Costa Rica relies significantly on its thriving tourism industry, serving as a vital economic pillar for the nation. As the number of travellers continues to rise, so does the promise of prosperous growth and development for Costa Rica in the years ahead.

In addition to the tranquillity and peace that Costa Rica exudes, it’s the remarkable wildlife and exhilarating outdoor adventures that truly leave an indelible mark. From embarking on rainforest hikes to tackling challenging high-altitude trails and riding the waves on epic surfing coasts, this country beckons you to embrace every one of its experiences firsthand.

When I visited Costa Rica for the first time, the glimpses of rainforest areas and cloud forests really caught my attention. The corners of this land are shrouded in a dense, lush green blanket, making it a veritable paradise for conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

So, if you’re pondering the perfect way to spend a week in Costa Rica, this guide is tailor-made for you.

Overview of Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days

It isn’t easy to plan a Costa Rica trip, as it requires thorough planning and attention to detail. But this guide is your handy roadmap to a 7-day itinerary that promises to unveil the wonders of this remarkable country.

This 7-day itinerary includes must-visit destinations and renowned experiences & activities that can be savoured during your week-long adventure in Costa Rica.

Having said that, there are plenty of other Costa Rica itineraries you can book. From a week’s journey to a 15 to 18-day tour plan, you can discover the best of the country’s famous destinations & top-notch attractions.

Layout for Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days

Day 1: San José
Day 2: San José – Monteverde
Day 3: Monteverde
Day 4: Monteverde – La Fortuna
Day 5: La Fortuna
Day 6: La Fortuna – San José
Day 7: San José

This 7 days in Costa Rica itinerary includes the country’s best sights, a visit to a sustainable farm, the striking cloud forest of Monteverde, and other thrilling outdoor activities. You can even step a little further, and optional activities (which I will list down below) to the itinerary.

MAP OF COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Here’s your map of your 7 days in Costa Rica –

Essential Tips for Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days

Before I dive into the specifics of our itinerary, it’s vital to grasp some key planning factors when organizing your Costa Rica journey. While I’ll provide a high-level overview here, I’ll also provide links to additional resources and helpful guides to assist you in your travel preparations.

Best time to visit Costa Rica

If you’re wondering when is the best time to spend 7 days in Costa Rica, then it’s the holiday season (December).

However, it’s worth noting that this period attracts a substantial influx of tourists eager to partake in the festivities. As Christmas approaches and New Year’s celebrations loom, travellers often plan well in advance to ensure a hassle-free visit. An alternative approach could be to schedule your trip two weeks after the holiday season, still allowing you to relish Costa Rica’s wonders without the bustling crowds.

Additionally, the months of July and August present another popular window of opportunity. Although these months bring rain and slightly cooler weather, they offer an ideal climate for experiencing many of Costa Rica’s attractions.

Health & Safety

Costa Rica, on the whole, is considered a safe destination for travellers. However, it’s crucial to be well-prepared before venturing into unfamiliar territory. Certain areas in the country may expose you to intense heat, high UV radiation, and potential water hazards. For essential safety guidelines and valuable tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable journey, I recommend visiting the provided website to gain more insights.

Visa & Documentation

Visa requirements for Costa Rica can vary depending on your country of origin. However, regardless of your nationality, you will generally need a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months to enter Costa Rica. It’s essential to note that travellers from certain African countries may also be required to provide a mandatory yellow fever certification.

How much does it cost?

Travelling to Costa Rica during the holiday season may come with higher costs, with prices potentially nearly doubling compared to other times of the year. However, for an average one-week Costa Rica itinerary, you can anticipate a budget ranging from $890 to $1500. The final cost will depend on several factors, including your choice of accommodations, booked experiences, transportation expenses, and daily spending.

Accommodation choices play a significant role in determining your overall expenses. The type of lodging you select can either help you reduce costs or significantly increase them. Later, I’ll provide some lodging options to assist you in making an informed choice.

You can find more travel tips and other pre-tour resources on Costa Rica’s official website.

7 Day Costa Rica Itinerary

Day 1: San José

San José serves as your entry point to this Costa Rican adventure you’re about to embark on. As the capital city, it boasts a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. While it may be densely populated, San José exudes a welcoming atmosphere, drawing in friendly tourists from around the world.

The city comes alive at night with vibrant nightlife scenes and the opportunity to savor delicious local cuisine. Furthermore, its historical landmarks and exquisite architecture contribute to a sense of discovery as you explore its streets.

Here are a few places that I recommend you opt for when you’re spending your day in the capital city –

Visit the National Center of Art & Culture

This sprawling museum houses modern contemporary art, dance, and theatre. It’s one of the most important sites in San José, attracting millions of tourists. Within its walls, you’ll encounter a diverse array of galleries proudly displaying authentic Costa Rican artworks. To gain access to this cultural treasure trove, you can expect an entry fee of 1,850 CRC per person.

San Gerardo de Dota

For a tranquil and peaceful experience, consider venturing to San Gerardo de Dota, an idyllic destination for bird-watching enthusiasts. Nestled amidst the serene rolling hills of the Cordillera de Talamanca, the backdrop itself is a sight to behold.

There’s nothing quite like observing wild bird species in this serene and unspoiled environment. Interestingly, San Gerardo de Dota remains a hidden gem, relatively untouched by mass tourism, ensuring you’ll encounter fewer crowds during your visit.

Experience a canopy tour

With nearly 51% of its territory covered in lush rainforests, Costa Rica presents an ideal setting for indulging in a canopy treetop tour. This experience entails gliding down a rope between the towering trees, affording you a breathtaking aerial perspective of the densely populated forests below.

Shop at Mercado Central

If you want to shop for souvenirs, then Mercado Central is a good starting point. Look out for hand-crafted materials, browse colourful vibrant markets, and shop for artefacts or Costa Rica’s specialities. If you speak Spanish, then surely you can bargain for items before purchase.

This is the gist of what you can see & do at San José on day one of your tour. Other than the ones mentioned above, you can explore optional activities like hiking through Chirripo National Park, taking a beer tour, visiting Los Quetzales National Park, and taking free walking tours.

Overnight at San José.

Day 2: San José – Monteverde

Duration: 2hr 18mins (141kms)

Monteverde is a verdant paradise, renowned for its commitment to eco-tourism and extraordinary biodiversity. Countless tourists flock to Monteverde to partake in bird-watching excursions and to marvel at its cloud forests. I have seriously cherished my time in this remarkable town, and it owes much of its charm to the lush greenery that envelops you from the moment you arrive.

Upon your checkout, drive past winding roads to reach Monteverde. The journey is quite scenic and you can stop over to click ample photos. It roughly takes 2 hours to reach, meaning you almost have an entire day to yourself to try some interesting activities.

Some of the recommended activities to do in Monteverde

Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde

Undoubtedly, one of the best destinations in Monteverde is the Cloud Forest Reserve. A visit here allows you to rekindle your connection with nature in the most serene manner. The entire reserve is adorned with magnificent orchid collections, the potential to spot elusive jungle cats, and encounters with unique wildlife species.
Operational timings – Sunday to Saturday (7 am – 4 pm)
Entry Fee – $25 for adults, $12 for children, and an additional $5 for parking.

Experience a canopy tour

If you haven’t already experienced a canopy tour in San Jose, then Monteverde offers an unmissable opportunity for this activity. Whether you choose a treetop canopy tour or decide to traverse a network of suspension bridges through the forest, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the abundant natural world. Keep your eyes peeled for toucans and exotic orchids as you embark on this adrenaline-filled adventure.

Note: Booking a canopy tour can vary from company to company. Some offer clubbed packages, whilst others as a single service. Expect the price to be around $40 – $80 for suspension bridge tours & zip lining.

Monteverde Horseback Riding

Also if you haven’t experienced horseback riding before, I highly encourage you to give it a try, especially in the morning setting of misty Monteverde. These horseback riding trips typically span from 2.5 hours to 6 hours, guiding you along private mountain trails where you can encounter Costa Rican wildlife in its natural habitat.

As you journey, keep your eyes peeled for the likes of toucans, bellbirds, parrots, and other fascinating species. To book this activity, I recommend going through Horse Trek Monteverde, with prices ranging between $45 and $50 depending on the package you select.

Night tour of the rainforest

Exploring the rainforest at night offers a fascinating opportunity to encounter numerous nocturnal creatures. With every step, you can anticipate thrilling surprises and intriguing encounters throughout your nighttime exploration. From tarantulas to armadillos and large insects, these creatures might cross your path as you delve into the rainforest’s mysteries.
Price – The starting entry fee is $30 approx. at Night Walks Santamaria.

Along with the above-mentioned activities, you can also add the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, El Trapiche, and Santa Elena Cloud Forest tours to your list. It’s not possible to try out everything in a single day, but you can span out some of these experiences for day three.

Overnight at Monteverde.

Day 3: Monteverde

Day three in Monteverde is free to relax or try out other listed activities. Since, there’s so much to explore – keeping an extra day at this beautiful location does make sense!

My top recommendation for the day would be to go on a coffee tour in Monteverde.

This experience allows you to deepen your understanding of the sustainable coffee farming process. You’ll gain insights into the locals’ meticulous methods for preparing coffee beans, witness the intricacies of seed germination, and even get hands-on by assisting in the preparation process. As you delve into the world of coffee, you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with the locals, who can provide you with invaluable insider tips for uncovering hidden gems and secret getaways in the region.

In the end, head to the Coffee Lab to taste some of the finest samples of coffee. Even if you aren’t a coffee drinker, it’s worth sipping to relish the rich Costa Rican flavours. Alternatively, you can relax for the rest of the day or visit Monteverde Butterfly Garden and El Trapiche.

Overnight at Monteverde.

Travel Tip: Looking for other Costa Rica itineraries? We got you covered! Explore this rich catalogue of G Adventures special trips, ranging from family experiences to hard adventures.

Day 4: Monteverde – La Fortuna

Duration: 3 hours (121 km)

Today, your journey takes you from Monteverde to the adrenaline capital of Costa Rica, La Fortuna. Situated in the San Carlos region, this charming city is framed by the stunning backdrop of the Arenal Volcano. Travelers who frequent this part of Costa Rica are consistently mesmerized by the picturesque vistas provided by these majestic mountains.

Upon your arrival, you have free time to relax and explore the surroundings. In the evening, I recommend experiencing the local hot springs of La Fortuna. Well, there’s plenty of them spread across the entire city. However, not all are budget-friendly.

My ideal suggestion would be to visit the Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa. They have around 25 thermal pools around the property, surrounded by lush vegetation & clean amenities. You don’t necessarily need to book a room to access the hot springs. You can directly head to the designated area and pay an entrance fee of $40 for the hot springs.

For a more detailed guide, read The Best Hot Springs in La Fortuna

Overnight at La Fortuna.

Day 5: La Fortuna

Today, you will explore La Fortuna to its core. This day is packed with adventurous fun that will surely pump your adrenaline to experience Costa Rica’s wild side.

Things to do in La Fortuna

Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoning

Get ready to soak in this water-based adventure activity, as you rush through the gushing waters in the rainforest. As you rappel down the waters, be excited to witness exotic birds and wildlife. It’s a thrilling way to immerse yourself in this adrenaline-fueled sport, and I strongly recommend not missing out on it.
Price – You can expect a ticket fee of around $85 – $90 per person.

Arenal Volcano Walk and Hike

One of the best things you could do in La Fortuna is to take a guided walking tour of Arenal Volcano. The trail is not physically demanding and can be comfortably navigated with the assistance of knowledgeable nature guides.

The renowned 1968 trail, in particular, offers abundant opportunities to capture breathtaking views of the volcano from various angles. In addition to exploring the volcano, you can also discover other notable attractions such as Lake Arenal and Cerro Chato, an extinct volcano.
Price – $59 approx.

La Fortuna Waterfall

Just across the Arenal Volcano, you’ll find a more serene natural spot – La Fortuna Waterfalls. Here, you can unwind, revitalize, or take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Beyond the attractions already mentioned, there’s still more to discover in La Fortuna.

Consider embarking on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure, traversing the scenic hanging bridges, or exploring Proyecto Asis for a deeper understanding of local wildlife and conservation efforts.

Overnight at La Fortuna.

Day 6: La Fortuna – San José

In the afternoon depart back to San Jose. Late in the evening, you can explore the town, visit nightclubs & bars, and indulge in a delicious food experience. No other activity is planned for today, so it’s completely up to you to spend your final few hours in San Jose.

Overnight at San José.

Day 7: San José

Depart back to your hometown. You can also extend this itinerary to venture into other Costa Rican destinations.

Note: You can book the same tour through G Adventures from their official website. Through my partnership program, all additional activities & experiences will be available through G Adventures. Moreover, you can book optional tours, and flights & read more resources on this itinerary.

Accommodation for 7 Days in Costa Rica

Deciding where to stay during any trip is probably one of the most difficult things to do. Especially, when a country like Costa Rica is abundantly filled with luxury stays, budget-friendly hotels & fancy lodges.

For a traveller looking to cut down expenses, all-inclusive hotels (with meals) are a preferable option. However, for a tourist who wants maximum flexibility – cosy cabins or mountain-side lodges become trendy.

It all comes down to individual preference & travel style. To cater to some of these requirements, look at the below table I created following the itinerary. All the hotels linked below perfectly match up the 7-day Costa Rica itinerary and will require little effort to plan.

Budgeted stays – If you’re looking to cut down expenses for your trip, these budgeted stays in Costa Rica will help.

Mid-range Hotels – Have a certain budget to spare for accommodation? Then these mid-range hotels are a nice option.

Luxury Hotels – Fancy up a stay? Then Costa Rica boasts high-end stays spread across the region.

For more budget-friendly options around Costa Rica, check the catalog.

Planning Tips for Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days

How to Get to Costa Rica

There are two international airports from where you can arrive in Costa Rica. One, being the major i.e. San Jose International Airport, and the other, Roberts International Airport. The former one is rather the busiest, with long immigration lines and security check-in.

Travel Tip: To enter the country, you’ll first need to show your return ticket (proof of exiting the country).

How to Get Around Costa Rica

By Car

One of the best ways to get around Costa Rica in 7 days is by rental car. It gives you the maximum freedom to stop anywhere you want and visit places at your own pace. More so, for our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary – we recommend getting a rental car. You can check out some amazing deals here.

By Campervan

To add some thrill to your Costa Rica journey, opt for a 4×4 jeep or a campervan. With these options, you can even drive through national parks in areas like Corcovado and Guanacaste. Campervans are mostly meant for backpackers, but nowadays families opt for the same to set everything within a budget. Yes, you get your accommodation, transport, and kitchen all sorted with a campervan.

By Bus

If budget is a constraint for your Costa Rica trip, then the bus is the cheapest transport mode for you. A bus can take you to most of the places & inner regions of the country, with affordable ticket rates. However, it takes a lot of time! Not all buses in Costa Rica travel directly from one point to the other; most of them make stops between places.

What to Pack for Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days

For any Costa Rica trips, I advise you to carry a large rucksack and a convenient travel bag. Having a small handy bag will also help to keep your day-to-day essentials.

Essential Items –

T-shirts/ Shirts (Preferably long-sleeves)
Long pants/ Jeans
Sleepwear/ Innerwear (as per your need)
Footwear
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Reusable water bottle
Few energy bars/drinks
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket

Essential Items (warm weather) –

Cotton T-shirts/ Shirts
Shorts/ skirts
Sunscreen/ Lotion
Swimwear/ Sunglasses

Travel FAQs for Costa Rica Itinerary

Is Costa Rica Safe?
Absolutely yes! Costa Rica is even safe for tourists willing to solo travel. Just follow the guidelines, stay away from isolated/no-entry zones, and don’t showcase your valuables around. If traveling on a guided tour, listen to all instructions received and keep a note of them.

Is Costa Rica open for travel?
At the current time of writing, yes Costa Rica is open for tourism. However, important COVID-19 guidelines & government protocols need to be followed. Tourists need to be fully vaccinated, along with a valid travel policy to enter the country. Since this is uncertain & can change the moment you read this article, it’s advisable to be updated with the latest news.

Is Costa Rica expensive?
Costa Rica is considered relatively expensive compared to many other Latin and Central American destinations. If you are travelling on a tight budget, you can expect to spend around $30 to $45 per day. However, it’s essential to note that individual preferences and the specific activities and experiences you choose can significantly impact your overall costs.

Is English spoken in Costa Rica?
Yes, English is spoken in Costa Rica, but it’s not the primary language. Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, so the majority of locals converse in Spanish. However, in areas frequented by tourists, you’ll often find that many people, especially those in the tourism industry, can communicate in English.

How much will the above-curated itinerary cost?
The above Costa Rica itinerary for 7 Days will cost you $900 – $1200. Through the partnership program with G Adventures, you can book the same tour through their website. Depending on the dates you select, tour costs may vary. You can also opt for additional activities & even extend your stay to explore other tourist places.

How to book add-ons for the above itinerary?
For accommodation, you can explore a plethora of options from Tripadvisor.

Further Reading & Resources

Discover a range of highly designed itineraries & road trips and choose what’s best for you. Browse through some of these articles via the below links.

New Jersey to Florida:9 Ultimate New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Spots
San Francisco to Seattle:10 Most Beautiful San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls:9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Yosemite:9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops

The post The Ultimate Costa Rica Itinerary for 7 Days (+Map, Tips) appeared first on Travel Realms.

Europe is no short of romantic places, that awe-struck visitors with their unique charm. Each country & its popular cities have distinct features, reminiscing everyone about their culture, influence and lively touristic scenes. One such country, that truly boasts the typical European love affair is – Slovenia.

Brimming with bluish-green lakes, flourishing gardens, medieval castles, and a picture-perfect postcard of a church on an islet –Slovenia is a ‘must-visit’ destination in Europe. Along with all the beautiful attractions you could see, Bled in Slovenia is a popular resort that lures many honeymooners & adventure enthusiasts to experience the country. Right from hiking, biking, and cycling activities to experiencing over-the-top romantic settings around Lake Bled – there are endless possibilities to explore the town and its surroundings.

In this guide, I’ll be covering the most beautiful attractions you could cover at Lake Bled in Slovenia. This picturesque small town has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway – so you won’t be missing out on any Slovenian experience during your trip. This article will also cover popular must-have’ experiences around Lake Bled and beyond. So at the end of your read, you’ll have a comprehensive idea of a perfect travel plan to Slovenia.

TOP THINGS TO DO AT LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA

VISIT BLED ISLAND

Probably the best experience in Bled lies in visiting its greatest attraction – the Bled Island. Known for its exquisite blue-green lake, the island of Bled sits in the middle of the lake, amongst gorgeous backdrop settings. It’s almost a sight to watch for hours and hours, as you swim or stroll around the lake. Even as you walk around, the sight to behold the centerpiece is lovely to take in from almost any vantage point.

Travel to Bled Island by rowboat: If you feel adventurous, try yourself boating up to reach the island, then you can rent a rowboat and paddle across the lake. Plenty of shops are located around the lake that rent these rowboats. Charges are as per hours, and it varies accordingly. Usually, you can expect something like €20-€22 per hour.

Also, you don’t need any sort of experience to try out row-boating. It’s pretty simple and a fun activity, although requiring some muscular strength to row out during your final stretch.

Travel to Bled Island via traditional pletna: There are traditional pletna boats that take you from the shore to the island. These boats date back to the year 1590 and can fit approx. 20 people. It’s a good alternative option if row boating isn’t your thing.

You can book tickets for these pletna boats in Milano near Vila Bled, and they cost you €12-€15 per person.

RING THE WISHING BELL

As you get closer to Bled Island, you’ll probably hear the church bell ring. There’s an old saying that whoever does ring the bell, will have their wish come true.

Once you reach Bled Island, you’ll have to walk 99 stairs to visit the Church of the Assumption. You can ring the bell, with something you love and then stroll around the church to enjoy the scenery from the island.

The ticket price to the church of Assumption is €6.

STROLL AROUND LAKE BLED

One of the best experiences you could take away from Lake Bled is simply walking around and admiring the perfect scenes. The entire circuit to walk is around 6kms, which is relatively flat. It takes around an hour and a half to complete the circuit, however with more frequent photo stops – it could take you close to two hours.

As you stroll along, you’ll find a perfect picture spot to click snaps of Lake Bled and the castle. The whole scenery changes, you come across different vantage points, unique lookout areas, and much more. Especially, the views from the south side of Lake Bled are amazingly gorgeous.

There are also several benches for visitors to sit and relax. You can always take your time to complete the circuit at your easy pace.

GO UP TO THE CASTLE

Perched on the rock high above the lake, sits the beautiful Bled Castle. This is Slovenia’s oldest castle, dating back to 1011. On your visit here, you can witness spectacular views of the lake from the terrace, or tour the museum if you’d wish.

There are also two courtyards, inter-connected, which you can access. The upper one houses a small chapel with beautiful frescoes. From here, you can soak in Lake Bled’s beauty in all its glory, sweeping across the lakeshore and ice-capped mountains.

You can also dine in here, at the Bled Castle Restaurant.

The ticket price for adults is €13 and for children aged 14 or younger €5. For more details on operational hours & group pricing, visit the official site.

EXPERIENCE PADDLE BOARDING

A fun alternative way to explore Lake Bled is to paddleboard. And what a gorgeous place to rent paddleboards and explore the lake on your own!

Even if you don’t have any prior knowledge of paddleboarding, you can still take part in this activity. Once you rent out a paddle, you’ll be followed by a brief introduction to the sup course. The activity organizer will help you stand on your own feet on the paddleboard.

Once you’re good to go, you can paddle out to the middle of the lake or along the shoreline to soak in majestic views of Bled Island. You can always jump in the water and refresh yourself!

You can check this guided activity experience here.

TAKE A HIKE TO MALA OSOJNICA

Hikes in Slovenia are really popular. They provide some absolute, stunning views of the entire town. For aerial viewpoints of Lake Bled, you can choose between two hiking trails – Ojstrica (611 meters above sea level) and Mala Osojnica (685 meters above sea level). I’d personally recommend the latter one, as it is relatively quick to reach, with a bit strenuous on the other side.

The starting path of the trail is much easier to walk upon. Even in some sections, you’ll find a wooden section of steps for climbing. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a nice, stunning view of Lake Bled.

From the main viewpoint i.e. Mala Osojnica – the view is even more spectacular. Even if you aren’t a hike, it’s worth experiencing this trail for your first-time visit.

HEART OF BLED VIEWPOINT

Heart of Bled is one of the popular landmarks of Lake Bled in Slovenia. It’s situated on a wooden deck in a heart-shaped frame. Perfect stop-by viewpoint for romantic couples to admire the scenic lake views.

Nothing really great about this place, but just fascinates visitors to take snaps with some great background.

RELISH THE FAMOUS CREAM CAKE

If you’re in Lake Bled, then there’s one thing that you shouldn’t miss out on trying – cream cakes. These are traditional regional deserts and you could find them almost anywhere around Slovenia.

But the one that you get in Bled, is the most famous of all! All the layers of vanilla cream mixed with crispy puff pastry are worth all the calories.

The price for these cream cakes is around €4, 70.

SIP A HOT COFFEE

Warm yourself with a hot cup of coffee whilst you soak in amazing scenic views of the lake. And probably the best café to indulge in that experience – is the Café Belvedere.

It’s one of the hidden spots of Lake Bled, and not many people are aware of this place. However, being a part of the Vila Bled premises – it has now grown in popularity and visitors often find themselves snugging for a coffee and cream cake.

Often so, finding a way to Café Belvedere is challenging – but it’s worth all your efforts!

EXPERIENCES BEYOND LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA

VISIT SOTESKA VINTGAR

Vintgar Gorge is a must-visit place if you’re at Lake Bled. Although it’s not located near the lake, a 13-minute drive will be worth your trip.

Upon your arrival, you can walk the 1.5 km long trail along the Radovna River, which will take you across beautiful gorges, lush green forests, and pretty waterfalls. The trail is easy to walk upon, and won’t require much of your energy to complete the round-trip.

Give yourself 2-3 hours to visit Vintgar Gorge, as it is a busy attraction. Often, in the morning visitors pop in to explore the place. So expect a few crowd along the trail boardwalks.

The entrance fee to Vintgar Gorge is €10.

DAY TRIP TO BOHINJ

Although the beauty of Lake Bled is incomparable, Lake Bohinj is something worth checking out!

Located 26km away from Bled, the beauty of Lake Bohinj is striking enough to make you explore this place for hours and hours. From visiting the St John the Baptist Church and Zlatorog to feeling adventurous with water sports on Lake Bohinj – there’s so much to do here.

Ideally, I’d recommend you take a full-day trip to Lake Bohinj to visit this place in its entirety.

EXPLORE THE TOWN OF RADOVLJICA

Just a 10-minute drive from Lake Bled, you will find the quaint town of Radovljica. It’s a small town, with a bounty load of attractions to experience. Some of them are even from the medieval period, with their original history intact.

The biggest two highlights of Radovljica are the two museums – gingerbread and beekeeping. Both these museums are super interesting, with value-added history. A complete walkthrough of the museum will show you the whole process of honey production.

HOW TO GET TO LAKE BLED?

Lake Bled is easily accessible from every direction. Especially, the proximity to Ljubljana is just under 45-minutes. Hence, popular day trips to Lake Bled from Ljubljana are more common for all activities & experiences.

Both rental cars and taxis are available at the city center to book. You’ll even get options to reserve your car at the airport itself. If you’re simply touring Lake Bled for a single day, then check these day-trip excursions.

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED IN LAKE BLED?

Ideally, one day is more than enough to explore the beauty of Lake Bled. However, with more time in your schedule, you can spare 2 or 3 days in this gorgeous city. Doing so will ensure that you also visit other beautiful areas around Lake Bled.

With an additional third day in your schedule, you can fit in Vintgar Gorge or Lake Bohinj.

ACCOMMODATION IN LAKE BLED

Lake Bled being a popular resort town in Slovenia boasts plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Ranging from budgeted stays to luxurious rooms, you can find perfect hotels according to your preference and style.

Here are a few of my recommendations –

Adora Luxury Hotel (ex Vila Istra): Situated on the waterfront area of Lake Bled, this modern luxury hotel is one of its kind. Spacious rooms, high-end amenities, and friendly staff all make your experience worthwhile.

Vila Cvetka Apartments – For budget-friendly options, Vila Cvetka is a ‘must-stay’ option at Bled. You can either choose to book the apartments or cottages from their wide variety of options.

Bled Rose Hotels – The hotel swanks beautiful rooms, and hosts great amenities within convenient walking distance to Lake Bled. Ideal for group travelers and families.

For more hotel stays and accommodation options – check this website.

OTHER EUROPEAN GUIDES

Discover Iceland – Read this guide, to explore Iceland’s unique attractions and destinations.

Best Iceland Itineraries – Planning a trip to Iceland? Check a wide range of uniquely-designed itineraries.

Experiential Paris – Discover the best things to do in Paris at Christmas.

The post Lake Bled Slovenia: The Most Beautiful Lake in Europe appeared first on Travel Realms.

Are you visiting Iceland and can’t decide for how long? Wondering which places to visit, which activities to book and experiences to undertake? Then read this guide, as we detail out a perfect itinerary of spending 3 days in Iceland.

Although seems like a small island, Iceland is a vast country with abundant attractions spread across the country. Trust me, when planning a perfect trip itinerary to Iceland, it may get overwhelming for you. Planning a suitable duration to schedule your trip is a confusing task, if not sure about which attractions to visit. But, let me help you out here with this Iceland travel guide!

A holiday as short as 3 Days is enough to explore some of the major highlights of the country. You can maximize your itinerary to cherish every bit of this land’s richness. Of course, the choice of activities, however, can be a little tricky to shortlist. It may depend on a traveler’s perspective, preference, and suitability. But I would love to share my Iceland travel guide with you guys that can be worth your visit.

The days may seem short or the travel may seem like a city break. However, I have ensured the itinerary is crammed with loads of Iceland’s beauty that will be enshrined in your memories forever.

Is 3 Days in Iceland Enough?

This is a very common question I get from travelers. And honestly, it depends on several factors – how much time do you have, your interests or the activities you want to do. While there is no perfect itinerary suitable for all, I created several Iceland road trip itineraries that you can check out. These itineraries vary from destination to destination, outdoor activities, and experiencing phenomena like Northern Lights & Midnight Sun.

But if you want to see all of Iceland, then the answer is two weeks. Yes, 3 days is enough to see to the country’s highlights + experiencing offbeat tracks. If this is not the period you want to choose, then 7-8 days is ideal to explore the country’s major touristic attractions. You can either explore only the southern coast of Iceland or maybe explore bits & parts of the whole country.

No matter how long you stay in Iceland, trips to this country are always worth cherishing. I’ve been to the country few times to experience different seasons & every time it has felt like a home to me. Thus, ensuring your trips are memorable too.

Essential Planning Tips for 3 Days in Iceland

it’s important to ensure your travel trips are smoother and much efficient. This section is mostly for beginners or first-time travelers to Iceland – who may not be aware of the country’s facts. This section details out few important things you might need to know before spending 3 days in Iceland.

Visa – To visit Iceland, you will require a Schengen Visa that allows you a stay for a maximum of 90 days.

Seasons – Iceland has got only two seasons– summer and winter. Both seasons offer unique experiences to tourists traveling. If visiting during the summer months, then you’ll have longer days to explore around the country. During June and July, the sunsets as late as midnight and you will get to witness the Midnight Sun. However, if traveling during the winter months – then you get the chance to observe the dazzling Northern Lights. The nights are darker, which enables you to catch this magical experience.

Getting Around Iceland – The best way to explore the country is through hiring a campervan or renting a car. A campervan is the most recommended option if planning for a 7+ day’s tour. You’ll save a good amount of money on accommodation & you can utilize that to book guided activities. Also, it’s advisable to keep in touch with a rental car company to ensure you get your booking done well in prior. During the summer period, cars book out quickly, especially the ones that are a lot cheaper!

Note: For our 3-day Iceland itinerary, we recommend booking a rental car for your travels. Having a rented car gives you the freedom and flexibility to manage your schedule.

Expenses – Iceland is not a cheap destination! Trust me, if not well planned – it will go expensive on your pocket. I will suggest you do your homework on the cost and expenses part, otherwise, you will end up spending more than what’s needed.

Overview of 3 Day Iceland Itinerary

The itinerary designed for this Iceland trip is open for all age-groups. I wanted to keep this a simple, yet fun-filled tour so that everyone can enjoy its unique experiences. Since, we only have limited time – I also wanted to ensure to include exploration of the best sights in Iceland. These includes visiting the Golden Circle, Reykjavik city, geothermal hot springs, lava craters, black sand beaches, and amazing waterfalls.

3 days in Iceland Schedule

Day 1: Arrival – Blue Lagoon – Reykjavik City Exploration
Day 2: Golden Circle Tour – Thingvellir National Park – Geysir Springs – Gullfoss Waterfall
Day 3: Seljalandsfoss – Skógafoss – Vik Village – Gljufrabui – Sólheimasandur – Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vik

Map of 3 Day Iceland Itinerary

Check out the below route map for your Iceland trip.

Detailed Itinerary for 3 Days in Iceland

Day 1 | Exploring Reykjavik & Blue Lagoon

Upon your arrival in Iceland at Keflavík International Airport, I recommend you start your day by visiting the Blue Lagoon. I urge you to visit this attraction first, if in case you’ve had a long flight with multiple hauls.

Blue Lagoon

Any trip to Iceland is incomplete without visiting this top tourist attraction. Millions of tourists travel to Blue Lagoon every year and are one of the most popular places to stop by. Make sure you take one of the transfer buses that are officially run by Blue Lagoon.

Once you arrive, you will have to drop in your bags at the luggage center and check in. Blue Lagoon is strict in terms of hygiene maintenance. Thus, you will have to take a shower before getting into the pool. Once done, you’re all set to witness this place by yourself. Relax, rejuvenate and calm down your senses by taking a dip into the pool. No matter which season you visit, you’ll have a wonderful experience. When I visited during the winter months, it was snowing and it was simply a magnificent sight to watch!

An important note – You must book the tickets well in advance! You cannot just drop in, otherwise, it will be hard to find any reservation. There are several packages for Blue Lagoon offering different services and amenities. I recommend you to take the basic one, as it’s the most preferred ticket choice for all of us. However, it’s entirely up to you to upgrade your tickets to more premium ones.

If you need more details on planning a trip to Blue Lagoon, then read our in-depth guide – ‘The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon‘. It will give you a brief idea on transport, ticket prices, activities & accommodation.

If you’ve reached Blue Lagoon in the morning, then two-three hours is enough for the exploration. Try to hit Reykjavik by noon, so that you get ample time to explore the capital city.

Reykjavik

Your next stop after Blue Lagoon is the capital city of Iceland – Reykjavik. It’s a 44-minute drive from Blue Lagoon and is one of the prettiest towns I’ve ever visited. A simple stroll around the city will make you observe Reykjavik’s treasured beauty. The best way to explore downtown Reykjavik is by foot or bicycle. In this way, you can cover most of the famous stops.

Walk around the riverfront to check out the iconic sculpture work, known as the ‘Sun Voyager (Solfar)’. Along the harbor, you’ll also find another prime attraction – Harpa Concert Hall. If you continue to walk alongside the main street, you will end up at Reykjavik Maritime Museum – home to historic ships and exhibits on the local fishing industry.

You can stop by for lunch at Grandi Matholl to taste some of Iceland’s delicacies. Post lunch, make sure to visit one of Reykjavik’s most popular attractions – the church of Hallgrímskirkja. I’m pretty sure you must’ve seen this place by now while walking around the street. It’s almost visible from anywhere in the city. This tall Lutheran church is a majestic display of architecture that can be explored from the inside as well. You can access the top of the tower if interested in catching a 360-degree view of the city.

If you have some time in the late afternoon, then do visit Flyover Iceland. It’s a true experience for adults & children, with full-motion-based seating, elevating you up to a 20-meter height. The visual film display will take you on an exhilarating journey across Iceland, with special effects including –wind, mist, scents, and a musical score. Worth visiting this place if you are traveling in a small group or with family.

The exploration doesn’t end here, as the city of Reykjavik will be buzzing with nightlife. The lanes at the heart of the city will lead you to some amazing pubs, bars, and restaurants. Indulge in the colorful and vibrant nightlife – meet with locals – experience various cuisines and drink like a true Viking!

Alternatively, you can also consider the below guided tour for a different activity altogether.

Day 2 | Highlights of the Golden Circle

Your second day in Iceland is loaded with natural attractions that include exploring the Golden Circle, majestic waterfalls, hiking trails, and photogenic spots. Before you start your journey, my suggestion will be to pack some food en route, so that you don’t go hungry!

The Golden Circle starts and ends at Reykjavik. The road will take you first to the Thingvellir National Park, after which you will visit some of Iceland’s mighty waterfalls. The total journey will take you approx. 7-8 hours. So I suggest you start early in the morning by 8 or 9 am, enabling you to reach back Reykjavik in the late afternoon. This will ensure that you also have some evening time off to spend at the capital center.

Thingvellir National Park

One of the UNESCO sites of Iceland – Thingvellir National Park has become popular amongst tourists over the years due to its rich history and striking beauty. Excellent choice for short hiking trails, this is also where the first parliament took place during the Viking Era.  It’s quite an interesting place to visit and to explore the parliament – which was responsible for shaping the history of Iceland. Although you won’t see any big city halls or a grand display of monumental structure depicting the Parliament, it’s something very unique & traditional to understand how instrumental this place has been.

Thingvellir National Park is also popular because of its geological traits that fascinate many travelers. This is where the North American and Eurasian plates touch. It’s only in Iceland that you can get to see the rifts, and nowhere in the world can you see the tectonic plates as clearly as in Thingvellir National Park. There’s also a natural lake called Silfra where you can opt to snorkel or dive. The activity has fewer requirements and can be done by tourists above age twelve.

Post your exploration of Thingvellir, you will travel towards another prime attraction of Golden Circle – Geysir Hot Spring.

Optional – Before reaching Geysir, you will come across Brúarfoss Waterfall. It is not much known and not an official point of the Golden Circle route. But, this is something that I witnessed and found out amazing! It’s a great location to click some photos for your Instagram posts!

Geysir

It’s time to explore the geological wonders of Iceland!  Geysir Hot Springs is one of the most popular stops in Iceland. It’s a must-visit place if on the Golden Circle route. If you’ve never witnessed a geyser before, then this is something worth watching.  There are two geysers in the Golden Circle route – Strokkur and the great Geysir.

The most active one in the region is the Strokkur which erupts every 2-3 minutes. Just wait and be ready with your cameras to capture the sight. Not only Strokkur, but the region has many hot springs, boiling mud pits, and small geysers. You can even boil an egg near the boiling water from the mud pits!

There are quite a few restaurants here to have a quick lunch. If you got something packed, then you can skip your lunch & move towards your final point – Gulfoss waterfalls.

Gulfoss

You might’ve seen some waterfalls along your way, but trust me – there’s nothing like Gulfoss! One of the mighty waterfalls of Iceland – this is the most photogenic place in the country. It’s also one of the highlights of your 3 days in Iceland itinerary. The water from Gulfoss streams down the Langjökull glacier and then cascades into Gulfoss 32 meters down. It’s an incredible sight to watch the natural force of the water running downwards with its full power.

There are two observation areas to view each side of the waterfall. You can simply take a leisurely walk to reach one of the areas to capture photos. The closer you get, the surreal will be the experience. Make sure you have waterproof jackets on to enjoy the views safely. There’s also a small café nearby – Gulfoss Panorama Café, from where you can catch the glorious views of Gulfoss.

This concludes your Golden Circle sight-seeing tour and you’re good to head back to Reykjavik.

Day 3 | Exploring the Southern Coast

The last day of your 3 days in Iceland is loaded with southern Iceland’s major attractions. The total journey to & fro will be almost 4 hours, but it will take a total of 9-10 hours for your total travel (including visits to each location). It’s advisable to start your day 3 early morning so that you can reach Reykjavik in the late afternoon.

Start early morning by driving towards the southernmost point of Iceland – Vik. The journey to the south is so lovely, that no matter what – you’ll see some of the country’s most amazing landscape features. You’ll pass through lava fields, volcanic craters, and black sand.

Seljalandsfoss

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss waterfall. While Iceland is home to numerous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss is one that you shouldn’t miss if on a southern coastal tour. This waterfall offers visitors a path to walk behind it. Thus, you’ll get even closer to photograph this splendid display. Make sure you wear waterproof jackets and keep your distance from danger points. The best time to visit and avoid crowds is during the morning. You’ll likely get fewer visitors and thus you can move around the place nicely.

Gljufrabui

If you walk just a few miles left to the Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, you’ll find another hidden gem – Gljufrabui waterfalls. Not many visitors are aware of this spot, but we got you covered. There’s always fun to find out and explore hidden locations of a place. I didn’t know if this waterfall earlier, but then during my second visit to Iceland, I made sure I don’t miss out. So make sure you reach Gljufrabui & get enough snapshots of it!

Skogarfoss

Next stop is the Skogarfoss waterfall. If you think you’ve seen enough with Seljalandsfoss & Gljufrabui, then you’re probably wrong! One of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland – Skogarfoss can be seen from the Ring Road as well. If the view isn’t right for you, then climb up 527 steps to get another perspective of the waterfall. Just be careful while you walk along, and take proper clothing precautions to not get wet. From the top, you can see the southern part of the Ring Road that offers magnificent views too!

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Just a little ahead of Skogarfoss waterfall, you’ll come across a unique site – Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck. Well, the site looks scary but worry not! No one died in this plane crash. The accident is believed to happen due to some human error and since then the crashed plane has been a tourist site for all travelers. It’s right in the middle of a black sand beach, and it makes your stop worth it!

The crashed plane has been featured in many documentaries, shows, and movies and since then it has become quite a popular tourist attraction. If you’ve parked your car near Skogarfoss waterfall, then the walk may be a bit long (approx. 30-45 minutes). So if you aren’t traveling during summer, make sure you travel to the location fast enough before it gets dark.

Rejnisfjara Black sand beach

I’m pretty sure you must’ve seen this place somewhere – maybe in films or TV series. If not, this place has also been a desktop wallpaper for a lot many people (not even kidding). It’s one of my favorite locations in Iceland and the beach is as beautiful as it can get.

Voted by National Geographic – as one of the Top 10 non-tropical beaches – this place offers stunning panoramic views against the roaring Atlantic waves. With enormous basalt stacks & dramatic tides, this place can potentially be dangerous too. Meaning, the strong forces of Reynisfjara are violent and can sweep you away into the sea. So never turn your back against the waves & be careful of the surrounding. Not to forget – you can also meet up with Icelandic horses. If horse-riding is your thing, then why not do it?

Vik Village

Post your exploration at Reynisfjara, drive up ahead to reach this little cute town of Vik. It only has 300 residents staying in and often serves tourists as a stop-by place to relax, recharge and travel ahead. Plenty of options here to try out Icelandic cuisines and if you want to stay for a night, you can do so. If not, then you can travel back to Reykjavik in the late afternoon.

To ease out your efforts for day 3 planning, you can consider booking a full-guided tour to south Iceland that covers all of the activities I mentioned above. It goes well with the planning & will compliment your itinerary nicely.

This concludes your 3 Day Iceland Itinerary, and I’m sure you must’ve felt satisfied with the destinations & tourist highlights included. If you want to extend your itinerary, do check out my other itinerary guides – 5 Day Iceland, 7 Day Iceland, and the Ring Road Iceland Tour.

From Vik, you can continue your journey south-west to Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull National Park. Accordingly, you can stretch your southern Iceland tour even to a greater extent.

Accommodation for 3 Days in Iceland

There are plenty of options for Iceland accommodation. Be it luxury hotels, budget stays, hostels, campsites, and campervans – Iceland has it for you!

It is no secret that Iceland is an expensive country. If not planned well, things may go heavy on your pocket. So even if you’re a budget traveler, the country will make sure to put down options that suit you! Airbnbs help a lot when it comes to accommodation and you can find a pretty good range of them across the country.

Many of the Airbnbs have a ‘shared accommodation option that lets you share space with other guests. This is more affordable in terms of room cost, plus it will save you a lot of money if your itinerary is long. If the option doesn’t suit you, then do not fret. Most of the Airbnbs also have the option of ‘entire accommodation’. It depends on your choice & budget preference after all.

I also suggest checking out Tripadvisor. This is where you can compare prices for different hotel platforms and book the cheapest one available. I always use this as my go-to hotel rate checks to find the best deal for the right property.

During my 3-day visit to Iceland, I stayed in a mixed sort of accommodation – that included Airbnb and hotels. I wanted to experience it all under different circumstances, thus ensuring you get the right info presented.

Since you will be staying in Reykjavik for this itinerary, I have mentioned a detailed list of hotels that might help you decide –

Luxury Hotels in Reykjavik –

• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre – Located at a 5-minute from Reykjavik Harbour (near Sun Voyager)
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection By Hilton – Located right next to the Icelandic Phallological Museum.
• Tower Suites Reykjavik – Located near Höfdi House.
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels – Opposite to the Icelandic Punk Museum. Budget Hotels in Iceland
• Central Guesthouse Reykjavik – Located next to Lake Tjörnin.
• Kex Hostel Reykjavik – Located near Sun Voyager.
• Aurora Guesthouse – Located next to Hallgrimskirkja.
• Hotel Fron – Located in downtown Reykjavik

Budget Hotels in Iceland –

• Central Guesthouse Reykjavik – Located next to Lake Tjörnin.
• Kex Hostel Reykjavik – Located near Sun Voyager.
• Aurora Guesthouse – Located next to Hallgrimskirkja.
• Hotel Fron – Located in downtown Reykjavik

Well, that’s all! Hope you liked my curated itinerary for a 3 day trip to Iceland. I will be updating the post frequently with more suggestions, travel tips & unique excursions. So do you keep a tab on this blog-post.

Further Readings & Resources

Similarly, you can check my other Iceland travel guides that will help you plan a perfect, memorable trip to the country.

Explore Iceland’s Itineraries – 5 Epic Road Trips (+ Iceland Ring Road Itineraries)
Experiences in Iceland – 12 Stunning Things to Do in Iceland in October
Discover Iceland – Guide To Iceland’s Amazing Attractions
Iceland Diaries – Guide To 3 Days In Iceland
The Blue Lagoon – The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

You may also like our European guides & itineraries:

Experiential Europe – 10 Day Europe Trip: Germany, Belgium & France to Ireland
Magical Europe – London Paris Amsterdam Itinerary: Epic 10 Days in Europe
Costwolds – The Ultimate Guide To Cotswolds In The UK

The post Iceland Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Iceland appeared first on Travel Realms.

The charming beauty of Cotswold has attracted millions of tourists in the past. It is mainly because of its backdrop setting that makes your visit worthwhile. With 800 miles of total area, it covers a total of 6 counties in the region, including Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.

With plenty of activities to do & numerous villages to visit, you can easily get lost in the romantic land of Cotswold. If you get the chance to visit, you should lookout for a long weekend on the calendar. This amazing Cotswolds itinerary will help you down in planning a perfect trip to the countryside, ensuring a visit to many of the highlights of the region. You can also take a glance at a more comprehensive Cotswold guide, for a list of beautiful villages & towns in the area.

Since there is so much to do here, the opportunities to explore Cotswold are endless. Either cramp everything in your itinerary or simply explore the most-visited ones. You can even choose to go on day trips in the Cotswolds – if you’re short on time.

For now, the below 3-Day Cotswolds itinerary will help you in planning a perfect trip.

Itinerary for Weekend in the Cotswolds

• The Western Cotswold – Cheltenham – Snowshill – Chipping Camden.
• The Central Cotswold – Cirencester – Bibury – Bourton-on-the-Water.
• The Southern Cotswold – Castle Combe – Chippenham.

Day 1: The Western Cotswolds

You will start your morning by visiting one of the famous villages of Cotswold – Cheltenham. This picturesque town is considered to be ‘the Western Gateway to the Cotswold’. The lively spa town is famous for its regency architecture, beautiful gardens, and pristine parks. Explore the Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum which houses numerous ancient artifacts & intriguing objects – celebrating local pioneers. It’s a great place to understand the rich history & culture of the town. Later, wander off to explore Imperial Square and Gardens that display beautiful Georgian houses. The main focal points around the garden are the tree-lined Promenade and Montpellier Walk that surrounds the area.

Snowshill – Post your short travel at Cheltenham, and you will travel to Chipping Camden. But before, let’s take a short detour and stop by Snowshill to admire the famous Broadway Tower. Climb up to the top of the tower, and ge09t a scenic view of the surrounding rolling hills & villages. Snowshill is known for its picturesque views & it will spoil you with its treasures. After your Broadway Tower visit, you will make your way to Cotswold Lavender Farm. The best time to visit this place is from June to early August.

Chipping Camden – Snowshill to Chipping Camden is only a 12-minute drive away. One of the most beautiful towns in Cotswold, there is plenty of things to do here. The town is home to some important historical sites like St. James’ Church, Ancient Market Hall, and Alms Houses. Take a short trip to Dover’s Hill, a 10-minute drive from the main city. On top of the hill, you will find a trig point and a toposcope defining many of the attractions visible. A great place to sit, relax and unwind whilst watching the sunset.
Overnight stay in Chipping Camden.

Day 2: The Central Cotswolds

Further to our weekend in the Cotswolds, we move to the central region of Cotswold. Home to many other important attractions, you will explore some of the highlighted places here.

You will travel down to Cirencester from Chipping Camden (a 44-minute drive). Considered to be the capital of Cotswold, the town brims with rich history & culture. You can start by taking a walking tour of the medieval-styled buildings & narrow alleyways. Explore the local markets, shops & stalls selling local produce & souvenirs. Later on, visit the St. John the Baptist – a classic medieval gothic-styled structure influenced by Roman British. You can also find your place at Market Square, known to be the biggest market here in Cirencester. Optional – You can take a guided tour of the Corinium Museum which houses a huge collection of intriguing objects & artifacts.

In the afternoon, you will travel to Bibury. Located only a 15-minute drive from Cirencester, it is one of the loveliest towns that I’ve visited. Opt to explore the St. Mary Church, which still holds the Saxon remains. Most of the original objects here were restored at the British Museum. The major highlight of your visit to Bibury is the Arlington Row – a group of old-fashioned cottages, with steeply pitched roofs lined up together, that date back to the 16^th century. William Morris called this town ‘the most beautiful village in England’. Post your exploration, you can also visit the Bibury Trout Farm, to buy local wines & eat delicious smoked trout.

After Bibury, you will travel to one of Cotswold’s charming villages – Bourton-on-the-Water. This village is only a 34-minute drive from Bibury. It’s considered to be the ‘Little Venice’ of Cotswold because of the River Windrush streaming down the elegant low bridges. You can take an aromatic tour of the Cotswold Perfumery museum shop where personalized scents are made for the Queen. Or you can opt to visit the Model Railway Exhibition – a place with some of the finest indoor models layout of railways. Later, in the evening, you can take a stroll to the Lower and Upper Slaughter. Collectively, both the picturesque villages are referred to as ‘The Slaughters’.

Overnight stay in Cirencester.

Day 3: The Southern Cotswolds

Start your southern Cotswold tour by arriving at Castle Combe. A 60-minute drive will take you to this enchanting village. From meandering rivers to beautifully preserved cottages, Castle Combe is one of its kind. Strolling around the village will take your experience back to the 17^th century.

Later, drive down to Chippenham – one of the best market towns in the country. Here you will get to visit the Lacock Abbey, a country house with monastic roots. You can take a stroll around the gardens and visit the Fox Talbot Museum. Post exploration, you will travel towards one of the magnificent gardens of Cotswold – Bowood House & Gardens. You can opt for a guided tour here, which approx. takes 90 minutes. It’s considered to be one of the most scenic gardens in the UK, with an area spreading across 100-acre.

Finish off your weekend in the Cotswolds by taking a walk around these gardens, admiring the interiors of the room, and exploring places like Robert Adam’s Library & Dr. Joseph’s Laboratory.

Overnight stay at Castle Comb.

Visit Other Best Villages in Cotswolds

Your weekend in the Cotswolds ends here but there’s plenty more to do if you wish to stay any longer. You can always add up more destinations to your itinerary to get more out of Cotswold. Here’s some of the best villages in Cotswolds to check out –

Chedworth Roman Villa – Influenced by Romano-British villa, this place is a favorite amongst history-lovers. There are audio guides as well taking you back to the establishment of the site.

Blenheim Palace – One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the UK, this country mansion is famous for its history & beautiful gardens. Do visit the Marlborough Maze and Butterfly House, where most of the movie scenes were shit. Bath – Located towards the south of Cotswold, Bath is one of the most popular historic spa towns. Opt for a walking tour & explore the beautiful Roman Baths. Experience the thermal waters for a nice, warm traditional soak.

Accommodation for Weekend Breaks in Cotswolds

With a high range of caliber & plethora of options, Cotswold is home to a beautiful set of hotels to stay in. Considering the budget of a traveler, it’s easy to find your type very easily.

Based on the above Cotswolds itinerary & overnight stays, below are some of the best cottages in Cotswolds for weekend breaks. Also, browse more options from the famous Cotswold accommodation list.

• Cheltenham – The Greenway Hotel and Spa, Cleeve Cottage, Cotswold Grange, and the Green Dragon.
• Cirencester – Kings Head Hotel, Sykes Holiday Cottages, the Swan Hotel, and Sapperton Yurt & Yurt Reynolds.
• Castle Comb – The White Hart, the Castle Inn, and Stable Cottage.

Note – Hotels mentioned are a mixed list of budget & luxury ones. You can always customize it according to your certain requirement.

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Cotswolds

Cotswold has earned the reputation of being a foodie destination, not just among locals but also tourists. With numerous cafes & restaurants and pubs & bars, be assured to find anything you love at your favorite place.

Most of the towns & villages will have their traditional touch to the cuisine so that travelers get the taste of Cotswold’s most interesting dishes.

Below I’ve recommended some of the best options that will suit your weekend in the Cotswolds. Moreover, feel free to explore more of Cotswold’s food & drink selection.

• The Western Cotswold – Huffkins Café& Bakery (cafe), the Garden Restaurant, No.131, Morris and Brown Café at Broadway Tower, and Noel Arms Hotel.
• The Central Cotswold – Teatro, the Gateway Café, the Garden Café at Miserden, the Swan Hotel, and the Village Pub.
• The Southern Cotswold – The Salutation Inn, the Old Stables Coffee Shop, the Fox & Hounds, Castle Inn Restaurant, and Allington Café.

Best Time to Visit Cotswolds

The weather in Cotswold is unpredictable, just like the rest of the UK. January is the coldest of all months & February is the driest. You can expect rain throughout the year. Hence, it’s essential to pack your rain gear when you plan to travel.

You can visit Cotswold at any time of the year, with some fair weather conditions. But rather it’s always advisable to check the weather forecast before you travel.

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