peru trip

• Read all my content on Peru here
• Get a guidebook for more travel tips on Peru. Buy your copy here
• Book your hotels in Peru via Booking.com or Hotels.com
• Find your direct flights to Lima here
• Book your tours and activities direct with GetYourGuide or Viator
• Travel in style with these cool travel-themed designs (I made them myself!)
• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel to Peru. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Click the Pinterest share button on the left or at the bottom of this post for more amazing Pinterest-share-friendly images.

Probe around the Globe uses affiliate links. If you decide to purchase your Puno to Cusco bus ticket via one of my affiliate links, I’ll earn a small commission. This is at no extra coast to you.

Author: Naomi

57 comments.

Hello Naomi! Thank you for your wonderful blog! I am traveling to Peru with my husband and 3 friends at the end of July. We will be doing this bus tour (and a lot of the other things you wrote about), so this post was so helpful to get an idea of what our trip will be like. I am so excited to see South America for the first time! Thanks so much for this detailed report!

How nice to hear Maggie! I hope you’ll have an amazing trip and let me know what you thought about the cultural bus tour! I really loved it.

Coollll !!! Your post gives details soooo clearly 😀 It makes me wanna head to Peru immediately 🙂 Maybe i’m gonna spend much time at Ragchy cause it looks wayyy so peaceful through your photo 😀 Thanks for giving so many tips Naomi 🙂

The place was beautiful Emily. I can recommend it.

Panorama of the ruins of the temple of Viracocha in Raqchi absorbs me. Help me please. I wanna go now.

Book a ticket and gooooo Michael!

Wow, I am planning to go to Peru and this article comes in time. Thanks for your sharing. The trip on the bus looks really interesting. I can see the trace of history from ancient life from that.

Lithic Museum of Pucará attracts me a lot. It seems come from a fairy tale of Peru. Must try!

Comments are closed.

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Hop On Hop Off Moscow Bus Tours

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is the largest and the most populous city in the country. Present on the banks of the Moskva river, this city serves as the cosmopolitan hub of the country. Carrying  871 year old rich history, this city has played an integral part of Russia’s development and therefore plays an integral role in all the aspect. Majority of the population of Russia lives in Moscow, and the city is responsible as the scientific, historical, political and architectural hub in the region. Moscow is a blend of the old and new Russian culture. The Kremlin complex in the center of the city holds the cultural and historical values of the city. Moscow was also the capital and most important part of the USSR and thus holds many gems throughout the city from that era. Not only that, but the city also brags of timeless elements from the Tsars and other rulers who ever ruled Russia. Moscow has been a hub of many social ideologies and home to popular poets and artists. When in Moscow don’t miss out The Moscow Kremlin, the colorful St. Basil’s Cathedral, the symbolic center of Russia as the Red Square and Lenin's Mausoleum, which also serves as the resting place of Vladimir Lenin and his body has been preserved there since 1924.

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Former Brentwood home of Marilyn Monroe officially designated as Los Angeles landmark

The la city council confirmed the designation while considering possible tour bus restrictions in the area., by helen jeong and city news service • published june 26, 2024 • updated on june 26, 2024 at 11:33 pm.

The Brentwood home where Marilyn Monroe lived and died was designated as a Los Angeles historic cultural monument Wednesday, preventing the current property owners from demolishing it.

The LA City Council approved a motion in a 12-0 vote to preserve the home at 12305 West Fifth Helena Drive after delaying the vote to hear concerns from the home owners and residents in the area. 

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Council members Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Eunisses Hernandez and Kevin de León were absent during the vote.

“We have an opportunity to do something today that should have been done 60 years ago,'' said Park, who introduced the proposal to designate the home as an LA landmark, prior to the vote. “There is no other person or place in the city of Los Angeles as iconic as Marilyn Monroe and her Brentwood home.”

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The actress died on Aug. 4, 1962, at the age of 36 as a result of an overdose inside her home. Monroe had been one of the most popular Hollywood stars during the 1950s and early 1960s.

“Some of the most world-famous images ever taken of her were in that home, on those grounds and near her pool. Marilyn tragically died there – forever ties her in time and place to this very home,'' Park said. “There is likely no woman in history or culture who captures the imagination of the public the way Marilyn Monroe did. Even all these years later, her story still resonates and inspires many of us today.''

In September 2023, in response to concerns from residents, fans and historic preservationists, Park moved to save the home by designating it as a historic cultural monument. The councilwoman said it would be a “devastating blow” for historic preservation and for a city where less than 3% of historic designations are associated with women's heritage.

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Residents in proximity to the Brentwood home have expressed concerns about privacy and safety with the designation. Park noted that she has balanced those concerns as the designation moved through the Historic Cultural Commission and the council's Planning and Land Use Management Committee.

In a move to further that effort, Park introduced a motion during Wednesday's council meeting to evaluate tour bus restrictions on West Fifth Helena Drive and surrounding streets. 

“My team and I will continue working closely with the community to address any future concerns that arise,'' Park said. “I also understand that access is an important component of preservation, which is why throughout this process, my team and I have worked closely with the property owners to assess potentially moving the home to a place where the public might actually be able to visit and spend time.''

Those conversations have yet to be held, but the councilwoman expressed her hope that it can be done in the future. 

Council members were set to consider Park's motion on June 12. However, Park requested the item be extended until Wednesday to continue discussions with the property owners, who had challenged the designation, suing the city for an injunctive relief. On June 4, a judge tentatively denied their attempt.

Attorneys for real estate heiress Brinah Milstein and her husband, producer Roy Bank, previously filed court papers with Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James Chalfant in which they said the city was violating the law by trying to give the home historical recognition. The pair bought the residence last July for $8.35 million and had obtained a demolition permit from the city — which was later revoked. 

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According to the Milstein-Bank court papers, the couple will suffer irreparable harm without a preliminary injunction. The petition sought a court order blocking the monument designation and allowing the plaintiffs to move forward with their planned razing so they could demolish the structure to expand their current home, which is adjacent to the property.

The judge issued a tentative ruling in favor of the city, calling the Milstein-Bank motion an “ill-disguised motion to win so that they can demolish the home and eliminate the historic cultural monument issue.''    

The couple would not suffer the irreparable harm they claimed by being denied a preliminary injunction because the City Council would address the issue, according to Chalfant.

Bank and Milstein filed the petition May 6, alleging “illegal and unconstitutional conduct'' by the city “with respect to the house where Marilyn Monroe occasionally lived for a mere six months before she tragically committed suicide 61 years ago.''

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MaXXXine goes to Hollywood—on a bus

The maxxxine hollywood bus tour is cheesy, kitschy, and kind of perfect.

Kevin Bacon is doing his best to hype MaXXXine on the side of Santa Monica Boulevard, across the street from the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. “100% cotton,” he says, holding up a promotional T-shirt to a tour bus full of journalists and fans on a MaXXXine promotional tour. It’s not like he has a lot to work with; we’re across the street from the cemetery, not in front of it or on the grounds, probably because it’s harder to pull a miniature bus over in a more optimal viewing space, and there’s no way a one-hour tour has time to navigate parking lots. So, here we are, being distracted by a video clip from the movie, trying to camouflage Kevin Bacon emerging from a Tesla on a run-down side street beside an import warehouse with an open receiving door. Too bad I’m on the right side of the bus, against the open-air window, and I know he’s coming.

I don’t think this is what A24 had in mind when they planned this pop-in, but it feels special in a different way, more “What the fuck is going on” than “Omg it’s Kevin Bacon, how cool!” It’s a little off, a little wrong, a little seedy and sad. A chipped manicure. Dirt under the fingernails. Richard Ramirez prowling the streets of Los Angeles after dark. It feels, somehow, kind of perfect for a bus tour promoting the final movie in Ti West’s X trilogy.

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If you’re thinking about booking a seat on the official MaXXXine: Hollywood Is A Killer tour from StarLine, know this: you won’t get to see Kevin Bacon, either in person or in the four promotional clips that play throughout the ride. He can’t be spending the next two weeks lying in wait next to warehouses, ready to surprise unsuspecting tourgoers with that charismatic smile and the uncanny ability to make even these strangest of circumstances feel comfortable and natural. But even without Bacon, the tour has a kind of shaggy charm; it feels just special enough that even LA residents might find something of value in the lightly reskinned sightseeing trip. If nothing else, it’s worth it to marvel at how a minibus going 20 miles an hour can navigate the city so efficiently and quickly; if I tried to replicate its route in my car, I can’t imagine it would take any less than 90 minutes. The tour, which runs three times per day through July 7 and costs $35 per person, takes off from the Walk of Fame and winds its way through Hollywood, with stops at the cemetery and scenic overlooks on Mulholland Drive.

I’ve never been on a Hollywood bus tour, but I’d bet it’s roughly the same as the MaXXXine tour, minus several facts about Ramirez, a.k.a. the Night Stalker, a serial killer who terrorized Los Angeles in the mid-1980s. I’d bet you get a little more focus on the stars of the Walk of Fame, on the bright and shiny side of Hollywood. But MaXXXine , both the movie and the tour, is more interested in the view without the rose-colored glasses. Maxine Minx (Mia Goth) wants to be a star, no matter how rough the path is to get there. The tour, aided greatly by our enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide Lisa, attempts to show us the city as Maxine would have seen it in 1985.

Hollyweird, as Lisa puts it, didn’t just come out after dark back then. It was always a bit askew, even in the daylight. Easy to overlook, though, if you’re determined enough; one film shoot on the Universal Studios backlot will go a long way toward driving away any lingering doubts about yourself, your talent, or your relative safety. Easy enough to mentally remove the bright purple Minions building mucking up the view of the backlot from a scenic overlook in the hills. Easy enough to ignore the creeping sense of dread that comes out when you don’t do a good enough job of repressing those memories of what happened back at that Texas farm. It’ll all catch up with you, eventually, in the souvenir photos you scroll through back at home, or in the private detective who won’t stop hounding you about that night you really don’t want to remember.

But that’s later. Right now, this T-shirt is 100% cotton because Kevin Bacon said so, not a mystery garment with no care tag as you discover when you get home. And even if it’s not cotton, even if it’s a heat-trapping polyester blend, well—you can be anything you want to be in Hollywood, right?

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Cultural Turkey Tour Reviews

It was an outstanding tour. We are so glad that we choose dorak for our turkey trip. When we landed in Turkey, the driver did not pick up on time and we had to book a car to travel to the hotel. Yaren who is in operation team was so guilty for the inconvenience that she ensured to not only refund our money for the taxi but also covered the cost for the extra day that we stayed in Istanbul. We were really impressed by the gesture and really appreciate it. Coming to the tour part, the tour guide(Gonul Demirkol) was completely outstanding, in each of the spots she would tell us stories of what happened and made each and every activity fun. We really enjoyed her company and the best part was we were just a small group of 12 people and we got along quite well which made the trip more fun. We are glad that we got Gonul(GG) as our tour guide. She made the trip fabulous. Each and every day we would have a lunch or dinner that is included and the food places that was selected was just so fulfilling. Our tour guide would always ensure that we are always on the same page and enjoy what we are doing which we really appreciated. I also left my ear pods on one of the hotels, she herself ensured that it is posted back to the istanbul hotel. I was glad for this behaviour and was so pleased. The driver(Tolga) who dropped us off to the airport was infront of the hotel on time and he was there till the end. He dropped our luggages to the check in point in the airport. We really appreciate his amazing service. Overall, we are thankful to Dorak and we highly recommend Dorak cause honestly they are the best. Their service is totally outstanding and is completely worth it.

Fez Travel packed in lots of sights and things to see and do. I liked the variety in our stops and sights. Well planned except for the last couple of days. Somehow, they need to be tweaked so there are not so many unreasonable night departures. I would have rather paid a bit more and had the meals ordered when we sat down. Buffet meals were luke warm, over cooked, and meats were so dry from heating for long periods. The meals we sat down and was served were much better, tastier, better variety of foods.

Amazing experience of Turkey with excellent guide (host) Can (pronounced Jan as in Janet). The history of the area spans millennia and the relaxed friendly atmosphere of the Turkish people permeated the whole tour.

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Marilyn Monroe's former home saved from demolition, designated as a historic and cultural monument

T he Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted on Wednesday to preserve Marilyn Monroe's Brentwood home, where the star lived and died, as a Historic-Cultural Monument, saving it from demolition.

The vote ends a nearly year-long saga and effort to save the home from destruction.

Last summer , the city's Department of Building and Safety issued a demolition permit for the home.

The city council then unanimously approved Councilwoman Traci Park's emergency motion to block demolition and begin the process of designating the house as a historic building, CNN previously reported. Park represents the district where the house is located.

This week's preservation vote was the final step in the process for designation, the city's planning department told CNN.

During a speech in front of the council before the vote Wednesday, Park urged her colleagues to preserve the LA landmark. She referred to the home, like Monroe, as "iconic."

"There is likely no woman in history or culture who captures the imagination of the public the way Marilyn Monroe did. Even all these years later, her story still resonates and inspires many of us today," she said. "To lose this piece of history, the only home Marilyn Monroe ever owned, would be a devastating blow for historic preservation, and for a city where less than 3% of historic designations are associated with women's heritage."

Park said that she did not take the matter lightly and that she has been in communication with nearby residents about their concerns over traffic and safety.

She introduced another motion Wednesday to evaluate tour bus restrictions on the street and surrounding areas, she said.

"My team and I have worked closely with the property owners to assess potentially moving the home to a place where the public might actually be able to visit and spend time," she said. "I remain hopeful and committed to work with the property owners to see if this can be done in the future, but today, let's preserve this essential piece of LA's history and culture."

The Los Angeles Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving historic places in the city, called Wednesday's vote a "success."

"This designation is proof that community advocacy WORKS," the organization said in an Instagram post , thanking Park for her efforts.

The Brentwood bungalow was built in 1929 and is valued at about $8 million, according to property records. Monroe lived there for just months before she died in 1962 at the age of 36, Park said. The pop culture icon died at the home after overdosing on barbiturates.

READ MORE: Marilyn Monroe's former home saved from demolition, designated as a historic and cultural monument

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