Want to add a new kind of joy to your holiday season? Escape to the Caribbean for Christmas and swap snow for sun, sand and tropical drinks.
December weather in the Caribbean is particularly dry, with a “Christmas breeze” that locals wait for all year. Add in easy flights, affordable lodging, unique cultural festivities and an ideal party-relaxation balance, and there’s little reason you wouldn’t want to spend Christmas this year in these Caribbean destinations.
Christmas is a major holiday in Puerto Rico. Getty Images
1. Puerto Rico: parties, historic charm and wild beaches
Best for parties, historic charm and wild beaches
For either parties or seclusion at an affordable price, head to Puerto Rico come December. It’s an easy flight from the US, with no passport required for US citizens. Spend the first night in Old San Juan to explore its charming streets for shopping, history and food – then dance the night away to live salsa or bomba.
The island of Vieques is an easy hop on the ferry from Fajardo; arrive early to ensure availability. You should also book your rooms and car rentals in advance. Continue the holiday party vibe on the busier side of Vieques in Esmeralda, or escape into the hills near wild black-sand beaches.
The Boxing Day festival of Junkanoo is reason alone to visit the Bahamas. Montez Kerr/Shutterstock
2. The Bahamas
Best for Junkanoo, shopping and seclusion
The Bahamas’ annual Christmas Junkanoo Festival on Boxing Day is reason alone to visit this beautiful archipelago for the holidays. The colorful parade in Nassau, the largest on any of the country’s islands, is an excuse for everyone to dress up and dance in the streets.
Christmas shopping attracts arts-and-crafts vendors from around the islands to the capital; visit Festival Place at Prince George Wharf for locally made items. When you’re ready to escape the crowds, hop over to Eleuthera, Bimini or any of the Out Islands to lie out of the beach.
Proximity to the US and numerous nonstop flights make visiting the Bahamas for Christmas a no-brainer.
3. Jamaica
Best for fresh sorrel, fruit cake and reggae fests
The best part of Christmas in Jamaica is the food. The markets are livelier than ever, with the season’s favorite fruit – sorrel – in high demand. Feast on seasonal specialties like curried goat or ham with rice and beans, fruit cake and sorrel juice made with a hint of ginger and rum.
A huge Christmas tree in Santo Domingo’s Plaza España marks the season each year. Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock
4. Dominican Republic
Best for waterfalls, free concerts and nightlife
The holiday season is particularly festive in the Dominican Republic, where it’s celebrated through music, shopping and food. In Santo Domingo, malls are beautifully decorated and host indoor arts-and-crafts markets featuring locally made products. In the Zona Colonial, you’ll find live music daily, with free concerts beside Plaza Espana’s giant Christmas tree every weekend evening.
In Puerto Plata, beaches and resorts are less crowded and outdoor adventures are plentiful. Hike to waterfalls in the countryside, tour a chocolate factory and take part in the Christmas Eve ritual of an overnight pig roast. Dancing merengue and bachata until sunrise is also tradition – so head to a few local bars or nightclubs before the big night for a little practice.
At your resort or in town, you can sample Christmas dishes like pasteles en hoja, plantain dough stuffed and wrapped in a green plantain leaf. And don’t forget to order a class of Dominican ponche.
After celebrating Christmas with traditional Belizean food and dancing, retreat to a bungalow on Tobacco Caye. Paul Harding/Shutterstock
5. Belize
Best for rainforests, culture and cays
Christmas in Belize is a chance to experience some of its unique cultural events, in between island hopping and rainforest hikes. Lodging remains reasonably priced during the season, as more tourists visit in January and February.
Check into a riverside lodge in the towns of Burrell Boom or Crooked Tree Village (outside Belize City) to enjoy a traditional Kriol Christmas dinner of turkey with cranberry jelly, rice and beans, ham, potato salad, black cake and rum popo. On Boxing Day, head to the Burrell Boom horse races or to the Brukdong Bram celebration in Gales Point.
In Dangriga, Christmastime draws junkanu and charikanari dancers to the streets. A hunting dance, charikanari features participants wearing headdresses that resemble a cow’s head (including real horns), and hunting a “two foot” cow, which dances and teases the crowds in the street.
Afterward, head to affordable Tobacco Caye for snorkeling and relaxation along Belize’s Barrier Reef.
Often called one of the most underrated cities in the Midwest, Milwaukee is full of farmers markets, festivals, beer gardens and more than 150 spacious parks. The best part? Many of these activities are free to experience.
Here’s our guide to the best free things to do in Milwaukee.
1. Milwaukee Public Market
Located in the Historic Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market is not your everyday market. Besides offering a cornucopia of fresh produce, local artisan food products, and handcrafted wares, enjoy cooking classes presented by local and national chefs. Dine at one of the market’s many restaurants, such as Cafe Benelux, which is inspired by the eponymous European region that includes Belgium and The Netherlands. Thirsty? Check out one of the market’s seven bars.
Planning tip: Check out the market’s website for their list of current events. And, download a market map here.
2. Black Cat Alley
One of the few curated outdoor street art galleries in the city, visitors to Black Cat Alley can view works by creatives and muralists from Milwaukee, Los Angeles, Berlin and more. Take a moment to snap a selfie or two in front of Black Cat Alley’s many beautiful backgrounds. The art rotates, so check the website to see which artists are showcased and when new work is making its debut.
3. Alice’s Garden Urban Farm
Alice’s Garden Urban Farm is a locally led community space for people to connect and bond in a beautiful outdoor setting. This two-acre farm on Milwaukee’s north side hosts events such as contemporary dancing with Danceworks, a local dance company, guided and self-guided meditative walks in an herbal labyrinth, art activities for kids, movie nights and live music on fish-fry nights.
Free pre-scheduled tours or self-guided tours are available for those eager to learn the garden’s history as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
Browse the garden’s Artisan Market, where local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, jewelry, herbal skincare and more.
Planning tip: Check their website for dates and times. Although most events at Alice’s Garden are free, a few special events require a small fee.
4. Hank Aaron State Trail
Hit many of the city’s premiere destinations while following the 14-mile Hank Aaron State Trail, named for the Milwaukee baseball legend. As you follow the trail, choose the experiences you’ll encounter along the way: wildlife and nature activities at the Urban Ecology Center, viewing Santiago Calatrava’s white wings art installation that dominates the pavilion of the Milwaukee Art Museum, catching the waves at Bradford Beach and hunting sea glass along the water’s edge at Lakeshore State Park. The trail also connects to other city trails, including Beerline and Oak Leaf.
Planning tip: The Milwaukee Art Museum is free for all visitors on the first Thursday of each month.
A section of the Oak Leaf Trail winds through Veterans Park, an oasis of green and garden spaces near downtown Milwaukee. Lining the shore of Lake Michigan, in good weather, activities include boat rentals for plying the waters of the 14-acre lagoon and the Gift of Wings Kite Store’s free kid-friendly movies in the park.
The park also hosts its annual free Kite Festival, where hobbyists showcase their best and biggest kites in stand-out shapes, such as whales, yellow butterflies and orange jellyfish.
6. Swing Park
Milwaukee has no shortage of parks for visitors to explore, but Swing Park is one of the most delightful – and most under the radar of them all. It is the only Milwaukee park with adult-size swings, but it’s kid-friendly too.
Find Swing Park underneath the Marsupial Bridge Media Garden and Holton Street Bridge, not far from busy Brady Street, one of the coolest streets in the city, with its many shops and restaurants,
Planning tip: The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes) is another intriguing spot to explore. There’s a minimal charge to get in except for the first Thursday of each month when admission is free.
7. Bradford Beach
Pack snacks and a beach towel and head to the lakefront to bask in the sun at Bradford Beach. Catch a free sand volleyball game put on by a local league, join a frisbee game, hop in the freshwater lake, or just lay out on the sand all day. You’ll also see people rollerblading and biking along the sidewalk on the inland areas surrounding the beach.
Bradford Beach is the go-to summer spot where you can experience Milwaukee in action, especially on a hot day. Be prepared to hear music, smell delicious food, and see people of all ages running and playing around Lake Michigan and on the beach.
Planning tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen because you’ll want to stay a while.
8. Milwaukee farmers markets
There’s no charge to explore the many seasonal farmers’ markets. Besides local goodies and fresh produce grown nearby, many of the city’s markets have live performances. The Shorewood Farmers Market offers a mix of fresh local produce and food trucks serving empanadas, waffles, spring rolls, homemade donuts and more. There are both farmer stalls at South Shore Farmers’ Market near Lake Michigan as well as pop-ups from local coffee roasters, ice cream makers and barbecue restaurants.
Planning tip: Most markets run from June through October with several reopening during the holiday season.
Open to all, the Basilica of St. Josaphat, a grand granite structure stunningly accented with Italian-style domes and decorative plaster, was built for the Polish immigrant community that flourished on Milwaukee’s South Side. The red, blue, yellow and orange stained-glass windows from Austria and its European-style murals contributed to St. Josaphat being named the third basilica in the United States in 1929. To visit, schedule a free tour online or opt for a self-guided visit. Both choices include a free exhibit detailing the basilica’s history.
10. Milwaukee Public Library
Established in 1878, the Milwaukee Public Library system is the largest public library system in Wisconsin, and the downtown branch is the most extravagant. Visitors can admire the mosaic-tiled floors, marble columns and grand staircases reminiscent of the French and Italian Renaissances. The downtown branch also provides free activities and storytimes for families.
Planning tip: Visit the Library Bookseller, the library’s used bookshop operated by Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library.
11. Jazz in the Park
For lovers of jazz, blues and funk, Jazz in the Park is a must-visit free event. Jazz in the Park has been a staple for almost 30 years and takes place at Cathedral Square Park. It is Milwaukee’s largest weekly music series, with more than 5000 people attending each week. Families, couples and friends all come to hang out and enjoy the music every Thursday from May to September.
Planning tip: Be sure to pack a picnic basket to bring with you, along with a blanket or lawn chair for the lawn seating.
12. Sculpture Milwaukee
The outdoor exhibition Sculpture Milwaukee brightens up the tall buildings and parking structures downtown. More than 20 sculptures are scattered over two miles, from Sixth Street to O’Donnell Park. Along the way, you’ll spot abstract sculptures, including larger-than-life blue pickup sticks, a bronze statue of a Black sportsman and a colorful blob monster. Each piece showcases the style and identity of local artists and artists from around the world. The installations change every year, and the exhibit is open only in summer.
Planning tip: Also free is the 40-acre Lynden Sculpture Garden.
Originally constructed in 1891, the restored North Point Lighthouse in Lake Park is a picturesque landmark reflecting the city’s maritime history. Explore the grounds for free. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students – a small price to pay for a climb to the top to see the panoramic view of downtown Milwaukee and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan beyond.
14. Milwaukee RiverWalk
Follow the three-mile Milwaukee RiverWalk as it winds through the heart of downtown. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, access points let strollers explore the many stops along the way. Relive the city’s history while exploring the artsy Historic Third Ward neighborhood with its centuries-old repurposed warehouses and the European-style Old Third World Street that pays homage to Milwaukee’s German roots.
Planning tip: Download a map of the riverwalk.
15. South Shore Beach
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Milwaukee and the fun but busy Bradford Beach and instead spend a day relaxing at South Shore Beach on the city’s South Side. Green spaces and soft sand protected by a breakwater create a comfortable spot for relaxation. Amenities include volleyball nets, a playground and restrooms. Arrive early and climb the rocks to snap photos of the sun rising over Lake Michigan.
Keep planning your trip to Milwaukee:
Exploring Milwaukee’s neighborhoods Exploring Milwaukee’s best city parks 6 secret American road trips to add to your bucket list Make a great escape to Wisconsin’s Geneva Lake
Endearing little Syros merges traditional and modern Greece. One of the smallest islands of the Cyclades and relatively rural outside the capital, it nevertheless has the highest population since it’s the legal and administrative center of the entire archipelago. It’s also the ferry hub of the northern islands and home to Ermoupoli, the grandest of all Cycladic towns, with an unusual history.
As the Cyclades’ capital, it pays less heed to tourism, and its beaches never get as crowded as those of the neighboring islands. It buzzes with life year-round, has great eateries and showcases the best of everyday Greek life.
If you want to add Syros to your Greek islands itinerary, here’s what you need to know.
Summer on the island can be pretty hot, but since Syros isn’t as heavily touristed as some other Cyclades destinations, you’ll likely still find a nice spot on the beach to spread your towel, even during peak season. Compared to other Cyclades islands, Syros tends to be less crowded. Late spring and early autumn also offer pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and sunny days, making it an enjoyable time to explore the island.
Another excellent time to visit is during the off-season. Many hospitality businesses remain open, particularly in the lively main town of Ermoupoli. Unlike places like Mykonos or Santorini, businesses here aren’t as strictly seasonal, and the ferries operate year-round since Syros serves as a major ferry hub for the Cyclades. Temperatures can drop to as low as 12 degrees (53F) in January and February, but the days will generally be bright at this time of year. If you visit in late February, you can take part in the vibrant celebrations for Apokries (Greek Carnival).
How much time should I spend in Syros?
You’ll need at least a night or two here. While many visitors often treat it as a brief stopover in their Cyclades itinerary, Syros has enough to offer to warrant a bit more time. Allocate one day to explore Ermoupoli and perhaps another day to delve into the island’s historical sites and beautiful beaches.
Syros has an airport, and Sky Express flies from Athens to Syros Island National Airport in about 35 minutes. There is no public transport, but taxis congregate around flight times.
As the island group’s capital, Syros theoretically has fair to good year-round ferry links with all the Cyclades islands and to Piraeus (Athens) on the mainland. High-season services to Ermoupoli include Piraeus, Kythnos, Naxos, Mykonos and Tinos. In general, frequencies and routes expand drastically in high season and can diminish to a couple of times a week in winter. Always check ahead (on a site like Openseas) and reserve a ticket in high season.
Buses loop from Ermoupoli bus station beside the ferry quay, taking in the beach towns of Galissas, Finikas, Posidonia, Megas Gialos, Vari and Azolimnos. The full loop takes an hour, and buses run in both directions (at least three daily, increasing to hourly in the peak season). Three to five buses also go to Kini, some of which join the main island loop. There are also regular minibusses to Ano Syros from the waterfront end of El Vanizelou Street.
You can hire cars and scooters at agencies such as Vassilikos on the Ermoupoli waterfront. Avoid driving in central Ermoupoli, as there are lots of stairs, pedestrian-only lanes and one-way streets.
The capital’s streets and many pedestrian precincts are busy by day and also at night when the air of purpose gives way to enjoyment. Strolling lanes shaded by canopies of bougainvillea and lined with markets, cafes, souvlaki stands, bars and more is one of Syros’ great pleasures.
Running between the harbor and the square, Chiou is lined with shops selling local food products, including the island’s excellent cheeses. Stop in for house-roasted coffee at the book-lined Corner Cafe. For sweets on the go, local legend Sykoutris Turkish Delights is an old-time maker of the Cycladic favorite. Django Gelato is simply superb. The owner will recommend what’s on offer and made from fruits in season (the fleetingly available fresh fig is sublime).
For dinner, you can’t go wrong at Cantina Analogue, a high-ceilinged restaurant with a bohemian interior that offers creative takes on taverna fare. In an upscale secluded Ermoupoli courtyard, you’ll find Avant Garden; a stylish spot with a creative Greek menu of locally-sourced food.
See Renaissance art in the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin
After being badly bombed during WWII, it’s a wonder anything survived in this stately 1820s Orthodox church – which made the discovery, in 1983, of a signed icon painted by El Greco even more extraordinary. The work dates from the 1560s before the artist left his native Crete to become a leading light of the Spanish Renaissance. It’s now proudly displayed in the porch of the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin, to the right of the main door.
Outside Ermoupoli, Syros comprises a series of hills and valleys that fold down to small bays and beaches, most of which are well served by buses. Kini, on the west coast, is a sandy beach in a horseshoe bay with a small strip of bars and tavernas. Due to its shallow waters, it’s popular with families. Popular with French travelers, Galissas has an appealing beach, a smattering of white-and-blue-trim Cycladic buildings, some good tavernas and a cute little white church on the headland. On the other side of the church is Armeos, a pretty little pebbly nudist beach.
Further south, Finikas sits on a large bay with a marina at one end and a narrow strip of pebbles and sand. It’s more built up than most of the others, with a somewhat shabby feel. Further along the bay is Voulgari Beach, near the village of Posidonia. South of the headland is tiny but popular Agathopes Beach, with calm waters and a taverna. Another 10-minute walk south brings you to Komito, a sheltered bay backed by olive groves.
The south-coast town of Megas Gialos has a couple of beaches hard up against the main road. Gorgeous (and sheltered) Vari, further east, is the better bet with its sandy beach, though the waterfront and tavernas get packed with families in high season.
Enjoy a sundowner in Plateia Miaouli
This great square is perhaps the finest urban space in the Cyclades. Once situated immediately upon the seashore, today it sits well inland and is dominated by the dignified neoclassical town hall. Flanked by palm trees and lined along all sides with cafes and bars, the square and accompanying statue are named for Hydriot naval hero Andreas Miaoulis.
Proudly capping the medieval hilltop settlement of Ano Syros, this pretty cathedral is the mother church of the Cyclades’ significant Roman Catholic minority. Call in to admire the pastel-hued interior and star-fretted barrel roof and enjoy the view of the medieval town below.
Visit the remote village of San Michalis for great food and views
Don’t miss the drive along the mountainous spine of Syros to the northern village of San Michalis, a small hamlet of stone houses and vineyards with spectacular views of unspoilt valleys and nearby islands on either side. Walk the rock path to St Michael’s Catholic Church. Then, stop for excellent Syran food and grand views at timber-framed Plakostroto. It serves the renowned local cheese plus wood-fire-grilled meats.
How much money do I need for Syros?
As a result of the commercial activities on the island, there are plenty of hotels and restaurants, but the prices are lower than on the more touristically oriented islands.
hostel room: €14 – €20 per dorm bed per night in high season
basic hotel room for two: €100 – €120 per night in high season
self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €80 – €120 per night in high season
public transport ticket: €1.50 – €1.60 one way on bus (children under 5 travel for free)
coffee: 50c for an espresso, €3.20 for a latte/cappuccino
casual lunch: €3 – €5 for a gyros at a market
dinner for two: €30 – €50
beer: €3
This article was adapted for digital from two of our Greek guidebooks. Our guidebook on Greece was written by Alexis Averbuck, Rebecca Hall, Paula Hardy, Helen Iatrou, Vangelis Koronakis, Vesna Maric, Leonid Ragozin, Simon Richmond, Helena Smith, Sarah Souli and Ryan Ver Berkmoes. Our guidebook on the Greek Islands was written by Kate Armstrong, Stuart Butler, Peter Dragicevich, Trent Holden, Anna Kaminski, Kate Morgan, Isabella Noble, Leonid Ragozin, Kevin Raub, Simon Richmond, Andrea Schulte-Peevers and Greg Ward.
For one of the most beautiful stretches of Mediterranean coastline, with glittering islands, wonderfully well-preserved medieval towns, pristine national parks and fabulous cuisine, head to Croatia.
Starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik, this seven-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors. You’ll explore the Croatian capital as well as UNESCO World Heritage-listed old towns on the Dalmatian coast, hopping on a catamaran or ferry between exquisite islands along the way. We’ve included some gorgeous beaches, breathtaking architecture, delicious food and wine, some outstanding museums, and sunsets to swoon over. What are you waiting for?
Ready to start planning? Time your visit just right with our seasonal guide
Visit in summer for the best options for ferry travel out to the islands. Darios / Shutterstock
When to arrive: Late spring and early fall are great times to visit Croatia, thanks to pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. However, for the smoothest connections out to the islands, you’ll want to visit Croatia in the high-season months of June to August, when ferries are running the most frequent services.
How to get to/from the airports: It is a 40-minute bus ride from Zagreb’s airport into the city center bus station and tickets can be bought online in advance or from the driver. Taxis are available outside the terminal. In Dubrovnik, jump on the airport shuttle bus at the main bus station, Grawe station, at the Old Town cable car stop or outside One Suite hotel. Buy tickets at the stops or online.
What to pack: Swimming shoes are highly recommended for beach visits. It is not acceptable to walk around beach towns in your swimwear, so be sure to pack non-beach clothes too. Include some smarter outfits for evenings out and clothes that will cover bare shoulders and thighs when visiting religious sites.
First time in Croatia? Here are the things you should know before you go
Before heading to Croatia’s world-famous coast, spend a day exploring Zagreb, its charming capital. Dreamer4787 / Getty Images
Day 1: start your week in Zagreb
Many Croatian itineraries just stick to the coast and islands – but in missing the Croatian capital, you’re really only seeing half the country. Zagreb has a number of excellent museums and galleries to visit, fabulous bars, cafes and restaurants, and a beautifully preserved old city center filled with Secessionist-style architecture.
How to spend the day: Start with a walking tour of the Upper Town (Gornji grad), which centers on the iconic St Mark’s Church. Don’t miss the excellent (and unique!) Museum of Broken Relationships. Then head downhill and visit the big open market and the beautiful Gothic cathedral. From bustling Ban Jelačić Square, wander through the parks and squares that run down towards the main railway station.
Take a break: When you feel like a coffee or a drink head along Tkalčićeva, a narrow, pedestrianized street teeming with vibrant cafes.
Join locals and tourists on the seafront to watch one of Zadar’s spectacular sunsets. xbrchx / 500px
Day 2: watch the sunset from the waterfront in Zadar
Morning: Take an early bus to Zadar, around a 3.5-hour journey. If you’re driving on your own, consider stopping off at the unforgettable Plitvice Lakes National Park on the way.
How to spend the day: Zadar’s old town is a beautiful cluster of narrow streets and medieval churches, all arranged along a narrow peninsula with jaw-dropping sunsets from its waterfront. Visit the Cathedral of St Anastasia and the distinctive Church of St Donatus, beside the Roman Forum.
Take a break: Stop for an ice cream, or sit on the seafront by the remarkable Sea Organ (a quayside stone “instrument” that makes haunting noises powered by the tide), as you admire the view over to the islands.
Dinner: Before settling in for a standout dinner at Foša, which serves top-notch seafood and has a lovely waterside terrace (bookings advised), watch the sunset from the Greetings to the Sun installation on the waterfront.
Traveling more of Croatia? Here’s our guide to getting around
Get lost among the alleys, paths and squares of the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Jazzmany / Shutterstock
Day 3: soak up the atmosphere in Split
Morning: It’s around 2.5 hours by bus to your base for the next couple of nights: Split, a coastal city with incredible architecture and popping nightlife.
How to spend the day: The lively heart of Split is Diocletian’s Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 4th century as a truly magnificent retirement palace for the Roman emperor Diocletian. The complex is packed with hundreds of buildings that have been added throughout the ages and today is home to around 3000 people. Start your sightseeing here and don’t worry about getting lost – that’s half the fun.
Find your way to the center of the palace to admire the well-preserved colonnaded Roman Peristil (courtyard), and the octagonal Cathedral of St Domnius, which was originally Diocletian’s mausoleum. Below ground, the palace’s substructures are a wonderfully atmospheric place to explore. Don’t be surprised if you get the feeling dragons might be lurking: when filming Game of Thrones, these substructures stood in for the home of Daenerys’s… er… children.
Dinner: You’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars in the old city for when you start to feel peckish. Nosotromo, across from the fish market, is one of the best places to enjoy fresh Adriatic seafood. In the evening, take a stroll and grab a drink on the city’s Riva waterfront promenade.
Go windsurfing off Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s most-photographed beach, on Brač Island. Simone Simone / Getty Images
Day 4: relax on the iconic Zlatni Rat beach near Bol
Morning: Take a fast catamaran from Split to Bol on Brač Island. This pretty little town is most famous for Zlatni Rat beach, a glorious spur of smooth white pebbles and shingle that extends 500m (1640ft) straight out into the Adriatic, reached by a mile-long stroll along a pine-shaded waterfront promenade.
How to spend the day: The beach is hugely popular, and is also a great spot for windsurfing thanks to its steady winds. For astounding views across to Hvar and beyond, take a two-hour hike up to Vidova Gora. At 778m (2552ft), this is the highest point in the Adriatic Islands. Don’t forget to take water, sunscreen and a sun hat, as there’s virtually no shade on the trail up.
Planning tip: If you’re traveling outside of high season, you won’t make it to Bol via direct catamaran as they only run from June to September. But no worries: you can take the regular ferry from Split to Supetar and then the bus across the island to Bol – just allow enough time on the way back, as the bus sometimes gets stuck in traffic waiting for the ferry outside Supetar.
In the evening: If you have time in the evening, take a local bus to see UNESCO-listed Trogir and its amazing 13th-century cathedral.
Day 5: chill out in Hvar Town, and explore Korčula’s old town
Morning: In high season (June to September) you have several choices of catamaran when traveling from Split to Korčula Town, and it’s easy enough to stop off at Hvar Town for some chill-out time on the way. (Note that catamarans between Split, Hvar, Korčula and Dubrovnik in the summer do get fully booked up, so make sure you buy your tickets in advance. )
How to spend the day: The glittering capital of Hvar Island, Hvar Town is one of the most glamorous spots in Croatia, famous for a vibrant nightlife scene combined with historic architecture in a stunning setting. Wander the narrow streets of the old town past pretty churches and squares; if you fancy a swim, take a boat ride out to the Pakleni Islands. Then, take an afternoon catamaran to Korčula – or if you fall in love with Hvar and can’t bear to leave, count on taking a catamaran direct to Dubrovnik tomorrow.
Korčula Town is a picture-perfect walled settlement on a boat-shaped peninsula jutting into the Adriatic. Tightly clustered within a ring of walls and towers, the old town centers on the 15th-century St Mark’s Cathedral, which houses artworks by Tintoretto and Ivan Meštrović. The island is known for its wine; sample some at one of the wine bars in the lanes near the harbor.
Dinner: There are plenty of choices for food and drink in Hvar Town. Macondo on the harbor serves fresh-off-the-boat fish and steaks stuffed with seasonal and local ingredients like olives.
Save the experience of walking the walls in Dubrovnik until the morning of your second day. Benny Marty / Shutterstock
Day 6: prepare to be wowed by Dubrovnik’s old town
Morning: Catamarans run from Korčula Town to Dubrovnik in high season (June to September), but at other times of year you should catch a car ferry from Dominče to Orebić (on the Pelješac Peninsula) and continue on to Dubrovnik by bus. Your first glimpse of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed old town – its magnificent white limestone walls standing proud above the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea – will take your breath away. You’ll want to spend at least two days exploring this remarkable city and its surroundings.
How to spend the day: Wander the marble streets within the walls, stopping by the city’s various palaces, churches and museums. It’s best to walk the walls first thing in the morning, so keep them for tomorrow if you’ve just arrived from Korčula. The War Photo Limited gallery is a particularly powerful experience, with a permanent collection of images from the war in former Yugoslavia, as well as temporary exhibits on other worldwide conflicts.
Dinner: Join locals at the taverna-style Glorijet by the water for a hearty seafood meal or try Nishta with its creative vegan and vegetarian menu that makes the most of Croatia’s abundance of fresh produce.
In the evening: Finish your day off with a cable car ride up Mt Srđ, which rises directly behind the old town, to watch the sunset glint off the rooftops, then dip into the Adriatic sea.
Day 7: walk the city walls of Dubrovnik, and head to Lokrum for a swim
How to spend the day: Start your second day in Dubrovnik with a walk around the top of the old city walls; it’s best to go as soon as they open to avoid the crowds. This is the classic Dubrovnik experience and it will take you at least a couple of hours to check out all the various towers, taking in views of the old town rooftops and glittering Adriatic on the way.
In the afternoon you should have time to head out of town for a refreshing swim, either on Lokrum Island, a 10-minute ferry ride away, or at one of the local beaches. Bring your journey to a close with a sunset drink at one of the tiny bars on the rocks outside Dubrovnik’s city walls.
Sunseekers and beach hoppers have made Aruba one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. The island is ideal for a fun escape with friends, or for a soothing getaway to relax and recharge your batteries.
Beyond its stunning, picture-perfect, white-sand beaches, the island has much to offer – including the natural appeal of Arikok National Park, the vibrant murals of San Nicolas and some of the best scuba diving in the western hemisphere.
Intrigued yet? Read on as you plan your first trip to Aruba. It surely won’t be your last one.
Carnival festivities enliven Aruba’s streets every February or early March. Shutterstock
When should I go to Aruba?
Aruba’s weather is pleasant and warm to hot year-round, and there simply isn’t a bad-weather season. For unlike other Caribbean islands, Aruba (along with neighboring Bonaire and Curaçao) lies outside the hurricane belt, minimizing the risk of storms. Since it’s a tropical island, rain does fall in Aruba, and the wind can pick up – but the weather overall is enjoyable and sunny just about all the time.
December and January are the peak of the high season, and prices for hotels and rental cars skyrocket. If you do wish to spend the holidays on Aruba, then book everything as far ahead as possible, traveling before Christmas Eve and after New Year’s Day. February through April is also the high season, though with enough planning you can score deals on accommodation. If a colorful Caribbean carnival celebration is on your wish list, head to Aruba in February or early March. (The dates vary each year; Carnival Monday 2025 falls on March 3.)
Low(er) season usually starts after Easter and lasts through November. One of my favorite times to visit the island is in fact November: the weather isn’t as hot as in summer, and there are fewer people – allowing more freedom for spontaneous trips.
How much time should I spend in Aruba?
While you could just fly in for a weekend and have a great time on the beaches, I highly recommend staying longer. Cruise ships call on Aruba, with passengers cruises disembarking for half-day trips to the island; think about the adverse impact such visitors have on the environment and the local economy.
A week-long stay in Aruba is ideal. While 10 days or more will give you time to explore, wind down, hike and maybe even try out a new sport like scuba diving or windsurfing. If you’d like to take a PADI certification course, make sure to devote three to four days to just that – ideally more – so you can gain more experience.
Renting your own car will allow you to explore all of Aruba on your own schedule. Shutterstock
Is it easy to get to and around Aruba?
Several international airlines connect Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport with cities in the USA, Canada, the Dominican Republic and a handful of countries in Latin America, as well London and Amsterdam. Frequent short flights also depart for fellow Dutch Caribbean islands, Bonaire, Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
If you have enough time, it is possible to visit all three ABC islands on one trip. But I’d recommend devoting your time to just one, for a deeper visit (and less travel time).
Once you are on Aruba’s shores, you can rent a car directly at the airport and explore from there. Public transportation does reach much of the island, yet for the freedom and flexibility to get to those more challenging-to-reach places, a rental car is the way to go. Taxis can get very expensive, very fast.
Top things to do in Aruba
Many shipwrecks lie underwater off Aruba’s shores, waiting to be explored by scuba divers. Vito Palmisano/Getty Images
Scuba dive through a shipwrecks
Aruba is a fairly easy scuba destination, both for first-timers and seasoned divers. What its waters lack in spectacular coral reefs, Aruba makes up for with wrecks. Check out the SS Antilla, one of the Caribbean’s biggest sunken vessels, or the airplanes that were sunk to create an artificial reef.
Marvel at the sunset at California Lighthouse
As the day draws to a close, hop in your car and make your way to the north of the island to this lighthouse – and be sure to bring a beach chair so you can settle in to catch every last beam of light fade in the distance. Add a bit of sparkle by toasting to the spectacle with a cocktail or fresh coconut smoothie from the food truck in the parking lot.
The rugged landscapes and cacti at Arikok National Park are perhaps not what you’d expect on a tropical Caribbean island. iStock
Spend a day hiking and exploring Arikok National Park
Occupying almost a fifth of Aruba’s square mileage on the island’s eastern half, Arikok National Park is a great place to get active and your step count up. In Arikok’s rugged landscapes (bring sturdy shoes), you’ll see giant cactus and other scrubby vegetation – very different from typical visions of an idyllic Caribbean island.
Discover the island’s foodie side
Thanks to its proximity to South America and influences from the Netherlands, Africa, India, Venezuela and even China, Aruba’s cuisine is a unique – and uniquely tasty – mix. To get a full introduction to the island’s food, we recommend trying patacon (fried, crispy plantains), bolita di keshi (fried cheese balls), funchi (side dish similar to polenta) and kesio (Aruban-style flan). A hop across Oranjestad on the Aruba Food Tour will give you cultural context as you snack away.
Relax and wind down on Eagle Beach
If there’s one beach not to miss in Aruba, it’s this one – a truly magical part of the island. Besides its white sand, it’s particularly famous for the gnarled Fofoti trees that grow close to the water’s edge; they’re great for photo opps. If you get to Eagle Beach early, you might score one of the public palapas – and spend the whole day.
In the town of San Nicolas, many buildings are covered in vivid, large-scale murals. Yingna Cai/Shutterstock
My favorite thing to do in Aruba
No matter where I go in the world, my research begins by googling “street art in…” And while I enjoy all different types of public creativity, murals hold a special place in my heart. Lucky for me, the town of San Nicolas (just a half-hour from Oranjestad) is filled with gorgeous and color-drenched murals, in various styles. My favorite is one by Dutch artist Dopie.dsk: a surreal, giant lionfish in neon colors that stares down those walking by.
How much money do I need for Aruba?
Aruba presents more budget-friendly options than some other Caribbean destinations. If you are on a tighter budget, book flights well ahead, stay in a dorm or a simple accommodation, eat out only occasionally, take the public bus to get around and travel during low season.
Aruba offers many lovely apartments and smaller-scale hotels, such as Kamerlingh Villa, Pauline’s Apartments, Gray Door Apartments (for adults only) and Walt’s Aruba. While the beach never disappoints, why not stay inland and live more as Arubans do?
Although Aruba has ties to the Netherlands, bringing euros doesn’t really help much; the local currency is the Aruba Florin (Afl). US dollars are accepted throughout the island, so bring a few.
Hostel room: Afl 63 ($35) per person (10–20% more during high season)
Basic room or self-catering apartment for two: Afl 140 ($75) per night (up to 200% more during high season)
Public transport ticket: Afl 4.50 ($2.60) for a single trip, Afl 8.75 ($5) for a round trip or Afl 17.50 ($10) for a day pass
Coffee: Afl 7 ($4)
Mojito on the beach: Afl 25 ($14)
Beer: Afl 7 ($4)
Sandwich: Afl 20 ($11)
Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: Afl 240 ($135) for one starter, two mains and drinks including 15% tip
Rental of two chairs or sun beds and a parasol: $35–50
Rental car: $670 per week with full-coverage insurance; $330 per week without insurance
Sustainability fee: $20 (payable upon obtaining the mandatory ED card before your trip)
Do I need a visa for Aruba?
Technically speaking, the Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) card is not a visa. Yet all visitors must apply for the ED card by filling out an online form 7 days before their arrival in Aruba. In 2024, a sustainability fee of $20 took effect, payable when applying for the ED card. If you miss your flight or have to reschedule your plans, you’ll have to apply for the ED card and pay the fee again.
Which language(s) do I need to know in Aruba?
The official languages in Aruba are Papiamento (a creole language derived from Portuguese) and Dutch. Because of the island’s location and influences, most locals speak Spanish and English as well. You’ll find it easy to get around in English, but may find it helpful to learn a few key words in Papiamento, as well.
Danki: Thank you
Por fabor: Please
Bon dia: Good morning
Bon tardi: Good afternoon
Bon nochi: Good evening
Pasa un bon dia: Have a good day
Can I drink the tap water on Aruba?
Yes. Aruba is a BYOWB (bring your own water bottle) kind of island. Tap water is safe to drink, and it’s absolutely unnecessary to buy bottled water in a store. You might want to bring a bigger thermos and get some ice to keep your drink cool during long days on the beach.
How much should I tip in Aruba?
Though tipping is not mandatory in Aruba, staff at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and taxi companies will appreciate your tip. Some eat-in places add a service charge of 15% to the bill. Such charges don’t substitute for a tip: the service charge goes to everyone on the restaurant team, with your waiter usually getting the smallest share. If you were happy with your meal and the service, a tip of 10–15% is greatly appreciated.
Be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen – and reapply it many times per day. Getty Images
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to Aruba
The sun is blazing hot on Aruba. Yet because of the constant and oh-so-refreshing winds, you might not notice how strong those rays truly are – so remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Research a good reef-safe sunscreen and bring plenty of it for your trip – preferably cream or lotion sunscreen as the winds blow sprays away. Also pack a hat with straps, so it doesn’t go flying, and a rash guard or Lycra shirt. Your skin will thank you.
Pack cotton and linen for Aruba
To beat the humidity on the island, pack smart and bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, preferably in cotton or linen. You’ll notice that you’ll sweat a lot less and feel refreshed when the wind blows through them. Such garments are also a great way to protect your skin from the sun.
