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If you don't mind spending 3 times the price...

I have nothing against Rick Steves tours. They are convenient and, if you've got the money to blow on one, why not? However, I don't and when I did my research, I found that I could do the same program of 6 nights myself at the same hotel in Rome (and, yes, the exact same experiences) for 1/3 of the price. I even met some of my fellow Americans there on the RS tour in April. They seemed pleased enough but so was I. I had saved myself $2200! PS. Airfare is NOT INCLUDED in RS tours.

Date of experience : April 07, 2024

I recently purchased 21" carry-on…

I recently purchased 21" carry-on suitcase from the Rick Steves website. They charged me $14 for shipping. However, it was smaller than I anticipated so I went to UPS to return with the shipping form I received from the RS store. The UPS clerk measured and weighed the box and said the cheapest fee to ship the suitcase back to RS would be $77! That is almost half of what I paid for the suitcase. I called RS customer service and they said there was nothing they could do. Beware to all before you order from RS. They won't have this customer again!

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Great tours with top notch guides

I have been on 6 Rick Steves tours (2 in Italy, 2 in Spain, Greece and Turkey) and all were fabulous. Rick focuses on staying in the heart of the city, near the sights, usually in smaller, locally owned hotels. His guides are top notch and really set the tone for the trip. His choice of sights and activities are superb. Contrary to another review, Rick Steves always recommends traveling light and carrying your luggage on the plane. The reviewer who claims the Rick Steves guide books led them to pack so much clothing that they needed three big suitcases is very confused.

Date of experience : November 07, 2023

We just enjoyed our fourth Rick Steves…

We just enjoyed our fourth Rick Steves Tour, Paris and the Heart of France 11 day tour. It exceeded our expectations. Paris was gorgeous and Normandy knocked our socks off. Our tour coordinator was fun and knew her stuff. She was an American who had lived in France for over thirty years. The highlight of our adventure was spending the night on beautiful Mont St-Michel. Rick Steve's organization has a goal to teach participants to be independent travellers. This includes free time to explore the cities on his trips. We are looking forward to our fifth Rick Steves trip this Fall.

Date of experience : June 12, 2023

Rick Steves advice is a JOKE!!

Rick Steves advice is a JOKE!!! We packed our luggage based on his PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. NEVER has anyone ever been soooooo wrong! Rick advised to bring "dress" clothes and/or casual dress clothing. We packed according to what he said and was in all his books on Europe, specifically, Spain, Italy and Austria. That being said, we had 3 suitcases full of clothes we never needed! TRUST OUR REVIEW, TAKE WHAT YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WEARING!!!! Also don't waste your money on his books, they are full of nonsense. His advice cost us untold amounts of money and stress.

Date of experience : February 15, 2023

Something sinister about Rick

Something sinister about Rick. PBS runs his reruns, some up to 20 years old, 5-7 times per day. PBS has decided to provide Rick with an avenue to advertise his “tour guide” business. No one, no one, gets more exposure on PBS than Rick Steves.

Date of experience : September 15, 2022

Fantastic tours, honest and ethical company

I’ve been on 5 Rick Steves tours so far and all of them have been fantastic. The guides are all personable and knowledgeable. The itineraries have been well-organized and well-planned. I wasn’t always comfortable with some of the small family run hotels we stayed but they’ve all been interesting and definitely not cookie cutter. The groups have been less than 30 people so there’s plenty of space to spread in the full size coach bus we ride in. Plus Rick Steves himself is honest and ethical. His is one of the few tour companies fully refunding for his cancelled tours during this pandemic and not just giving credit for future travel. I’ll definitely travel again on any Rick Steves tour in the future.

Date of experience : May 28, 2020

Well run and affordable tours

I have gone on two tours with Rick Steves and both have been excellent, well-run tours. The accommodations did tend to vary from city to city, but overall his emphasize on family-run hotels with free breakfasts works well. I learned so much on my tours and made friends with great people.

Date of experience : May 02, 2020

Excellent tours!

I like that Rick Steves has created a community for his wonderful tour guides who are passionate about what they do, work hard and are well-compensated. The tours are really reasonably priced. They don't mark up their single supplements like so many other companies do. There are always unique experiences that you just can't get on your own. For me the only flaw is that the tour schedules are quite packed, there are a lot of guided tours and meals included. Personally I would prefer a little more freedom as well as my own time to explore.

Date of experience : July 15, 2020

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Rick Steves’ Travel Blog

Here you can browse through my blog posts prior to February 2022. Currently I'm sharing my travel experiences, candid opinions, and what's on my mind solely on my Facebook page . — Rick

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Comrades No More: Thoughts on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Today is a profoundly sad day. Russia’s aggressive action is heartbreaking for the death, suffering, and economic turmoil it will cause in Ukraine and, indirectly at least, beyond. Here at Rick Steves’ Europe, we hope that a diplomatic solution can be found and peace will return to that fragile and long-suffering part of our world.

Our mission at RSE is to help Americans better know and understand our neighbors through travel. But when we bring travelers to another country, we also bring their dollars — dollars that would support Putin’s aggression. Therefore, as of today, we have canceled all 2022 tours that include a stop in Russia.

Of course, we will keep a close eye on unfolding events and monitor any travel impacts through the rest of Europe. But it is important to keep geographic realities in mind and remember that a war in Ukraine is as far from our European vacation dreams as a war in Guatemala would be from Texas or Florida. For 40 years now, we have lived, worked, and traveled through many periods of tragic warfare in lands far from where we lead our tours (and some closer). And at this time, we see no reason to change the rest of our travel and touring plans.

The tragic reality unfolding in Ukraine only reminds me how important it is for Americans to keep on traveling and to do so in a way that makes us better and more engaged citizens of our world. I’m flying to Europe next month for a 40-day trip through a dozen great cities from London to Athens — and I’m proud that thousands of my fellow travelers will experience the European trip of their dreams while having rich learning experiences far from home on a 2022 Rick Steves tour.

In the meantime, let’s be thankful for our blessings, support our nation’s leaders as they do their best to navigate this crisis, and keep the troubled corners of our world (Ukraine, Russia, Afghanistan, and more) in our thoughts and prayers.

The Tour du Mont Blanc: Some Tips I Learned Along the Way

At 66, I felt a bit like the father of the hiking community when I hiked around Mont Blanc earlier this fall. But the Tour du Mont Blanc is doable for any reasonably fit hiker, and there were plenty of people on the trail who were older than me.

For total novices like Shelley and me, it’s wise to be proactive about health and safety. Here are some tips I learned along the way:

Good boots, liner socks, slippery powder, and moleskin for tender skin are essential. We kind of became gear geeks — investing in good day bags (Osprey), woolen clothes (socks, underwear, shirts), and great hiking shoes. I was never so thankful for a wool cap in Europe.

I was skeptical about a lot of “good ideas,” but two things I eventually appreciated were a daily baggie of trail mix and my metal water bottle. (I complained about its steep $40 price tag…but soon came to recognize it was a great value).

I must say, if the weather turned bad and it rained hard, I think much of the trail would become no fun at all. In fact, it would be dangerous. Hiking poles are essential, and even in perfect weather, I would have been worried about a stumble without my own trusty set.

Eat a solid breakfast. The one day we had breakfast with no protein, climbing was tougher.

Put on sunscreen, even if the weather’s bad.

After learning my lesson on other long hikes, I decided to be religious about stretching on the Tour du Mont Blanc from the start. I had a routine of six stretches and spent time throughout the day making sure I didn’t tighten up. Very important!

Don’t be a hero. If skin is getting hot, wrap it up. I did the entire TMB hike without a blister — and then just got one on purpose in the last two hours.

Good gear, smart and proactive ways to stay healthy, stretching, and taking it easy… it all worked just great.

I’ll be sharing more photos, stories, and tips from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 edition of Monday Night Travel. Want to come along?  Register now  for this fun — and free! — event.

Taking it Easy on the Tour du Mont Blanc

While the Tour du Mont Blanc is demanding, it’s not a particularly difficult hike. It’s just long, with lots of altitude gain and loss, and always scenic. On my recent trek around the mountain with three friends, it seemed each of us had a weak spot: knees, toes, or lungs. For some, the challenge was the uphill part, and for others (with weak knees), it was going downhill. We just took it easy, with lots of little breaks.

For long climbs, steady, smaller steps are best. The trail could be really rocky, and I can’t imagine doing it without hiking poles. The trail signs were great, and apps made staying on the trail easy: Just follow the blue dot. And I got good use out of a top-quality printed map. (I’d spend time the night before reading up on the hike and familiarizing myself with the trail on the map.)

While the weather forecast looked threatening, we hiked six days (in September, during the last week of the season) and, thankfully, had only one hour of rain. Still, each day we’d pack rain gear, and we’d add on and take off layers as we gained and lost altitude. After four days, we had it sorted out, and it occurred to us rank beginners, “We’re getting good at this.”

As we were hiking in a big circle around a big clump of mountains and sleeping in charming towns each night, every day seemed to be up and over a daunting mountain pass. A nightly treat was a stroll under a milky blanket of stars.

I’ll be sharing more photos, stories, and tips from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 edition of Monday Night Travel. Want to come along? Register now for this fun — and free! — event. 

The Mont Blanc Esprit de Corps

Hiking Europe’s Tour du Mont Blanc was a totally different slice of European culture for me: Coming upon a remote farmhouse-turned-thriving-cafe serving wonderful lunches…flowers and cows (with classic bells) scenically sprinkled throughout…and an esprit de corps where everyone is like family.

As nearly everyone hikes in the same direction (counter-clockwise), you become friends with fellow hikers. It seemed like half the people on the trail were from the US, and I met lots of Seattleites.

And in the interest of hiking light, lunches were very simple — just a sandwich from the hotel, maybe a carrot, a piece of fruit, and water. But upon reaching the mid-day summit, lunch was a marmot’s banquet. (Speaking of marmots, we saw no wildlife except a couple of mice that had been squished under hiking boots on the trail.)

The Best Hike of my Life: The Tour du Mont Blanc

Earlier this fall, four of us — total novices at long-distance treks — hiked around Europe’s highest mountain. (On the first day, big birds of prey circled high overhead. My hunch: They were vultures just waiting for one of us to drop.)

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 100-mile, ten-day hike — but we cheated a bit, hiking the best 60 miles in six days from mountain lodge to mountain lodge, catching local buses through the less exciting parts, and letting a “sherpa service” shuttle our bags each day through France, Italy, and Switzerland, from Chamonix to Chamonix.

This was the first time I’d enjoyed a slice of Europe with my girlfriend Shelley, and we were joined by Sue and David from Minnesota. (I’ve worked with David Preston for 20 years at TPT – Twin Cities PBS . In the public television world, he’s considered the “pledge drive guru.”)

Each day, we’d hike what the trail signs said would be a five-hour hike — that took us six or seven.  Our mantra: “Take our time. This is why we’re here.” Generally, the day would start at a 3,000-foot climb to a pass (or “col”) 8,000 feet above sea level. Each col was a little triumph, with its cairn of rocks arranged in a pile, dramatic weather blowing across, commanding views, and congratulatory selfies.

Part of our pre-trip training was taking steep hikes closer to home. As a typical day’s climb on the TMB is a thousand meters (or roughly 3,000 feet), I’d recommend choosing a practice hike with a 3,000-foot elevation gain so you can use it as a reference point. Ours in Washington State was the Mount Si trail. We even had a term for a 3,000-foot altitude gain: “a Mount Si.”

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The Top Travel Tips We've Learned From Rick Steves

It's rare to meet an avid vacationer who hasn't heard of Rick Steves, especially if they like to adventure in Europe. The Gordon Ramsay of travel, this American wanderer has toured the globe and shared his tips, tricks, and insider knowledge with a vast fan base through his popular guidebooks, syndicated column, television show, radio show, and website. With the help of Steves' expertise, myriad travelers have learned to streamline the process, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, and avoiding long lines at top tourist attractions.

From straightforward tips on packing less and researching a destination before visiting to first-hand advice on protecting yourself from pickpockets and boosting your cultural exposure by staying at a local B&B, we can learn much from Rick Steves. No wonder he's so popular! We checked out Steves' blog, scoured through guidance on his website, and read multiple articles to find some of his most helpful suggestions. Whether  planning a last-minute vacation or scheduling a trip a year in advance, these tips will guide you toward a happy, healthy, and successful getaway.

Get organized before you go

Whether it's a sightseeing itinerary, hotel booking, or dinner reservation, organizing and planning before you travel can help relieve tension later. Some museums require advanced booking, for instance. If you get your tickets beforehand, you can show up at your allotted time, skip the queue, and get right to the best part: exploring. If you have a must-try eatery on your bucket list, Rick Steves said in an interview with  Travel + Leisure , "you would be really wise to put it on your list of things to make a reservation for in advance." That way, you can look forward to your meal instead of worrying about getting turned away at the door.

When it comes to booking accommodations, Steves is of two minds. First, he loves the freedom of changing destinations on a whim. Reserving a room at the last minute makes this easy — nothing ties you to a particular place. But Steves also understands the effects of a long day of travel. In an article on his website titled " Reserving Rooms as Your Travel ," he advised "booking in advance for the first few nights, as finding a room when jet-lagged can be stressful." In another  piece about researching a trip, Steves suggested getting to know the area you plan to visit. Read an updated guidebook, consult a map, visit tourist information websites for advice, and check out the local sites associated with the destination to get the lay of the land.

Don't check a bag

Sticking to carry-on luggage isn't a new idea, nor is it solely associated with Rick Steves. Traveling with a bag that can fit in the overhead bin will save you money, time, and potential delays. Plus, limiting yourself to a carry-on can help you fly standby or jump on an earlier flight. It also eliminates worries about lost or stolen luggage. "It's more important than ever to travel light," Steves explained to  Travel + Leisure . "Two weeks, two months, man, woman, winter, summer, it doesn't matter, you just need a carry-on bag."

Not sure how to whittle down your want-to-brings to must-haves? In an article on his website about packing light, Steves suggested spreading everything you want to bring on the floor. Be honest when looking at the piles and decide what you really need versus what items (like soap and shampoo) you could buy when you reach your destination. 

Instead of packing a heavy coat, Steves advised adding layers to your suitcase. And remember, you can always do laundry somewhere, so there's no need to overpack. Trust us, it's possible to pack for a seven-day vacation in only one carry-on . Using packing cubes is another great tip. They help organize your belongings and compress clothes to occupy less space in your bag. Are you traveling by yourself? There are  five items every solo traveler should pack : a backpack, an action camera, a tablet, a smartphone sanitizer, and a GPS messaging device.

Take steps to stay healthy

Nothing can derail a trip quicker than an illness or injury. Whether it's a cold, food poisoning, or something more serious, staying on top of your health while traveling is essential. In an article on his website titled " Tips for Healthy, Happy Travels, " Rick Steves said the first step to staying well begins on the plane. To avoid dehydration, he suggested eating light meals, drinking plenty of water or juice, and avoiding coffee, alcohol, and sugar. Get up and walk around on long flights to reduce your risk of blood clots. This can also help with boredom and discomfort.

Steves wrote that it's important to eat nutritiously despite being on vacation. "Budget travelers often eat more carbohydrates and less protein to stretch their travel dollars. This is the root of many health problems," he stated. "Protein helps you resist infection and rebuilds muscle." So be sure to add protein to at least one meal per day. 

Other health-saving tips include actions that are likely common knowledge, like washing your hands frequently (pack sanitizer for times when soap and water aren't easily accessible), practicing safe sex, exercising, and sleeping for 7 to 8 hours each night. While you may have access to a pharmacy or drugstore at your destination, in a separate piece titled " Medical Care in Europe ," Steves advised packing any prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and other meds (i.e., for colds, motion sickness, constipation, and diarrhea) to prepare for anything.

Live like a temporary local

To experience a more authentic vacation, Rick Steves told  Forbes  that he recommends traveling like a "temporary local." That means you should stay in small, family-run hotels and guesthouses. These types of accommodations are often quaint, comfortable, and budget-friendly. They also tend to offer a more personal touch than larger, more expensive hotel chains. Plus, Steves said in an article on his website about European B&Bs that local accommodations keep tourists "closer to the everyday life of the culture [they] came to experience." B&Bs are a favorite accommodation choice for Steves. "Staying at a European bed-and-breakfast is a bit like having your own temporary mother while you travel," he explained.

Steves suggested dining at restaurants outside the tourist zones when it comes time to eat. Go where the locals go, and you're in for a tasty, fresh, and affordable meal, he said in his website's article about eating well in Europe . If the menu is handwritten, Steves told "Forbes," "that means they are catering to savvy locals, serving what's seasonal and fresh in the market." In other words, you're more likely to enjoy your food choice and get it at a reasonable price.

Don't ignore lesser-known destinations

There's nothing wrong with having your heart set on visiting tourist hot spots like Europe's Venice, Paris, and London. These historical gems are traveler heavyweights for a reason –- they're chock full of landmark attractions, stellar restaurants, luxurious hotels, and plenty of interesting things to do. However, by only visiting these A-list locales, you're doing yourself a disservice. It's the "second cities," as Rick Steves called them in an interview with  The Seattle Times ,  i.e., the lesser-known destinations, where you'll find fewer crowds and often equally as noteworthy (or potentially even more remarkable) points of interest. So next time you're in Barcelona, why not tack on a visit to Figueres, where you'll find a truly impressive and unforgettable museum dedicated to former resident Salvador Dalí, not to mention excellent restaurants.

In an article on his website titled " Europe Trip Itinerary Tips ," Steves suggested alternating big cities with smaller villages and countryside. "Break a Venice-to-Florence-to-Rome trip with an easygoing time in Italy's hill towns or on the Italian Riviera," he wrote. That way, you'll be able to sneak in a little peace and quiet while soaking up the beauty in these Elysian spots, giving you a more well-rounded view of the country. As Steves stated in that same article, "Judging Italy by Rome alone is like judging America by New York City."

Time your visits

Sometimes, you can't avoid uber-crowded cities and popular attractions. Whether it's due to your long-held desire to visit Rome in summer or your penchant for checking top tourist sites off your list, occasionally, there is no way around putting yourself in the middle of chaos. When that's the case, follow Rick Steves' advice: choose your timing well. "In the most crowded European cities," Steves said in an article on his website titled, " Traveling Against the Crowd in Europe, " "it pays to get out early and stay out late." This way, you can be first in line for busy attractions like the Colosseum, or in Greece, you could hit the tail end of Athens' Acropolis queue by arriving just before this landmark attraction closes.

If your must-see tourist sites offer advance booking, take advantage of that option before heading out. Then, you can go to that specific point of interest without encountering any stress or time-wasting lines. If you're visiting a common cruise ship port in Europe (like Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Florence), this advice will come in particularly handy, Steves wrote in the article. These popular spots get swarmed by tourists on a day trip from the boat, which means the attractions will be super busy, especially at midday.

Step outside of your comfort zone

Part of the fun of traveling is experiencing the unknown and being open to new adventures, be they in the form of unique activities, exciting cuisine, or bespoke entertainment. Instead of sticking to a touristy part of town and eating in a well-known restaurant, for instance, Rick Steves recommends stepping outside your comfort zone, if only for a meal. If you're in Coimbra, Portugal, for example, he wrote in his website's article, " Top Travel Mistakes — and How To Avoid Them ," he advises travelers to "leave the quaint Old Town and head to the local university's cafeteria to eat and practice Portuguese with students and professors." In doing so, tourists gain a chance to meet locals, learn about their culture, and create a new connection that will enhance their travel experience. 

Leaving the tourist zone, Steves said, will get you away from crowds, high prices, and potentially disappointing food. Instead, wander even a few blocks away to find a new adventure filled with more ambiance, better cuisine, and happy locals. "By being open to differences and staying flexible," Steves shared in his article " Making the Most of Your Trip ," "I have a better time in Europe — and so will you." Try new things and stop where you weren't expecting to. If you pass a street fair on your journey, take the time to check it out. In his article, Steves also suggested sitting beside a stranger at a bar and striking up a conversation.

Don't let saving money cloud your judgement

Just because something is cheap doesn't mean it's a good deal. In some cases, for instance, a less costly room with poor online reviews will cause more headaches than it's worth. If you hope to save money on accommodations, look for a charming B&B. In an article called  "Thrifty 50 Travel Tips," Rick Steves wrote, "A B&B offers double the warmth and cultural intimacy for half the price." Plus, you're bound to get a good night's sleep, so you'll have more energy for sightseeing the next day.

"Smart travelers spend a little extra to polish off the rough edges of a trip," Steves said in "Making the Most of Your Trip." In other words, spending a small fee to secure an advance spot in line for a tourist attraction or opting for the slightly more expensive fast train is often worthwhile. Also, instead of futzing around with buses late at night, spend a few extra dollars on a taxi back to the hotel. Feeling too tired after your flight to figure out the city's public transportation? Save yourself the stress and hail a cab. Your time is valuable, so deciding when to splurge on things like a car share, taxi, or anything else that can help save you time or energy is essential to your happiness.

Expect problems and move on

It's rare for a trip to go perfectly. Whether you've arrived in Florence to find the Uffizi Gallery shuttered (the city's museums are closed on Mondays), hiked Scotland's Old Man of Storr only to find it too wet and stormy to marvel at the view, or lost your wallet to a pickpocket on the train in Rome, something's bound to go wrong on vacation. According to Rick Steves, the trick is to roll with it when things don't go your way. "No trip is without its disappointments," he shared on his website. "Travel is exciting and rewarding because it requires you to ad-lib, to be imaginative and spontaneous while conquering surprise challenges."

Yes, it can be frustrating and potentially scary when things don't go the way you planned — losing a wallet or passport can cause tension, especially if you panic. Instead, Steves advised in his article " Losing it all...and Bouncing Back " to stay calm and ask for help. Find someone who speaks English to assist you in dealing with local officials.

Prepare yourself for potential pitfalls before you leave home. Take photocopies of essential documents or upload digital files to the Cloud. In the same vein of preventing issues, Steves recommended calling the car rental agency the day before a trip to confirm the details of the arrangement. The same goes for hotel reservations and flights; double-check before you leave to ensure you won't hit any roadblocks.

Be vigilant

While no one wants to think about being pickpocketed on vacation, this is an unfortunate reality in many cities across the globe, especially when traveling through Europe. "Thieves target Americans not because they're mean but because they're smart," Rick Steves said in "Thrifty 50 Travel Tips." "They know we're the ones with the good stuff in our purses and wallets." When traveling, Steves suggested wearing a money belt. Keep your most important items (i.e., cash, credit cards, passport, driver's license, room key) in the belt and hide it under your pants, shirt, skirt, or other clothes. "You'll save money by not losing it," he explained. To ensure you and your belongings are well protected, know what to look out for and which places to avoid.

Any crowded tourist site (i.e., Buckingham Palace) or public train or bus (i.e., the Metro in Paris) is a prime spot for pickpocketers looking to make an easy score. "If you're not constantly on guard, you'll have something stolen," Steves wrote in " Outsmarting Pickpockets and Thieves " on his website. Protect yourself before leaving home by making copies (or taking photos) of important documents and keeping them in the Cloud in case something is lost or stolen while on vacation.

Keep a journal

No matter your age, it's impossible to remember every aspect of a trip. Jotting down memories in a journal (the old-school paper kind or an online version) is a great way to document and revisit your experiences. "I find that if I don't put the lessons of travel in my journal as they happen, these moments can be like shooting stars I just miss...or butterflies I thought I saw," Rick Steves wrote in a  Facebook post.

Not sure how to start? It's easy. Sit down somewhere comfortable and start writing. In an article titled " The Zen of Travel Journaling, " Steves recommended "[leaving] out the boring stuff." When rereading years down the line, you won't care what you ate at a not-so-great restaurant. You will, however, enjoy remembering the place's character, the important things you did, the people you met, and the way you felt while visiting.

Another of Steves' top tips for journaling is to avoid recording things in chronological order. Instead, he suggested writing about your surroundings or interacting with someone local. He said to be diligent about observing your surroundings and disciplined in writing often. Even if you only have time to jot down a few bullet points or rough thoughts, that's fine. You can always go back and flesh things out later.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

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Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

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Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

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Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

Related Articles

What Rick Steves Says To Splurge On For The Best Trip To Europe

W ith an often-unfavorable exchange rate from dollar to euro, looking for places to save money on your European vacation is almost always a priority. However, all that penny-pinching can go too far. The whole point of traveling is to have new experiences and do things you can't do at home, and that's not always possible when you are worrying about every spend. Make sure you give yourself permission to splurge and enjoy yourself; you are on holiday!

Rick Steves has a long history of creating guides for travelers to Europe. Steves aims to share travel ideas that are "fun, affordable, and culturally broadening," and with that, he recognizes that spending a little more here and there can be worthwhile. Europe is huge, and its prices range from the eye-wateringly expensive to the surprisingly cheaper-than-home. When you are working out where to splurge and when to tighten your belt, you should take into account that a "splurge" hotel room in Nice at the height of summer is going to be a different price than opulent accommodation in Slovenia during the offseason, so even with some of the high-end options, there is room to save a buck or two. If you want to upgrade your trip, here are the things Rick Steves recommends splashing out on. You deserve it.

Read more: Anthony Bourdain's Perfect Advice For Spotting The Best Local Places To Eat

Centrally Located Hotels

One area where Steves recommends spending a little extra is on centrally located hotels or B&Bs. Particularly pertinent in cities where many of the areas of interest are close together, a hotel close to the action can help you experience the vibe of a place in a way you won't if you have to trek to a far-flung hotel every night. Additionally, it can save you money on transit costs if you choose to stay where the places you plan to visit are primarily within walking distance.

Google has a great feature that helps you find accommodation in a specific area. Starting from Google Travel , click on the "hotels" tab. In the search bar at the top of the Google Hotels page, enter an attraction or landmark you want to be near. On the right side of the screen, a map will populate with pins for each lodging. At the bottom of the map is a place where you can set walkability parameters of your choosing, and you can also do this with drive times. This tool can help you discover hotels in ideal locations, cutting down on time and travel costs on each day of your trip.

The Albergo Santa Chiara In Rome

Rick Steves shared some of his favorite places to stay on the Johnny Jet  podcast. "When I'm in Rome, I go to Albergo Santa Chiara. For me, the key is to find a hotel that's kind of convivial, family-run, and beautifully located. The location is critical."

The Albergo Santa Chiara is conveniently located near the Pantheon and a five-minute walk from the Piazza Navona, the site of the stadium of Domitian, established in A.D. 80. The hotel, itself dating from 1839, is also about a 15-minute walk from the important archaeological site at the Roman Forum. If you're visiting the Eternal City, this Rick Steves-approved hotel is the perfect place to stay.

The hotel earns a healthy 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor , with many comments centering on its ultra-convenient location. Reviewer  Barb D  even name-checks the travel guru in her rave review: "This hotel is located in the heart of Rome yet in a quiet area. The room was clean and the staff was friendly. The breakfast buffet was delicious. We spent a lot of time researching hotels and found this one on the reliable Rick Steves tour book."

Guided Walking Tours

A fabulous walking tour is an excellent way to get the lay of the land. Think of it as a crash course in your destination, with the chance to learn more than you could from a standard guidebook. Rick Steves offers free audio walking tours for several cities and specific attractions through his  Audio Europe  app but still advocates for an on-the-ground guide as the best case, even though it costs more. An experienced tour guide will be familiar with the city and be able to share tips and insights and answer your questions, providing a kind of insider knowledge worth paying for.

When calculating costs, remember to factor in a tip for the guide. While tipping etiquette in European restaurants can differ from what you are used to, tipping a tour guide is generally expected and often makes up a large part of their income. If you happen upon a "free" walking tour, understand that you are free to pay what you wish — it isn't free of charge.

Combining a walking tour and a satisfying meal is, you could say, a marriage made in heaven. The delicious and decadent food tour has been around forever, but according to Steves, these excursions are enjoying a moment in the European sun with exploding popularity. It's hard to disagree with the idea that moving from place to place, sampling the specialties of the house, is worth opening your pocketbook for.

You'll likely pay more than you would for either a simple walking tour or a sit-down meal at a restaurant, but a food tour offers the chance to sample a bunch of dishes at several eateries, plus learn about cooking techniques, ingredients, and culinary history. Food tours are the perfect way to try a little bit of a lot of food (usually, the combined bites add up to a generous meal's worth), especially if you are unfamiliar with the cuisine of a place and unsure if it will be to your taste. A food tour enables you to find what you like (or don't) without the commitment of ordering and paying for an entire dish.

Parisian Food Tours

In a mouth-watering article called " Food Tours: Europe's Moveable Feasts ," Steves details a food tour he deems worth the expense that centered on the Parisian neighborhood of Marais. Steves prefers quick-moving small tours over those that move more slowly, noting that a larger number of people in the group makes it difficult to squeeze into small cafes or delis. On the food tour in question, the group visited several spots, gathering ingredients for a meal they enjoyed seated at a table under the open sky. Crisp, fresh-out-of-the-oven baguettes, buttery croissants, duck rillette, and a selection of cheeses were among the small bites the food tour enjoyed.

Another splurge Steves has come to love is cooking classes. Some combine the kitchen lesson with a trip to the market, accompanying the chef as they choose the freshest and most perfect ingredients. He shares how the French cook who led a class Steves took with his daughter brought them back after the shopping trip and "cooked it all up in her kitchen, all spiced with lots of tips, philosophy, and attitude." French cooking with a bit of personality? Mais oui!

Taxis And Ride-Shares

Public transportation is generally efficient in most major European centers, so finding your way to almost everywhere you need to go is cheap and relatively quick. Getting visitors to the hot spots is a priority in destinations that rely on tourism for a large chunk of their income, so it is generally pretty straightforward and sometimes even signed in English to make it even easier for visitors. 

With such efficient and extensive bus, train, and metro systems across Europe, you may be fine relying entirely on public transit. Occasionally, you will find an attraction you want to visit that isn't quite as simple to visit using public transport only. Remember, your time is also worth money! As Steves  puts it, "But time, like money, is a limited and valuable resource that needs to be spent smartly." He recommends paying for a taxi to travel to spots that can't quickly or easily be reached by bus or subway. 

You may also want to opt for a taxi or ride-share late at night. Obviously, safety concerns aren't tied only to public transit , but sometimes getting directly home, especially in a strange city, feels best.  

Private Cars And Drivers

Consider hiring a car and driver for a day trip. Sure, it feels like celebrity-level luxury, but depending on the time of year and where you are, it can be more reasonable than expected. If you are traveling with family or in a small group, the per-person rate is even better. Just as you must evaluate when taking a cab may be worth it for within the city, Steves  recommends hiring a car and driver "to make the most of your time in sprawling destinations that lack good public transportation." 

Destinations Rick Steves singles out as good options for a private ride are places where you will likely want to stop frequently to get out and explore. Trying to arrange this kind of tour to align with train or bus schedules can be a logistical nightmare. Renting a car and driving yourself can also be problematic. Not only do you have to contend with traffic, but the driver has to miss out on all the sightseeing. 

The travel guru's choices for prime places to hire a car include trips to the somber World War II D-Day Beaches in Normandy, the stately and elegant chateaus of the lush Loire Valley, or the picturesque towns and lookouts along Italy's Amalfi Coast.

Rick Steves is a big proponent of the picnic, and his budget planning advice includes finding a market to stock up on local ingredients for a lovely picnic in the park . It's fast and cheap, and when bread and cheese are as good as they are in the Old World, a meal featuring these staples is almost guaranteed to hit the spot. It's also a fantastic way to get some fruits and veggies that may be few and far between on European restaurant menus, but when you are visiting the home of many of your favorite dishes, it might be time to sit down and pay for an upscale dining experience. 

The senses of taste and smell are linked with memory, meaning a particular aroma can bring back an intensely vivid memory. It's a neat trick when you want to relive a holiday memory and arguably a good reason for paying a few extra dollars to help cement the flavor of a place in your remembrances. A luxury meal engages your senses in a very different way than a simple picnic. In the words of Rick Steves, "It's like taking your palate to a spa in a faraway place." Besides, great food is definitely worth paying for.

Leisurely Dinners In France

In his blog, Rick extols the virtues of a leisurely meal he enjoyed that was worth the extra expense. In the post entitled " A Three-Hour Joyride in a French Restaurant ," Steves shares the story of his splurge at a charming restaurant in the Loire Valley of France. He then wryly admits that it has taken him decades of travel to discover that a fine meal is more than supplying your body with the energy you need to keep traveling and that paying for such a meal can be worth it. Steves explains his lesson learned: "Now I can enthusiastically embrace a long, drawn-out dinner splurge as a wonderful investment of both time and money. Nowhere is this truer than in France."

An upscale meal in France is different from a typical American restaurant meal. For instance, dinner is served only at certain times (often 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.), making reservations somewhat of a necessity. Multi-course meals with smaller portions are more common than the North American standard of having several things on the same plate. Additionally, whereas American service is usually very outgoing and friendly (or "chummy," as Rick says), servers in France are often more reserved. 

Splurging on a French meal seems a fabulous way to enjoy an evening. As Steves says, "I can't imagine a richer travel experience, one that brings together an unforgettable ensemble of local ingredients, culture, pride, and people." 

Signature Experiences

In his article " When to Splurge in Europe ," Rick Steves shares how he spent three hours and a pretty penny on a taxi ride through Paris. The memory of the streetlights of the City of Lights was a sight he treasured and was well worth the expense. No one wants to come home broke, but it is arguably worse to come home and regret the things you missed out on. As Steves says, "Anything that puts me in touch with the pulse of a place finds room on my splurge list."

Not every signature experience is a popular tourist activity. A taxi tour probably isn't something that springs to mind when you think of Paris, unlike a visit to the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower. Getting in touch with the pulse of a place can be a bit subjective, but that is the joy of traveling. A history buff may love Berlin as much as a dedicated dance club scenester does, but for entirely different reasons. Both might say they are in touch with the city's ethos, but their splurge spending in pursuit of experiencing it would look nothing alike. Your trip is your trip.

Gondola Rides In Venice

Of all the splurges you can save up for to splash out on for your European vacation, Rick Steves gives a special nod to the gondolas of Venice. Yes, it may feel like a cliche, but after traveling all that way, are you really going to skip the iconic experience in the Floating City? Rick dubs it his "favorite splurge," so how could you go wrong? A gondola takes you winding through some of the smaller, quieter canals that are inaccessible any other way. Passengers cruise by the homes and palaces of Venitian families, inspiring them to imagine what changes have been wrought in the city since its founding over a thousand years ago.

Due to tightening regulations on big ships, cruise traffic in Venice is thinning a little, and a tourist tax for daytrippers is aimed at easing congestion even more. The city remains immensely popular, of course, but the evening is still a quieter time in Venice and prime time to snag a gondolier for a tour. Steves waxes poetic about the uniquely Venetian experience, saying, "Gliding through the dreamy tranquility of your own private Venice is an almost out-of-body experience — one you'll never forget."

Hiring A Personal Guide

Having someone who knows the city inside and out to show you around is a priceless experience. Scratch that; it does have a price, and that is the cost of hiring a personal guide. It's a splurge, but it is a Rick Steves-approved splurge! 

Getting the inside scoop on a city, customized to your interests, is the main benefit of having a personal guide, but it's not the only one. Yes, they can give you tips on where locals eat and drink, but they can also share personal insights to deepen your understanding and appreciation for your destination. Seeing a new destination through the eyes of someone who has grown up in the city provides a more nuanced experience than just reading the brochures. An in-the-know guide can give you advice on what the can't-miss places are and (maybe more importantly) what isn't worth the hype. And if you find yourself in a jam, a local may have solutions a visitor wouldn't even think of! According to Rick Steves, if you only splurge on one thing on your European trip , this should be it.

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